Villa Quila Quina - Image 1
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Villa Quila Quina

4.6
·564 reviews·, Argentina

A picturesque Patagonian paradise on Lago Lácar, offering stunning views, artisan crafts, and natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Spectacular fall colors

CrowdMedium
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Villa Quila Quina - Image 1

Villa Quila Quina

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Spectacular fall colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque Patagonian paradise on Lago Lácar, offering stunning views, artisan crafts, and natural beauty.

4.6
(564 reviews)

"Bellisimo!!! The road is gravel, with slopes and descents. Admission is $7,000 for residents..."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lago Lácar Views

Lago Lácar Views

Along the access road and beaches

Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the turquoise Lago Lácar, especially stunning during autumn.

Mapuche Community Stalls

Mapuche Community Stalls

Main beach area

Discover unique handicrafts and local crafts from the indigenous Mapuche Curruhuinca community.

Cascada Escondida

Cascada Escondida

Trail from the main beach

A charming hidden waterfall nestled within the trees, a short and rewarding hike.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Villa Quila Quina

Villa Quila Quina is accessible by a scenic gravel road or by boat from San Martín de los Andes. The road can be challenging with slopes and narrow sections, so drive with caution. The boat trip offers stunning lake views and is a popular alternative.

Park Entrance and Fees

An entrance fee is required for the National Park. Prices vary for residents, students, and children. Be prepared for potential cash-only payments for smaller attractions like waterfalls.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Spectacular fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmest for beach activities
Crowd
High
When
Spring weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Teo haciendo como que NADA! #soyteojrt #lagolacar #petfriendly #quilaquina #neuquen
@somosteoytinajrt
65.3K likes • 967.7K views

🚗 Drive with Caution

The gravel road has slopes and narrow sections. Drive slowly and carefully, especially if you're not used to mountain roads. Reddit

🚢 Boat Trip Option

Consider the catamaran from San Martín for stunning lake views. It's a relaxing way to arrive. TikTokInstagram

Recorriendo San Martin de los Andes con @Maiarita Quila Quina Rental de auto: @ariesrentacar
@macospataro
31.8K likes • 280.7K views
🏡Casa en VENTA en Villa Quila Quina, un lugar paradisíaco ubicado a 17 kmts. de San Martín de los Andes 👉Ubicada a metros de una de las mejores playas de la Patagonia, posee 180m2 construidos sobre 10.000m2 de lote. 👉Increíble lugar para vivir, servicios de luz, agua y wifi La propiedad cuenta con living, cocina y comedor en concepto abierto 👉Tres dormitorios y dos baños completos, lavadero #qu...
aiken.patagonia.propiedades
99 likes • 3.2K views

💰 Cash for Extras

While park entrance might be payable by card, have cash for smaller vendors and waterfall access. Reddit

🥪 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Food options can be limited and pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea. Reddit

QUILA QUINA, NEUQUÉN 🇦🇷 A 18 km de San Martín de Los Andes y sobre las costas del Lago Lácar nos encontramos con Villa Quila Quina, perteneciente al Parque Nacional Lanín. En estas tierras habita la comunidad Mapuche Curruhuinca. Hay dos formas de llegar: 🚗 En auto por un camino sinuoso de montaña y de ripio. 🛥En barco: 30 minutos de navegación desde SMA. Aquí también hay dos opciones: como tran...
freeholidaysplanner
249 likes • 9.6K views

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. Reddit

🚢 Boat Trip Option

Consider the catamaran from San Martín for stunning lake views. It's a relaxing way to arrive. TikTokInstagram

💰 Cash for Extras

While park entrance might be payable by card, have cash for smaller vendors and waterfall access. Reddit

🥪 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Food options can be limited and pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea. Reddit

🥾 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking and exploring trails, so wear comfortable footwear. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(564 reviews)

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

Spectacular lake views
Beautiful autumn colors
Scenic boat trip option

What People Dislike

Crowded main beach
Challenging gravel road
Higher food prices

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.TikTokInstagram Alternatively, you can take a catamaran from the port of San Martín, which offers beautiful views of Lago Lácar and takes about 30 minutes.TikTokInstagram

No, the road to Villa Quila Quina is primarily a gravel road.InstagramReddit 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.TikTok

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.TikTokInstagram

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.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Villa Quila Quina as it's part of the Lanín National Park.InstagramReddit 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.Reddit Additional small fees might apply for specific attractions like waterfalls.

