Complete Guide To Los Arrayanes National Park
By: Author Sarah McAlister
So you’re planning a visit los Arrayanes National Park? Awesome stuff. It’s a seriously beautiful part of Argentina and Neuquén province.
In this guide we’re going to give you all the information you need to plan your trip, including the various routes to get there, how much it costs and what you should take with you.
Los Arrayanes National Park
First a little history about los Arrayanes. Until 1971, it used to just be part of the larger Nahuel Huapi National Park . But it was made an independent National Park for the purpose of the preservation of unique Arrayanes forest.
Located in an extreme of Lake Nahuel Huapi, right on the tip of the peninsula that is Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, it is one of a kind in the world. Although it was actually artificially created by previous landowners who removed all other vegetation to promote its growth.
The cinnamon stick like trees are rumored to be where Walt Disney drew inspiration for the film, Bambi . Unfortunately it is just that, a rumor. But while it has been confirmed that Walt didn’t actually visit the Arrayanes wood, it still takes on a magical and mystical feel.
How To Get to Arrayanes Forest
Unless you are staying in Villa la Angostura, chances are that you will visiting los Arrayanes National Park on a day trip from Bariloche. So let’s cover how to get from Bariloche to Villa La Angostura first.
Obviously skip ahead if you are already planning to stay in Villa La Angostura. There’s some recommendations on where to stay later.
Or if you’d prefer to take an organised boat tour direct from Bariloche, we have some recommendations for that too.
Still trying to choose your backpack? Look no further! The Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack is perfect for big trips. It’s lightweight but durable, incredibly comfortable, super spacious and even has a detachable daypack.
Bariloche to Villa La Angostura
There are 8 buses per day running from Bariloche to Villa la Angostura, with the first one 8am. This is the one that we took and would recommend because the next one isn’t until 9:45am. The price is $165 ARS (£3 GBP / $4 USD). The bus company is Via Bariloche.
You can buy tickets to get to Villa Angostura from Bariloche either in the town centre or at the bus terminal. The ticket office address in town is Mitre, 321. It’s right on the main street and easy to find. You’ll need your passport details and can pay in cash or card.
It’s best to book a few days in advance, especially in high season. On your day of travel the bus from Bariloche to Villa la Angostura leaves from the bus terminal. The number 20 and 21 local buses go through centro to the bus terminal around every 20 minutes.
There’s a stop right outside the Intendencia Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (San Martin, 24) and it’s around a 10 minute ride. The journey from the bus terminal in Bariloche to Villa la Angostura takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Don’t forget your passport, they will need to be checked against your tickets.
For the way back we booked the 7pm bus from Villa la Angostura to Bariloche. The one before is 4.30pm so it makes the day trip pretty tight time wise. You would need to take the boat roundtrip as you wouldn’t really have enough time to comfortably walk or hike the route, even one way.
Villa la Angostura is a cute little town too. So we were glad we had a little time to explore it at the end of the day. And there’s a few nice bars where you can grab a happy hour beer before jumping on the bus back to Bariloche, which we were only too happy to do.
Villa La Angostura to Los Arrayanes National Park
Once you arrive in Villa la Angostura bus terminal, walk back onto the main road to the Tourist Information Office – it’s like 2 minutes away. Here you can get a map for Los Arrayanes National Park, a boat schedule and a local bus timetable.
To get from Villa la Angostura to the entrance of Los Arrayanes National Park you can then either walk the 3km or take a local bus. They aren’t that regular, so depending on when you arrive it may be quicker for you walk for 20 minutes than wait. This is what the bus stop looks like.
If you take the 8am bus to Villa la Angostura from Bariloche, as we did, you will comfortably have enough time to get your map and timetables from the Tourist Information Centre and jump on the 10am local bus to Puerto Villa. Note, NOT Puerto Manzana.
Unlike on the local buses in Bariloche where you have to use a Sube card, it is cash only on the local buses in Villa la Angostura. The fare, one way, is $50 ARS (£1 GBP / £1.25 USD) and the drivers give change – within reason.
The journey takes around 5 minutes and there are just two stops. The first is at Bahia Mansa. This is the dock where you take the catamaran boat along the bay route to the end of the Los Arrayanes National Park peninsula.
The second and last is at the entrance to Parque Nacional los Arrayanes and the Bahia Brava dock. This is where you take the catamaran boat along the alternative mountain route. Don’t worry if you get off at the wrong one. It’s a few minutes walk inbetween.
Bosque de Arrayanes by Boat
One of the most popular ways to visit the Arrayanes forest or Bosque de Arrayanes is by boat. The views are spectacular. There are catamarans running each way around the Parque Nacional los Arrayanes peninsula which will give you either bay or mountain views.
As already mentioned, the catamaran for the route along the bay leaves from Bahia Mansa, or Mansa Bay in English. The company is called Catamarán Futaleufú and there are two trips per day.
The first leaves at 11am and returns at 1pm. The second leaves at 2.30pm, returning at 4.30pm. The cost one way is $800 ARS (£15 GBP / $21 USD) per person or $1100 ARS (£21 GBP / $28 USD) for a round trip.
For the mountain route the catamaran leaves from Bahia Brava, or Brava Bay in English. The company running this service is called Catamarán Patagonia Argentina. There are also two trips per day.
