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Camping in Aluminé

Aluminé, a quiet Mapuche heartland town in northern Neuquén, offers car campers pristine river camping, araucaria forests, and world-class whitewater rafting. Drive through monkey puzzle tree groves to reach uncrowded lakeside and riverside campsites.

4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
4 campsites
Full guide to Aluminé →

Aluminé, tucked into the Aluminé River valley in Neuquén province, is one of Patagonia's best-kept camping secrets. Far less touristed than its southern neighbors, this small town offers an authentic experience of the Mapuche culture that shapes the region. Car camping here means setting up beside the powerful Aluminé River — famous for rafting and kayaking — or driving into the surrounding mountains to camp among ancient araucaria (monkey puzzle) forests. The roads leading to Lago Aluminé, Lago Rucachoroi, and the Pehuenia region wind through some of the most beautiful and least-visited landscapes in the Argentine Andes. A rental car is essential for exploring this network of gravel roads connecting isolated lakes, Mapuche communities, and volcanic terrain.

Campsites

Camping Río Aluminé

Paid

On the banks of the Aluminé River just outside town. Hear the river roar from your tent. Walking distance to rafting put-in points.

Facilities: toilets, hot showers, fire pits, drinking water, rafting access
Cost: ARS 2500-4000/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Lago Rucachoroi

Paid

A stunning lakeside campground managed by the Mapuche Aigo community. Araucaria-framed views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Cultural tourism available.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, fire pits, drinking water, boat launch
Cost: ARS 2000-3500/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Quillén

Paid

On Lago Quillén within Lanín National Park. Excellent trout fishing and hiking trails through ancient forest. Peaceful and uncrowded even in peak season.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, fire pits, fishing access, drinking water
Cost: ARS 2500-4000/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Pulmarí

Free

In the Corporación Interestadual Pulmarí territory. Beautiful free camping among araucaria forests. Respect Mapuche land rights and follow local guidelines.

Facilities: pit toilets
Cost: Free (with Mapuche community permission)
No reservation needed
Access:

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Before you hit the trail: Aluminé

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the whitewater rafting suitable for beginners?

Yes! The Aluminé River has sections ranging from Class II to Class IV. Operators in town offer guided trips for all skill levels, with family-friendly floats and advanced rapids.

Can I visit Mapuche communities while camping?

Several Mapuche communities welcome visitors for cultural tourism, including traditional meals, crafts, and guided walks. Camping on community land often includes this cultural exchange.

How are the roads to the lakes?

Gravel roads in generally good condition but can deteriorate after rain. 2WD is fine for Lago Aluminé and most campgrounds. 4x4 recommended for Lago Rucachoroi and remote areas. Check conditions locally.

What are piñones?

Piñones are the large, nutritious seeds of the araucaria tree, a traditional Mapuche food source. They ripen in autumn (March-April) and can sometimes be purchased from local communities.

Is Aluminé crowded in summer?

No! That's part of its appeal. Even in January, campgrounds rarely fill completely. It's a fraction as busy as Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes.

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