Top 20 Lakes in Río Negro
Best lakes in Río Negro, a province in Argentine Patagonia, are characterized by their glacial origins and diverse natural features within the Patagonian Lake District. Many are nestled within Nahuel Huapi National Park, offering varied landscapes from alpine settings to temperate rainforests. The region provides a range of outdoor activities centered around its aquatic environments and surrounding trails. These lakes are known for their clear waters and serve as prime destinations for nature lovers.
Best lakes in Río Negro
- The most popular lakes is Toncek Lagoon, a lake located at an altitude of 1,700 meters on Cerro Catedral. It is notable for the intense green color of its waters and its surrounding granite towers, attracting mountaineers and photographers.
- Another must-see spot is Beach and View of Lake Nahuel Huapi, a beach. This beach is characterized by its smooth stones and pebbles that reach the clear water, often reflecting the surrounding mountains.
- Visitors also love View of Nahuel Huapi Lake from Cerro Otto, a viewpoint. This viewpoint offers a privileged perspective of Lake Nahuel Huapi from the mountain station of the Cerro Otto cable car.
- Río Negro is known for its glacial lakes, alpine lagoons, and large lake systems. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct characteristics and surrounding landscapes.
- The lakes in Río Negro are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 25 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
Toncek Lagoon
Highlight • Lake
In summer, it's an ideal place to rest after a hike and enjoy the views, while in winter it often freezes over, creating a spectacular landscape.
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Circuito Chico in Nahuel Huapi National Park
Highlight • Trail
Many people cycle the Circuito along the main road.
However, if you hike the route, you have ample opportunity to explore side paths and discover stunning oases on shorter hikes. Parts of the Circuito are easily accessible by public bus, although not the entire Circuito is connected to the bus network.
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Schmoll Lagoon
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View of Lago Moreno
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Beach and View of Lake Nahuel Huapi
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Villa Tacul Trail
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Lago Escondido Dock
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View of Nahuel Huapi Lake from Cerro Otto
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The perfect spot for a break
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Viewpoint of Lago Gutiérrez
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Hidden Lagoon is located between Lake Moreno and Los Troncos Bay. It is not connected to any other lagoon, hence its name, Hidden Lagoon.
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From this spot you'll have a privileged view of Lake Moreno. There are benches perfect for enjoying the moment, having a snack, and admiring the scenery.
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Toncek Lagoon, located at an altitude of 1,700 meters on Cerro Catedral, is notable for the intense green color of its waters and its surrounding granite towers, which attract mountaineers and photographers. On its shores stands the Emilio Frey Refuge, a key point for hikers exploring Nahuel Huapi National Park. In summer, it's an ideal place to rest after a hike and enjoy the views, while in winter it often freezes over, creating a spectacular landscape.
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Laguna Schmoll, located at an altitude of 1,900 meters on Cerro Catedral within Nahuel Huapi National Park, is a small, green lake fed by Andean snowmelt. Surrounded by rock formations, it offers an ideal panoramic viewpoint for those following the trail to the Emilio Frey Refuge. In summer, access is challenging but manageable for hikers with good footwear; in winter, the lake is usually covered by a thick layer of snow.
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The Villa Tacul trail begins next to the Llao Llao Information Center and gently ascends to the turnoff for Cerro Llao Llao, where the views of Nahuel Huapi Lake and the surrounding hills reward the effort. From there, the path descends to Villa Tacul, a tranquil bay with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxing by the lake. The trail is well-marked.
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Ideal place for a stop and lunch
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It is worth going up to the viewing points from the beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes in Río Negro for visitors?
Among the most popular lakes in Río Negro, Toncek Lagoon stands out for its intense green waters and granite towers, located at 1,700 meters on Cerro Catedral. Visitors also highly appreciate the Beach and View of Lake Nahuel Huapi, known for its clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. Lago Nahuel Huapi itself is the largest and most famous, offering a wide array of activities.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in Río Negro?
