Lanin Volcano

Treks to the summit of Lanin Volcano take 2–3 days, and it’s a challenging high-altitude hike that’s best undertaken with a guide. Alternatively, there are several short hikes and day treks on and around the volcano, leading to mountain lakes, waterfalls, and lookout points. Popular trails include the viewpoint of Lake Tromen, the Lanin Volcano North Base Path, and the neighboring Huechulafquen and Paimun lakes.

Most tours set out from San Martin de los Andes or Junin de los Andes. But if you don’t fancy hiking the mountain itself, you can enjoy views of Lanin Volcano while horseback riding, mountain biking, or white-water rafting in the surrounding Andes.

• There are hikes around Lanin Volcano suitable for all abilities, including short treks ideal for children.

• There’s an admission fee to enter the national park, and permits are required to hike the volcano.

• Bring everything you need to hike on and around the volcano, including water, food, and hiking equipment, as there are no facilities.

• The national park monitors treks to the summit, so you won’t be able to hike if the mountain refuges are full or if you don’t have suitable equipment, including crampons, ice axes, a helmet, a sleeping bag, thermals, and a first-aid kit.

The closest Argentine town to Lanin Volcano is Junin de los Andes, about a 40-mile (65-kilometer) drive, some of it along gravel roads. It’s about a 3-hour drive from San Martin de los Andes. Either way, you’ll need your own transport. Ideally, join a tour with an experienced local driver.

The best time to hike Lanin Volcano is between November and April when the weather is warm and dry, and snowfall at the mountaintop is at a minimum. Most trails on and around the mountain are closed from May through October. During these months, attempts on the summit (which will be covered in ice) should only be attempted by expert mountaineers with specialist equipment.. Note that although the national park is open from 8am through 8pm, hikers heading to the summit must set out before midday.

Hiking the 12,293-foot (3,747-meter) summit of Lanin Volcano, nicknamed the Volcano of Eternal Snow, is no easy feat and, for most trekkers, shouldn’t be attempted without a guide. Treks to the summit take an average of two to three days, and you’ll be hiking at high altitudes, camping out along the way, and using crampons and ice axes to scale the snow-covered slopes.