Arrayanes Forest
Neuquén
Los Arrayanes National Park, located in Neuquén province, Argentina, preserves a unique and rare forest of arrayán trees (Luma apiculata) on the Quetrihué Peninsula along the shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake. The park covers 17.53 square kilometers and features a dense forest of cinnamon-colored arrayán trees, some individuals reaching more than 600 years of age and heights over 15 meters. Visitors can explore the forest via a wooden walkway designed to protect the fragile roots and soil, or hike a 12 km path from Villa La Angostura, which is popular for mountain biking. The park hosts diverse wildlife including pudú and huemul deer, guanacos, monitos de monte, small foxes, as well as birds such as condors, eagles, hawks, and woodpeckers. The cold, humid climate with significant winter precipitation and occasional snowfall supports this unique ecosystem. Established as a separate national park in 1971 to protect this distinctive forest, Los Arrayanes forms part of the larger Nahuel Huapi conservation unit. The park's atmosphere, marked by the striking cinnamon bark and tranquil natural setting, offers visitors an enchanting experience of Patagonian biodiversity and natural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit Los Arrayanes National Park is during the warmer months when the weather is milder, typically from late spring to early autumn. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance through official channels to avoid queues and ensure access. Walking the wooden path protects the delicate arrayán roots, so staying on designated trails is essential. The 12 km hiking or biking trail from Villa La Angostura offers an adventurous alternative to boat access. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and residents. Early arrival is recommended to enjoy the park with fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Interesting facts
- •The park protects a rare forest of arrayán trees, with some individuals over 600 years old and reaching heights above 15 meters.
- •The arrayán tree's cinnamon-colored bark creates a unique and enchanting forest atmosphere seldom seen elsewhere.
- •Los Arrayanes National Park is part of the Andean-Patagonian Biosphere Reserve since 2007.
- •The park hosts elusive wildlife such as the pudú, one of the smallest deer species in the world, and the endangered huemul deer.
- •To protect the delicate roots of the arrayán trees, visitors walk on a specially constructed wooden path through the forest.
History
The Quetrihué Peninsula was originally part of the first national park in Latin America, the Parque Nacional del Sur, established in 1922.
In 1934, it became part of Nahuel Huapi National Park.
Due to the ecological importance of the rare arrayán forest, the peninsula was designated as Los Arrayanes National Park in 1971, separating it administratively to better protect the unique cinnamon-colored trees.
Since 2007, the park has been part of the Andean-Patagonian Biosphere Reserve.
Conservation efforts have included the creation of wooden walkways to prevent damage to the fragile roots and soil, and the establishment of strict natural reserves where visitor access is prohibited to preserve biodiversity.
Place Guide
Arrayanes Forest Walkway
A wooden boardwalk trail that allows visitors to experience the dense arrayán forest without damaging the fragile roots and soil. It offers close views of the cinnamon-colored bark and the ancient trees, some over 600 years old.
Quetrihué Peninsula Hiking Trail
A 12 km trail starting at the port of Villa La Angostura, leading through varied terrain with ups and downs, popular for hiking and mountain biking. It offers scenic views of Nahuel Huapi Lake and access to the arrayán forest at the peninsula's southern tip.
Contact
Phone: 0294 442-3121
