Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes Travel Guide

Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, established in 1971, protects a unique ecosystem centered around the arrayán tree (Luma apiculata), also known as the southern myrtle. These trees, characterized by their striking reddish-brown, cinnamon-colored bark that peels away to reveal white spots, can live for over 600 years and grow up to 25 meters tall. The park covers 1,753 hectares on the Quetrihué Peninsula, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake.The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking and mountain biking along a 12-kilometer trail that leads to the densest part of the arrayán forest. To protect the fragile root systems of the trees, visitors are required to stay on elevated wooden walkways within the forest. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including small deer (pudú and huemul), foxes, and various bird species, such as the Andean condor and woodpeckers.The park's history is intertwined with the larger Nahuel Huapi National Park, from which it was carved out to focus on preserving the unique arrayán forest. The name Quetrihué, meaning "where there are arrayán trees" in the Mapuche language, reflects the area's significance. The ideal time to visit is during the warmer months (January to March) when the weather is suitable for outdoor activities. However, the park is open year-round, offering a unique experience even on snowy days.