Guide to Los Arrayanes: Argentina’s Cinnamon-colored Nature Reserve

Tucked away in Argentina’s Patagonia region, Los Arrayanes National Park is one of the country’s most enchanting protected areas. It is located on the Quetrihué Peninsula, which juts into the northern reaches of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The park is particularly renowned for its extraordinary forest of cinnamon-colored arrayán trees—also known as Chilean myrtle—that give the park its name.

The park was originally part of Nahuel Huapi National Park until 1971, when it was established as a separate reserve to protect its unique ecosystem. What makes Los Arrayanes so remarkable is its dense grove of arrayán trees, some of which are estimated to be over 600 years old. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Los Arrayanes National Park;

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Overview of Los Arrayanes National Park

Los Arrayanes National Park is located on Argentina’s western border with Chile. It is a small yet extraordinary natural treasure nestled just south of the country’s midpoint. Spanning only 6.77 square miles (17.53 square kilometers), it is Argentina’s smallest national park. The park occupies the Quetrihué Peninsula, which extends into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

A 12-kilometer trail winds its way from the entrance of the park to its southern tip, where the enchanting myrtle forest grows thicker and more vibrant. Along this route, you can pause at scenic viewpoints overlooking Mansa and Brava Bays, admire the lake’s branching waterways, and even access the secluded Patagua Lake. The park was initially part of the larger Nahuel Huapi National Park until 1971.

Los Arrayanes was later designated as a separate reserve to better protect its distinctive landscape and flora, particularly the ancient arrayán trees. These remarkable trees, members of the myrtle family, form a rare forest, with some believed to be between 300 and 600 years old. You can reach this magical grove either by hiking the 7.5-mile trail from Villa La Angostura or by boat, kayak, or catamaran across the lake.

Also Read: Best Resorts in Argentina.

Wildlife in Los Arrayanes National Park

While Los Arrayanes is not primarily known for its wildlife, a surprising variety of animals can be encountered for those with patience and keen eyes. You’ll encounter mammals like the pudú, one of the world’s smallest and threatened deer species. Also, the huemul or South Andean deer make occasional appearances in the forested areas.

The park’s waterways are home to the elusive huillín, or Southern River Otter. Also, nocturnal creatures like the monito del monte, a tiny marsupial resembling an opossum, have been seen in the park. Grey foxes are more commonly seen, and along the lakeshores, coypus or coipos can often be spotted foraging near the water. Birdlife is especially rich, attracting enthusiasts who hope to catch sight of over 100 recorded species.

Majestic Andean condors soar above, while Magellanic woodpeckers and Austral parakeets inhabit the forest canopy. Smaller yet equally fascinating birds such as the thorn-tailed rayadito, green-backed firecrown, and imperial cormorants can be observed near the lake. Occasionally, less common raptors like the Black-chested Buzzard Eagle and Torres del Paine raptors grace the skies.

Best Time to Visit Los Arrayanes National Park

The ideal time to visit Los Arrayanes is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer and shoulder seasons, from November to March. During these months, the weather is generally sunny, cool, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. You’ll also enjoy long days exploring the forest and spotting vibrant wildflowers, which are especially abundant in January.

Visiting outside these months requires a little bit more preparation. From May to September, temperatures drop and rainfall increases, with July through September often bringing heavy snowfall. During this period, some activities and park services are limited, making travel less convenient. However, it offers a quieter, snow-dusted landscape for those prepared for winter conditions.

Getting to Los Arrayanes National Park

The first step is to get to the Lake District, either by flying directly to Bariloche or by bus or car to Bariloche or Villa La Angostura. Once there, there are two main ways to reach the park itself. Many visitors choose to travel by boat, taking a tour from Puerto Pañuelo in Bariloche. It often includes a stop at Victoria Island before continuing to the Arrayanes port on the Quetrihué Peninsula.

From Villa La Angostura, it is also possible to take a direct catamaran or boat ride to the park’s port. For the adventurous type, the park can be accessed from Villa La Angostura via a 12-kilometer pedestrian hike or by cycling along the same route. Both options provide a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty up close before stepping into the enchanting forest of ancient arrayán trees.

Other Activities in Los Arrayanes National Park

In addition to walking through the forest, Los Arrayanes offers a range of activities that let visitors experience its beauty from different perspectives. Travelers can reach the arrayán grove by boat, kayak, or catamaran, providing a unique approach as the forest emerges from the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Many choose to combine these options with a return hike along the park’s well-preserved wooden trail. You can also cycle along the trails if trekking doesn’t appeal to you. For those seeking a more leisurely return, biking is a popular alternative, allowing visitors to cover the trail at their own pace. The park’s small lagoon beaches also offer a perfect spot to relax and take a refreshing swim.

Park Fees in Los Arrayanes National Park

Los Arrayanes charges varying admission fees depending on nationality. As of now, both foreign visitors and Argentine locals are required to pay ARS $20,000 ($55). Although, these fees have often been updated every few months. Please, check with your tour operator for updated fees before making your trip.

FAQs

Is Los Arrayanes National Park worth visiting?

Yes, Los Arrayanes is definitely worth a visit. The park’s rare arrayán forest, with its striking cinnamon-colored bark, offers a magical and unforgettable setting. Outdoor enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the hiking opportunities, including a 12-kilometer trail that winds through the forest. For a different perspective, visitors can opt for a scenic boat trip from Villa La Angostura.

How long to spend in Los Arrayanes National Park?

To fully enjoy Los Arrayanes, it is recommended to spend at least half a day. However, a full day allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore the entire Quetrihué Peninsula. Many visitors opt for a half-day boat tour departing from Bariloche or Villa La Angostura, which combines a visit to the iconic arrayán forest with a stop at Victoria Island.

Conclusion

Los Arrayanes National Park is not only a refuge for rare trees and wildlife but also a place that captures the spirit of Patagonia’s wild beauty. It invites you to slow down, wander beneath centuries-old canopies, and experience a landscape that feels untouched by time. From the moment you step into the forest, you understand why this small but extraordinary park holds such a special place in Argentina’s natural heritage.