Yes, Río Negro offers several family-friendly options. Lago Gutiérrez is popular for its relatively warmer waters, making it suitable for swimming and various water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The View of Lago Moreno provides benches for a relaxing break with scenic views, and the Lago Escondido Dock is also noted as family-friendly. Lago Puelo National Park is also suitable for families, offering independent hiking and boat tours.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes in Río Negro?
The lakes in Río Negro are a hub for outdoor activities. You can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and white-water rafting on Lago Nahuel Huapi. Lago Mascardi is excellent for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Lago Gutiérrez is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Lago Traful offers unique experiences like snorkeling over an underwater forest, surfing, and jet skiing. Hiking is very popular, with trails like the Circuito Chico in Nahuel Huapi National Park and the Villa Tacul Trail. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking in Río Negro guide, or for mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails in Río Negro guide.
Which lakes are best for water sports like swimming and kayaking?
Lago Gutiérrez is particularly favored for swimming and various water sports due to its warmer, rain-fed waters, making it great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Lago Traful's clear waters are also perfect for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and jet skiing. Lago Nahuel Huapi offers extensive opportunities for sailing and kayaking.
Are there any unique natural features or landmarks to see around the lakes?
Yes, Río Negro's lakes boast several unique natural features. Lago Traful is famous for its fascinating underwater forest of over 60 Cypress trees. Lago Mascardi features a distinctive 'V' shape and a heart-shaped island. The region is characterized by vast glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush Valdivian temperate rainforests, especially around Lago Nahuel Huapi and Lago Puelo.
What are the best viewpoints for panoramic lake scenery?
There are numerous stunning viewpoints. The View of Lago Moreno offers a privileged perspective with benches for relaxation. You can also get a magnificent View of Nahuel Huapi Lake from Cerro Otto. The Viewpoint of Lago Gutiérrez provides fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Additionally, the Mirador del Lago Traful offers wonderful panoramic views of Lago Traful.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Río Negro?
The lakes in Río Negro offer attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for water activities, hiking, and exploring the lush landscapes. In winter, areas like Cerro Catedral near Lago Nahuel Huapi become major draws for skiing and snowboarding, transforming into hiking trails in the summer. The climate around Lago Puelo is more temperate than other Patagonian parks.
Are there opportunities for camping near the lakes?
Yes, camping is a popular option around several lakes. Lago Mascardi is an ideal spot for camping and picnics, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Lago Gutiérrez also offers camping facilities, providing a chance to spend nights under the stars. Lago Traful has camping facilities available by the lake or close to the beach.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Lago Nahuel Huapi's cold glacial waters host unique species like kelp gulls and blue-eyed cormorants. Lago Puelo National Park, created to protect its scenic landscape and Valdivian flora, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including native fish species.
Are there any easy hiking trails around the lakes?
While many trails are intermediate, there are options for various skill levels. The Circuito Chico in Nahuel Huapi National Park offers scenic routes for cycling and walking. Lago Puelo offers opportunities for independent hiking through the Valdivian forest. For more specific easy hiking options, you can consult the Hiking in Río Negro guide, which includes routes like the 'Hiking loop from Cascada Los Césares' and 'Waterfall loop from Lago Puelo' that are rated as easy.
What makes Lago Puelo unique compared to other lakes in the region?
Lago Puelo, located in the northwest of Chubut province, is unique for its location within a National Park created to protect its Valdivian flora. Its rivers carry high levels of glacier sediment, giving the lake its characteristic blue color. The climate here is more temperate than other Patagonian parks, and it offers opportunities for independent hiking through the Valdivian forest, boat tours, and even features cave paintings within the park.
Can I find places to relax by the water?
Absolutely. The Beach and View of Lake Nahuel Huapi is characterized by smooth stones and pebbles, perfect for relaxing by the clear water. Lago Mascardi also boasts clean, pebble-strewn shores and a peaceful ambiance, ideal for unwinding on its often deserted beaches. Lago Gutiérrez's west shore features pleasant beaches and campsites.
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