Todos os Guias Sazonais

Inverno in Los Alerces National Park

UNESCO-listed Los Alerces National Park protects some of Earth's oldest living trees. In winter, these ancient Alerce forests stand draped in snow beside emerald lakes, creating a primeval landscape of extraordinary beauty accessible from the nearby town of Esquel.

Los Alerces National Park, designated a UNESCO Patrimônio Mundial in 2017, protects one of the last remaining stands of Patagonian Alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) — trees that can live over 3,000 years, making them among the oldest living organisms on Earth. Located in Argentina's Chubut Province near the town of Esquel, the park encompasses pristine lakes, rivers, and floresta temperada valdiviana.

In winter, de junho a agosto, Los Alerces transforms into a snow-covered sanctuary. The ancient forests, draped in white, take on an almost mystical quality. Lakes like Futalaufquen and Menéndez reflect snow-covered peaks, and the park's famous emerald-green rivers continue flowing through frozen landscapes. The combination of World Heritage ancient forests and winter beauty creates an experience unlike any other in Patagonia.

While many of the park's longer trails and the celebrated boat excursion to the ancient Alerce grove are unavailable in winter, the park's lower areas and road-accessible viewpoints remain open. The nearby town of Esquel serves as a base, offering La Hoya estação de esqui as an additional winter attraction. This combination of UNESCO natural heritage, winter sports, and the charm of a Patagonian mountain town makes the area a compelling winter destination.

Resumo do Clima

Max Media

6°C

Min Media

-2°C

Precipitacao

Heavy, averaging 150-250mm por mês. Predominantly snow at park elevations. Rain possible at lower areas near the lake. Extended queda de neve events are common.

Vento

Moderate within the park's forested valleys. More exposed lake and ridge areas can be windy.

Luz do Dia

Aproximadamente 8-9 horas de luz diurna. Forest canopy further reduces light in dense Alerce groves.

Winter in Los Alerces is cold and snowy. The park's western position catches moisture from Pacific weather systems, producing reliable queda de neve. Temperatures stay near or abaixo de zero for extended periods. The ancient forests create a hushed, cathedral-like atmosphere when laden with snow. Dias claros between storms reveal stunning mountain and lake views.

Atividades

Atividades Disponiveis

Park Road Scenic Drive

The main park road along Lago Futalaufquen is maintained in winter (conditions permitting) and offers stunning views of the lake and snow-covered mountains. Viewpoints and short stops along the road showcase the park's beauty.

Skiing at La Hoya

La Hoya estação de esqui near Esquel is known for excellent dry powder snow. It's smaller and less expensive than northern resorts, with a local, family atmosphere. Equipment rental is available.

Lower Forest Walks

Short trails near the park entrance and along the lakeshore remain accessible in winter for snowshoeing or careful walking. The ancient forests under snow are awe-inspiring.

La Trochita (Old Patagonian Express)

The famous narrow-gauge steam train runs from Esquel on a reduced winter schedule. This historic railway through the Patagonian landscape is a classic experience enhanced by winter scenery.

Esquel Town Exploration

The town of Esquel offers Welsh-influenced tea houses, local restaurants, and the cultural heritage of the region's Welsh settler community. Winter is a cozy time to explore.

Nao Disponivel Nesta Temporada

Boat excursion to the ancient Alerce grove (suspended in winter)Most multi-day hiking trails (snow-covered and unmarked)Camping facilities throughout the parkFishing (season closed)Most park visitor services and interpretive programs

Hospedagem

Esquel provides reliable durante todo o ano accommodation ranging from hotels to hostels and cabañas. Within the park, a few lakeside lodges may remain open — confirm in advance. Esquel's accommodation is affordable and well-suited as a winter base, with easy access to both the park and La Hoya estação de esqui.

Lotacao e Turismo

The park sees very few visitors in winter. La Hoya attracts modest ski crowds, mainly locals and domestic visitors, especially during julho holidays. Overall, winter in the area is quiet and uncrowded.

