If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia, don’t miss the chance to visit Los Arrayanes Ecological Park, a hidden gem that offers stunning natural beauty and unique ecological features. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and insights to make the most of your visit to this special place.
What is Los Arrayanes Ecological Park?
Los Arrayanes Ecological Park is a protected area located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, in the province of Neuquén, Argentina. The park covers an area of 1,753 hectares and it is home to a unique tree species called Arrayán or Luma apiculata, characterized by its cinnamon-colored bark and myrtle-like leaves. The park also includes a section of Lake Nahuel Huapi, the third largest lake in Argentina.
The park was established in 1971 to protect the arrayán trees, which were threatened by logging and human activity. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, water sports, kayaking, and wildlife spotting while admiring the beautiful scenery of the Andes mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
How do I get to Los Arrayanes Ecological Park?
The park is located on the Quetrihué Peninsula, which can be reached by boat from different departure points. The most popular departure point for tourists is Puerto Pañuelo, located 25 kilometers from the city of Bariloche. From there, several catamarans and boats depart daily to the park.
Another option is to travel by car to Villa La Angostura, a charming village located on the northern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, and take a short boat ride from the port of Bahia Brava to Puerto Arrayán, the entrance of the park.
What activities can I do at Los Arrayanes Ecological Park?
Los Arrayanes Ecological Park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park. The main trail, called the Bosque de Arrayanes Trail, is a 12-kilometer round trip that takes visitors through the heart of the arrayán forest, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains along the way. The trail is well-marked and has resting areas and lookout points.
Water sports are another great option, especially during the summer months. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddle boards, or take a guided boat tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
For those interested in wildlife spotting, the park is home to a variety of native species, such as pudú (the smallest deer in the world), mountain goats (known as local as chivos), eagles, and condors. It’s important to respect the animals’ habitat and keep a safe distance.
If you’re lucky, you may also spot one of the rare Huillín or southern river otters, which live in the area and are considered a symbol of the park’s ecosystem.
Are there any hotels near Los Arrayanes Ecological Park?
Accommodation options near Los Arrayanes Ecological Park are limited due to its remote location, but there are several hotels, lodges, and cabins in the nearby towns of Bariloche and Villa La Angostura.
One of the closest hotels is the Llao Llao Hotel & Resort, Golf-Spa, located in San Carlos de Bariloche, offering luxurious facilities and panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. Another option is the Correntoso Lake & River Hotel, located in Villa La Angostura, which offers a combination of mountain and lakeside views, as well as a spa, restaurant, and outdoor activities.
For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are cabins and lodges that offer a cozy atmosphere and proximity to the park’s trails and attractions, such as the Patagonia Vista Lodge & Spa, located near the Bosque de Arrayanes Trail.