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How to Get to Los Alerces National Park

Discover the pristine beauty of Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient alerce forests and breathtaking Patagonian landscapes. While remote, reaching this natural gem in Argentina's Chubut province is an adventure in itself, offering various transport options to suit every traveler's preference for exploration. Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Patagonia.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
PatagoniaHub
By PatagoniaHub Travel Team|Verified local expertsLast updated: Apr 29, 2026
Full guide to Los Alerces National Park →

Nestled in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, Los Alerces National Park is a haven for nature lovers, famous for its millennia-old Alerce trees and spectacular glacial lakes. Getting to this majestic protected area, located in the Chubut province, requires a bit of planning, but the journey is undeniably part of the experience. Whether you prefer the speed of a flight, the freedom of a road trip, or the convenience of a bus, understanding the different routes will help you make the most of your Patagonian adventure. The park's main entrance is near the charming town of Villa Futalaufquen, accessible primarily from Esquel, the closest major town with an airport and bus terminal. This guide will provide all the essential information to navigate your way to the pristine wilderness of Los Alerces, ensuring a smooth and memorable arrival. Embracing the journey is key to unlocking the park's unparalleled natural wonders.

Nearest Airports

Esquel Airport

EQS50 km

The closest airport to Los Alerces National Park, located just outside the city of Esquel. It offers domestic flights, primarily connecting with Buenos Aires. From here, you will need to arrange ground transport via car rental or bus.

Bariloche International Airport

BRC270 km

San Carlos de Bariloche Airport is a larger hub with more frequent domestic flights and some international connections. While further, it often provides more flight options and competitive prices, making it a popular choice for travelers willing to drive further.

By Flight

Flying to Patagonia is the quickest way to cover the vast distances from major Argentine cities like Buenos Aires. The most practical airports for Los Alerces National Park are Esquel (EQS) and Bariloche (BRC). Esquel is significantly closer, but Bariloche often offers more flight availability and sometimes better fares due to its larger size and higher traffic volume.

Airlines

Aerolíneas ArgentinasFlybondiJetSmart

Flight Tips

  • Book flights well in advance, especially during peak season (December to March), as seats can fill up quickly and prices rise.
  • Consider flying into Bariloche if direct flights to Esquel are limited or significantly more expensive, then rent a car for the scenic drive south.
  • Check baggage allowances, especially with low-cost carriers like Flybondi and JetSmart, to avoid unexpected fees.

By Car

Driving is by far the most recommended way to reach and explore Los Alerces National Park. The park is vast, and its main attractions, viewpoints, and trailheads are spread out, with limited public transport options. Renting a car provides unparalleled flexibility and allows you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Main Driving Routes

FromRouteDistanceDurationRoad Condition
EsquelRuta Provincial 7150-70 km1-1.5 hoursMostly paved from Esquel to Villa Futalaufquen (main park entrance), with some sections becoming gravel within the park and towards more remote areas. Generally well-maintained.
BarilocheRuta Nacional 40 South to El Bolsón, then Ruta Provincial 71270 km3.5-4.5 hoursRuta 40 is primarily paved and in good condition. Ruta Provincial 71 has paved and gravel sections, with gravel roads becoming more common closer to and inside the park. Always check conditions, especially after heavy rain or snow.
San Martín de los AndesRuta Nacional 40 South400 km5-6 hoursRuta 40 is mostly paved and offers stunning scenery. Some sections may be undergoing improvements, so expect occasional gravel detours. Ensure your vehicle is fit for longer distances and varying road surfaces.

Driving Tips

  • Always fill your fuel tank in major towns like Esquel, El Bolsón, or Bariloche, as gas stations are scarce near and within the park.
  • Carry a spare tire, a basic toolkit, and sufficient water and snacks, especially for exploring remote park areas.
  • Download offline maps or use a reliable GPS as cell signal can be intermittent or nonexistent inside the park.
  • Be aware of wildlife on the roads, particularly at dawn and dusk. Drive cautiously and observe speed limits.

By Bus

While buses offer a budget-friendly option, direct public transport into Los Alerces National Park is very limited. Most bus services will take you to Esquel, from where you'll need to arrange onward travel to the park entrance or specific campsites. This often involves local transfers, taxis, or organized tours.

Bus Companies

Via BarilocheAndesmarDon Otto

Bus Tips

  • Book your bus tickets in advance, especially for long-distance routes and during high season.
  • From Esquel, inquire about local bus services (e.g., Transportes Esquel) or shared taxis (remises) that might go to Villa Futalaufquen or specific park areas, though schedules can be infrequent.
  • If traveling by bus, plan for potential delays and ensure you have enough time for connections, particularly if you are heading deep into the park.

From Major Cities

CityBest MethodTravel TimeCost
Buenos AiresFlight to Esquel (EQS) or Bariloche (BRC) + Car Rental2.5-3 hours flight + 1-4.5 hours driveFlight from $100-$300 USD (one way), Car Rental from $50 USD/day
BarilocheCar Rental3.5-4.5 hours driveCar Rental from $50 USD/day, Bus (less direct) approx $20-30 USD
El CalafateFlight to Bariloche (BRC) + Car Rental1.5 hours flight + 3.5-4.5 hours driveFlight from $80-$200 USD (one way), Car Rental from $50 USD/day

Local Transport

Once you arrive at Los Alerces National Park, public transportation options within the vast park boundaries are extremely limited. Some organized tours from Esquel or Villa Futalaufquen might offer transport to specific points of interest. Otherwise, your own vehicle is essential for exploring the park's various sectors, including Lago Verde, Lago Krügger, and the array of hiking trails and campsites. Biking is also an option for certain areas, but distances are significant.

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