Futalaufquen Lake: Gateway to Los Alerces National Park

Futalaufquen Lake sits 50 km west of Esquel at the heart of Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017. The lake is the park's main hub: Villa Futalaufquen, the visitor center, campgrounds, and the paved section of Ruta Provincial 71 all cluster around its eastern shore. Most travelers reach it in about 45 minutes by car from Esquel via Ruta Nacional 259 and Ruta Provincial 71.

Getting There and Orientation

By Car from Esquel

The drive from Esquel covers 52 km, with the first stretch on paved RN 259 and the final approach on RP 71, which is paved along the lake's eastern margin. Rental cars are available in Esquel, and the road is manageable for standard vehicles in dry weather. In winter, chains may be required on park roads — a rule that was officially enforced starting in 2026 — so check conditions before setting out.

By Bus and Tour

A daily bus service runs from Esquel to Villa Futalaufquen and selected points inside the park; schedules shift with the season, so confirm departure times at the Esquel tourist office. Organized day tours from Esquel combine transport with a lake navigation and a stop at the visitor center. If you prefer flexibility, taxis and remises from Esquel can be hired for the round trip, but arrange a return time with the driver — cell coverage inside the park is unreliable.

Park Entrances

Los Alerces has three access points: North, Central, and South. Futalaufquen Lake is served by the Central entrance at Villa Futalaufquen. The South entrance, near the Futaleufú Hydroelectric Complex, is useful if you are coming from Trevelin. The North entrance via Cholila sees fewer visitors, but the road is gravel and slower going.

What to See and Do Around the Lake

Hiking Trails

The Sendero Pinturas Rupestres is a short, low-difficulty walk that leads to a volcanic rock overhang with ancient rock art and sweeping views over the lake. It is one of the few trails in the park designed for accessibility, making it a good option for families or travelers with limited mobility. The Cinco Saltos trail, which climbs to a viewpoint over the Los Pumas stream and the lake, reopened in late 2026 after safety assessments; it takes roughly two hours round trip at a moderate pace. For a longer outing, the trail to Lago Verde and the suspension bridge over the Arrayan River rewards hikers with contrasting views of two lakes.

Lake Navigation

Boat trips depart from Puerto Limonao, a recreational area on the lake's shore with food carts and public restrooms. The classic excursion runs to the Alerzal Milenario, a grove of Patagonian cypress (alerce) trees over 2,600 years old. The boat ride itself takes about 40 minutes each way, and the visit to the ancient grove is guided. Book ahead in January and February — the peak summer months — as capacity is limited.

Beaches and Picnic Spots

Several small beaches line the paved section of RP 71. They are marked by gravel pullouts and are ideal for a quick swim or a picnic. The water stays cold even in summer — surface temperatures rarely exceed 15°C — but on a hot January afternoon, a plunge is bracing rather than unbearable. Note that swimming is only allowed in designated areas, and diving from docks is prohibited.

Fishing

Futalaufquen Lake is known for rainbow and brown trout. A national fishing license is required, and the park enforces catch-and-release rules in some sections. The best fishing months are November through March, when the water warms and insect hatches bring fish to the surface.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Opening Hours and Fees

The park is open daily. Summer hours (roughly October through April) are 9:00 to 20:00; winter hours (May through September) are 9:00 to 17:00. Entry is free from May through October. In high season, foreign adults pay around AR$35,000 (about US$24 at the 2026 rate), Argentine residents AR$15,000, and Chubut province residents AR$8,000. A 50% discount applies to a second visit within 72 hours. Fees are adjusted with inflation, so check the official APN site for current rates. There is no ATM inside the park — bring cash.

Camping and Lodging

Villa Futalaufquen has two campgrounds (Los Maitenes and Bahía Rosales) with basic facilities, plus hosterías and cabins for those who prefer beds. Camping fees are separate from the park entrance fee. In summer, reservations are recommended, especially for the waterfront sites. The visitor center, open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 14:00 (closed Sunday), has exhibits on the park's ecology and a small information desk.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

January and February are the warmest months, with daytime highs around 20–21°C and lows near 7–9°C. This is also the busiest period. March and April bring cooler temperatures (16°C in March, 12°C in April) and fewer crowds, while the deciduous lenga trees turn red and orange — a photographer's favorite. Winter (June–August) is cold, with highs of 5–7°C and frequent snow, but the park is quiet and the lake often freezes at the edges. Rain is spread throughout the year, with May and June being the wettest (10 rain days each).

Safety and Regulations

Fires are only allowed in designated fire pits, and fire restrictions are common in summer — check with the visitor center before lighting anything. Weather can change fast: wind gusts of 60 km/h are not unusual, and sudden temperature drops are common. Carry layers and rain gear even on sunny mornings. Drones are prohibited without a permit. Pets are not allowed on trails. If you plan to hike, leave your itinerary with someone in Esquel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time should I spend at Futalaufquen Lake?

Most visitors find that one full day covers the highlights: a short hike, a lake navigation, and a stop at the visitor center. If you want to explore more trails or fish, plan for two or three days. Camping overnight lets you experience the lake at sunrise, when the water is calmest.

Can I swim in Futalaufquen Lake?

Yes, but the water is cold year-round — typically 12–15°C in summer. Swimming is allowed only in designated beach areas, and you should never dive from docks or jump into unknown sections. The beaches along RP 71 are the most accessible spots.

Is the park open year-round?

Yes, but services are reduced in winter. The visitor center keeps shorter hours, some campgrounds close, and boat tours do not operate from May through September. Roads may require chains after snow, and the access to the Alerzal Milenario can be closed.

Do I need a reservation to enter Los Alerces National Park?

No reservation is needed for general entry. However, the boat trip to the Alerzal Milenario should be booked in advance during January and February, as seats sell out quickly. Campground reservations are also recommended in peak season.