Los Arrayanes National Park: complete guide

Located in southern Neuquen province, Argentina, Los Arrayanes National Park protects the Quetrihue Peninsula, which juts into Lake Nahuel Huapi near Villa La Angostura. Together with Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks, it forms part of a larger Andean-Patagonian conservation corridor.

Size: 1,796 hectares of protected Andean-Patagonian forest.

Highlights: A rare myrtle forest (Luma apiculata) with centuries-old trees, plus stands of coihue and nire that add diversity to the peninsula.

Climate

Cold and humid. Average temperatures are about 3 C in winter and 14 C in summer. Annual precipitation is roughly 1,300 mm, with snow from July to September. Best time to visit: October to March, when weather is milder and trails are in better condition.

Flora

The star here is the myrtle forest (Luma apiculata) with cinnamon-colored bark and specimens over 300 years old. Coihue and nire forests flank the peninsula and complete the Andean-Patagonian mosaic.

Wildlife

Wetlands such as Hua Huan and Patagua lagoons are home to the endangered southern river otter (huillin). Birdlife includes the pitio woodpecker, austral parakeet, and araucaria spinetail; on the lake, look for imperial cormorants.

History

The Quetrihue Peninsula was incorporated into Argentina's National Parks system in 1971 to protect its iconic myrtle forest. Formerly private land, it was recovered for conservation and is now one of the highlights around Villa La Angostura.

Main trails

• Arrayanes Forest Trail: 12 km one way across the peninsula. Hike or bike (first section is steep for bikes). Expect great lake views.
• Boardwalk Trail: short, accessible wooden walkway through the myrtle forest. About 15 minutes.