Last reviewed: October 2026. Some trails and services change with the season: check before you go.
Villa Traful is a small, quiet village with no nightlife, made for the lake, the forest and hiking. Here is everything you can do, sorted by time and effort, with a map to help you find your way.
You are in a National Park. Stay on marked trails, take your trash with you and check with park rangers before long hikes. For full-day hikes, tell someone your route: cell signal is scarce.
Quick overview
| Activity | Time | Effort | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake beaches and shoreline | 1 to 3 h | Low | On foot from the village center |
| Coa Có and Blanco waterfalls | ≈ 2 h round trip | Low to moderate | On foot or on horseback |
| Sunken forest | Half day | Low | By boat or diving, with a local operator |
| Las Mellizas lagoons and rock paintings | Full day | High | Boat ride, then an uphill trail |
| Cerro Negro and Cerro Monje | Full day | High | On foot, from the village |
| Fly fishing | Varies | Low | With a fishing permit |
| Kayak, stand-up paddle and windsurfing | 1 to 3 h | Low to moderate | Rental or local operator |
| Horseback riding | 2 to 4 h | Low | With a local operator |
Lake Traful beaches and shoreline
Lake Traful is the star of the show: very transparent water surrounded by forest and mountains. The most popular beach is La Puntilla, a few minutes from the center, with open views of the lake. Perfect for spending the afternoon, having a picnic or watching the sunset. The water is cold even in summer.
Coa Có and Blanco stream waterfalls
This is the classic and most accessible walk: a trail through native forest that starts near the village and leads to viewpoints over two waterfalls. Allow about 2 hours round trip at an easy pace. It’s a good option with kids and for birdwatching. You can also do it on horseback.
Near the village there is also the Catarata stream waterfall (Co Lemu), with stepped cascades in the forest.
The sunken forest
It’s Traful’s most famous sight: cypress trunks that ended up under the lake’s water and, when the water is calm, can be seen from the surface. You get there by boat with local operators, and experienced visitors can explore it scuba diving or snorkeling with a guide. Windless days are the best to see it.
Las Mellizas lagoons and rock paintings
A full-day excursion: you cross the lake by boat to Península Grande and from there climb a fairly steep trail up to the lagoons, where there are also rock paintings. Start early, bring water and food, and go with a guide or licensed operator.
Cerro Negro and Cerro Monje
For those looking for a demanding trek. The trail starts in the village and climbs through the forest to panoramic views of the lake and the Andes. These are full-day hikes: start early, check the forecast and don’t go up in bad weather.
Viewpoints
The Mirador del Viento (Wind Viewpoint), on provincial route RP 65, is one of the best-known views of the lake, from a high cliff. It has reportedly been closed in recent years: ask at the tourist office whether it’s open before you go. If you’re coming from Bariloche, also stop at the Valle Encantado (Enchanted Valley), on national route RN 237, with its rock formations.
Fly fishing
Lake and river Traful are sport-fishing destinations. You need a valid fishing permit and must follow the season’s regulations: catch and release is mandatory. [TO COMPLETE: season dates and where to buy the permit, with date checked].
Kayak, stand-up paddle and windsurfing
When the lake is calm, kayaking and stand-up paddling are the best way to explore the shore. The wind usually picks up in the afternoon, which is ideal for windsurfing. Always wear a life jacket: the water is very cold.
Horseback riding
Local operators offer horseback rides through coihue forests with lake views, including the ride to Coa Có waterfall. Suitable for beginners.
If you’re short on time
- Half a day: Coa Có and Blanco waterfalls, and sunset at La Puntilla.
- One day: the sunken forest by boat in the morning and the waterfalls in the afternoon.
- Two or three days: add Las Mellizas or a hill hike, and a lake day kayaking or fishing.
Frequently asked questions
What can’t I miss in Villa Traful?
The sunken forest, the Coa Có and Blanco waterfalls and an afternoon at La Puntilla beach.
Can I visit in winter?
Yes. The village gets very quiet and with snow the landscape changes completely. Some high trails and boat trips may not be available: check beforehand. More in Plan your trip.
Are there excursions from Bariloche?
Yes, there are full-day trips from Bariloche. If you’d rather go on your own, see how to get there.