Sendero Los Arrayanes Llao Llao
A serene forest walk in Llao Llao, featuring a unique grove of cinnamon-barked arrayán trees and beautiful lake vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Sendero Los Arrayanes Llao Llao
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene forest walk in Llao Llao, featuring a unique grove of cinnamon-barked arrayán trees and beautiful lake vistas.
"Easy and beautiful walk through the forest with stunning views of the lakes and amazing trees."
Respect the Trees! 🌳
Stay on the wooden walkways in the arrayán grove to protect the delicate trees and their roots.
Extend Your Hike 🚶♀️
This trail connects to others like Mirador Lago Moreno and Puente Romano for a longer adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Arrayán Grove
Sendero Los Arrayanes
A short, enchanting loop showcasing the unique, cinnamon-colored bark of the arrayán trees.
Lake Moreno Views
Along the trail
Stunning vistas of the tranquil Lake Moreno, with opportunities for peaceful walks along its shore.
Forest Immersion
Sendero Los Arrayanes
Wander through a beautiful, serene forest with impressive trees and a peaceful atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Arrayanes Forest Visit
Navigating Llao Llao Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Excursión Isla Victoria-Bosque de arrayanes
Respect the Trees! 🌳
Stay on the wooden walkways in the arrayán grove to protect the delicate trees and their roots.
Extend Your Hike 🚶♀️
This trail connects to others like Mirador Lago Moreno and Puente Romano for a longer adventure.
Bus 20 is Your Friend 🚌
Catch Bus 20 to reach the trailhead; check the last bus times carefully to plan your return.
Pack Water & Snacks 🍎
While beautiful, amenities are limited, so bring essentials for your trek.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Trees! 🌳
Stay on the wooden walkways in the arrayán grove to protect the delicate trees and their roots.
Extend Your Hike 🚶♀️
This trail connects to others like Mirador Lago Moreno and Puente Romano for a longer adventure.
Bus 20 is Your Friend 🚌
Catch Bus 20 to reach the trailhead; check the last bus times carefully to plan your return.
Pack Water & Snacks 🍎
While beautiful, amenities are limited, so bring essentials for your trek.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
The trail is easy, but good walking shoes will make your exploration more enjoyable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sendero Los Arrayanes for its easy accessibility and the unique beauty of the arrayán grove. The stunning lake views and the peaceful forest atmosphere are major highlights. Some note that the arrayán section is small, but appreciate its connection to a larger trail network for extended exploration.
"Easy and beautiful walk through the forest. There is a small area of Arrayanes at the base of the valley well worth visiting if you can’t get to the National Park near Villa La Angostura. There is lake access with long walks on the shore and stunning views."
Lucas de la Torre
"Very easy going walk in a stunning forest with beautiful views of the lakes and some amazing looking trees"
william ritchie
"I enjoyed it. It is a huge long trail that connects all the way to Mirador lago moreno (the exit is where it says "information turística". From there you can go right or left on the main road cto chico to puerto Lopez or villa tacul. I recommend to right because the bus terminal is at villa llao llao. It is bus 20 and it stops 10min walk from this park. However, if you take right and visit the other attractions (which are connected by other trails cto chico) then head back left and go to Puerto Lopez (10h20pm is last bus). 12am is last for bus 20. Cost per ride 100 pesos. You can rent a bike (approx 4k), rent a car or take bus (but it does half the loop of cto chico). No bus between terminal bus 20 and puerto Lopez (bus 10 goes the other way around). I spent 1 day using bus 10 and the other bus 20). It is really beautiful trails."
Antoine Assaad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by taking Bus 20 from Bariloche, which stops near the trailhead. If driving, follow the Circuito Chico road. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Yes, Bus 20 is a reliable option for reaching the Sendero Los Arrayanes. Ensure you check the latest bus schedules, as services can vary.
You can rent bikes in Bariloche or Llao Llao. Cycling the Circuito Chico road is a popular option, offering scenic views along the way.
