Esquel Travel Guide (Patagonia/Argentina/South America)

Introduction to Esquel

Nestled in the Andes Mountains of Patagonia, Esquel is a charming town in the Chubut Province of Argentina. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich culture, Esquel is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Argentina. This comprehensive guide to Esquel provides all the essential information you need to plan your trip, including the best places to visit, activities, local food and drink, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Esquel

Esquel has something for every type of traveler, from historical museums and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the must-visit places in Esquel.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

La Trochita: This historic railway, also known as the Old Patagonian Express, takes you on a scenic journey through the Andes Mountains, passing through remote towns and villages.
Museo Leleque: This museum displays the cultural heritage of the local indigenous community, showing their traditional way of living, religious practices, and beliefs.
Museo Municipal de Esquel: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region, including pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial-era documents, and local artwork.

Natural Attractions of Esquel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Los Alerces National Park: This park boasts stunning landscapes of glaciers, forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and even spot native wildlife, such as the Andean deer and the Andean condor.
La Hoya Ski Resort: This resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Esquel Petrified Forest: This natural wonder features ancient trees that have turned into stone over a period of 140 million years, and offers a glimpse into prehistoric times.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Esquel

Esquel has a variety of hiking and biking routes that cater to different levels of fitness and experience. Some of the most popular trails include:

The Hielo Azul Trail: This moderate trail takes you through forests, rivers, lakes, and glaciers, with stunning views of the Andes Mountains.
The Cerro La Cruz Trail: This challenging trail leads to the top of Cerro La Cruz, offering panoramic views of Esquel and the surrounding areas.
The La Trochita Route: This long-distance route takes you on a journey through the Patagonian wilderness, passing through remote villages and scenic landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Esquel: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Esquel for travelers of all interests and ages. Here are some of our top picks:

Take the Old Patagonian Express: This historic railway takes you on a scenic journey through the Andes Mountains, offering stunning views of the rugged terrain and remote towns.
Go skiing or snowboarding at La Hoya Ski Resort: This popular winter destination offers skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities, with amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit Los Alerces National Park: This park has stunning landscapes of freshwater lakes, glaciers, and forests. You can go hiking, wildlife watching, or fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Esquel

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Esquel:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Esquel, explore the town and its museums
2	Take the Old Patagonian Express scenic railway
3	Visit Los Alerces National Park
4	Go skiing or snowboarding at La Hoya Ski Resort
5	Visit Esquel Petrified Forest
6	Go hiking on a nearby trail
7	Explore the town’s local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Esquel

Esquel has a vibrant local food and drink scene, with a mix of traditional and modern cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Asado: This traditional Argentine barbecue is a must-try. The meat is grilled to perfection and served with chimichurri sauce.
Milanesa: This classic Argentine dish features breaded and fried meat, usually beef or chicken, served with a side of fries.
Empanadas: These savory filled pastries are available in various flavors, such as beef, chicken, or cheese and onion.

Local Beverages

Mate: This traditional Argentine beverage is made from dried leaves of the yerba mate plant. It’s served in a gourd and sipped through a metal straw.
Malbec Wine: This red wine is Argentina’s signature wine. It’s known for its rich, fruity flavors and pairs well with red meat dishes.
Craft Beer: Esquel has a growing craft beer scene, with several breweries offering a range of artisanal beers.

Where to Stay in Esquel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Esquel has a great selection of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Esquel:

Hotel Las Bayas: This boutique hotel offers stylish, spacious rooms with beautiful views of the Andes Mountains. It also has a spa and a restaurant serving Argentine cuisine.
Patagonia Eco Domes: These eco-friendly domes are nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains, offering a unique accommodation experience.
Esquel Apart: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, within walking distance of the town’s main attractions.

What to Buy in Esquel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Esquel has a great selection of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in Esquel:

Mapuche Textiles: The Mapuche people are indigenous to the region and are known for their vibrant and intricate textile work.
Handcrafted Knives: These functional and decorative knives are made by local artisans and are a symbol of Patagonia’s rural traditions.
Regional Food Products: Local honey, jams, and chocolates make great souvenirs and are delicious treats to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Esquel

Esquel has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the indigenous Mapuche people, European immigrants, and rural traditions. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to be aware of:

Respect for Nature: Patagonians have a deep respect for nature and the environment, and littering or damaging natural resources is frowned upon.
Gaucho Culture: The gaucho tradition is alive and well in Patagonia, with many locals still living and working on ranches, or estancias, in the countryside.
Siesta Time: It’s common for shops and businesses to close during the midday siesta time, typically from 1pm to 4pm.

Best Time to Visit Esquel

The best time to visit Esquel is during the summer months, between December and March, when the weather is mild and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds. Winter, between June and September is a great time for skiing and snowboarding at La Hoya Ski Resort, but it can be very cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Esquel

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Esquel:

Do:

Try the local food and drink
Respect the local culture and customs
Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable

Don’t:

Litter or damage natural resources
Ignore siesta time
Wear revealing clothing in churches or religious sites

Safety and Health

Esquel is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding shady areas at night. It’s also recommended to have up-to-date travel vaccines for the region.

Safety in Esquel

Be aware of petty theft, such as pickpocketing in crowded areas
Take necessary precautions when hiking to avoid getting lost or injured in remote areas
Avoid leaving valuables unattended in public places

Health in Esquel

Altitude sickness can be a concern if you’re hiking in high-altitude areas, such as Los Alerces National Park. Be sure to acclimatize and drink plenty of water.
Tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease, can sometimes be a problem in wooded areas. Wear long sleeves and pants, and use insect repellant.

Getting to Esquel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Esquel is located in a remote area of Patagonia, but it’s still relatively accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some of the transportation options to get to Esquel:

Airports Near Esquel

Esquel Airport: This airport is located just a few kilometers from the town center and offers daily flights to and from Buenos Aires.

Bus Stations Near Esquel

Esquel Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Esquel, with regular services to and from other major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires and Bariloche.

Other Options

Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Esquel

Esquel is a small town, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are also available, and there’s a local bus service that connects the town center to neighboring areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Esquel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting. Here are some of the top picks:

Trevelin: This charming Welsh village is known for its tea houses and traditional Welsh pastries.
Bariloche: This stunning lakeside city is located a few hours drive from Esquel and is known for its scenic views and outdoor activities.
The Lake District: This region of Argentina is famous for its crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque towns.

Conclusion

Esquel is a true gem of Patagonia, with its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or exploring the local food and drink scene, Esquel won’t disappoint. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in this magical town.

Esquel Image Gallery

Center of Esquel