The first leaves at 12pm and returns at 2.15pm. The second leaves at 3.15pm, returning at 5.30pm. The cost is slightly cheaper at $700 ARS (£13 GBP / $18 USD) one way and $1000 ARS (£19 GBP / $25 USD) for a round trip. You can pay by cash or card.
Los Arrayanes Catamaran Trip
The sailing time to get from the base of the peninsula to Puerto Quetrihue and the Bosque de Arrayanes at the tip is around 1 hour. So just bear in mind that if you opt for a roundtrip, you will only have an hour to explore the Arrayanes forest before needing to be back on the boat.
There’s lots of information given out aboard the catamaran about los Arrayanes National Park and the history of the area. However it is only in Spanish. When you dock in Puerto Quetrihue you can choose to either walk around with the guide from the boat or go off on your own.
What we opted to do was take the 11am bay route catamaran from Mansa Bay, one way to the peninsula tip. Then hike back along the 12km trail through los Arrayanes National Park – more on that in a bit. But that way we got to spend as long as we wanted with the trees.
You can also do this the other way round. Making your own way along the peninsula through los Arrayanes National Park, then returning to the base by catamaran. Obviously you need to time this so that you have enough time to explore the Arrayanes forest and make the boat.
If you choose this option, it is best to buy your catamaran ticket before you enter los Arrayanes National Park to guarantee you have a spot on the return trip. If you do decide to do it last minute, we saw you could buy catamaran tickets in the tea house.
We always travel with a filter water bottle. Not only does it stop us getting ill, but it means we’re not killing the planet or wasting money on plastic bottles. The GRAYL Geopress is hands down the best on the market & makes water from virtually any source safe to drink.
Hiking to Arrayanes Forest
The trail through los Arrayanes National Park is 12 km one way with the last kilometer at the end of the peninsula being a wooden walkway around the Arrayanes forest. It’s an easy route along a dirt path with undulations rather than huge slopes up down.
It’s also just one path, so it’s impossible to get lost. If you do, I’m not sure you should be leaving the house. For the most part it’s shaded as you’re literally walking through a huge forest. There’s no water sources until you get to the lagoon at the end so take enough.
It’s totally possible to walk the whole 23 km in one day if you wish and are fit enough. It’s also the cheapest option. But you are effectively walking the same route twice.
As I say, we took the catamaran there and walked back, which we would definitely recommend. We arrived at 12pm and ate lunch on the shore of the lagoon, then wandered around the Arrayanes trees at our leisure. Setting off hiking back through los Arrayanes National Park at at 1:45pm.
Los Arrayanes Hiking Trail
Including venturing off the main path to the two viewpoints, Mirador Bahia Mansa and Mirador Brazo Norte, it took us just over 3 hours to hike back along the peninsula. We got back to the start with plenty of time to take the 5:35pm local bus back into Villa la Angostura.
If you are walking the whole 23km route there and back along los Arrayanes National Park, I’d recommend allowing a minimum of 8 hours. So that you have time for breaks and to enjoy the Bosque de Arrayanes at the end.
If you are getting the boat to Bosque de Arrayanes and cycling back through los Arrayanes National Park, it’s not so easy to find where the trail starts. We walked right past it the first time. It is marked Villa trail but you’ll need to dip under a rope to get off the wooden circuit.
At the end you can drop down onto one of the Nahuel Huapi Lagoon beaches at either side and even take a swim if you like. The water is chilly, even at the height of summer, but great for cooling off after a long hike.
Travel towels are insanely versatile, doubling up as everything from a beach rug or yoga mat to a sarong. This one’s lightweight, super absorbent, quick-drying & soft on your skin, don’t hit the road without one.
Renting A Bike To Los Arrayanes
An alternative option is to rent a bike and cycle the route through los Arrayanes National Park to the Arrayanes forest. There’s plenty of rental shops either in Villa la Angostura (in which case you can just bike the 3 km to the park entrance), or around that start of the trail head.
We checked prices for some available near the entrance to los Arrayanes National Park. They were $500 ARS each for the day, 9:30am – 8pm. This included a helmet, a lock, and a bike pump. You need to leave some ID with them as a deposit. It’s possible to rent kayaks too.
You can take bikes onto the catamarans too, so in case you wanted to go one way by boat and the other cycling that is totally possible too. But you can’t take bikes onto the wooden walkway around the Arrayanes forest. There’s a bike park to leave them at.
If going on the boat and biking back, you’ll need to walk them around to the right off the pier and along the beach to the bike park. Just a note about the route along the peninsula for bikes. There are quite a few steps in parts so you will need to get off and walk in places.
Tickets To Los Arrayanes National Park
Regardless of how you get to the end of the peninsula and bosque de arrayanes, you will need to buy a seperate ticket to los Arrayanes National Park. You can buy these from multiples places near the catamaran ticket places and just inside the entrance to the park.
The cost is $350 ARS (£7 GBP / $9 USD) each per day and you can pay by cash or card. If taking the boat, they will check you have them as you are boarding the respective catamaran.
What To Do In Bosque de Arrayanes
The main point of visiting the Arrayanes forest is obviously for the trees. In case you are on the boat tour and don’t understand Spanish, or simply want to explore on your own, there are a few information boards dotted around in both Spanish and English.
