Last reviewed: October 2026. Before you set off, check the condition of Provincial Route 65 with Neuquén’s road authority (Vialidad). This page contains affiliate links: if you book through them, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Villa Traful is in southern Neuquén, on the south shore of Lake Traful and inside Nahuel Huapi National Park. It has no airport or long-distance bus terminal: you get there by car on Provincial Route 65, which links National Route 237 (at Confluencia) with National Route 40 (the Seven Lakes Route).
Before you leave: there is no gas station in the village. Fill up the tank before entering Route 65 and bring cash. More details in Plan your trip.
Approximate distances and travel times
| From | Distance | Estimated time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Carlos de Bariloche | ≈ 100 km | ≈ 1 h 45 min to 2 h | RN 237 to Confluencia, then RP 65 west |
| Villa La Angostura | ≈ 60 km | ≈ 1 h 10 min | RN 40 north, then RP 65 |
| San Martín de los Andes | ≈ 105 km | ≈ 2 h | RN 40 (Seven Lakes Route) south, then RP 65 |
| Neuquén city | ≈ 400 km | ≈ 5 h | RN 22 and RN 237 to Confluencia, then RP 65 |
| Buenos Aires | ≈ 1,600 km | 1 to 2 days by car | Most people fly to Bariloche or Chapelco and continue by car |
From Bariloche
This is the most common route. Take RN 237 north, along the Limay River and through Valle Encantado, to Confluencia. There you join RP 65 heading west, following the Traful River to the village. The drive is very scenic: allow time to stop at the viewpoints. If you’re flying in, Bariloche airport is the most convenient gateway.
From Villa La Angostura
This is the shortest route. Head north on RN 40, toward the Seven Lakes Route, and take the turnoff onto RP 65 heading east. It pairs nicely with a day out at lakes Correntoso and Espejo.
From San Martín de los Andes (Seven Lakes Route)
Drive south on RN 40, the Seven Lakes Route, and take RP 65 heading east. Many travelers add Villa Traful as a detour on the Seven Lakes trip; if that’s your plan, it’s worth spending the night in the village so you don’t rush the way back.
Driving on Route 65
- The road has gravel sections. A regular car is fine; you don’t need a 4×4 when the road is in normal condition.
- Drive slowly on gravel (around 40 km/h): at higher speeds loose stones can damage the windshield and the front suspension.
- After rain there may be mud on some bends. In winter, shaded stretches can be icy: check before leaving and carry snow chains if snow is forecast.
- Cell signal is weak or nonexistent along much of the road. Download an offline map before you leave.
- Turn on your low beams and watch out for wildlife: this is a National Park.
Is there a bus?
There are transport services from Bariloche and Villa La Angostura, but they change with the season. [TO COMPLETE: current companies, days and times, with date checked]. If you don’t have a car, another option is a day tour from Bariloche to Villa Traful and the Enchanted Valley, offered in English. You can also see things to do in Villa Traful.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get to Villa Traful in a regular car?
Yes. When the road is in normal condition a regular car is enough, driving slowly on the gravel sections. In winter, check the road conditions and carry snow chains.
Where can I get gas?
There is no gas station in the village. Fill up before entering Route 65: in Villa La Angostura or in Bariloche, depending on where you’re coming from.
Which is the nearest airport?
The most convenient are San Carlos de Bariloche and Chapelco (San Martín de los Andes). From either one you continue by car.
Is a day trip from Bariloche worth it?
It’s possible, but it means about 4 hours of round-trip driving. To enjoy the lake and a hike, it’s best to stay at least one night. See the options in where to stay.