Precos

Good value across the board. Esquel's accommodation and dining are affordable durante todo o ano, with winter bringing additional discounts. La Hoya ski passes are among the cheapest in Argentina. Aluguel de carro from Esquel or the local airport provides access to both the park and estação de esqui.

Condicoes de Estrada

Importante para viajantes com carro alugado

The road from Esquel to Los Alerces park entrance (aproximadamente 50km) is a mix of paved and gravel. Winter conditions can make it challenging, with ice and snow. The park's internal road may be partially closed depending on conditions — check with park rangers. Correntes de neve are essential. A capable vehicle with good clearance is recommended. The road to La Hoya estação de esqui is maintained but also requires winter driving caution. Aluguel de carro from Esquel airport or town is straightforward.

Essenciais de Bagagem

Warm waterproof jacket
Camadas base térmicas
Botas impermeáveis isoladas
Gorro, luvas e cachecol quentes
Fleece mid-layers
Snowshoes (if planning forest walks)
Ski gear or plan to rent at La Hoya
Câmera with extra batteries
Correntes de neve for vehicle
Garrafa térmica for hot drinks
Óculos de sol and sunscreen
Lanterna de cabeça

Eventos e Festivais

La Hoya Ski Season

The temporada de esqui at La Hoya typically runs junho through setembro, with events, competitions, and family activities throughout. The resort is known for its excellent powder snow.

Eisteddfod (Welsh Cultural Festival)

The Welsh community in the region maintains cultural traditions including language, music, and food. While the main Eisteddfod is in outubro, Welsh tea houses operate durante todo o ano in Esquel and nearby Trevelin.

La Trochita Winter Runs

The historic Old Patagonian Express steam train operates special winter excursions, offering a nostalgic journey through snowy Patagonian landscapes.

Pros e Contras

Pros

  • Patrimônio Mundial da UNESCO ancient forests under snow are breathtaking.
  • Affordable skiing at La Hoya with excellent powder.
  • Historic La Trochita steam train experience.
  • Welsh cultural heritage adds unique character.
  • Quiet, uncrowded park experience.
  • Esquel provides reliable services and cozy accommodation.

Contras

  • Boat excursion to the ancient Alerce grove is not available.
  • Heavy queda de neve can limit park road access.
  • Most hiking trails are closed or inaccessible.
  • Poucas horas de luz, especially in the dense forest.
  • Remote location requires self-driving.

Explore de Carro Nesta Temporada

Um carro alugado da a liberdade de explorar a Patagonia no seu ritmo, em qualquer estacao.

Ver Aluguel de Carros

Explore Mais

Descubra mais guias e recursos para este destino

Perguntas Frequentes

Can I see the ancient Alerce trees in winter?

The famous 2,600-year-old Alerce grove accessed by boat on Lago Menéndez is not available in winter. However, shorter walks near the park entrance pass through forests that include younger Alerce specimens, and the overall forest atmosphere is magnificent under snow.

How does La Hoya compare to other Argentine estação de esquis?

La Hoya is smaller but known for excellent dry powder snow and an uncrowded, family-friendly atmosphere. It's significantly cheaper than Cerro Catedral or Chapelco. Great for beginners and intermediates, with some challenging terrain for advanced skiers.

Is the park road open in winter?

The main road to Lago Futalaufquen is maintained but may be temporarily closed during heavy queda de neve. Check with park rangers in Esquel for current conditions. Even when open, correntes de neve and careful driving are required.

How do I get to Esquel?

Fly to Esquel airport from Buenos Aires (LATAM and Aerolíneas Argentinas operate flights). Aluguel de carro is available at the airport. Alternatively, drive from Bariloche (aproximadamente 300km on Ruta 40, 4-5 hours in winter).

What is La Trochita?

La Trochita (the Old Patagonian Express) is a historic narrow-gauge steam railway that runs from Esquel. Made famous by Paul Theroux's book, it offers short tourist excursions through Patagonian scenery. Winter runs operate on a reduced schedule — check locally.

|