But there is also a cute tea house selling hot drinks, cakes and snacks. The prices were reasonable at $140 ARG (£2.60 GBP / $3.50 USD) for a coffee and a muffin. You can also chill out on the shore of the Nahuel Huapi Lagoon, or on the piers, and take in the views. There are public toilets.
Los Arrayanes Boat Tour
If you’d prefer not to make your own way to Los Arrayanes National Park, there is an excellent lake excursion from Puerto Pañuelo in Bariloche. The boat tour to Arrayanes Forest will also take you to Victoria Island.
After exploring the unique Myrtle Forest, you will be taken to the 1000 year old island. There you can walk along the volcanic beach and see paintings made by indigenous peoples who once lived there.
All tour guides are bilingual and you can opt to be picked up from your hotel in Bariloche if you prefer also.
Where To Stay In Villa La Angostura
If you’re after staying over nearby while visiting Los Arrayanes National Park, there’s a few great places in Villa La Angostura. They get filled up quickly in high season so don’t dilly dally with your booking.
Here’s our pick of the bunch for where to stay in Villa La Angostura.
Affordable Luxury: Lofts del Mercado
These colourful farmhouse style apartments are a great option for if you are travelling in a group or looking for a spacious place to rest and relax.
Set in the centre of Villa La Angostura, the Lofts del Mercado are close everything but there’s also a restaurant and bar onsite. Plus WiFi, free parking and beautiful garden to enjoy.
Mid-range: Hosteria El Establo
Set back off the main road, this charming wooden house is a seriously cosy spot. The gorgeous garden has views over the nearby mountains. And relaxing by the fireplace in the lobby is a real treat.
There’s WiFi throughout, a buffet breakfast included and all rooms have private bathrooms. The hotel is also just 2 miles from Cerro Bayo Ski Centre.
Cheap & Cheerful: La Casa de Villa
Guests at this cosy hostel can enjoy a shared lounge with a pool table, onsite bar, hot tub and large garden. A continental breakfast is included.
There’s free parking or transfer services available. Reviews consistently say that the atmosphere is warm and friendly. More like a home than a hostel.
What To Take To Los Arrayanes
We visited Parque Nacional los Arrayanes at the beginning of March and the weather we had was great. Really sunny, but still pretty cool. Here’s what we’d recommend wearing and taking with you on your trip.
- Merino wool [easyazon_link identifier=”B07C5WMDTX” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]base layer[/easyazon_link]
- Warm [easyazon_link identifier=”B01N7D4YT9″ locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]hat[/easyazon_link] and [easyazon_link identifier=”B00R30O7E0″ locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]gloves[/easyazon_link]
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B07J68GTGJ” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]Neck Gaiter[/easyazon_link]
- Good quality [easyazon_link identifier=”B07HS25MQY” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]hiking socks[/easyazon_link]
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B071P9842Y” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]Trainers[/easyazon_link] – hiking boots not necessary
- Water filter bottle
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Travel sickness pills (if needed)
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B005X1Y7I2″ locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]Portable charger[/easyazon_link]
- [easyazon_link identifier=”B001Q3KK8C” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]Dry bags[/easyazon_link] for electrical equipment
- Packable [easyazon_link identifier=”B013LNYZF8″ locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]feather down jacket[/easyazon_link]
- Packable [easyazon_link identifier=”B00H4RP3NG” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]waterproof jacket[/easyazon_link]
- High factor [easyazon_link identifier=”B00MMMB6RA” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]sun protector[/easyazon_link]
- Travel Towel
Good Reads About Argentina:
Argentina travel insurance.
We never go anywhere without travel insurance – and neither should you. This particularly goes if you’re planning to do any of the more adventurous activities above.
World Nomads is our preferred choice for great cover and a no bullshit approach, grab yourself a quick quote below:
We hope you have an awesome trip. Visiting los Arrayanes National Park was one of our favourite things that we did in Patagonia.
If there’s any more information you need, drop us a comment and we’ll do our best to help.
Pin Me For Later…
Yorkshire born & bred, Sarah is a professional blogger who loves to travel. Pushing her boundaries with new adventures is her jam, so you likely won’t find her in one place for too long. Also a serious Marmite addict.
HORARIOS Y TARIFAS
Tarifas hasta el 30 de septiembre de 2024, servicio vip, traslado terrestre hacia puerto pañuelo.
Valores por persona, expresados en pesos argentinos – sujetos a modificación sin previo aviso.
Vigencia desde el 1 de Julio de 2024 hasta el 30 de Septiembre de 2024.
No incluyen acceso al Parque Nacional ni tasa de embarque. Los mismos se abonan en Puerto Pañuelo.
