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Cajón Negro: A Hidden Valley in Nahuel Huapi National Park

Discover the serene beauty of Cajón Negro, a hidden Patagonian valley offering stunning views and challenging hikes in Nahuel Huapi National Park.

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Cajón Negro is a stunning glacial valley nestled within the Nahuel Huapi National Park near Villa La Angostura, Argentina. This remote and peaceful location offers breathtaking views, pristine streams, and a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Cajón Negro

  • Sendero Cajón Negro, Neuquén Province, AR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail involves steep inclines and potentially slippery sections.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services available along the trail.
  • Register for trekking at the park entrance before starting your hike.
  • Consider visiting during the summer months (December to March) for the best weather conditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The trailhead to Cajón Negro is located at the end of Sendero a la Cascada street, where there is a parking area. From Villa La Angostura, take Route 40 NO and turn right onto Calle Antriao. After 1 km, turn right onto 'Sendero a la Cascada'. The trail starts at the parking lot. Follow the path, always taking the left fork until you reach a junction indicating 'Filo Falso Belvedere' or 'Cajón Negro'. Take the right path towards Cajón Negro. There are no entrance fees to access the trail.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport to the trailhead, you can take a local bus from Villa La Angostura to a closer point and then walk to Sendero a la Cascada. Bus fares within Villa La Angostura are typically around $30-50 ARS. From the bus stop, follow the directions for the walking route. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.

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Discover more about Cajón Negro

Cajón Negro, meaning "Black Box" or "Black Drawer" in Spanish, is a captivating valley framed by the imposing Cerros Inacayal, Belvedere, and Filo Belvedere. This hidden gem within the Nahuel Huapi National Park offers a unique Patagonian experience, characterized by its remote setting and stunning natural beauty. The trail to Cajón Negro winds through lush forests of coihue trees and cañaverales (bamboo-like vegetation), gradually ascending into a landscape dominated by lenga trees. As you gain altitude, the lengas become increasingly stunted, creating a unique, windswept forest. The valley itself sits at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet). At the heart of Cajón Negro lies a tranquil valley floor crisscrossed by crystal-clear streams originating from the Arroyo Las Piedritas. The valley's isolation fosters a sense of peace and serenity, offering a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Keep an eye out for the possibility of spotting condors soaring overhead. The hike to Cajón Negro is considered moderately challenging, with steep inclines. The total distance is around 5.25 km (3.26 miles) each way, with an elevation gain of 1400 meters, and typically takes about 4 hours to complete one way. The best time to visit is during the warmer months of December to March. Be sure to register for trekking before embarking on the trail.

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