Lanin Volcano Trail

You arrive in San Martín de los Andes and settle into your hotel, with time to explore this laid-back mountain town in northern Patagonia. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and snow-capped peaks, it offers the perfect introduction to the region before heading deeper into the remote landscapes of Río Quillén. Enjoy dinner with your guides and fellow guests.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the starting point of the ride and welcomed at Puesto Río Quillén with lunch. Following the horse allocation and time to get comfortable in the saddle, the ride begins toward Mallín Escondido. The trail follows the southern slopes of the valley, offering panoramic views and a true sense of Patagonia’s vastness. Back at camp, a traditional Argentine dinner by the fire, a hot shower, and a restful night await.

The morning begins with a descent through the valley, with sweeping views toward the Ruca Choroi ridge before reaching the Quillén River. Crossing to the northern bank on horseback, there is time to pause for lunch beside the water, with the chance for a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, the trail climbs steadily along the northern slopes before arriving at Voladero Camp for dinner and a well-earned rest.

Today’s ride heads toward Mallín del Picudo, climbing moderate slopes with increasingly dramatic views across the surrounding valleys. After lunch and a short rest, the trail continues through ancient araucaria forests before descending via Loma de los Chivos. Along the way, spectacular views unfold across Lanín Volcano and Quillén Lake. By evening, arrival at Malalco Camp, the main base for the next few nights, is rewarded with a hot shower and hearty dinner.

Today offers a more relaxed pace, beginning with a ride to the dock before crossing the lake by boat to Lumillas Beach. Lunch is prepared over open fires, with plenty of time to unwind by the water and soak up the scenery. In the afternoon, the return journey by boat is followed by a ride back to Malalco Camp. There is also the option to try a spot of fishing or head out on a walk if you would like to keep busy.

An early departure from camp marks the start of one of the most rewarding rides of the journey, ascending toward Ruca Choroi Volcano and reaching elevations above 2,300 metres. The trail winds through lenga forests, reed beds, and ancient araucaria groves before climbing above the tree line to a series of lagoons formed within the old crater. After lunch, there is the option to continue on foot to the ridge for panoramic views of seven volcanoes and the vast Andes stretching in every direction. Later, the route descends back to camp along the same trail.

After breakfast at camp, pack up and transfer to Chapelco for your onward journey.