Yes, discounts are typically available for retirees, university students, and children under 16.Reddit

It's recommended to carry cash, as some smaller vendors or specific attractions might only accept cash payments.Reddit

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.TikTokInstagram+1

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.Reddit

Kayaking is available on the main beach.Reddit 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.TikTok

You'll find beautiful forests, including roble pellín trees, stunning lake views, and diverse flora and fauna typical of the Patagonian region.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is at least one restaurant on the main beach offering hearty dishes.Reddit 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.Reddit 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.Reddit

Puntilla beach has a grocery store,Reddit 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.Instagram+1 The beaches and the hidden waterfall also offer great photo opportunities.

Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Autumn provides a stunning palette of colors.Instagram

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.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Villa Quila Quina is a fantastic destination for families. The beaches offer safe areas for children to play, and the calmer waters of Lago Lácar are suitable for supervised swimming. The short hike to the waterfall is manageable for most kids, providing a fun exploration activity.TikTok Many visitors bring their pets, making it a great spot for families with furry members too.TikTok

Consider the boat trip as a more relaxed way to arrive, as it avoids the potentially bumpy gravel road. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as food options can be limited and a bit pricey. The natural beauty and open spaces provide ample opportunity for kids to connect with nature.

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love scenic drives, the journey to Villa Quila Quina is a must. The gravel road, while requiring careful driving, offers stunning vistas of Lago Lácar and the surrounding Patagonian landscape.Instagram+1 It's a great opportunity to practice your off-road driving skills and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace. Remember to check your tires and have a full tank of gas before you set off.TikTok

📸 Photographers

Villa Quila Quina is a photographer's paradise, especially during autumn when the foliage explodes in color.Instagram The panoramic views of Lago Lácar are breathtaking at any time of day, but golden hour offers particularly magical light.Instagram Don't miss the chance to capture the unique handicrafts of the Mapuche community and the serene beauty of the hidden waterfall.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Access Road

The journey to Villa Quila Quina is an adventure in itself. The road is primarily gravel, winding through the Patagonian landscape with noticeable slopes and descents.Reddit While it's a beautiful drive, offering glimpses of Lago Lácar, it requires careful navigation. Drivers should be prepared for uneven surfaces and potential narrow passages, especially if driving a standard vehicle. Many visitors recommend taking it slow and steady to fully appreciate the scenery and ensure safety.Instagram+1

For those less comfortable with off-road driving, the catamaran trip from San Martín de los Andes presents a fantastic alternative. This 30-minute boat ride glides across the serene waters of Lago Lácar, providing a different perspective of the surrounding mountains and coastline.TikTokInstagram It's a relaxing way to arrive and often considered a highlight of the visit, especially for those seeking a more tranquil experience.

The Mapuche Community and Cultural Significance

Villa Quila Quina is situated on lands historically belonging to the Mapuche Curruhuinca community.Instagram+1 This cultural heritage is visible in the artisan stalls found on the main beach, where visitors can purchase unique handicrafts and learn about local traditions.Reddit It's important to approach these interactions with respect and an appreciation for the indigenous culture that has shaped this region.

The history of the area also includes land expropriation by the National Parks Administration in the mid-20th century, which led to the development of the villa as a residential area.Instagram Understanding this context adds depth to the visitor experience, highlighting the blend of natural beauty and human history present in Villa Quila Quina.

Exploring the Beaches and Natural Wonders

Villa Quila Quina boasts several distinct beaches, each offering a unique charm. The main beach is a hub of activity, featuring artisan stalls, a restaurant, and opportunities for kayaking.Reddit Puntilla beach is often more crowded but has a grocery store, while Quila Quina beach offers a more serene setting.Reddit Beyond the shores, a short hike leads to a picturesque hidden waterfall, a delightful natural feature to discover.Instagram

The surrounding environment is rich with Patagonian flora, including the impressive roble pellín trees.Instagram The autumn season transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a particularly stunning time for photography and exploration.Instagram+1 Whether you're seeking relaxation on the sand or a gentle adventure through nature, Villa Quila Quina offers a memorable experience.

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