
Lago Paimún
A Patagonian jewel with volcanic sand beaches, offering stunning views of Volcán Lanín and access to hiking trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors

Lago Paimún
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Patagonian jewel with volcanic sand beaches, offering stunning views of Volcán Lanín and access to hiking trails.
"Breathtaking views of Volcán Lanín and unique volcanic sand beaches make this a must-visit Patagonian gem."

🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the Ruta de los 7 Lagos and reaching remote spots like Lago Paimún .
☕ Bring Your Own Coffee
Enjoy a warm drink with a view; some visitors bring their own specialty coffee .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcán Lanín Views
Shoreline of Lago Paimún
Majestic views of the iconic Lanín Volcano create a breathtaking backdrop for the lake.

El Saltillo Waterfall
Hiking trail from Lago Paimún
A beautiful, medium-low difficulty hike leads to this enchanting waterfall.

Volcanic Sand Beaches
Various points along the lake
Relax on unique black-sand beaches, warmed by volcanic activity.

Capilla María Auxiliadora de Paimún
Near the lake
A picturesque chapel offering a serene spot with stunning lake and volcano vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Stunning Views
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the Ruta de los 7 Lagos and reaching remote spots like Lago Paimún.
☕ Bring Your Own Coffee
Enjoy a warm drink with a view; some visitors bring their own specialty coffee.
🛶 Boat Access to Beaches
Some paradisiacal beaches are only accessible by boat.
🚶♀️ Hike to El Saltillo
A rewarding trail for a beautiful waterfall experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the Ruta de los 7 Lagos and reaching remote spots like Lago Paimún.
☕ Bring Your Own Coffee
Enjoy a warm drink with a view; some visitors bring their own specialty coffee.
🛶 Boat Access to Beaches
Some paradisiacal beaches are only accessible by boat.
🚶♀️ Hike to El Saltillo
A rewarding trail for a beautiful waterfall experience.
🏕️ Camp by the Lake
Experience magical sunrises and peaceful mornings at lakeside campgrounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lago Paimún for its breathtaking scenery, particularly the majestic views of Volcán Lanín and the unique volcanic sand beaches. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for hiking to waterfalls like El Saltillo are also highly appreciated. Some note that dining options are limited, making it essential to come prepared with food and drinks.
"Lago Paimun, Neuquen Argentina.....
This was one of the very nice lakes with excellent scenery that we visited back on Wednesday, June 14, 2017.
I want to also personally Thank Cacho (Oscar Valenzuela), Vanesa Troncoso and Celina Pagliariche for taking ME there!
Sincerely yours,
Howard Paul Shore
Visitor
Executive, Volunteer Writer For Google And Tripadvisor Websites
/HPS"
HOWARD SHORE
"Beautiful place. Very peaceful. With lovely trails to explore, like the one to the El Saltillo waterfall, which is of medium-low difficulty."
Claudia Flores
"Lake Paimun is enchanting, with its historic mystique at the foot of the Lanín Volcano. The best beaches with warm, volcanic sand"
Pedro Moyano Daza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago Paimún is located near Junín de los Andes, which is a common base for exploring the area. From San Martín de los Andes, you can drive towards Junín de los Andes and then follow signs for Lago Paimún. The drive itself is scenic, especially if you're taking parts of the Ruta de los 7 Lagos.
Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.Public transport options directly to Lago Paimún can be limited. It's more common to base yourself in Junín de los Andes or San Martín de los Andes and arrange transport from there. Some tours might include this destination, or you might need to rely on taxis or private transfers for the final leg.
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Lago Paimún and the surrounding Ruta de los 7 Lagos.
For accessing certain secluded beaches, a boat trip is ideal. Hiking trails are also a great way to discover the natural beauty.The roads leading to Lago Paimún are generally well-maintained, especially the main routes. However, some unpaved sections might be encountered closer to the lake or for accessing specific points. It's always good to check local road conditions before you travel, especially during winter months.
Driving to Lago Paimún in winter can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Roads may be slippery or even closed at times. It's crucial to check weather forecasts and road conditions, and ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving (e.g., snow tires).🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lago Paimún is located within the Lanín National Park. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the lake itself, you may need to pay an entrance fee for the national park depending on the access point and current regulations. It's advisable to check the official Lanín National Park website for the most up-to-date information on fees and access.
Lago Paimún is an natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round. However, facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have specific operating hours. During winter, access might be restricted due to weather conditions.
For day visits, booking in advance is usually not required. However, if you plan to camp at one of the lakeside campgrounds, it's highly recommended to book your spot in advance, especially during peak season (summer).
Yes, various tour operators in Junín de los Andes and San Martín de los Andes offer excursions that include Lago Paimún, often as part of the Ruta de los 7 Lagos. These tours can provide valuable insights and handle transportation logistics.
