Villa la Angostura Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Villa la Angostura with our comprehensive travel guide. Read on for tips on hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and more!


Villa la Angostura, located in the scenic Patagonia region of Argentina, is a true paradise for nature lovers. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, shimmering lakes, and snow-capped mountains, this charming town is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, you’ll find it all here. In this comprehensive travel guide to Villa la Angostura, we’ll provide tips on everything you need to know, including where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Introduction to Villa la Angostura

Villa la Angostura is a picturesque town situated on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi in the Andes mountain range in Argentina. With its snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, lush forests, and meandering rivers, this region is a nature lover’s paradise. Villa la Angostura is a colorful and vibrant town that attracts visitors from all over the world, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, excellent outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. It’s a perfect getaway spot for a weekend, a week, or even longer.

List of Places to Visit in Villa la Angostura

If you’re visiting Villa la Angostura, there are plenty of amazing places to check out. Here are some of the best places to see and experience in this beautiful town.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Los Arrayanes National Park: This park is home to one of the world’s largest arrayan forests, which are native to Patagonia. You can take a boat ride to explore the beautiful peninsula and marvel at the impressive landscapes.
  • Museum of the Park: This is an excellent museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region. You’ll learn about the area’s flora and fauna, as well as the local indigenous cultures and their traditions.
  • Monte Bayo Ski Resort: If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, this ski resort is a must-visit. With more than 20 ski runs and stunning views of the Andes, it’s perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

Natural Attractions of Villa la Angostura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cerro Bayo: This mountain is the town’s most famous landmark. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the area from the summit, which is accessible by cable car. There are also hiking and mountain biking trails for the adventurous types.
  • Parque Nacional Los Arrayanes: This park is famous for its unique arrayan trees, which are native to the region. Take a boat ride to see the beautiful peninsula and marvel at the impressive landscapes.
  • Lago Correntoso: This lake is a popular spot for fishing and watersports. You can also hike or bike around the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Villa la Angostura

Villa la Angostura is a hiker’s paradise. If you’re into hiking and biking, there are plenty of amazing trails to explore. Here are some of the top routes to check out.

  • Cerro Belvedere: This short but steep hike is perfect for those looking for a challenging climb. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Villa la Angostura.
  • Lago Espejo Chico: This is a beautiful trail that takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of Lake Espejo Chico.
  • Cerro Bayo: If you’re looking for a challenging hike, the trail up to the Cerro Bayo summit is perfect. The path is steep, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Villa la Angostura: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there’s plenty to do in Villa la Angostura. Here are some of the best things to do in this charming town.

  • Skiing at Monte Bayo: This ski resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. With more than 20 ski runs and stunning views of the Andes, it’s perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Boat rides on Lake Nahuel Huapi: Take a boat ride on the stunning Lake Nahuel Huapi to see beautiful landscapes and impressive rock formations.
  • Horseback riding: Explore the stunning natural scenery around Villa la Angostura on horseback. You can choose from a variety of guided tours, each offering unique experiences and rugged terrain.

Week-Long Itinerary for Villa la Angostura

If you’re planning to spend a week in Villa la Angostura, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time.

Day 1: Arrive in Villa la Angostura and take a boat ride on Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Day 2: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at Monte Bayo.

Day 3: Explore the Lago Correntoso area and enjoy water activities.

Day 4: Hike the Cerro Belvedere route.

Day 5: Take a horseback riding tour to discover the beautiful natural scenery around Villa la Angostura.

Day 6: Visit the Los Arrayanes National Park and the Museum of the Park.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenery, or try one of the other activities mentioned above.

Food and Drink Scene of Villa la Angostura

Villa la Angostura has a rich gastronomic culture, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Trout: This is a local specialty, and you can find it cooked in a variety of ways, from grilled to fried. Pair it with a side of fresh vegetables for a healthy choice.
  • Asado: This Argentinean barbecue is a must-try. It features various cuts of beef, pork, and chicken cooked over an open flame. Pair it with a glass of Malbec for a perfect meal.
  • Empanadas: These savory pastries filled with meats, cheeses, or vegetables are perfect for a quick snack or an entire meal.

