6 unmissable excursions in Esquel for the summer holidays

Variety of experiences, Nature and adventure are the keys to Esquela destination in the province of Chubut, surrounded by an impressive natural environment.

Beyond the classic proposals that can be enjoyed every summer, among the new features this season will be offered a service of exclusive tourist transport from the city of Esquel to the Arrayanes River Footbridge, within the Los Alerces National Park (entrance to the park, $7,000; 3-day pass for $14,000). This service will allow visitors to enjoy the excursion and return once it is finished to the starting point.

Another news for the destination is the restoration of the Lago Menéndez shipwhich will have new engines and capacity for 80 people. They hope to start sailing in January.

There will also be a new panoramic excursion to Lake Futalaufquenwhich will depart from Puerto Limonao and travel through Bahía Rosales, Punta Matos and the Strait of Monsters.

Next, a selection of proposals to take into account for those who are planning a 2025 vacation in this place in Argentine Patagonia.

And larch forest thousands of years old. It is in the Los Alerces National Park and invites you to walk among these majestic trees, witnesses of the history of the earth.

The experience is to walk the trails in the middle of the Patagonian Andean forest and the Valdivian jungle, enjoying the pure air and the singing of the birds.

The visit to the Alerzal Milenario is carried out with guided excursions ($85,000 per person; minors and retirees pay $68,000) that provide information about the local flora and fauna, and about the importance of conserving this ecosystem that, since 2017, has been a World Heritage Site.

Among the novelties of this season will be the incorporation of the boat with capacity for 80 passengers that will allow you to enjoy the impressive landscape from its terrace.

Stories and adventure combine on the trip to La Trochitathe legendary narrow gauge train of Patagonia.

The formation of Old Patagonian Express o Trochita connects Esquel with the community of Nahuel Pan, on a journey through spectacular landscapes, between valleys and mountains.

During the journey, passengers can learn a little more about the history of this train, which was the main means of transportation in the region: it was born as a freight train but from 1950 it incorporated passenger transportation.

How much does it cost? Currently, the price for Argentine residents is $38,000. Retirees and students pay $28,000 and minors pay $27,000

One of the best ways to connect with nature is to explore the countless trails that surround Esquel. There is something for all tastes and possibilities, from gentle hikes to more challenging routes.

The trails allow you to discover the flora and fauna of the area and achieve panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the water bodies near the city.

Among the most popular hikes are the trails of the Laguna La Zeta Urban Nature Reserve. In addition, guided walks are organized for a richer experience with information about the natural and cultural environment.

For the adrenaline fansthis area has several rafting proposals on the region’s rivers, such as the Corcovado and the Futaleufú, with challenging currents and impressive landscapes.

Rafting excursions are full of excitement and you can navigate in rapids of different levels of difficulty.

Kayaking proposes exploring the calm waters of the lakes and rivers of Los Alerces National Park or Laguna la Zeta, with impressive landscapes.

In both cases it is activities guided by professionals.

Summer is the time to visit the ice tunnels: frozen formations, sculpted by nature that offer a surprising experience.

The proposal is to enter these cavities with ice structures, blue and white tones and a magical atmosphere.

The visit to the tunnels is done with guides who explain the formation of ice and its importance in the local ecosystem.

It must be taken into account that, as it is a natural formation, It depends on the weather conditions each year. That is why it is advisable to check if visits can be made on the date for which we are planning the trip.

A novelty for the 2025 season: navigation on Lake Futalaufquen will be launched from Puerto Limonao with the Green Star boat and will visit Bahía Rosales, Punta Matos and the Strait of Monsters.

From kayak rides to boat excursions, the proposal is to enjoy the environment from the water

Beyond the traditional hotels and cabins of Esquel, there are increasingly more accommodation proposals in natural areaswhere guests enjoy the tranquility of forests and lakes.

They are establishments that offer the possibility of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immersing yourself in a serene environment.

There are proposals for all tastes and budgets, from rustic cabins to campsites, domes and luxury lodgeslocated in areas close to trails and areas with outdoor activity proposals.