Lanin National Park is one of the most extensive and biodiverse protected areas in Argentine Patagonia. Spanning 412,000 hectares in southwestern Neuquen province (lat -39.6333, lng -71.5000), it protects unique ecosystems ranging from ancient araucaria (pehuen) forests to Valdivian rainforest, crystal-clear lakes, snowmelt rivers and the summit of Lanin Volcano (3,776 m). Lakes Huechulafquen and Paimun, joined by a natural strait, form one of the park's most spectacular landscapes. The Lahuen-Co hot springs offer natural thermal waters on the shores of Lake Epulafquen. Mapuche communities within the park maintain their ancestral culture and offer community tourism experiences.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires → Bariloche | 1640 km | 2 h 20 | 22 h | 18 h |
| Buenos Aires → El Calafate | 2700 km | 3 h 15 | 40 h | 35 h |
| Buenos Aires → Ushuaia | 3050 km | 3 h 35 | 50+ h | — |
| Bariloche → El Calafate | 1490 km | 1 h 45 | 28 h | 24 h |
| El Calafate → Ushuaia | 600 km | 1 h 15 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8° / 22°C | 40 mm | High season | |
| Feb | 8° / 22°C | 40 mm | ||
| Mar | 6° / 18°C | 50 mm | ||
| Apr | 3° / 14°C | 70 mm | ||
| May | 0° / 10°C | 90 mm | ||
| Jun | -2° / 6°C | 110 mm | Ski season | |
| Jul | -2° / 6°C | 120 mm | ||
| Aug | -1° / 8°C | 90 mm | ||
| Sep | 1° / 12°C | 60 mm | ||
| Oct | 4° / 16°C | 40 mm | ||
| Nov | 6° / 19°C | 40 mm | ||
| Dec | 7° / 21°C | 40 mm |
How to Get There
From Junin de los Andes
The main entrance to the volcano sector and Lakes Huechulafquen and Paimun is 45 km from Junin via RP 61 (well-maintained gravel). Most direct access to the park's heart.
From San Martin de los Andes
San Martin sits within the park (on the shores of Lake Lacar). From there you access the Lake Lacar, Huahum and Quila Quina sectors.
Park Entry
Entry fee: USD 10-15 for foreigners. Argentine residents pay reduced rates. Children under 6 free. Valid for the entire day.
What to See and Do
Lanin Volcano (3,776 m)
Northern Patagonia's highest peak with its perfect snow-covered cone. Full ascent (2-3 days, high difficulty) requires National Parks permit and mountaineering experience. The trail to the first refuge (CAJA, 2,400 m) is a full-day hike with spectacular views for non-climbers.
Lakes Huechulafquen and Paimun
Lake Huechulafquen is the park's largest lake: 35 km long, turquoise waters surrounded by coihue and lenga forests. Lake Paimun, connected by a natural arm, offers wilder landscapes with Lanin Volcano as backdrop. Beaches, rustic campsites, viewpoints and trekking trails line both lakes.
Araucaria Forests (Pehuen)
These prehistoric trees can reach 40 metres tall and 1,000 years old with their unmistakable umbrella silhouette. The best forests are in the northern sector (Lake Rucachoroi, accessed from Alumine) and near Lanin Volcano.
Lahuen-Co Hot Springs
Natural thermal waters on the shores of Lake Epulafquen, 55 km from Junin. Natural rock pools at 38-42 degrees surrounded by native forest. Entry: USD 10-15. Camping and basic cabins available.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (December-February): Best for trekking, lakes and camping. 15-28 degree temperatures. All trails open.
- Autumn (March-May): Golden and red lenga forests. Mapuche pine nut harvest. Fewer people. Cold nights.
- Spring (October-November): Snowmelt, powerful waterfalls, wildflowers. Some trails may be closed due to snow.
- Winter (June-September): Mountain snow. Skiing at Chapelco (outside the park). Lakes accessible but high-altitude trails closed.