Ingreso al Parque Nacional
- Generales: $ 15.000
- Residentes Argentinos: $6.000
- Menores hasta los 5 años: Sin cargo
- Jubilados Argentinos : Sin cargo
Tasa de Embarque: $2.600
Impuestos y Accesos se abonan en efectivo en Puerto Pañuelo –
Los mismos pueden modificarse sin previo aviso. Para consultas sobre estos valores consultar en www.puertopanuelo.com
TODOS LOS DÍAS
- Traslado desde el centro 10:30hs
- Presentación en puerto 11:40 hs
- Salida del catamarán 12:15 hs
- Regreso a puerto 18:15 hs
- Tiempo de permanencia en Bosque de Arrayanes 45 minutos aproximadamente
- Tiempo de permanencia en Isla Victoria 2 horas 30 minutos aproximadamente
- Traslado desde el centro 12:30 hs
- Presentación en puerto 13:20 hs
- Salida del catamarán 13:55 hs
- Tiempo de permanencia en Bosque de arrayanes 45 minutos aproximadamente
- Tiempo de permanencia en Isla Victoria 1 hora aproximadamente
Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes: Precios y Horarios
La excursión Bosque de Arrayanes se puede hacer desde Bariloche o desde Villa La Angostura. Si van a ir a Villa La Angostura recomiendo hacerla desde ahí ya que es mucho más cerca. Abajo describo las opciones para hacer la excursión desde ambos lugares con horarios y precios.
Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria desde Bariloche
Al igual que la excursión a Puerto Blest , esta también sale desde Puerto Pañuelo de Bariloche (cerca del Llao Llao) y dura todo el día. Se va en barco disfrutando el paisaje y escuchando las explicaciones del guía turístico.
El Bosque de Arrayanes se hace caminando por una pasarela con algunos escalones, mientras se observan los arrayanes (árboles) y otras especies. Antes de regresar se puede tomar y comer algo en la casa de tortas que está ahí (nada especial).
Además, se hace una parada en Isla Victoria .
Contras: es una excursión bastante larga porque lleva tiempo llegar hasta destino. Igualmente vale la pena.
Horarios y Precios Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria desde Bariloche :
Diariamente de 10:30 a 17:50 y de 14:30 a 19:20 hs (más aprox 1 hora del centro de Bariloche hasta Puerto Pañuelos)
Precios de Excursión a Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria acá. Hay descuentos con Banco BBVA Francés, Santander Río, HSBC y cuotas sin interés.
Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria desde Villa La Angostura
Yo hice desde Villa La Angostura (solo al Bosque de Arrayanes, no a Isla Victoria) que es un trayecto más corto ya que el bosque está en Villa La Angostura justamente. Si solo van a Bariloche, la opción es hacer esta excursión de día entero.
Horarios y Precios Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria desde Villa La Angostura :
Todos los barcos salen de los puertos de Bahía La Mansa y Bahía La Brava (están una enfrente de la otra).
Desde La Mansa : diariamente a las 11 y a las 14: 30 hs. (Si hay viento es ideal La Mansa) Catamarán Futaleufu: Más info y precios acá
Desde La Brava : diariamente a las 11:15, 14:15 y 17:15 hs. Catamarán Patagonia: Más info y precios acá
Además se pueden contratar barquitos más chicos para salir al horario que uno quiera (mismo precio que el catamarán). Suelen salir cuando juntan al menos 6 personas, pero si son por lo menos 4 pueden negociar precio y salir solos.
Desde Villa La Angostura también se puede ir caminando o en bicicleta por un sendero de aproximadamente 13 kilómetros. Pueden ir en barco y volver caminando o viceversa.
Si van a Bariloche no se pierdan además las excursiones a Cerro Tronador , a Puerto Blest y Cascada de los Cántaros y el té con tortas en Bellevue , con unas vistas impresionantes!
Comentarios y dudas más que bienvenidos 🙂
8 comentarios
Cual es el costo solo ida desde angostura a arrayanes ?
Si vas desde Bariloche hasta Puerto Pañuelo, se puede llegar en auto, el estacionamiento es gratuito (podés conseguir un auto de alquiler en Correntoso rent a car).
hola buenas tardes consulto mi hijo es discapacitado..tiene certificado…cual es el costo de la excurcion de el y su acompañante…
Para acordar con barcos privados, algun dato para contactarme. Muchas gracias.
Hola! Quería consultar por precios para excursión desde Bariloche a isla victoria y bosque de arrayanes, horarios y duración del recorrido. También si es necesario hacer reservas con anticipación por cuestiones climáticas. Muchas gracias!
Hola como estas? Te hago una consulta, yo voy a hospedarme en bariloche pero me gustaria llegar al bosque de los arrayanes caminando en vez de con la excursión en barco. Sabes como puedo llegar desde bariloche a villa la angostura ciudad y de ahí hasta el parque? Me manejaría en transporte publico. una vez que termina el recorrido se puede contratar algún barco para regresar a puerto pañuelo en vez de a villa la angostura?
Muchas gracias!
Hola! Si no me equivoco hay varios buses así que no vas a tener problemas. Para volver había pequeños barcos privados con los que seguramente podes arreglar volver a Puerto Pañuelo, pero sería ideal que trates de arreglar antes de ir, porque al menos yo recuerdo verlos desde donde parten pero no para volver (salvo que estuvieran esperando a alguien) Saludos y suerte! Cony
Cuáles son los costos si se pretende hacer bosque de arrayanes desde Villa la Angostura caminando?! Gracias por la info
Deja un comentario Cancelar la respuesta
Guarda mi nombre, correo electrónico y web en este navegador para la próxima vez que comente.
Recibir un correo electrónico con los siguientes comentarios a esta entrada.
Recibir un correo electrónico con cada nueva entrada.
Notificarme cuando respondan mi mensaje: No suscribirse Todos los comentarios nuevos Respuestas a mis comentarios También puedes suscribirte sin comentar.
