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Nahuel Huapi National Park: Patagonia's Natural Masterpiece

Discover Patagonia's breathtaking beauty in Argentina's oldest national park: lakes, mountains, forests, and endless outdoor adventures await!

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Argentina's oldest national park, Nahuel Huapi, is a sprawling paradise of shimmering lakes, snow-capped mountains, and dense Patagonian forests. Located in the foothills of the Andes, near the bustling town of Bariloche, it offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

Local tips

  • Register your trek before embarking on any overnight hikes. This is mandatory and helps ensure your safety.
  • Purchase a SUBE card for easy travel on local buses around Bariloche and to trailheads.
  • Pack for all types of weather, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
  • Check for park entrance fee requirements for certain areas like Mascardi and Puerto Pañuelo.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bariloche, take a local bus (operated by MiBus) to various trailheads and points of interest within Nahuel Huapi National Park. Purchase a SUBE card and check the latest timetables at the tourist information center or online. Bus routes include Route 10 to Colonia Suiza/Bahia Lopez, Route 20 to Llao Llao, Route 50 to Los Coihues, and Route 55 to Cerro Catedral. A single bus fare within Bariloche typically costs around ARS 100-300. Tourist buses also operate to Pampa Linda during the summer months; inquire at 'Transtando lo Natural' for schedules and prices.

  • Walking

    Many areas within Nahuel Huapi National Park are best explored on foot. From the center of Bariloche, you can walk along the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi or access nearby trails like Cerro Campanario. The Aerosilla Campanario chairlift provides an alternative to hiking to the summit, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. A round-trip ticket on the chairlift costs approximately ARS 8,000 - 12,000.

  • Car

    Driving is a convenient way to explore the extensive Nahuel Huapi National Park. National Route 40 and National Route 231 are the main access roads. From Bariloche, you can drive the scenic Circuito Chico or Ruta de Siete Lagos. Parking is available at most trailheads and attractions, with hourly rates ranging from ARS 500-1000. Note that some roads, like the one to Ventisquero Negro, may be unpaved and require a 4x4 vehicle.

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

Nahuel Huapi National Park, established in 1934, protects a vast area of Argentina's stunning Lake District. The park's name comes from the Mapudungun language, where 'nahuel' means 'puma' and 'huapi' means 'island'. This reflects the area's rich indigenous history and abundant wildlife. The park spans over 7,050 square kilometers (2,720 sq mi) and encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from the high Andes to the Patagonian steppe and the Valdivian temperate rainforest. Visitors can explore pristine lakes like Nahuel Huapi, Gutiérrez, and Mascardi, hike through ancient forests, and marvel at towering peaks such as Cerro Tronador. Nahuel Huapi offers a wide array of activities throughout the year. In the summer, enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, and swimming. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Popular attractions include Cerro Catedral (a major ski resort), the Arrayanes Forest with its unique red-barked trees, and the breathtaking viewpoints along the Seven Lakes Road. The park's history is intertwined with the vision of Francisco Pascasio Moreno, who donated land in 1903 to create a protected area. His aim was to preserve the region's natural beauty for future generations, and today, Nahuel Huapi stands as a testament to his legacy.

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