On this day trip from Esquel, you'll travel to Los Alerces National Park among native forests and reach Menéndez Lake to see the Glaciar Torrecillas. Get your camera ready!
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the activity starts. Any cancellations after this or no-shows on the day will not be refunded.
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You can book up to 2 days in advance if there are any seats left. Book now and guarantee your spot.
If you have other questions, contact us
On this day trip from Esquel, you'll travel to Los Alerces National Park among native forests and reach Menéndez Lake to see the Glaciar Torrecillas. Get your camera ready!
Once we've picked you up at the designated time at your hotel in Esquel, we'll begin a journey toward the heart of one of Patagonia's most stunning landscapes: Los Alerces National Park. Let's go!
After about 45 minutes of driving, we'll reach Villa Futalaufquen, a village surrounded by coihues, cypresses, and Antarctic beeches. Here, we'll find the entrance to the park and its interpretation center, where we'll learn about the history of this protected area since 1937. This will be the best introduction to the park, as you'll discover its efforts in preserving the ancient larches with its models, photos, and panels.
Then, we'll head to Puerto Limonao to embark on a 1,640 ft (500 m) hike among myrtles and ferns that will lead us to the Hostería Futalaufquen. We'll visit this architectural gem, elegantly designed by Bustillo. The scenic views of the lake you'll enjoy here will be a preview of what you're about to see.
Our next destination is the Mirador de Pinturas Rupestres (Viewpoint of Cave Paintings), which we'll reach on board a vehicle. We'll discover the ancient carvings in ocher hues that will tell us about the link between the inhabitants and nature. From here, the views of Futalaufquen Lake are beautiful!
2.48 mi (4 km) away, the Waterfall Irigoyen awaits, which we'll get to through the forest. We'll reach the waterfall's base and feel the cold water as we stop to admire the site. Afterward, we'll continue toward the walkway of the Arrayanes River to hike for 0.93 mi (1.5 km).
Hungry? We'll then stop to enjoy a picnic-style lunch, including pizza, pinchos, cured meats, and cakes. All of this will be accompanied by wine, juice, and water. Enjoy!
We'll be able to see the Menéndez River, which flows from the mountain range like an artery bringing the valley to life. Its stream will guide us to Puerto Chucao, where one of the most anticipated landscapes of the day trip will open in front of our eyes: Lake Menéndez. Surrounded by an amphitheater of snowy mountains, this lagoon is nestled in the Glaciar Torrecillas, dominating the sky over 7,217 ft (2,200 m) tall.
Did you know Lake Menéndez is the only lake in Los Alerces National Park where it is not allowed to sail on a motorized boat? This protects its ecosystem and makes it the cleanest lake in the region. As it's a glacier-fed lake, its turquoise waters are even more intense. Don't forget to take pictures!
Before returning to Esquel, we'll have a sweet snack and a savory snack with tea, coffee, and mate. Finally, we'll drop you off at your hotel after 8.5 hours.
You can book up to 2 days in advance if there are any seats left. Book now and guarantee your spot.
If you have other questions, contact us
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