Pehuén, lenga and ñire give the Área Natural Protegida Chañy its distinctive forest profile. The protected area preserves these forest types, a diverse environment and animal species important for conservation. Chañy also preserves cultural values connected to the longstanding use of the area by the Comunidad Puel.
Forests, Lakeshores and Wildlife Watching
The Área Natural Protegida Provincial Batea Mahuida also preserves Pehuén forests, as well as flora, fauna and geological formations. Lake Pulmarí offers a different landscape: it is a glacial lake in Aluminé Department. Its shallow shores and pleasantly warm summer waters make it suitable for beach visits and walks along the lake. There are also trails connected to the Huella Andina.
Birdwatching is possible at Lake Pulmarí, in the mallines and at nearby Laguna de los Giles. Sport fishing is another option at the lake. During the relevant season, all salmonids must be returned to the water; check the regulations for your travel dates before fishing.
Trails and Activities Around Aluminé
Aluminé is the northern access point to the different areas of Parque Nacional Lanín and is also part of the Huella Andina circuit as its northern gateway. From the town of Aluminé, the Pehuenia Circuit connects the landscapes around Lakes Ñorquinco, Aluminé and Moquehue. This provides both access to the different areas of the national park and a route through named lake landscapes as distinct reference points.
Those wishing to experience the Río Aluminé on the water can go rafting, with options for beginners and experienced participants. River conditions vary seasonally; check the latest conditions in advance. Mountain biking trails pass springs and streams and run through valleys and forests. As trail conditions can change, it is advisable to check the latest situation before setting out.
The access route to the Batea Mahuida area follows Ruta Provincial 13 and then Ruta Provincial 12 toward Paso del Arco. Both sections include stretches of gravel road. The route to Área Natural Protegida Chañy also follows Ruta Provincial 13, continuing via La Angostura to Arroyo Chañy. Road surfaces and seasonal driving conditions may change; check conditions before setting off.
Parque de Nieve Batea Mahuida is 68 kilometers from Aluminé. Skiing and snowboarding are offered there in a natural setting. The range of activities therefore extends from outings along lakeshores and trails to water sports and winter activities.
Culture, Knowledge and Local Festivals
From Mirador Piedra Pintada, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Pulmarí and discover ancient petroglyphs that form part of the region’s cultural heritage. Museo Municipal y Centro de Interpretación “El Charrúa” collects, preserves, researches and interprets objects from the cultural heritage of the Río Aluminé basin. It also promotes educational, scientific and cultural activities.
In Aluminé, Mapuche guide Rosa Calfinahuel offers hikes along the Ruta del Pehuén. During the hikes, she shares the Mapuche people’s traditional worldview. Check in advance whether the offer is currently available. A visitor program for Aluminé published in July 2026 also lists guided walks in Reserva Natural Urbana Quilque Lil; registration is required to participate.
Every year during Semana Santa, Aluminé hosts the Fiesta Nacional del Pehuén; program details vary from one edition to another. Piñón, the fruit of the Pehuén, is also a distinctive culinary feature: during Semana Santa, Aluminé offers food featuring a high proportion of piñón, with the selection varying from one edition to another. Fiesta Provincial del Asado con Cuero is a popular festival and tourist attraction that reflects the traditions and customs of residents of rural settlements in Aluminé Department.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Villa Pehuenia, Aluminé, Moquehue; Pehuenches Department, Lácar Department, Añelo Department, Collón Curá Department, Zapala Department.
For the main travel overview: Neuquén.