Visiting Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island
Visiting Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island is one of the activities to do from Bariloche or Villa La Angostura. It can be done, partially, on your own or in a catamaran that sails the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi.
🔎 Check here the quide to travel to Bariloche .
Table of Contents
Visiting Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island
There are many ways to visit the Arrayanes Forest:
- On your own in a trekking through the Quetrihué Peninsula , although partially, because you would not visit Victoria Island, only the Arrayanes Forest.
- By catamaran from Villa La Angostura (on your own), but also partially because you would not visit Victoria Island either.
- On an excursion from Bariloche by catamaran , in which the Bosque de Arrayanes and also Victoria Island are visited.
🔎 Check here the top 5 things to do in Bariloche .
Walking on your own
Starting from Villa La Angostura, you have to walk (or take a local bus) to Puerto Angostura and the Quetrihué isthmus, which divides Playa Mansa from Playa Brava. There is the National Park post where you have to pay the entrance fee and get a map .
From there you can walk 12 km to the Arrayanes Forest . It is of medium difficulty. To return, you can choose between undoing the trail also walking or returning in catamaran . You can also do it the other way around, go by catamaran and come back walking.
On your own in a catamaran
If you find the walk exhausting just thinking about it, you can go and return by catamaran which is taken from the Bahia Brava pier . Find out the schedules at the Villa La Angostura tourist office.
Excursion from Bariloche to visit the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island
There are many agencies in Bariloche’s downtown that offer the excursion to visit the Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island . It is, together with Circuito Chico , one of the essential activities to do in Bariloche.
If you are going to travel to Bariloche in high season (summer) it is advisable to make a reservation online through some agency, since catamarans are usually full.
Depending on the agency, they usually have one or two daily departures and include the round trip transfer from downtown Bariloche to Puerto Pañuelo.
What is not included is the entrance to the Nahuel Huapi National Park , where the Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island are located, nor the boarding fee charged at Puerto Pañuelo.
📷 Take a look at the Isla Victoria and Arrayanes Forest tour from Bariloche with a local agency. Book your place!
Guides on board the catamaran tell you the history of the place , the origin of the lake and the arrayanes (myrtles) and other interesting facts.
It is advisable to bring warm clothes , not only in winter, since temperatures are cold and the weather is very changeable in this area.
Regarding food or drinks, you can take food on the catamaran , since it won’t be included in the excursion. Also, you can order food or drinks in the bar of the boat or directly eat in the small restaurant enabled in the Arrayanes forest.
– Where does the excursion start to visit the Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island?
If you make the excursion to visit the Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island from Bariloche , the catamarans depart from the Puerto Pañuelo pier , in the Circuito Chico and a few meters away from the Llao Llao hotel.
– How to get to Puerto Pañuelo?
By car , taking from Bariloche downtown Bustillo Avenue and then the r oute of Circuito Chico to the Llao Llao Hotel. It is about 25 km away. If you choose to get to Puerto Pañuelo by public transport , the bus number 20 leaves you at the hotel Llao Llao stop and from there it is less than 100 meters walking to Puerto Pañuelo.
Visiting Arrayanes forest
Upon arriving at the Arrayanes forest, on the Quetrihue peninsula, the park ranger welcomes the place, who is in charge of watching over the care of the place. In the visiting area there are public restrooms and a place where you can have a drink or eat something .
The tour usually lasts about 30 minutes and is done by specially designed wooden walkways , where the arrayanes trees are on either side of the path. The particularity of the arrayán is that it is a saffron-colored shrub with white flowers , very eye-catching.
Visiting Victoria Island
On the other hand, the visit to Victoria Island lasts 90 minutes. The catamaran takes you to Puerto Anchorena and then goes along an internal path of the island until you reach Playa del Toro , where you will find cave paintings made by the original inhabitants of the area. In addition, this beach is of volcanic origin, which gives it a spectacular environment.
Best time for visiting Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island
All year round . Catamaran excursions to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest are made from Bariloche, even if it snows or rains. In winter there is usually only one trip a day.
Admission to Nahuel Huapi or Arrayanes National Park (2024)
If you are going to make the excursion from Bariloche, you will be paying the entrance to the Nahuel Huapi National Park . If you are making the excursion or visit from Villa La Angostura, you will be paying the entrance to Los Arrayanes National Park . Anyway, the price is the same and it is valid daily.
| Over 6 years old AR$ 15.000 | Over 6 years old AR$ 6.000 | Over 6 years old AR$ 4.000 |
Comparte esta entrada:
Magical Disney Forest in the Los Arrayanes National Park
The clouds looked fluffy in the clear blue sky.
The lake water shined a bright crystal blue, as it reflected the strong afternoon sun.
The dark green forests and snow-capped mountains lined both sides of the lake - they seemed never-ending.
I stood on the deck of the ferry, as it rides tranquilly along Lake Nahuel Huapi.
An official photographer on-board busily snaps photos of us passengers, hoping to earn a quick buck.
The Spanish-speaking guide called us in as we began to dock in the port after 55 min.
As a kiasu Singaporean, I rushed to the exit and walked hastily ahead of the group – with good reasons. It was 3:30 pm and the Los Arrayanes National Park , or Arrayanes Forest, is empty right now.
