Argentina stands out as one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting South America for many reasons, including its fantastic lakes and rivers. Here are the top 9 lakes to see in the country.
Do stick around until the end of this article to find out our must-see tourist destination at number one.
Number 9: Lago Argentino
The first lake on our list of must-visit lakes in Argentina is the largest freshwater lake in the country, the Lago Argentino.
Located in the Santa Cruz province in Argentina's Patagonian region, this lake is one of the main attractions at the Los Glaciares National Park. It covers a great surface area of 1,415 square kilometers and has a maximum depth of 500m.
But this is not even the most exciting thing about this world-renowned water body.
The lake itself is a fantastic sight to behold, but it is also surrounded by a unique scenery of many astonishing glaciers. As if the view is not enough, you also get to enjoy a host of fun activities like skiing, ice skating, glacier hiking, and horseback riding in the region.
If you want to visit this breathtaking scene, it would be best to camp at El Calafate and take a 40 minutes boat ride to the lake.
Number 8: Traful Lake
If you are planning a trip to the western part of Argentina and you wish to catch a glimpse of one of the famous lakes in the country, then you should head to the province of Neuquén.
Here, you'll find the charming Traful Lake, which sits on a surface area of 76 square kilometers and has an average depth of 150 meters. It empties into the Traful River, which is another fantastic attraction in the area.
Many things are notable about this lake, including the transparent and well-oxygenated water and irregular cliffs along its coastline. Tourists who visit the lake also have a number of other activities like swimming, finishing, kayaking, and hiking to engage in.
If you want to visit this lake, you will need to camp at the Villa Traful before making your way up the 102m high glacier cliff, from whence you can catch the best view of the lake.
Number 7: Lake Buenos Aires
Lake Buenos Aires, or General Carrera Lake, as it is also called in Chile, is one of the most exciting lakes to visit in Argentina. It is located in the Patagonia region and is shared by Argentina and Chile, with both countries eligible to claim ownership.
Lake Buenos Aires surely ranks among the largest lakes in the region, covering a total surface area of almost 2,000 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 586 meters. This lake empties into the Baker River and then into the Pacific Ocean.
Visiting Lake Buenos Aires is one of the most fun things you can do in Argentina, and the experience is surely worth it. The turquoise blue water is captivating, and many have referred to it as therapeutic.
Not forgetting the fantastic scenes of rugged rocks and tropical forest surrounding it which add to your viewing pleasure. No doubt, Lake Buenos Aires is another compelling reason to visit the Patagonian region of Argentina.
Number 6: Laguna Del Diamante
The Mendoza province of Argentina is known for many things; the culture, the local dishes, and the famous craft beers in the city. It is also the home of the most beautiful Laguna Del Diamante, which lies on the outskirt of the city.
Translated as "The Lake of Diamonds," you already know to expect an exciting view, and the lake never disappoints. This lake covers a 14 square kilometers surface area in the San Carlos Department, and it is one of the most astonishing water bodies in the country.
Indeed, the Laguna Del Diamante is not among the largest in Argentina, but it is one of the largest freshwater sources in Mendoza. One catchy feature of this lake is the diamond-shaped reflection of the Maipo Volcano displayed on the water's surface.
However, this stunning scene can only be witnessed in summer since the road is only passable in February via an off-road vehicle.
Number 5: Laguna Capri
The Laguna Capri is a favorite hiking sight for many people visiting the Santa Cruz province of Argentina because of the beautiful views along the way. But, in fact, the most notable attraction in the region is Lake Capri at the end of the trail.
This incredible blue water body serves as a reward for tourists who complete the hike. Most people who want to visit this lake take camp at El Chalten before embarking on the 2 hours trek to Laguna Capri.
The water and surrounding scenes at the lagoon are the ideal definitions of picturesque and have an absolutely delightful light reflection sure to blow your mind away.
Be sure to come along with your camera, as you do not want to miss out on capturing this moment in a photograph. You will also get to witness the enchanting view of Mount Fitz Roy from here, which is a bonus to your already exciting adventure.
Number 4: Lago Puelo
Lago Puelo, or Puelo lake, is unarguably one of the most beautiful lakes in Argentina. As expected, it is located in Argentina's Patagonian region, in the northern part of Chubut province.
Like most lakes in the region, this lake has a glacial origin, and it sits in the middle of the Lago Puelo National Park.
This fantastic water body covers a total surface area of 44 square kilometers, with an average depth of 111 meters. It is fed by several small rivers, and empties into the Puelo River and then into the Pacific Ocean.
Many things are remarkable about this river and its exciting scenery. But you'll undoubtedly be most captivated by the beautiful waterfalls in the area. It is also surrounded by a temperate rainforest with highlands that tourists hike to get to the lake.
Lake Puelo and the surrounding forest is also home to many colorful birds that add to visitors' entertainment. You will totally love your experience here.
Number 3: Aluminé Lake
The Lago Aluminé is another mesmerizing site to visit in Argentina, and it is located in the Neuquén province. This lake is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Andean region, and it is no coincidence.
Sitting on a 57 square kilometers surface area, it surely ranks among the largest in the region, and its average depth of almost 70 meters means it is also one of the deepest. The lake flows into the Alumine River, which is another exciting site in the province.
Lago Alumine is known as a historical attraction, with its natural beauty being its highest selling point. Tourists often come here to witness the unique scenery of the lake and surrounding rocky lands.
The nearby forest is also exceptional, with dozens of well-patterned monkey puzzle trees. If you want to visit the Lago Alumine, you'll need to camp in Villa Pehuenia, which is a small tourist town on the shore of the lake.
Number 2: Cami Lake
Cami Lake is also known as Lago Fagnano, especially among locals. It is a majestic lake on the main island of Tierra Del Fuego, just 65 kilometers to the west of Ushuaia. It comfortably ranks among the best views in the province, hosting a multitude of tourists every year.
The 645-square kilometers lake is shared by Argentina and Chile, with Argentina having the majority ownership.
If you are ever in Ushuaia, you can make the trip to Tierra Del Fuego to witness this wonder of a lake. Indeed, the most notable feature of the lake is the changing color of the water.
In spring, when the lake is filled up, you can notice it taking up different shades of blue color in an amazing display that will take your breath away.
Number 1: Nahuel Huapi Lake
It is almost impossible to talk about beautiful lakes in South America without mentioning the ever-so-impressive Nahuel Huapi Lake.
Located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park between the provinces of Rio Negro and Neuquén, the lake is by far the largest in Argentina.
It covers a total surface area of 530 square kilometers and has an average depth of 157 meters. The Patagonian region of Argentina doesn't have a shortage of exciting lakes, but the Nahuel Huapi Lake is a must-visit in the area.
Tourists who have visited this lake are always so excited to revisit because of the beauty of the water and surrounding features. The blue/green water is as clear as crystal and promises a relaxing feeling.
You can also participate in a few activities like hiking, kayaking, and swimming on the safe shores of the lake. Surely, a trip to Nahuel Huapi is one you would not want to miss.