Nahuel Huapi Lake

Nahuel Huapi Lake is the main lake within Nahuel Huapi National Park. It is a glacial lake with many islands, and it is located in the lake region of northern Patagonia between the provinces of Río Negro and Neuquén near Bariloche. It has a surface area of about 210 square miles and a depth of 1,394 feet, making it the largest and deepest clear water lake in Argentina; it extends 62 miles across the border into Chile. In 1670, Nahuel Huapi Lake was discovered by Nicolas Mascardi, a Jesuit priest who was doing missionary work in the area. 
Bariloche is the biggest city in the area and sits on the southern banks of the lake. The town was founded in 1902, but tourism grew after the 1930s when the national park was established. Bariloche and the surrounding areas are known as the honeymoon capital of Argentina. The area is also well known for chocolate manufacturing. Many people use Bariloche as a base for skiing, mountaineering, hiking and enjoying Nahuel Huapi Lake as well as other lakes in the area. Hotels and restaurants line the southern shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake to accommodate the tourists who come to explore the region.

Practical Info

Nahuel Huapi Lake is best reached from Bariloche. To get to Bariloche, there are many flights from other parts of Argentina, as well as bus and train connections.