Rising to 3,776 meters (12,388 feet), Lanín Volcano stands tall on the border between Argentina and Chile, dominating the skyline of Lanín National Park in northern Patagonia. Its perfectly conical shape, snow-draped summit, and remote location make it one of the most iconic—and rewarding—summits in the southern Andes. .
The Experience of Hiking Lanín
Climbing Lanín is not just a physical challenge—it’s a full-on Patagonian adventure. The standard route begins from the Argentine side, near the town of Junín de los Andes. Most ascents start with a hike to the Refugio CAJA (a basic mountain hut at 2,300 meters), where climbers spend the night before pushing to the summit in the early morning hours.
The hike requires a good level of fitness and some prior experience with high-altitude trekking or mountaineering. While the ascent does not involve technical climbing, crampons and ice axes are typically necessary due to snow and ice near the summit, even in summer. A licensed mountain guide is highly recommended, and for many, mandatory by park regulations.
The final ascent involves steep volcanic scree, glacier patches, and unforgettable views. On clear days, you can see across the Andes, deep into Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, with volcanoes like Villarrica and Lanín’s neighbor, Quetrupillán, visible in the distance.
Why It’s Worth It
What sets Lanín apart is not just the view from the top, but the journey itself. The volcano rises in solitude, surrounded by pristine araucaria forests, blue glacial lakes, and the stillness of high-altitude wilderness. It offers a sense of scale and silence that’s hard to find elsewhere.
For those not aiming for the summit, there are shorter hikes in the area offering stunning views of the volcano and the nearby lakes, such as Lago Huechulafquen. These hikes are excellent for day trips and make Lanín a versatile destination for both hardcore adventurers and casual nature lovers.
Getting There
Lanín Volcano is located in Neuquén Province and is accessible via the scenic Route 61 from Junín de los Andes. It’s a perfect stop along a road trip through Argentine Patagonia, especially on a route that includes San Martín de los Andes, the famous Route of the Seven Lakes, and nearby natural wonders like Huechulafquen Lake.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
Get inspired by some of our travel ideas, listed below:
0
