Esquel Brigadier Antonio Parodi International Airport

Patagonian mountain town gateway to forests, lakes, and the Old Patagonian Express

Esquel is a small city of roughly 35,000 people nestled in the Andean foothills of Chubut Province, Argentine Patagonia. Surrounded by cypress forests, clear rivers, and the Andes peaks, it serves as a base for outdoor adventures including skiing, trekking, fishing, and wildlife watching.

The town has a relaxed, authentic feel with few tourists compared to nearby Bariloche, making it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking genuine Patagonian character. Its most famous attraction, La Trochita — the narrow-gauge steam train immortalized by Paul Theroux — still runs excursions into the steppe, offering a rare living piece of railway history.

• •La Trochita (Old Patagonian Express) — iconic narrow-gauge steam train excursion into the Patagonian steppe
• •Los Alerces National Park — UNESCO-listed park sheltering ancient alerce trees and glacial lakes
• •Cerro La Hoya — compact ski resort with excellent powder and far fewer crowds than major resorts
• •Laguna La Zeta — peaceful lake just outside town ideal for walking, picnicking, and birdwatching
• •Museo de Arte Naif — charming regional museum celebrating folk art and local Patagonian culture
• •Trevelin — nearby Welsh settlement village with traditional teahouses and a windmill museum

Getting around: Esquel is best explored on foot in the center, but a local bus network connects the town to outlying areas. Remises (radio taxis) are the most practical option for reaching Los Alerces National Park or Cerro La Hoya, and can be arranged through your accommodation. No rideshare apps operate here; renting a car in town gives the most flexibility for day trips.

Best time: Visit from December to March for warm hiking and lake weather, or July to August for skiing at Cerro La Hoya.

Local food: Try cordero patagónico (slow-roasted Patagonian lamb), freshly caught trout from local rivers, and Welsh-style cream teas with homemade scones and preserves in Trevelin.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.