Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

A unique and small national park primarily protecting a rare and enchanting forest of cinnamon-barked arrayán trees. While not a 'big game' safari...

Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes at a Glance

Location
Northern Patagonia & Lake District, Argentina, Central & South America
Coordinates
-40.824833, -71.629364
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

Nearest airport: Aeródromo Peulla (SCPU), 41 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto El Tepual (PMC), 141 km away.

Big Five in Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Mountain Lion.

Weather & Climate in Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

The warmest temperatures in Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes occur in February, averaging 15.1°C (up to 21.2°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 3.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 50.3mm. Average humidity: 70.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 14.8°C (rainfall: 63.7mm)
  • February: 15.1°C (rainfall: 50.3mm)
  • March: 12.6°C (rainfall: 81.6mm)
  • April: 9.1°C (rainfall: 175.6mm)
  • May: 5.8°C (rainfall: 220.6mm)
  • June: 4.0°C (rainfall: 335.2mm)
  • July: 3.3°C (rainfall: 292.1mm)
  • August: 3.4°C (rainfall: 218.5mm)
  • September: 4.5°C (rainfall: 175.5mm)
  • October: 6.6°C (rainfall: 95.8mm)
  • November: 9.7°C (rainfall: 109.1mm)
  • December: 12.9°C (rainfall: 57.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

The best months to visit Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 14.8°C, rainfall 63.7mm, sunshine 12.5 hrs, humidity 69.3%
  • February: Good, temperature 15.05°C, rainfall 50.3mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 12.55°C, rainfall 81.6mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 75.2%
  • April: Poor, temperature 9.05°C, rainfall 175.6mm, sunshine 6.9 hrs, humidity 82.6%
  • May: Poor, temperature 5.8°C, rainfall 220.6mm, sunshine 5.6 hrs, humidity 86.5%
  • June: Poor, temperature 4.02°C, rainfall 335.2mm, sunshine 3.2 hrs, humidity 87.3%
  • July: Poor, temperature 3.32°C, rainfall 292.1mm, sunshine 4.4 hrs, humidity 85.6%
  • August: Poor, temperature 3.42°C, rainfall 218.5mm, sunshine 5.7 hrs, humidity 83.6%
  • September: Poor, temperature 4.5°C, rainfall 175.5mm, sunshine 7.1 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 6.59°C, rainfall 95.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 77.4%
  • November: Poor, temperature 9.72°C, rainfall 109.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 75.6%
  • December: Good, temperature 12.92°C, rainfall 57.6mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 69.2%

Wildlife in Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

Home to 33 recorded species including 15 birds of prey, 12 waterbirds, 3 iconic birds, 2 predators, 1 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

Based on average temperature of 8.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 8°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

50 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Northern Patagonia & Lake District

Visitor Tips - Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes

We love the ethereal feeling of walking through the Arrayanes forest, a truly unique experience that feels like stepping into a storybook. The cool, dappled light filtering through the cinnamon-hued trees is something we find utterly captivating, especially early in the morning before the crowds arrive, offering a rare moment of quiet contemplation.

Gate Times

The park is typically open from 9 AM to 6 PM, though boat schedules from Villa La Angostura dictate access for most visitors. We strongly recommend booking your boat tickets in advance, especially during Argentina's summer months (December to February), as capacity is limited and the park can reach its crowding threshold quickly.

Tipping

While there isn't a formal tipping culture for park rangers, we suggest a small gratuity for your boat captain and crew if you feel they provided excellent service. A range of 5-10 USD per person is a thoughtful gesture for a memorable journey across the lake.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Argentina

Travel advisory for Argentina

Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes FAQs

When is the best time of year to experience the unique arrayán forest at Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes?

The ideal time to visit is during spring (October to December) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and the park's vibrant colors are at their peak, enhancing the magical forest experience. Visiting outside of the peak summer months (January-February) also helps avoid the highest crowds, ensuring a more serene exploration of the cinnamon-barked trees.

What kind of wildlife can I realistically expect to see at Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, given it's not a traditional 'big game' safari?

While you won't find large African safari animals, the park is excellent for birdwatching, with species like Magellanic woodpeckers and various waterfowl. Keep an eye out for small mammals such as pudú (a tiny deer), Patagonian mara, and foxes, especially along the trails and near the water's edge.

How do visitors typically access Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, and what is the main activity once inside?

Most visitors reach the park via a scenic boat trip across Lake Nahuel Huapi from Villa La Angostura, landing directly at the famous arrayán forest. Once there, the primary activity is walking along well-maintained boardwalks and trails that wind through the enchanting cinnamon-barked trees, offering stunning photographic opportunities and a unique immersion in nature.

What specific health and safety precautions should I take when visiting Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, particularly regarding malaria?

While the malaria risk in this specific region of Argentina is generally low, it's wise to consult your doctor about preventative measures, especially if traveling during warmer, wetter months. Always use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants at dusk, and stay hydrated to ensure a comfortable and safe visit.

Is there an entrance fee for Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, and what facilities are available for visitors?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes, which is typically paid upon arrival or included in boat tour packages. The park offers basic facilities such as restrooms, a small snack bar or tea house near the main arrayán grove, and well-marked interpretive trails for self-guided exploration.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.