
Laguna Rosales
A serene lagoon nestled in native Patagonian forest, offering peaceful walks, birdwatching, and stunning seasonal beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

Laguna Rosales
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lagoon nestled in native Patagonian forest, offering peaceful walks, birdwatching, and stunning seasonal beauty.
"Beautiful scenery and pure tranquility."

🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
Enjoy a peaceful, well-marked 1-hour walk or bike ride. Perfect for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Available
There's a designated parking area near the trailhead off RP 62. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Laguna Rosales
Near San Martín de los Andes
A tranquil lagoon nestled in native forest, perfect for peaceful walks and birdwatching. Enjoy stunning natural beauty and a refreshing escape.
Native Forest Trail
Trail to Laguna Rosales
Wander through enchanting ñires and coihues, listening to the symphony of local birds. A gentle, well-marked path for all to enjoy.

Winter Wonderland
Laguna Rosales in winter
Experience the magic of a frozen lagoon surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. A unique and picturesque sight, especially in April.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Laguna Rosales
Getting to Laguna Rosales
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
Enjoy a peaceful, well-marked 1-hour walk or bike ride. Perfect for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Available
There's a designated parking area near the trailhead off RP 62. :car:
❄️ Winter Beauty
Visit in winter for a frozen lagoon and stunning snowy scenery. :snowflake:
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, especially Aguilucho Ñanco. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
Enjoy a peaceful, well-marked 1-hour walk or bike ride. Perfect for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Available
There's a designated parking area near the trailhead off RP 62. :car:
❄️ Winter Beauty
Visit in winter for a frozen lagoon and stunning snowy scenery. :snowflake:
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, especially Aguilucho Ñanco. :bird:
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help preserve the natural beauty by taking all your trash with you. :recycle:
⏰ Go Early for Peace
Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility and avoid potential crowds. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Laguna Rosales for its beautiful scenery, tranquility, and easy accessibility. The well-marked trail through the native forest is a highlight, perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride. While swimming isn't the main draw, the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere are highly appreciated. Some note that signage can be ineffective, and it's important to respect the environment.
"wonito"
Braian Urra
"A long and beautiful hike, just over 30 minutes long. I recommend that as soon as you see the lake, you take one of the first trails; it's the most beautiful place to be!
Don't get too excited about swimming in the lagoon, but you can if you want.
Beautiful scenery and pure tranquility.
We followed the trail to the end and found a very pretty spot, but far from the lake!"
Marcelo Fernández Posada
"Very nice... super quiet walk, signposted and there is a place to park the car"
Abril Barreto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laguna Rosales is easily accessible, located about 7 km from San Martín de los Andes. You can drive along RP 62, and there's a parking area where the dirt road begins. The trail is also suitable for a scenic bike ride.
Yes, there is a parking area available near the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The trail to Laguna Rosales is well-marked and suitable for mountain biking, offering a fun way to experience the scenery.
Take RP 62 towards Lago Lolog. Approximately 7 km from town, where the asphalt ends, you'll find a fork in the road. Turn left to reach the trailhead.
Yes, Laguna Rosales is located within the Lanín National Park, emphasizing the importance of respecting its natural environment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry fees mentioned for Laguna Rosales itself, as it's a natural area within the national park. However, always check for any park entrance fees if applicable.
Laguna Rosales is a natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day for optimal enjoyment and safety.
As a natural attraction within Lanín National Park, there isn't a separate entrance fee specifically for Laguna Rosales. However, park regulations may apply.
Yes, Laguna Rosales can be visited year-round. While summer and autumn offer pleasant hiking, winter provides a unique snowy landscape.
While not explicitly stated, local tour operators in San Martín de los Andes may offer guided hikes or bike tours that include Laguna Rosales.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Laguna Rosales is considered easy, with a gentle incline and a duration of approximately one hour. It's suitable for most fitness levels.
Expect a tranquil lagoon surrounded by beautiful native Patagonian forest, with ñires and coihues. The scenery is serene and picturesque, especially with the possibility of snow in winter.
While swimming is possible, it's not the main attraction. The water can be quite cold, even in summer. The beauty lies more in the surrounding nature and the peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, Laguna Rosales offers numerous picturesque spots for photography, especially during autumn with its colorful foliage or in winter with its snowy charm.
The area is known for its birdlife, including the striking Aguilucho Ñanco. There have also been rare sightings of wild cats like the Geoffroy's cat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Laguna Rosales. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks, or plan to eat in San Martín de los Andes.
In San Martín de los Andes, you can find various cafes and restaurants. One notable spot mentioned is @unsertraumpasteleria for pastries after a hike.
Yes, Laguna Rosales is a great spot for a picnic. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean.
Prices can vary, but one review mentioned spending approximately $8600 ARS per person for pastries in March 2024.
Packing sandwiches, fruits, and water is ideal for a picnic. If you're doing a bike tour, a picnic lunch might be included.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlights. The golden hour can be particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and lagoon views. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures. :camerawithflash:
The area around the lagoon itself offers beautiful reflections. The forest trail provides opportunities for atmospheric shots with dappled light.
Autumn offers vibrant colors, while winter provides a unique snowy landscape. Spring brings new growth, and summer offers lush greenery.
Drone usage may be restricted within national parks. It's advisable to check the regulations of Lanín National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In winter, the snowy landscape can be particularly enchanting for kids, offering a chance to experience snow in a beautiful, natural setting. Always ensure children are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions, especially during colder months.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Consider combining this hike with other trails in Lanín National Park for a more extensive exploration. The 'Huella Andina' offers longer routes for those seeking a more challenging trekking experience. Remember to bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
📸 Photographers
Winter photography enthusiasts can capture the unique beauty of a frozen lagoon and snow-covered trees. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the atmosphere, creating dramatic shadows and soft glows. Don't forget to look out for wildlife, as rare sightings can make for extraordinary photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Laguna Rosales
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the trail can be extended or combined with other routes within the Lanín National Park. Some visitors have explored the area by mountain bike, enjoying a different perspective of the landscape. It's also worth noting that parts of this trail are integrated into the larger 'Huella Andina' (Andean Footprint) trekking route, offering opportunities for longer, more immersive hikes for experienced trekkers.
Laguna Rosales Through the Seasons
Summer brings pleasant weather, ideal for hiking and enjoying the lush greenery. While swimming is possible, the water remains cool. Winter transforms the area into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. The lagoon can freeze over, creating a unique and breathtaking sight, making it a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a tranquil, icy landscape.
Wildlife Encounters at Laguna Rosales
Beyond birds, there have been rare and exciting sightings of mammals, including the Geoffroy's cat (Leopardus Geoffroyi), a wild feline native to South America. Such sightings are significant for the conservation efforts within Lanín National Park, highlighting the importance of preserving this habitat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit