Arrayanes Forest wilderness guide
National Park · Neuquén, Argentina

Arrayanes Forest

Arrayanes Forest is an enchanting National Park in Argentina known for its unique grove of myrtle trees and scenic trails along the edge of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

National Park1,5002+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Arrayanes Forest

Arrayanes Forest is an enchanting National Park in Argentina known for its unique grove of myrtle trees and scenic trails along the edge of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Arrayanes Forest is part of the Nahuel Huapi National Park in the Argentine Patagonia, renowned for its rare grove of mature myrtle trees (Luma apiculata), which can be identified by their unusual twisted trunks and cinnamon-colored bark. Covering a small peninsula that extends into Lake Nahuel Huapi, this forest offers a rare botanical phenomenon only found in a few places around the world. Historically, the park was home to the indigenous Mapuche people and later explored by European settlers. Today, the forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike along well-maintained trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding Andes mountains. Key attractions within the forest include the Quetrihué Peninsula, known for its biodiversity, and the distinctive myrtle trees, which are protected due to their rarity and the biodiversity they support.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Arrayanes Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The stunning myrtle tree grove with their distinctive cinnamon-colored bark✦ Scenic vistas of Lake Nahuel Huapi and the Andes mountains✦ Rich biodiversity, including rare bird species and native flora✦ Tranquil Quetrihué Peninsula with its secluded hiking paths
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Arrayanes Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Arrayanes Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Arrayanes Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Arrayanes Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Arrayanes Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Arrayanes Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entry fees may apply; check local guidelines.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Arrayanes Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Villa La Angostura, Neuquén Province
⌖ 4.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Villa La Angostura, Neuquén Province

Villa La Angostura is a peaceful Patagonian town surrounded by lakes, forests, and volcanoes. It’s perfect for hiking, paddling, mountain biking, skiing, and wildlife watching year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing (June to September)
Explore Town
Villa La Angostura, Neuquén
⌖ 4.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Villa La Angostura, Neuquén

Villa La Angostura offers year-round outdoor fun from hiking lush forests and mountain biking rugged trails, to skiing Cerro Bayo's slopes and paddling crystal-clear Patagonian lakes. It’s a peaceful gateway into Argentine Patagonia’s natural beauty.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro
⌖ 28.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro

Bariloche is an outdoor paradise with skiing, hiking, and lake activities in stunning Patagonian scenery. It's a vibrant basecamp for year-round thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Bariloche, Río Negro Province
⌖ 28.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bariloche, Río Negro Province

Bariloche is Patagonia’s outdoor playground, offering endless hiking, skiing, biking, and paddling amid spectacular lake and mountain scenery. Its alpine town vibe and nearby national park create a year-round adventure base.

Summer (December to March) for hiking and paddling; Winter (June to September) for skiing
Explore Town
Bariloche, Río Negro
⌖ 28.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bariloche, Río Negro

Bariloche, in Argentine Patagonia, is a year-round outdoor playground known for hiking, skiing, kayaking, and fishing amid stunning lakes and snow-capped Andes peaks. Its vibrant adventure vibe and natural beauty make it ideal for exploring the Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Summer (December to March) for hiking and paddling; Winter (June to September) for skiing
Explore Town
San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro Province
⌖ 28.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro Province

Bariloche is a stunning Patagonian town offering year-round mountain adventures from hiking and biking to world-class skiing. Surrounded by glacial lakes and towering Andes peaks, it’s the perfect base for outdoor lovers.

December to March for summer activities; June to September for skiing
Explore Town