\t\tStretching along the Andes from Lago Marcardi to Villa Traful, Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, is a nature retreat for visitors to Bariloche in the lakes district of Argentina. The country’s first ever national park was created in 1934, made possible by a donation from naturalist Francisco Perito Moreno. The 7500 hectares of land extend across dramatic mountains, lakes, rivers, glaciers, waterfalls, torrents, rapids, valleys, forests, bare mountains and snow-covered peaks. There are no official entry points into the magical park, but Bariloche is a popular starting point. Equip yourself with information, transportation, maps, and gear before venturing into the park. For more information contact the Associating of Guides, who are trained in geography, flora, and fauna. The National Park intendencia and Club Andino Bariloche can also provide helpful information about walks, buses, and the like.The focal point of the park is its largest lake, Lago Nahuel Huapi. You can explore the fjord-like arms of waters and all 531 sq km of the lake on boat. Explore the lake’s many islands or settle on Isla Victoria in a luxurious hotel. The southern shore of the lake has accommodations, hiking, rafting, boats and other tours available. The lake stretches far into the west towards Chile, where there is a virgin Valdivian rainforest. To the north there is a park within a park; Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes contains rare woodlands full of exquisite arrayán trees covered in cinnamon-colored flaky bark.The vegetation varies by altitude and climate but you will likely see large expanses of southern beech forests filled with old coihue trees. Near the Chilean border where the rainfall is strongest, you will see an ancient species of bamboo cane called cana colihue. The eastern parts of the park are more steep-like with arid land, low shrubs, and dry bushes. Amidst all the flora, watch for the local wildlife including the small pudú deer, foxes, cougars, guanacos, and the endangered huemul and river otter. Easily spot birds such as swans, geese, ducks or the more exotic scarlet-headed Magellan woodpeckers and green austral parakeets.Since the main attraction is the fabulous scenery, the main activity is understandably hiking. There are many well marked trails in the peaks south of Bariloche, Mount Tronador, and others. However, you can also enjoy world-class skiing at Cerro Catedral between June and September, or horseback ride around an estancia. Swim in small lakes during the summer, take a day trip across the larger Lago Nahuel Huapi, or raft along the Rio Manso. Whatever activities you choose, you will be fortunate to enjoy them in such a magnificent Argentine national park.
By: Melissa Reichwage