Taking Bus 20 is highly recommended for its direct route to the Llao Llao area, including stops near the Sendero Los Arrayanes.
Some tours to Isla Victoria and the Bosque de Arrayanes might include this area, but it's often more flexible to visit independently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the Sendero Los Arrayanes itself is free to access as part of the Llao Llao Municipal Park. However, if you are taking a boat tour that includes the Bosque de Arrayanes on Isla Victoria, there will be separate fees.
The trails are typically open from dawn till dusk, allowing for flexible visiting times. It's best to check local information for any specific park hours.
Access to the trails within the Llao Llao Municipal Park, including Sendero Los Arrayanes, is usually free.
Yes, you can easily visit the Sendero Los Arrayanes independently by car or public transport.
Boat tours can range from ARS 120,000 per person plus embarkation fees and park entrance, so it's worth comparing prices.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main loop through the arrayán grove is quite short, perhaps 30 minutes. However, if you connect to other trails, you can easily spend several hours exploring.
No, it's considered a very easy walk with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
The arrayán grove itself is picturesque, as are the viewpoints overlooking Lake Moreno. Capture the unique bark and the serene lake scenery.
There are points along the lake accessible from the trails where you can enjoy the shore, though designated swimming areas might be further afield.
Facilities are generally limited directly on the trail. It's advisable to use restrooms before you start and carry your own snacks and water.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the textures of the arrayán trees and the reflections on Lake Moreno.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the forest and lake vistas, and a macro lens if you want to focus on the intricate details of the trees.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's best to check local park rules before flying. Respecting the natural environment and other visitors is paramount.
Get close and use a shallow depth of field to highlight the intricate patterns and colors of the arrayán bark.
The dedicated loop for the arrayán grove is a must-photograph spot. Also, look for scenic overlooks of Lake Moreno and the diverse forest flora.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider extending your visit by connecting to the trails around Lago Moreno, where kids can enjoy playing by the water's edge. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are minimal. Keep an eye on the children, especially near the lake and on any connecting trails that might be more rugged.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing expensive items at tourist spots. By combining the free hike with public transport and self-catered meals, you can experience the beauty of Llao Llao without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the textures of the trees and the expansive lake vistas. The interconnected trails also offer chances for capturing forest scenes and wildlife. Remember to be respectful of the environment and other visitors while seeking the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Arrayán Trees
Walking through this small, concentrated grove feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The unique texture and color of the bark, combined with the surrounding lush greenery, create a truly magical atmosphere. It's a testament to the natural beauty of Patagonia and a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts.
While the Sendero Los Arrayanes features a dedicated grove, it's worth noting that larger, more extensive arrayán forests can be found in places like the National Park near Villa La Angostura. However, for a convenient and beautiful introduction to these remarkable trees, the Llao Llao trail is an excellent choice.
Connecting Trails and Extended Hikes
Further exploration can lead you to the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) and eventually to Lago Escondido and Bahía de Troncos. For those seeking a more challenging ascent, the trek up Cerro Llao Llao provides breathtaking vistas and ends near the starting point of the arrayanes trail. Planning your route in advance can help you make the most of these interconnected paths.
Many visitors enjoy combining the Sendero Los Arrayanes with a visit to Puerto Lopez or Villa Tacul. Remember to check bus schedules if you plan to use public transport for your return journey, as services can be infrequent. Renting a car or bike also provides more freedom to explore the various trailheads and attractions along the Circuito Chico.
Navigating Llao Llao with Public Transport
When planning your trip, be aware that Bus 20 might not cover the entire loop of the Circuito Chico, and there are no direct bus services between certain points like the Bus 20 terminal area and Puerto Lopez. This means you might need to walk or use alternative transport for certain segments.
If you're considering visiting multiple spots along the Circuito Chico, it might be more efficient to dedicate a full day to exploring using the bus, or to combine bus travel with short walks. For ultimate flexibility, renting a car or a bike offers the most freedom to stop and explore at your own pace.
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