Lago Puelo National Park: Patagonia's Warmest Lake

Lago Puelo National Park protects 27,674 hectares of Valdivian rainforest—a slice of Chile's temperate jungle on Argentine soil—around a turquoise lake that drains west to the Pacific. The park entry is free as of the 2025–2026 season, though that could change once a new concession is awarded, so check the official Administración de Parques Nacionales site before you go. The lake sits at just 200 meters above sea level, one of the lowest points in the entire Andes, which gives it a microclimate warm enough for swimming in summer—a rarity this far south.

Getting There and Orientation

From Bariloche or Esquel by car

Most visitors approach from El Bolsón, 17 km north of the park entrance via Provincial Route 16, which is paved all the way to the access gate. From San Carlos de Bariloche, take National Route 40 south to El Bolsón (about 120 km), then Route 16; total drive time is roughly two hours. From Esquel in the south, the route is National Route 40 to El Hoyo, then a left turn near Cerro Radal onto Route 16—about 155 km, or two and a half hours. The road climbs gently through apple orchards and past wooden farm gates before the forest closes in.

By bus or taxi

Daily buses run from Bariloche and Esquel to the town of Lago Puelo, 4 km from the park. From the town, local colectivos, taxis and remises cover the final stretch; a taxi from El Bolsón costs around ARS 8,000 and takes 20 minutes. Buses from El Bolsón are cheaper—about ARS 2,500 in late 2025—but they only accept cash, and the 40-minute ride drops you at the park entrance. I’d skip the bus if you’re carrying camping gear; the taxi is worth the splurge.

Park hours and access

The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and there’s no ticket booth at the Río Turbio access—just an honour-sign register. Pets, drones and fires outside designated areas are prohibited. The northern shore trail floods after heavy rain, so ask at the entrance kiosk about current conditions; staff are generous with advice but don’t volunteer it unless you ask.

What to See and Do

Sendero de los Alerces and the mossy north shore

The 2 km Sendero de los Alerces loops from the Río Turbio campground to a lake overlook, passing through a stand of European larch planted in the 1940s and mixed with native coihue. The northern 800 meters is the highlight: larch needles acidify the soil, and a carpet of Hypnum moss stays emerald year-round. The best spot is the spring crossing 400 meters from the campground, where a cut-log bridge wears a two-meter curtain of moss. Go before 11 a.m.—by midday the wind picks up and the lake turns choppy.

Bosque de las Sombras and family walks

The Bosque de las Sombras is an 800-meter circular boardwalk through a flooded pitra forest, flat and suitable for strollers. It’s been closed on and off for maintenance, so check status at the gate. The Jardín Botánico path, also flat, introduces native and introduced species; both take under 30 minutes. These are the only trails I’d recommend for young children or anyone with knee trouble.

Kayaking, horseback riding and fishing

Guided kayak trips launch from the lake’s eastern beach and follow the shoreline toward the Chilean border; half-day tours include gear and a licensed guide. Horseback outfits based at the park entrance run rides from one hour to full days, and multi-day trips with lodging are available. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout requires a license, sold in El Bolsón or Lago Puelo town. The Puelo River is Class III whitewater—don’t swim there; the lake itself is calm and warm enough for a dip from December through March.

When to Go and How Long to Stay

Seasons and weather

Summer (December–March) brings average highs of 24°C and occasional spikes above 35°C, with cool nights around 8°C. Autumn is wet—April alone sees about 100 mm of rain—but the larch turn gold in late April and the trails empty out. Winter (June–September) can dump snow on the access road; in August 2025 a visitor reported the road closed and buses stopping 6 km short. Spring (October–November) is the sweet spot: larch needles glow orange, moss is at its wettest, and daytime temperatures hover near 18°C.

Suggested itinerary

A half-day covers the Sendero de los Alerces and a swim; a full day adds a kayak tour or the Bosque de las Sombras boardwalk. If you want to hike to Los Hitos—a 9 km one-way route that requires fording the river or boating to the education camp—budget a full day and arrange a guide. Most visitors based in El Bolsón treat Lago Puelo as a day trip, but camping at Río Turbio (open year-round, no reservations) lets you catch the lake at dawn before the wind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket or reservation for Lago Puelo National Park?

No. As of late 2025 the park charges no entrance fee, and the Río Turbio access uses an honour register rather than a staffed booth. A concession to collect fees was out for bid but unresolved, so confirm on the official APN site before your visit—rates are subject to change.

Can you swim in Lago Puelo?

Yes—the lake’s low elevation warms the water enough for comfortable swimming from December to March, unusual for Patagonia. Avoid the Puelo River, which is Class III whitewater and dangerous even for strong swimmers.

How do I get to the park without a car?

Take a bus from Bariloche or Esquel to the town of Lago Puelo, then a local colectivo or taxi for the last 4 km. Buses from El Bolsón cost about ARS 2,500 and take 40 minutes, but bring cash—cards aren’t accepted on board.

What should I pack for a day hike?

Layers, rain shell and sturdy shoes. Morning temperatures in spring and autumn can sit near 5°C, and the north-shore trail is muddy year-round. Bring cash for taxis and snacks; there’s no ATM inside the park.