500px Photo ID: 238053353 - Vista over Lago Nahuel Huapi in Bariloche, Argentina.

Antonia Bacigalupa Albaum / 500px

Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

Top choice in Bariloche & the Lake District


One of Argentina's most-visited national parks, Nahuel Huapi occupies 7500 sq km in the mountainous southwestern Neuquén and western Río Negro provinces. The park's centerpiece is Lago Nahuel Huapi, a glacial remnant over 100km long that covers more than 500 sq km. The lake is the source of the Río Limay, a major tributary of the Río Negro. Some of the region's best hiking is found here, from challenging multiday treks to easy rambles.

Rafting and kayaking on the Río Limay has become increasingly popular in recent years. The best time to be on the river is November through February, though you can raft October through Easter.

The national park office is in Bariloche.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Bariloche & the Lake District attractions

1. Aerosilla Campanario

5.91 MILES

At Cerro Campanario, the Aerosilla Campanario lifts passengers up to a panoramic view of Lago Nahuel Huapi.

2. Aerosilla Cerro Bellavista

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Several chairlifts and the Aerosilla Cerro Bellavista carry passengers up to 2000m on Cerro Catedral, where there's a restaurant/confitería offering…

3. Teleférico Cerro Otto

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This cable car carries passengers to the summit of Cerro Otto (1405m), with all-encompassing views of Lago Nahuel Huapi from the top. Besides several…

4. Museo de Montaña Otto Meiling

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This museum at the Refugio Berghof is named for the pioneering climber and contains displays about his life, as well as some personal effects. To get here…

5. Centro Cívico

15.51 MILES

A stroll through Bariloche’s center, with its beautiful log-and-stone buildings designed by architect Ezequiel Bustillo, is a must. Besides, posing for a…

6. Museo de la Patagonia

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This small museum is a good introduction to the region, from its volcanic origins and archaeological sites to a wealth of taxidermied wildlife, the life…

7. Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

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This small national park, encompassing the entire Quetrihué Peninsula that juts out into the waters of Lago Nahuel Huapi, protects remaining stands of the…

8. Ventisquero Negro

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From Pampa Linda, it's a 6km drive (or over an hour's walk) along a severely potholed dirt road to the Ventisquero Negro lookout. It's a spectacular sight…