Activities in Esquel
-
La Trochita
Argentina's famous narrow-gauge steam train, averages less than 30km/h on its meandering weekly journey between Esquel and El Maitén - if it runs at speed. In its current incarnation, subsidized by the city of Esquel and the governments of Río Negro and Chubut, La Trochita - which Paul Theroux facetiously called The Old Patagonian Express - provides both a tourist attraction and a service for local citizens.
Like many other state projects, completion of the line seemed an interminable process. In 1906 the federal government authorized the southern branch of the Roca line, between Puerto San Antonio on the Atlantic coast and Lago Nahuel Huapi. In 1922 Ferrocarriles del E…
reviewed
-
A
Esquel Tours
Numerous travel agencies, including Esquel Tours, sell tickets for the Circuito Lacustre boat excursion in Parque Nacional Los Alerces; buying a ticket in Esquel assures a place on the often-crowded trip.
Excursions to El Bolsón/Lago Puelo and Corcovado/Carrenleufú are also offered. Half-day trips include La Hoya's winter-sports complex; the nearby Welsh settlement of Trevelin and the Futaleufú hydroelectric complex and the narrow-gauge railway excursion to Nahuel Pan.
reviewed
-
Expediciones Patagonia Aventura
Expediciones Patagonia Aventura offers myriad options, for rafting and outdoor adventures, on the Río Corcovado. For class II and III rafting trips, choose either two hours on the river (with/without transport AR$150/100) or a full-day excursion that includes lunch (with/without transport AR$185/140). Once you’re there, you might want to take advantage of the peaceful surroundings: one interesting option is to stay at EPA’s riverside hostel.
reviewed
-
Tren Turístico
During summer, the Tren Turístico travels from Roca station in Esquel to Nahuel Pan, the first station down the line, 20km east. The trip takes 45 minutes. It's popular with groups so book ahead. For a small additional charge, you can organize with one of the Esquel travel agencies to return by minibus.
reviewed
-
Fly-Fishing
Esquel's nearby lakes and rivers offer excellent Fly-Fishing. You can purchase a license at most gas stations, including the YPF gas station (cnr 25 de Mayo & Av Ameghino; hdaylight hours) that houses the ACA.
reviewed
-
White-water Rafting Trips
Full-day White-water Rafting Trips go to upper and lower sections of the glacial-fed Río Corcovado for float trips (class II) and serious white-water assaults (class IV).
reviewed
-
B
Patagonia Travel Rent A Car
Compact rental rates start around AR$100 a day, including 100km and insurance. Try Patagonia Travel Rent A Car, which has a good range of vehicles.
reviewed
-
C
Tierra
Ski rentals are available at Tierra for AR$40 to AR$90 per day, with performance skis at the high end.
reviewed
-
D
Coyote Bike
In summer, head to Coyote Bike for mountain-bike rentals and trail details.
reviewed