Local Beverages

  • Malbec: This is a red wine that Argentina is famous for. It pairs well with most meat dishes and has a rich, fruity flavor.
  • Mate: This is a traditional Argentinean tea made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It’s a social drink, usually shared with friends or family.
  • Craft Beer: Villa la Angostura has several excellent craft breweries that produce high-quality beer.

Where to Stay in Villa la Angostura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Villa la Angostura offers a variety of options for accommodation to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top places to stay.

  • Luma Casa de Montana: This luxurious lodge-style hotel has magnificent views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and offers spacious rooms and suites with a cozy fireplace.
  • Hostería Belgrano: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Villa la Angostura and offers comfortable rooms, a hot tub, and a garden.
  • Rincon de los Andes: This beautiful lodge-style hotel is located in the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It features a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and spacious rooms with a balcony.

What to Buy in Villa la Angostura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some of the top items to consider.

  • Arrayan Wood Products: The arrayan tree is unique to Patagonia, and its wood is used to make beautiful decorative items such as wine bottle holders, trays, and candle holders.
  • Handcrafted Silver Jewelry: Artisans in Villa la Angostura create beautiful jewelry using local silver and other precious stones.
  • Regional Products: Villa la Angostura is known for its delicious jams, chocolates, and other specialty food products. Be sure to taste and buy some to take home!

Local Culture and Customs of Villa la Angostura

The local culture in Villa la Angostura is rich and diverse, with strong influences from indigenous traditions. Here are some cultural customs and practices to keep in mind:

  • Patagonian Gaucho Culture: This region is well known for its gaucho culture, which celebrates horses, horsemanship, and traditional clothing.
  • Mapuche Culture: The Mapuche people are the indigenous inhabitants of the region, and their traditions and customs are still very much alive in Villa la Angostura. Be sure to learn about their culture and respect their traditions.
  • Yerba Mate Sharing: Drinking yerba mate is a social ritual that is shared among family and friends. If someone offers you a mate, it’s considered polite to accept and take part in this tradition.

Best Time to Visit Villa la Angostura

The best time to visit Villa la Angostura is during the summer months, from December through February. This is when the weather is sunny and warm, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and water sports. If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, visit during the winter months (June through August), when you can ski and snowboard in the nearby mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Villa la Angostura

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Villa la Angostura:

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrupt the local wildlife.
  • Disrespect cultural traditions or customs.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit to Villa la Angostura.

Safety in Villa la Angostura

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place, like a hotel safe or money belt.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep track of your belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Villa la Angostura

  • Drink bottled water to avoid getting sick from tap water.
  • Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Patagonian sun.
  • Bring layers of clothing to prepare for the variable weather.

Getting to Villa la Angostura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Villa la Angostura is easily accessible by plane or bus. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Villa la Angostura

  • Bariloche Airport: This is the closest airport to Villa la Angostura, located about 50 miles away. Airlines that fly to this airport include Aerolineas Argentinas, LAN, and Andes.

Bus Stations Near Villa la Angostura

  • Bariloche Bus Station: This is the closest bus station to Villa la Angostura, located about 50 miles away. Regular bus services run from and to Buenos Aires and other major cities.

Other Options

  • Rent a Car: Renting a car in Bariloche is a great option for those wanting more freedom and flexibility when exploring the area.
  • Private Transfer: Private transportation options such as taxis or shuttles are also available from Bariloche or other neighboring cities.

How to Get Around in Villa la Angostura

Getting around Villa la Angostura is easy with public transportation or a rental car. You can also explore the town on foot or by bike. The town has a reliable bus service that takes visitors to all the major attractions.

Where to Go Next from Villa la Angostura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Patagonia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

  • Bariloche: This stunning town is located about 50 miles away from Villa la Angostura and is known for its excellent skiing, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
  • San Martin de los Andes: This picturesque town is located 100 miles north of Villa la Angostura and offers breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Esquel: This town is located about 200 miles south of Villa la Angostura and is the gateway to the famous Los Alerces National Park.

Conclusion

Villa la Angostura is a truly stunning destination that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a ski enthusiast, a hiker, or a culture buff, you’ll find everything you need in this charming town. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has given you a good idea of what to expect in Villa la Angostura and has helped you plan your trip accordingly. Happy travels!