Arrayanes Forest is one of the most unique natural landscapes in Patagonia, known for
its rare cinnamon-colored arrayán trees with smooth, twisted trunks. Located within
Nahuel Huapi National Park, this forest creates a calm and almost storybook-like
atmosphere unlike any other woodland in Argentina.
The forest stretches across the Quetrihué Peninsula, where well-maintained paths
guide visitors through dense clusters of these distinctive trees. Soft light filtering
through the branches, combined with the scent of wood and lake air, makes walking
here a peaceful and immersive experience.
For travelers, Arrayanes Forest offers a quiet escape focused on slow exploration,
gentle walking, and appreciation of a rare ecosystem found in only a few places in the
world.
- 🧡 Marvel at the “Orange Forest” 🌲—the only place on earth where these trees form a pure grove 🌍
- 👣 Stroll the elevated 🪵 wooden boardwalks designed to protect the delicate root systems 🌿
- 📸 Capture the “Cinnamon Glow” 🎞️ during midday when the sun illuminates the smooth bark ☀️
- 🛖 Visit the “Casita de Té” ☕, a charming wooden cabin located at the heart of the forest 🍰
- 🦢 Spot local wildlife 🦅 like the Southern crested caracara or the tiny Pudu deer 🦌
- 🛳️ Board a catamaran ⚓ from Puerto Pañuelo (Bariloche) for a full-day lake adventure 🌊
- 🥾 Hike the 12km 🚶 Quetrihué trail for a rugged challenge through native Coihue forests 🏔️
- 🚲 Rent a mountain bike 🚲 in Villa La Angostura to cycle the peninsula path to the forest 🚩
- 🧤 Don’t touch! 🚫 The arrayán bark is extremely delicate; help preserve it for the future 🌳
- 🧥 Bring a jacket 🧣; the forest floor remains cool and shaded even on hot January days ❄️
- 👟 Wear sturdy sneakers 👟 or hiking boots if you choose to walk the 12km peninsula trail 🛤️
- 🎟️ Have your National Park 💳 entrance fee ready (can be paid online or at the pier) 🎫
- 📍 09:30 AM – Arrive by boat 🛳️ at the Quetrihué Peninsula pier 🗝️
- 👣 10:00 AM – Walk the main 🌲 forest trail via the elevated wooden boardwalks 📸
- 🍰 12:30 PM – Short rest ☕ at the historic Tea House and final photography stops 🎞️
- 🚤 03:00 PM – Return by boat 🌊 to Villa La Angostura or Bariloche 🏁
