HOME / VILLA PEHUENIA

Villa
Pehuenia

A corner of Patagonia still far from mass tourism. Ancient araucarias, emerald-colored lakes, and a silence you can feel in your body.

The destination

Between lakes and ancient forests

Villa Pehuenia is a small village in the northwest of Neuquén Province, on the shores of Lakes Aluminé and Moquehue. Its name comes from pehuén, the Mapuche name for the araucaria, the tree that dominates the landscape and can live for more than a thousand years.

Unlike other Patagonian destinations, Pehuenia retains a more human and natural scale: there are no shopping malls, no crowds, no organized entertainment. There is dust, there is mud, there are unpaved streets, and there is a lake that changes color with every hour of the day. Here, nature guides people’s everyday lives.

For those looking to truly disconnect, it is one of the most authentic places in Argentina.

Why Pehuenia

What you won’t find
anywhere else

— Ancient araucaria forests
01

Ancient forests

Araucarias more than a thousand years old that give the place its name. A presence you can feel in every corner of the forest.

— Lakes Aluminé and Moquehue
02

Turquoise lakes

Waters that change color with the light. For swimming, boating, kayaking, or simply taking in the view.

— Batea Mahuida and Pehuenia Circuit
03

Nature and adventure

Batea Mahuida, Pehuenia Circuit, viewpoints, Paso del Arco. There is something for every pace.

— Trout, lamb, pine nuts
04

Distinctive cuisine

The capital of Neuquén cuisine. Lake trout, Patagonian lamb, craft beer, pine nut liqueurs, and bean-to-bar chocolate.

Seasons

When to go based on what you’re looking for

Summer

The lake at its warmest. Long days, sandy beaches, hiking at sunrise. The most popular season.

SwimmingKayakBoatingFishingHiking

Autumn

Reds and golds across the lake. Fewer people, more silence. The ideal time to truly slow down. The first snowfall arrives in June.

PhotographyHikingFishing con moscaRelaxation

Winter

Snow in the forests, skiing at Batea Mahuida, the cabin, and the fire. Pehuenia at its most intimate.

SkiingSnowboardingSnowmobiles4×4

Spring

Fishing, rafting, and kayaking get underway. Full-flow waterfalls, flowers, trail running and mountain biking events. Birdwatching season.

RaftingKayakTrail runningCyclingWaterfallsBirdwatching

How to get here

At the gateway to the most authentic Patagonia

Bahíamía is located at the Angostura between Lakes Aluminé and Moquehue, 5 km from the center of Villa Pehuenia. Accessible from Neuquén, San Martín de los Andes, and Chile.

In winter, some access roads may close due to snow. Always check road conditions before setting out: 0810-333-7882 (Provincial Highway Authority) or directly with Bahíamía.

Chapelco Airport (San Martín)180 km

Neuquén Airport300 km

Temuco Airport (Chile)150 km

Icalma Pass (Chile)10 km

Bariloche 470 km

Buenos Aires 1.450 km

Frequently asked questions

What we are always
asked about the destination

Is there a supermarket? Can I stock up there?

The village has everything you need for a comfortable stay: a well-stocked supermarket, pharmacy, YPF gas station, ATM, and several local shops. For very specific or large-volume purchases, it is best to stock up before arriving.

Is there cell phone coverage and Wi-Fi?

Cell phone coverage in the village is inconsistent and depends on the carrier. At Bahíamía, we have high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi in all cabins and at the beach. For WhatsApp and browsing, you are fully covered from the cabin.

Can I get there by car? Are there gravel roads?

Yes, you can get there by car. From Neuquén city, the journey is about 300 km (4.5 hours). The most direct route is Route 22 to Zapala, then Provincial Route 13 through Primeros Pinos (50 km of gravel road at the end). You can also enter via Route 242 and Provincial Route 23 through Pino Hachado (35 km of gravel road). From San Martín de los Andes, Provincial Route 23 is 200 km with 65 km of gravel road. For details and maps for each route, read our complete guide on how to get here.

Are the roads accessible year-round?

During the summer season, all access routes are open. In winter, Route 13 through Primeros Pinos may temporarily close due to accumulated snow. Always check road conditions before setting out at 0810-333-7882 (Provincial Highway Authority) or at bahiamia.com.ar. You can also contact us via WhatsApp and we will guide you.

How far is Batea Mahuida snow park?

Batea Mahuida is 7 km from Bahíamía. In winter, it operates as a ski and snowboard center, and in summer you can go trekking with views of the Andes. Because it is so close, it is one of the easiest activities to combine with your stay.

What if I arrive from Chile through Icalma Pass?

Icalma Pass is 10 km from Bahíamía. In winter, it operates on reduced hours, so pay attention to crossing times before setting out. It is also important to check the required documentation before crossing. Chile’s National Customs Service publishes all updated information: aduana.cl. In case of a weather-related closure, we apply special cancellation conditions at no charge.

Notes on Pehuenia