How to go to the Arrayanes Forest / Los Arrayanes National Park
1. From Bariloche, take a bus to Villa la Angostura (take the 8:30am bus if you want to hike)
2. Walk 3km south or take a local bus to the entrance of the national park
3. Pay the entrance fee of ARS $250 (May 2017)
4. Take the ferry, hike, or cycle the 12km trail
The Los Arrayanes National Park lies along the shore of the scenic Lake Nahuel Huapi in Northern Argentine Patagonia. Already a part of the bigger Nahuel Huapi National Park , Los Arrayanes was created in 1971 to protect its forest of Arrayan trees.
I guess you can say: it’s a national park within a national park. Parkception.
What’s so special about these trees that a National Park is created for it?
For one, it’s magical. Really. Disney-like. Local folklore says that Walt Disney himself got the inspiration for his animation, Bambi, in this forest.
But more importantly, Arrayan trees – also known as myrtles – are usually bushes that only grow along the shores of lake and rivers, but over here, they make up a whole thick forest.
The persistent foliage does not fall off in winter, giving it the name “evergreen forests”. These trees grow up to 49 feet (covert to meters) tall and some are as old as 650 years old.
Its characteristic twisted branches complement its silky-smooth cinnamon, dark-red bark and its irregular white spots. Together, they are the perfect nature frames for photographs.
The late afternoon sun in the background provided a mystical orange glow, making the whole forest picturesque.
This is why I rushed to the front of the group. With 5min of buffer time until the group catches up, I had the whole area for my mini-photoshoot. The twisted trunk and slanted branches framed the shots like a druid-conjured portal, as I imagined walking into a fantasy world.
I walked along the 800m broad wooden path, stopping multiple times for photos. This path was built to prevent damage to the soil, to protect the roots, and to help recover the low vegetation in the forest.
The 30min walk was peaceful and the only sounds were the birds chirping and footsteps on the wood – my footsteps.
This 800m trail forms the last part of the 12km hike from the beginning of the park, should you choose to hike or cycle. I was dressed and ready for the hike but unforeseen circumstances prevented me from hiking.
You see, the park entrance lies 3km from the tourist town of Villa la Angostura. I took the bus from Bariloche and arrived slightly after 11am. I walked the 3km, instead of taking a bus or taxi, and when I arrived at the ticket counter, it was almost 12pm ( my knee still hurts ).
Access for hikers is permitted only up to 11am (from the 1st of April each year), and up to 12pm for bikers.
In the Summer: 1pm for hikers and 2pm for bikers.
The only way to hike in was to take the catamaran (or ferry) out. A one-way ticket costs ARS $495/USD $35 (May 2017) and a two-way ticket costs ARS $600. It wasn’t just a matter of value-for-money, but if I could hike the 12km and make it for the ferry out.
In autumn, the Futaleufú Catamaran departs daily from La Angostura Port located on Bahía Mansa dock, near the park entrance at 2:30 pm and returns at 4:30 pm.
One-way ticket: ARS$ 495
Two-way ticket: ARS $600
After calculation for money and time, I decided to take the ferry instead. I was a little disappointed, but the scenic ferry ride made up for it. Plus, I got to rest my knees a little more.
(On normal days, Catamarán Patagonia Argentina runs a similar service across the isthmus at Bahía Brava dock. I couldn’t find it that day. Might be an off-season thing.)
Another popular option is to ride a mountain bike along the undulating trail. Not my thing.
The last 800m on the wooden path is an easy walk. I noticed other trees (with scientific names I can’t pronounce) scattered and intermingled among the Arrayan trees and in the undergrowth.
From all these trees, the Arrayanes is the last to bloom; from January to March. The others finish blooming in December. Trees know to save the best for the last too.
At the end of the path is a wooden cabin built over 50 years ago and is known as ‘Bambi’s House’. Sadly, the folklore about Walt Disney’s inspiration is untrue; it was proven that Bambi’s production was before Disney’s trip to Argentina in 1941 and that he had never visited the area.
Bambi's Cabin
Nevertheless, the forest is still magical and the cabin serves coffee, tea, pastries and hot cocoa for the wounded souls, or tired hikers.
The forest is also known as the “only passable Arrayanes forest in the world”, and many people sure pass by. While I was waiting for my ferry to leave, a huge ferry emblazoned with the popular CauCau Excursion tourist agency name docked.
I counted (yes, I was bored) 119 people, including a bunch of school children.
I sure am glad that I walked ahead of my group of 20 or so. This new tour group is gonna have a VERY difficult time taking a good photo.
At 4:30 pm, I boarded the ferry back to Villa la Angostura, satisfied. This small touristic town is exactly like most touristic town: tourist agencies, expensive restaurants and colourful souvenir shops line the main street. 30min is more than enough to see the main part of the town.
Bariloche is still the better base for exploration .
And now, it’s your turn.
You Might Also Like...
21 things to do in buenos aires, argentina, 16 best things to do in argentina: the ultimate list, 7 interesting facts about argentina that will awe you.
