Esquel

Located in the Andes foothills in western Chubut, Esquel is a gateway to Patagonian mountain adventures and is known as the starting point for the scenic La Trochita narrow-gauge train. The city offers access to hiking, outdoor sports, and the pristine landscapes of the Chubut Valley interior.

Things to do

• La Trochita Train Ride — Board the iconic narrow-gauge steam locomotive on a scenic journey through Patagonian valleys and mountain foothills, departing from Esquel's historic station.
• Parque Nacional Los Alerces — Explore ancient alerce forests, pristine lakes, and hiking trails in this protected wilderness area located 40 km west of Esquel.
• Laguna La Esmeralda Hike — Trek to this emerald-green glacial lake nestled in the Andes foothills, offering panoramic views and moderate mountain hiking.
• Skiing at Cerro Castor — Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing during winter months at this nearby Patagonian ski resort with views over the Chubut Valley.
• Río Percey Fly Fishing — Fish for native trout and salmon in pristine mountain rivers fed by Andean snowmelt, with local guides available year-round.
• Museo de la Trochita — Learn the history of the narrow-gauge railway and Patagonian settlement through exhibits housed in restored train cars at the station.

Food to try

• Patagonian Lamb (Cordero Patagónico) — Tender, grass-fed lamb grilled over an open flame or slow-roasted, a signature regional dish reflecting Chubut's pastoral heritage.
• Trucha a la Mantequilla — Fresh mountain trout caught locally and prepared simply with butter and fresh herbs, showcasing the region's pristine river valleys.
• Smoked Venison (Venado Ahumado) — House-smoked wild venison served cold as an appetizer or main course, reflecting Patagonian hunting and preservation traditions.
• Calafate Berry Desserts — Sweet dishes featuring the local calafate berry, a wild fruit native to Patagonia, used in jams, pies, and fresh preparations.
• Welsh Tea (Té Galés) — An afternoon tea tradition inherited from Welsh settlers, featuring scones, pastries, and local bread served with jam and cream.

Local customs & good to know

• Welsh Heritage — Esquel carries strong Welsh colonial influence from 19th-century immigration; some locals speak Welsh and Welsh surnames remain common.
• Seasonal Closures and Weather — Winter (June–August) brings snow and some attraction closures, while spring and autumn are ideal; always check road conditions in the Andes foothills.
• Spanish Language Helpful — English is limited outside major hotels; learning basic Spanish phrases or carrying a translation app enhances interactions with locals and restaurant staff.
• Respect for Nature and Trails — Leave-no-trace principles are expected in national parks and hiking areas; locals take environmental stewardship seriously in this remote region.