Villa Quila Quina
A picturesque Patagonian paradise on Lago Lácar, offering stunning views, artisan crafts, and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular fall colors
Villa Quila Quina
Best Time
Spectacular fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque Patagonian paradise on Lago Lácar, offering stunning views, artisan crafts, and natural beauty.
"Bellisimo!!! The road is gravel, with slopes and descents. Admission is $7,000 for residents..."
🚗 Drive with Caution
The gravel road has slopes and narrow sections. Drive slowly and carefully, especially if you're not used to mountain roads.
🚢 Boat Trip Option
Consider the catamaran from San Martín for stunning lake views. It's a relaxing way to arrive.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lago Lácar Views
Along the access road and beaches
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the turquoise Lago Lácar, especially stunning during autumn.
Mapuche Community Stalls
Main beach area
Discover unique handicrafts and local crafts from the indigenous Mapuche Curruhuinca community.
Cascada Escondida
Trail from the main beach
A charming hidden waterfall nestled within the trees, a short and rewarding hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Villa Quila Quina
Park Entrance and Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The gravel road has slopes and narrow sections. Drive slowly and carefully, especially if you're not used to mountain roads.
🚢 Boat Trip Option
Consider the catamaran from San Martín for stunning lake views. It's a relaxing way to arrive.
💰 Cash for Extras
While park entrance might be payable by card, have cash for smaller vendors and waterfall access.
🥪 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Food options can be limited and pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The gravel road has slopes and narrow sections. Drive slowly and carefully, especially if you're not used to mountain roads.
🚢 Boat Trip Option
Consider the catamaran from San Martín for stunning lake views. It's a relaxing way to arrive.
💰 Cash for Extras
While park entrance might be payable by card, have cash for smaller vendors and waterfall access.
🥪 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Food options can be limited and pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea.
🥾 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and exploring trails, so wear comfortable footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Villa Quila Quina, particularly the breathtaking views of Lago Lácar and the vibrant autumn colors. The option to arrive by boat is a highlight for many, offering a scenic and relaxing journey. However, some find the main beach crowded and noisy, and the gravel access road can be challenging.
"Bellisimo!!!"
Mauricio Garcia
"The road is gravel, with slopes and descents. Admission is $7,000 for residents, $5,000 for students, and there's a lower price for children. You can kayak on the main beach, where there are four artisan stalls and a restaurant with hearty dishes. Then there's "Puntilla" beach, which was packed with people and has a grocery store, and finally "Quila Quina" beach. Honestly, I wouldn't go back; it was crowded and noisy. There are nicer beaches that can be accessed for free, and the road can be tiring if you're driving."
Sofia Sanchez Jeanmaire
"Very nice. The boat ride to get there cost us $800 pesos per person (round trip) + $180 for the park entrance fee + $50 cash when you see the waterfall. It's a lovely day out. It's a good idea to plan ahead for food, as a coffee costs $200 pesos."
Ivanna Astudillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have two main options: drive or take a boat. The drive involves a scenic but sometimes challenging gravel road with slopes and narrow sections, approximately 18 km long.
No, the road to Villa Quila Quina is primarily a gravel road. It can be steep and winding in parts, so it's advisable to drive with caution, especially after rain.
While there isn't direct public bus service, the catamaran is a popular and scenic public transport option from San Martín de los Andes. Cycling is also an option for the adventurous.
The drive from San Martín de los Andes to Villa Quila Quina typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on road conditions and your speed.
Villa Quila Quina is generally accessible year-round, but it's best to check local conditions, especially during winter months, as the gravel road can be affected by snow and ice.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Villa Quila Quina as it's part of the Lanín National Park. Fees can vary for residents, students, and children, and it's advisable to have cash on hand.
Entrance fees can range from ARS 5,000 to ARS 7,000 for residents, with discounts for students and children. Additional small fees might apply for specific attractions like waterfalls.
Yes, discounts are typically available for retirees, university students, and children under 16.
It's recommended to carry cash, as some smaller vendors or specific attractions might only accept cash payments.
The entrance fee grants access to the National Park area, including the beaches and trails. It does not typically include activities like kayaking or boat tours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, hike to a hidden waterfall, explore trails with scenic views of Lago Lácar, and browse handicrafts from the Mapuche community.
Yes, Villa Quila Quina is known for its beautiful beaches, including the main beach, Puntilla beach, and Quila Quina beach itself, offering different atmospheres and amenities.
Kayaking is available on the main beach. Other water sports might be offered seasonally, but it's best to inquire locally upon arrival.
Yes, Villa Quila Quina is generally considered pet-friendly, with many visitors bringing their dogs to enjoy the natural surroundings.
You'll find beautiful forests, including roble pellín trees, stunning lake views, and diverse flora and fauna typical of the Patagonian region.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is at least one restaurant on the main beach offering hearty dishes. However, options are limited, and it's wise to check operating hours.
Food and drink prices can be relatively high, with a coffee costing around ARS 200 pesos. Packing your own snacks is a good way to save money.
Absolutely! Villa Quila Quina is a perfect spot for a picnic, especially with its beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints. Bringing your own food is highly recommended.
Puntilla beach has a grocery store, but options might be limited. It's best to stock up on supplies in San Martín de los Andes before heading out.
The restaurant typically serves local Patagonian fare. If you bring your own food, you can enjoy a picnic with a view of the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lago Lácar are spectacular, especially during autumn for the vibrant colors.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Autumn provides a stunning palette of colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife if you're lucky. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the natural environment and any local community guidelines.
Drone usage may be subject to regulations within national parks. It's advisable to check with park authorities for current rules and permits before flying a drone.
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