Lagoon JOY yacht charter
Overall information
PDF brochure
Yachts by Lagoon
Yachts charter Lagoon
€43,000 per week
| Length overall | 23.28 m |
| Beam | 11.0 m |
| Draft | 1.9 m |
| Engines | 2 x Volvo Penta D4-180 HP |
| Maximum speed (at half load) | 12.0 kn |
| Cruising speed (at half load) | 10.0 kn |
| Fuel capacity | 2800 l |
| Water capacity | 1600 l |
| Cabins | 4 |
| Berths | 8 |
Since its debut in 2016, the new Lagoon Seventy 7 catamaran has proved to be an exceptionally popular yacht that has been in record-breaking demand. Built in France by CNB and designed by a super-star team of VPLP, Patrick Le Quément and Nauta Design, the Seventy 7 is the new flagship for builder Lagoon and boasts gentle and precise lines for a refined and harmonious overall look. SY JOY is definitely one of the first Lagoon Seventy 7s that are available for charter in the world. As an unbeatable choice for a bespoke yacht charter holiday, she combines its pedigree design with luxurious styling, a spacious on board layout and exceptional performance to create a perfect all-round yacht that is ideal for every kind of adventure on the water. Lagoon designed the Seventy 7 to cater to a wide range of uses, including coastal cruising, global exploration and charter and the yacht does not disappoint! Whatever your dream charter, the Lagoon Seventy 7 is the perfect base to enjoy it from. As a fully crewed yacht, guests have to simply arrive and relax and enjoy all that this beautiful luxury catamaran model has to offer. Finished to the highest standard, with superyacht DNA in its design, SY JOY offers extensive on board spaces for its guests to enjoy. Large open spaces, with an easy flow, make the most of the catamaran’s huge volume and huge windows flood the yacht with light. Located on the main deck the huge main salon forms the heart of the yacht, with sofas, a bar, dining space and entertainment systems. Beautiful accommodation is on offer, with versatile configurations to suit a wide range of group sizes and modern and luxurious spaces for guests to retreat to. A particular highlight is the master cabin, which includes a large ensuite, desk space, walk in wardrobe and generous living area. Direct access from the main saloon and out on to the cockpit and foredeck adds to the exclusivity of the master cabin space. (JOY offers 3 double cabins and 1 Pullman cabin, all en-suite) Just like the interior, the three main exterior spaces are huge and provide the perfect base for outdoor living. Leading directly out from the main saloon the large aft cockpit is home to a dining space, extensive seating and direct access up to the flybridge and down to the transom. The forward cockpit includes informal lounge seating, perfect for sheltered relaxation, and provides direct access on to the trampoline net for relaxing and sunbathing. Moving upwards, the flybridge with hardtop – ideal for protection from the heat of the day – is yet another beautiful space with a navigation station, sunpads, seating and unspoiled views across the water. JOY being a luxury catamaran for charter is perfect for water lovers and an especially impressive feature is the transom beach club, which opens up at water level to create a base for swimming and water sports, or as a tender dock or prime spot for guests to relax and enjoy the close proximity to beautiful, crystal clear waters. A full sail inventory allows guests to appreciate the serenity of sailing between beautiful destinations. A perfect all-rounder yacht, it is no surprise that the Lagoon Seventy 7 has been such an instant success story. We look forward to helping to welcome you on board for your own unforgettable charter experience very soon.
|
IMAGES
COMMENTS
El Catamarán Futaleufu, una confortable y segura embarcación, parte desde la Bahía Mansa del Puerto de Villa La Angostura, recorriendo el lago Nahuel Huapi en una travesía de más de media hora hasta llegar al extremo sur de la península de Quetrihué, donde se encuentra el Bosque Los Arrayanes. El Bosque, se puede recorrer a través de un sendero acompañado de una visita guíada la cual ...
The journey takes around 5 minutes and there are just two stops. The first is at Bahia Mansa. This is the dock where you take the catamaran boat along the bay route to the end of the Los Arrayanes National Park peninsula. The second and last is at the entrance to Parque Nacional los Arrayanes and the Bahia Brava dock.
«La excursión por la Isla Victoria y Bosque de Arrayanes organizada por Cau-Cau es muy recomendable , está excelentemente organizada. La experiencia es hermosa viajando en la embarcación o catamaran por el lago Nahuel Huapi, que tiene todos los servicios de confort como catering a bordo., con exquisiteces para degustar, y viendo los mas increíbles paisajes.
El Catamarán Futaleufú navega desde el Puerto de la Mansa (Puerto oficial de Villa La Angostura ) hasta el Bosque Los Arrayanes, Ver mapas de la región. Sin duda, de regreso a Villa La Angostura, quedará Usted embebido de la magia, los misterios y la belleza de este lugar paradisíaco dispuesto para su exclusivo disfrute. SALIDAS 11 & 14:30hs.
Cumpliendo con todas las medidas que seguridad exigidas por Prefectura Naval Argentina, el Catamarán Futaleufu es sin lugar a dudas una alternativa inmejorable para visitar, en cualquier momento del año, el Bosque Los Arrayanes. 18,84 m. 1,685 m. 1,51 m. dos, diferenciados por sexo, con lavatorios y reservorio para 500 lts.
TODOS LOS DÍAS. Traslado desde el centro 10:30hs. Presentación en puerto 11:40 hs. Salida del catamarán 12:15 hs. Regreso a puerto 18:15 hs. Tiempo de permanencia en Bosque de Arrayanes 45 minutos aproximadamente. Tiempo de permanencia en Isla Victoria 2 horas 30 minutos aproximadamente.