If you have limited time, focus on the viewpoints offering stunning vistas of Volcán Lanín and the lake. A short hike to El Saltillo waterfall is also feasible. Consider a scenic drive along the lake's accessible shores.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking to waterfalls like El Saltillo,
relax on the unique volcanic sand beaches, take scenic drives, go boating or kayaking on the lake, and camp overnight. The views of Volcán Lanín are a constant highlight.Yes, Lago Paimún is generally family-friendly. The hiking trails to the waterfall are of medium-low difficulty, making them accessible for most ages.
The beaches offer a place for kids to play, and the natural scenery is captivating for all.While specific wildlife sightings can vary, the Patagonian region is known for its diverse birdlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species. The natural environment is rich, so always be respectful of the local fauna.
Facilities can vary depending on the specific area you visit around Lago Paimún. Campgrounds typically have basic amenities. It's always a good idea to pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the natural beauty of the park.
Pack layers of clothing as Patagonian weather can change quickly. Include comfortable hiking shoes,
sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes!🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Lago Paimún are limited. It's best to pack your own food and drinks, especially if you plan a picnic or camping trip.
Some accommodations in nearby Junín de los Andes may offer dining services.The beaches along Lago Paimún offer beautiful spots for a picnic with stunning views of Volcán Lanín.
The campground areas also often have designated picnic spots. Enjoying a meal surrounded by nature is a highlight.Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as options are scarce at the lake itself. This allows you to enjoy a meal with a view at your own pace.
In Junín de los Andes and the surrounding Patagonian region, you can often find delicious lamb dishes (cordero patagónico) and local trout. Don't forget to try some traditional Argentine empanadas.
If you're camping, plan your meals in advance. Pack non-perishable items and consider a portable stove for cooking. Bringing a thermos with hot coffee or tea is also a great idea, especially for chilly mornings.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lake and Volcán Lanín.
Overcast days can also create a moody, atmospheric scene, especially for waterfall photography.The viewpoints offering clear views of Volcán Lanín are iconic.
The black sand beaches provide unique foregrounds, and the hike to El Saltillo waterfall offers opportunities for nature shots. The Capilla María Auxiliadora de Paimún is also a charming subject.A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive landscapes and the grandeur of Volcán Lanín. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the volcano or distant mountain ranges. However, a standard zoom lens will suffice for most general landscape shots.
While specific photography tours for Lago Paimún might be rare, many general Patagonian photography tours might include this area. Local photographers in Junín de los Andes or San Martín de los Andes may also offer private sessions or advice.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses is ideal for landscape photography. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light conditions and long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as charging points can be scarce.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers
🏕️ Nature & Camping Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ruta de los 7 Lagos
The journey along the Ruta de los 7 Lagos is an experience in itself. You'll pass by lakes like Lago Lácar, Lago Machónico, Lago Falkner, and Lago Villarino, each offering different perspectives of the Patagonian Andes. The road winds through forests and along mountain ridges, providing constant visual delights. It's a photographer's paradise, with numerous pull-offs for capturing the dramatic scenery.
When planning your trip along the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, consider the time of year. Autumn brings a spectacular display of fall colors, while summer offers warmer weather for water activities. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and always check road status, especially during winter months when snow can impact accessibility.
Camping and Lakeside Living
Visitors often describe the beaches near the lake as having a unique, warm, volcanic sand, making them pleasant for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Some of these paradisiacal beaches are best accessed by boat, adding an element of adventure to your stay. Whether you're pitching a tent or staying in a nearby cabin, the lakeside offers a tranquil escape.
When camping, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the pristine environment. Pack out all your trash, be mindful of fire regulations, and respect the natural habitat. The experience of stargazing in the clear Patagonian night sky, far from city lights, is also an unforgettable aspect of camping at Lago Paimún.
Hiking to El Saltillo Waterfall
The trail leads you through scenic Patagonian terrain, culminating in the sight and sound of the cascading waterfall. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months.
The El Saltillo waterfall provides a beautiful natural spectacle and a refreshing break from the lakeside. It's a testament to the diverse natural beauty found within the Lanín National Park, offering a different kind of experience compared to the expansive lake views.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit