Mountain peaks, forested valleys and mirror-like lakes form the backdrop to this magnificent national park, west of Esquel. Its namesake forests – the alerce is an ancient conifer akin to California's giant sequoia – still remain, although the park suffered devastating wildfires in 2026. Apart from seeking out these towering specimens, the big draws are hiking rugged trails, taking scenic boat trips and camping amid the pristine wilderness.
Hikes Near Lago Futalaufquen
Located some 50km northwest of Esquel, the tiny settlement of Villa Futalaufquen makes an excellent base for adventures in the national park. Get the latest trail info at the Centro de Visitantes, then set out for a hike near the Lago Futalaufquen. There's a variety of rewarding hikes, ranging from 10 minutes (the Cascada Irigoyen) to three days (the 40km round-trip trek to Lago Krügger). It's also well worth walking the short Sendero Pinturas Rupestres to see mysterious rock paintings created between 700 CE and 1700 CE. On those rare hot days, you can cool off at Playa Unión, a rocky but cinematic beach on the lake's south side.
Boat Trips
One of the best ways to experience the national park is to get out on the water. From Puerto Limonao, you can take a boat trip tracing the southern shore of Lago Futalaufquen, passing through the Estrecho de los Monstruos (Strait of Monsters) and into Lago Krügger, where you'll dock at a refuge. You can have a meal at the restaurant or set off on a 90-minute hike along the Río Frey. Alternatively, head up to Puerto Chucao and take a boat trip across Lago Menéndez to Puerto Sagrario, where you can continue on foot to a towering forest of ancient alerces. Numerous agencies sell boat excursion tickets, including Esquel-based Safari Lacustre (safarilacustre.com.ar).