Things To Do
in Junín de los Andes
Junín de los Andes is a small Patagonian town set at the foothills of the Andes, gateway to the Lanín National Park. It sits along the Chimehuín River and serves as a tranquil base for outdoor adventures like trout fishing, hiking, and mountain scenery. The town blends rural Patagonian character with tourism infrastructure, from rustic estancias to cozy cafes.
Surrounding landscapes of volcanic peaks, evergreen forests, and glacial lakes define the scenery year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Junín de los Andes and feel the Patagonian breeze as you check into your lodgings. Take a slow walk toward the edge of Lago Lácar to stretch your legs and ease into the rhythm of the town.
Visit a local cafe to map out the week and savor a pastry. Stroll along the main street, glancing at artisan shops and preparing for a lakeside walk at sunset.
Return to the shore for a relaxed sunset and a plate of empanadas from a nearby bakery. Settle into a cozy spot with a glass of Malbec as the evening air grows cooler.
Head to the viewpoints around Junín de los Andes to catch a misty sunrise. Breathe in the cool morning air as you plan a hike toward the Lanín foothills.
Lunch at a local parrilla with views of the surrounding peaks. Take a short forest loop nearby or a gentle hike along a river to acclimate.
Return to town and share stories with locals about routes for the next days. End the day with a quiet stroll along the lake edge, listening to the night sounds.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch with drink | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel room (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gas per liter | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural scenery and proximity to Lanín National Park
- Friendly locals and a relaxed Patagonian vibe
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside peak season
- Some services and attractions are seasonal and weather dependent
- "¿Cómo llego a [lugar] ?" - How do I get to [place]?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No hablo español" - I don't speak Spanish
- "¿Qué recomiendas?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Junín de los Andes
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic view of the Lanín volcano on clear days; best at sunrise or sunset.
Dawn or dusk reflections with the Andes reflecting on calm water and abundant birdlife.
Historic river crossings and viewpoints along the Chimehuín, ideal for golden-hour photography.
Wide-angle shots of Patagonian pampas meeting the snow-capped Andes, especially at golden hour.
Food in Junín de los Andes
Junín de los Andes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled trout from nearby rivers, often seasoned with herbs, lemon, and olive oil.
Must-Try!
Lamb roasted or grilled, a regional specialty often served with potatoes or local vegetables.
Grilled steak with potatoes, a classic parrilla staple.
Sweet pastries and cakes made with Argentina's iconic dulce de leche.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh trout, produce, cheeses, honey, and artisanal crafts; great for trying regional bites.
Riverside stalls offering fried trout, fish tacos, and empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Buenos días/tardes” and a handshake; use polite language with strangers.
Voseo (vos) is common in Patagonia; switch to usted for formal situations and in-service contexts.
Respect nature; do not feed wildlife; stay on designated trails and dispose of trash properly.
Safety
Tipping in Junín de los Andes
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included. Rounding up at taxis and small gratuities for hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash (Argentine pesos) and cards are widely accepted in town; ATMs are available. In more remote spots, cash is safer; some places may charge in local currency or offer dynamic currency conversion.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days (late sunsets), dry conditions in exposed areas; excellent for hiking, fishing, and lake activities, with possible afternoon thunderstorms.
Cooler days and vibrant fall colors; fewer crowds but variable weather; good for cultural strolls and scenic drives.
Cold, windy, and snowy at higher elevations; some trails may be closed; ski and snowshoeing options nearby; layered clothing essential.
Milder temps with fresh greenery; rain showers and lighter crowds; great for wildlife watching and budding flora.
Junín de los Andes at Night
Hiking in Junín de los Andes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate shoreline walk with views of the lake and mountains.
Varied trails suitable for day hikes through lenga forest, with lookout points.
Longer day hikes offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys; proper gear recommended.
Airports
How to reach Junín de los Andes by plane.
Major gateway to the region; frequent domestic and some international flights; transfer by road to Junín de los Andes.
Smaller regional airport serving the nearby resort town; useful for domestic flights and quick transfers to the Patagonian lakes region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing Patagonian families who run ranches, shops, and guesthouses.
People who come for fishing guides, tourism services, and hospitality during peak seasons.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by fishing, hiking, and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A top draw in rivers like Chimehuín; attracts anglers from across Argentina and beyond.
Daily and multi-day treks in Lanín National Park and surrounding foothills.
Ranches and guides offer rides through lenga forests and river valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Junín de los Andes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include salads, grilled vegetables, cheeses, and empanadas; ask for platos sin carne and avoid heavy sauces.