Parque Nacional Los Alerces, Futaleufu Travel Guide

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Discover ancient forests, pristine lakes, and breathtaking Patagonian landscapes in Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Parque Nacional Los Alerces

Los Alerces National Park, located in the Chubut Province of Argentina, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Andean landscapes, pristine lakes, and ancient Alerce forests. Established in 1937, the park offers a tranquil escape into nature with opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the region's unique flora and fauna.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Los Alerces

Chubut Province, AR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Parque Nacional Los Alerces.

Visit the Alerzal Milenario by taking a boat tour on Lake Menéndez to see the ancient Alerce trees.
Hike to Laguna Verde for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Check the bus schedule from Esquel in advance, as services may be limited, especially during the low season.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as rain is common in Patagonia.
Consider visiting during the shoulder season (March-April or October-December) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

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Explore Parque Nacional Los Alerces on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Parque Nacional Los Alerces, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Esquel, take the Transportes Jacobsen bus to Parque Nacional Los Alerces. Buses depart from Esquel at 7:30 AM and 3:00 PM daily. The bus passes through Villa Futalaufquen and continues to Cholila. The journey to the park entrance takes approximately 45 minutes. A one-way ticket costs ARS 8,000. Be sure to check the return schedule, as there are limited departures.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Esquel to Parque Nacional Los Alerces. The journey takes approximately 41 minutes and costs between ARS 2,100 and ARS 2,600. Remises Nevada also provides taxi services in the area. Taxis offer a direct and convenient way to reach specific points within the park.
Driving

From Esquel, drive north on Ruta Nacional 259, then turn right onto Ruta Provincial 71 to enter Parque Nacional Los Alerces. The drive to the park entrance is about 38 km and takes approximately 41 minutes. The road within the park, Ruta 71, is mostly gravel. Be aware that road conditions can vary. There are no tolls. Parking is available at various points within the park, including near the main trails and visitor centers.

Discover more about Parque Nacional Los Alerces

Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2017, protects over 259,000 hectares of Patagonian forest in the province of Chubut, Argentina. The park's landscape, sculpted by successive glaciations, features moraines, glacial cirques, and pristine, clear-water lakes such as Futalaufquen, Menéndez, and Rivadavia. These lakes are interconnected by rivers, eventually forming the Futaleufú River, which crosses into Chile.The park's main attraction is its ancient Alerce forests, home to the Alerce tree (Fitzroya cupressoides), also known as lahuán in the Mapuche language. These trees, some of which are over 2,600 years old and can reach heights of 60 meters, are among the oldest living species on Earth. The park was created to protect these endangered trees from extinction due to logging.Visitors can explore the park's diverse landscapes through a variety of activities. Hiking trails lead to waterfalls, hidden lakes, glaciers, and mountain peaks. Boat tours on Lake Menéndez offer access to the Alerzal Milenario, where you can see the ancient Alerce trees. Other activities include camping, kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including guanacos and the elusive Andean condor.The park's remote location offers a serene Patagonian experience, away from the crowds of more popular destinations. Whether you're seeking a challenging trek or a peaceful retreat into nature, Los Alerces National Park offers an unforgettable experience.