Horarios y Precios Excursión Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria desde Bariloche: Diariamente de 10:30 a 17:50 y de 14:30 a 19:20 hs (más aprox 1 hora del centro de Bariloche hasta Puerto Pañuelos) Precios de Excursión a Bosque de Arrayanes e Isla Victoria acá. Hay descuentos con Banco BBVA Francés, Santander Río, HSBC y cuotas sin interés.
Excursiones al Bosque de Arrayanes Reservas al (0294) 4494-004/405 E-mail... Catamarán Futaleufú, Villa La Angostura. 1,722 likes · 2 talking about this. Excursiones al Bosque de Arrayanes Reservas al (0294) 4494-004/405 E-mail info@bosquelosarra
Visiting Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island. 7 de August de 2024 by Flor Vallejo. Visiting Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island is one of the activities to do from Bariloche or Villa La Angostura. It can be done, partially, on your own or in a catamaran that sails the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Check here the quide to travel to Bariloche.
Since the catamarans leave mostly in the afternoon only in early season (October) you could hike in the park in the morning, buy your catamaran ticket, have lunch at the port and be ready to go to the arrayanes parque tip for the 230pm tour. FUN! ... Los Arrayanes National Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) ...
The catamaran holds about 100 passengers and was essentially full at departure. Several passengers, including a large group of school children, arrived with prepurchased tickets, so I was pleased we had arrived early enough to get seats. ... Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes. Horarios Temporada estival (desde el 1º de noviembre hasta el 15 de ...
The Arrayanes Forest is a quintessential site of attractions and it is a "one of a kind place in the world." This is due to the fact that even though the Arrayan trees, also known as myrtles, are usually myrtaceae bushes that grow on the shores of lakes and rivers, in this region they make up a thick forest with unique characteristics; here you can find wide trunk species, which are higher ...
The Los Arrayanes National Park lies along the shore of the scenic Lake Nahuel Huapi in Northern Argentine Patagonia. ... The only way to hike in was to take the catamaran (or ferry) out. A one-way ticket costs ARS $495/USD $35 (May 2017) and a two-way ticket costs ARS $600. It wasn't just a matter of value-for-money, but if I could hike the ...
Los Arrayanes National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes) is a national park of Argentina with an area of 17.53 square kilometres (6.77 sq mi). It covers the Quetrihué Peninsula on the shore of the Nahuel Huapi Lake in the province of Neuquén, 3 km (1.9 mi) from Villa la Angostura.. Even though arrayán trees (Luma apiculata) can be seen on the way to the end of the peninsula, the ...
4,405 Followers, 15 Following, 207 Posts - Catamaran Futaleufu (@bosque_los_arrayanes) on Instagram: "Excursiones al Bosque de Arrayanes Reservas al ☎️ (0294) 4494-004/405 E-mail: [email protected] #bosquedearrayanes #villalaangostura"
The Miradores de Quetrihue trail is located inside Los Arrayanes National Park and is an excellent option to visit with the family. It is a short route from the park entrance in Villa La Angostura that, besides walking through the beautiful myrtle forest, visits the Mirador Bahia Mansa and the Mirador Brazo Norte, thus having the most spectacular panoramic views of every corner of Lake Nahuel ...
Whether you arrive in the park by the Futaleufu catamaran, any other water transport, walking or by bike, you should bear in mind that you are in the only "passable Arrayanes forest in the world," which spreads over sixteen hectares approximately, in the south point of the Quetrihue peninsula, adjoining Neuquen province. In the heart of the ...
JOY being a luxury catamaran for charter is perfect for water lovers and an especially impressive feature is the transom beach club, which opens up at water level to create a base for swimming and water sports, or as a tender dock or prime spot for guests to relax and enjoy the close proximity to beautiful, crystal clear waters. A full sail ...
Book your room in Casa Barrio Altos Arrayanes Mercedes. A 1.0 star Vacation Homes in Mercedes . Real reviews & photos. No booking or cancellation fee. Rates from $198.1
The Futaleufu catamaran sails from the Bahia Mansa Port (Villa La Angostura's official port) to the Arrayanes Forest, located at the southwest point of the Quetrihue Peninsula. See regional maps. Due to the characteristics of the north sector of the Nahuel Huapi Lake, the navigation is extremely calm, thus providing you with the maximum comfort ...
Catamaran. (1 hour) Costa de Papagayo. Cocktail, Sightseeing, Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Meal onboard (2 hours) Catamaran. (1 hour) 17 drop-off locations: Floresta bus stop, Bus Stop - Playa Roca, Hotel Costa Calero Talaso & Spa, H10 Lanzarote Princess, Hotel HL Paradise Island, HIPOTELS Natura Palace, Hotel THB Royal, C.C. Centro ...
Yes, you can. You can carry the pram on the Catamaran. However, once we arrive at Bosque Los Arrayanes it is advisable to leave it inside the craft since the 800-metre long path which goes through Bosque Los Arrayanes has several differences in floor level and steps that might make it difficult for you to walk along with the pram.
Book your room in Casa Country Altos Arrayanes Mercedes. A 1.0 star Vacation Homes in Mercedes . Real reviews & photos. No booking or cancellation fee. Rates from $80