Lanin National Park: lakes and forests in Argentine Patagonia

Lanin National Park takes has a variety of impressive landscapes of forests and lakes.

The park takes its name from the majestic Lanín volcano that graces its landscape. This protected haven boasts a diverse array of breathtaking landscapes, acting as a magnetic draw for global tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

With its awe-inspiring scenery, Lanín National Park stands as a testament to the unparalleled beauty of nature, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility.

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San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes is a city characterized by its unique architecture, and it has maintained the appearance of a mountain village thanks to various municipal regulations governing the height and materials of constructions. This popular tourist destination serves as a gateway to Lanín National Park and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Lacar Lake

It has an elongated and narrow shape, with a length of approximately 20 kilometers and a maximum width of 5 kilometers. Its waters are crystal clear and of an intense turquoise blue color due to the presence of mineral sediments.

On the shores of the lake is the city of San Martín de los Andes, which you definitely have to visit if you are a lover of nature and outdoor sports. The area is ideal for activities such as kayaking, hiking and swimming.

Parque Nacional Lanin
Lacar lake in summer

Huechulafquen Lake

This is one of the largest lakes in the area, covering approximately 100 square kilometers. It has an circular shape and is surrounded by forested mountains. Its name means “lake of ancient origin” in Mapudungun, an indigenous language of the region.

Huechulafquen Lake is particularly known for trout fishing, a highly popular activity in the area. It is also an ideal location for hiking and other outdoor activities such as camping, boating, and birdwatching, with the majestic Lanín Volcano situated on the eastern shores of the lake.

Parque Nacional Lanin
Huechulafquen Lake

Lanin Volcano

This is one of the main tourist attractions in the area and is visible from many points in the Patagonian landscape.

The Lanín Volcano is a stratovolcano, meaning it is composed of layers of lava and ash alternated with pyroclastic material, and it stands at a height of 3,747 meters above sea level. Although considered an active volcano, it has not shown significant activity in recent centuries.

The summit of Lanín Volcano is snow-covered for much of the year, adding to its impressive and majestic appearance. The view from the top is spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the lakes and mountains in the region.

There is a trail to the viewpoint of Lanín Volcano and Lake Tromen with incredible views. It is not very long but requires a certain level of physical fitness. Organized excursions are also available to transport you to various points of interest.

Parque Nacional Lanin
Lanin volcano in summer

Río Chimehuín

It s a highly significant river for sport fishing in the area and is renowned as one of the best fly-fishing rivers in the region.

It is a river with clear and cold waters that runs alongside the city of Junín de los Andes, which we highly recommend visiting and is typically a popular accommodation point for sports fishermen.

The river is especially known for trout fishing, particularly rainbow trout and brown trout, which have adapted well to the river’s conditions and provide a challenge for even the most experienced anglers.

Throughout its course, the river offers different environments: fishing zones, the city’s waterfront in Junín de los Andes, and areas for rafting and kayaking, activities we highly recommend.

Parque Nacional Lanin
Rafting in Chimehuin river

Junin de los Andes

The city is located on the banks of the Chimehuín River, famous for being a paradise for fly fishing.

This river is recognized internationally as one of the best destinations for trout fishing. Junín de los Andes is known as the “National Capital of the Mapuche People”, since it is home to an important community of this indigenous ethnic group. The Mapuche have left a significant cultural mark on the area, and traditional crafts and products can be found in the city. As for its architecture, Junín de los Andes has a Mapuche-style church called Iglesia Nuestra Señora de las Nieves, which is one of the main tourist attractions in the city. This church has been declared a National Historic Monument and its construction dates back to the 19th century. The city is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Lanín National Park. This park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering, cycling and bird watching. In addition, it is home to the Lanín volcano, one of the main attractions in the area, which can be climbed with specialized guides.

Parque Nacional Lanin
bridge over the Chimehuin river

Lolog Lake

Located about 12 kilometers south of the city of San Martín de los Andes, has an area of ​​around 10 square kilometers surrounded by mountains, forests and grasslands.

The lake’s waters are crystal clear and deep turquoise, making it an ideal place for sport fishing, boating and water sports. On the shores of Lolog Lake, there are several campsites and picnic areas, making it an ideal place to enjoy a picnic with family or friends. There are also several trails surrounding the lake that offer beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Lolog Lake is a very calm and peaceful place, perfect to enjoy nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city, go kayaking and kitesurfing. It is a very popular tourist destination in the Patagonian region of Argentina, and attracts tourists from all over the world who seek the unique experience of enjoying the natural beauty of Argentine Patagonia.

Chachin cascade

Located about 60 kilometers north of the city of Junín de los Andes, this cascade is fed by the Chachín River, which originates in Lake Huechulafquen and flows into the Aluminé River.

It has a height of around 40 meters and is considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The landscape surrounding the Chachín cascade is impressive, with lenga and ñire forests, mountains and lakes in the background. The waterfall is visible from a viewpoint located a few meters from the waterfall, which offers a panoramic view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. The Chachín waterfall is a very popular tourist destination and you can visit it because many organized excursions have it on their route. The viewpoint is reached after an easy walk.

Parque Nacional Lanin
Chachin cascade

The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, skiing, rafting, and camping across its more than 379,000 hectares. If you’re looking for an incredible destination full of natural beauty and wildlife, don’t hesitate to visit it soon!

FAQs

How to get to Lanín National Park?

BY CAR: Access to different areas of the park is from the cities of San Martín de los Andes (south), Junín de los Andes (center), and Aluminé (north), which are connected by buses to almost the entire country.
BY PLANE: Chapelco Airport, 24 km from San Martín and 20 km from Junín, receives daily flights from Buenos Aires and Córdoba.