Nestled in a high-altitude valley at the foot of the Copahue Volcano, the mountain village of Caviahue is one of Argentine Patagonia’s hidden treasures. Located in the province of Neuquén, close to the Chilean border, it offers year-round appeal—skiing and snow adventures in winter, hiking and lake activities in summer, and a unique cultural and volcanic landscape that makes it a standout destination on a northern Patagonian road trip. Picture by Hotel Kallfu, on our opinion, the best place to stay in Caviahue!
How to Get There and Where It Fits in a Road Trip
Caviahue lies about 360 km northwest of Neuquén city and 160 km from Zapala. The drive along Provincial Route 26 is a highlight in itself, taking travelers through dramatic steppe landscapes, ancient araucaria (monkey puzzle tree) forests, and volcanic terrain.
If you’re planning a road trip that explores northern Patagonia, Caviahue is a fantastic detour off the beaten path. It can be combined with visits to Lanín National Park, Villa Pehuenia, or even a cross-border extension into Chile. This route is particularly rich in natural diversity and feels remote in the best possible way.
Summer Activities: Lakes, Waterfalls, and Ancient Trees
In the summer months (December to March), Caviahue is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town sits beside Lake Caviahue, which is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the views. Hikes around the lake offer scenic vistas of the Copahue Volcano, cascading waterfalls like Salto del Agrio, and fossil-rich lava fields.
Salto del Agrio, picture by Carlos A. Barrio.
Nearby, the Copahue hot springs offer a unique wellness experience, where visitors can bathe in mineral-rich thermal waters surrounded by volcanoes. The region is also home to centuries-old araucaria forests, considered sacred by the local Mapuche communities. Guided hikes and cultural tours provide insight into their traditions and connection to the land.
Winter Wonderland: Skiing and Snowshoeing in a Volcanic Landscape
When the snow falls, Caviahue transforms into a serene winter resort town. The Caviahue Ski Resort features over 20 kilometers of ski runs, snowshoe trails, and off-piste options for backcountry enthusiasts. Unlike the busier resorts of Bariloche or Chapelco, Caviahue offers a quieter and more intimate experience, with fewer crowds and stunning scenery.
A highlight for many is the snowcat excursion to the Copahue crater in winter, where you can stand on the edge of an active volcano surrounded by snow—a rare and thrilling experience.
Roadtrips in Patagonia
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!
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