According to tourists who visited Esquel, the must-see attractions on a first visit are: 1. The Old Patagonian Express "La Trochita," a historic steam train that travels through Patagonian landscapes. It offers a nostalgic experience and a unique way to appreciate the scenery. Access is by train, and it operates with a narrow-gauge steam locomotive. 2. Los Alerces National Park, a protected area with ancient larch forests and crystal-clear lakes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for connecting with nature. Access is by private vehicle or organized tour, and it is home to the Ancient Larch. 3. La Hoya Ski Center, known for its extended season and quality snow. It offers winter activities and panoramic views, even off-season. Access is by private vehicle or transfer, and its location allows for snow until well into spring. 4. La Zeta Lagoon, a body of water surrounded by mountains, ideal for recreational activities. It offers serene landscapes and opportunities for hiking and fishing. Access is by private vehicle and is part of Esquel's natural amphitheater. The suggested itinerary is to dedicate the first day to a ride on "La Trochita" and explore downtown Esquel. On the second day, visit Los Alerces National Park. If you visit in winter, consider La Hoya Ski Center. Esquel is an excellent starting point to explore the Chubut mountain range. Don’t miss mountain activities like hiking and horseback riding. Fly fishermen will find its rivers a must-visit destination.
The top-rated activities by tourists in Esquel are: 1. Hiking and mountain activities: Explore trails, go horseback riding, climbing, and lake circuits in a privileged natural setting. The rivers are ideal for fly fishing. Duration varies, and its popularity is high. 2. Rafting on the Corcovado River: Enjoy class II and III rapids, an exciting experience suitable for beginners. No prior experience is required. The approximate duration is half a day, and its popularity is high. 3. Canopy in Pueblo Alto: Fly over the native forest on a zip line circuit with long sections. The longest section is 500 meters. The approximate duration is 2-3 hours, and its popularity is medium. 4. Visit to the Welsh Colony of Trevelin: Learn about the history and traditions of the Welsh community in a picturesque nearby town. Famous for its Welsh tea and architecture. The approximate duration is half a day, and its popularity is high.
From Esquel, the following day trips can be made: 1. Visit to the Welsh Colony of Trevelin: 30 km from Esquel, with a travel time of 30 minutes. 2. Los Alerces National Park: 50 km from Esquel, with a travel time of 1 hour. 3. La Hoya Ski Center: 15 km from Esquel, with a travel time of 20 minutes. 4. La Zeta Lagoon: 10 km from Esquel, with a travel time of 15 minutes.
To visit the main attractions of Esquel, it is recommended to spend between 3 and 4 days. With 3 days, you can dedicate one day to the Old Patagonian Express "La Trochita" and explore downtown Esquel, another day to Los Alerces National Park, and a third day to La Zeta Lagoon or La Hoya Ski Center (depending on the season). With 4 days, you can add a visit to the Welsh Colony of Trevelin or engage in more mountain activities.
The high season in Esquel is during winter (June-August), with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C, ideal for snow activities. Accommodation prices can be up to 20% higher. Spring (September-November) and summer (December-February) offer more pleasant temperatures, between 10°C and 25°C, with less crowding and accommodation prices 10% to 20% lower. Fall (March-May) has cool temperatures, between 5°C and 15°C, and is the time with the least demand and the most affordable prices.
Esquel offers a range of prices. Reference costs are: accommodation in a guesthouse or cabin from ARS 15 (approx. 17 USD) per person per night; mid-range hotel from ARS 30 - ARS 60 (approx. 34 - 68 USD) per night; lunch in a local restaurant between ARS 8 and ARS 15 (approx. 9 - 17 USD); and the urban bus ticket at ARS 500 (approx. 0.57 USD) per trip. A 4-day trip with mid-range accommodation, meals, and main excursions ranges from 300 - 500 USD per person, depending on the season and chosen activities.
Los Alerces National Park and La Zeta Lagoon have no entrance fee for accessing their main trails and viewpoints, making them ideal for self-exploration. The Old Patagonian Express "La Trochita" offers a unique experience with affordable rates. For guided tours, Tur.com highlights: Tren La Trochita with price to check, Parque Nacional Los Alerces with price to check.
