Los Alerces National Park

Parque Nacional Los Alerces

Argentina's oldest national park, Los Alerces protects ancient alerce forests and pristine lakes in the Andes mountains. The park offers hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities amid some of Patagonia's most spectacular scenery and biodiversity.

Things to do

• Lago Menéndez boat tour — Take a guided boat excursion across the park's largest lake to reach the ancient alerce grove at Isla Margarita, where thousand-year-old trees stand among the most pristine old-growth forest in Patagonia.
• Laguna Azul hiking — Hike the moderate trail to this turquoise glacial lake nestled in the Andes, offering panoramic views of mountain peaks and access to fishing in the park's coldest waters.
• Río Futaleufú fishing — Fish for brown and rainbow trout in this world-renowned river that borders the park, popular among fly-fishing enthusiasts for its pristine waters and strong runs.
• Sendero de Alerce hike — Walk through the native alerce forest on this accessible trail near park headquarters, learning about these endemic Patagonian conifers that can live over 3,600 years.
• Puma and wildlife spotting — Seek out Patagonian wildlife including pumas, guanacos, and Andean condors during early morning hikes or boat tours through remote valleys and lakeside areas.
• Lago Futalaufquen camping and kayaking — Camp or day-visit this scenic lake for kayaking, swimming, and fishing while surrounded by southern beech forests and mountain vistas.

Food to try

• Fresh trout (trucha) — Grilled or pan-seared locally-caught trout from the park's rivers and lakes, often prepared simply with butter and lemon to highlight its delicate flavor.
• Patagonian lamb (cordero patagónico) — Slow-roasted lamb from regional Chubut ranches, a staple of southern Argentine cuisine that pairs well with local Malbec wines.
• Wild mushroom dishes (hongos silvestres) — Local preparations featuring fresh calafate berries, mushrooms, and wild herbs foraged from the Patagonian forest and available at park lodges and nearby Esquel restaurants.
• Facturas and medialunas — Argentine pastries and croissants served fresh at park visitor centers and lodges, perfect for picnics or breakfast before hiking excursions.

Local customs & good to know

• Book activities in advance — Boat tours, fishing permits, and guided hikes often fill quickly, especially during the December-March summer season, so reserve transportation and tours ahead of arrival.
• Respect conservation rules — Los Alerces is Argentina's oldest national park with strict environmental protections; stay on marked trails, pack out all waste, and follow ranger guidance to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Bring cash and layers — Services within the park are limited and may not accept cards, and Patagonian weather changes rapidly, so carry small bills and dress in waterproof, layered clothing year-round.
• Learn about alerces — Visit the interpretive centers at park headquarters to understand the ecological and cultural significance of these ancient endemic trees to Patagonian Mapuche and early European settlers.