El Nihuil: Reservoir, Dunes and Hotels

El Nihuil is shaped by two distinct landscapes: the reservoir and the extensive dunes of the Dunas del Nihuil. Villa El Nihuil, on the reservoir’s right bank, brings together essential services for visitors. When choosing a hotel for your stay, you can consider whether you’d prefer to focus on activities on the water, walks along the shore, or the desert landscape. The shore and dunes therefore offer distinct landscapes and activity options.

Getting There and Orientation

Provincial Route 173 connects San Rafael with Valle Grande and El Nihuil along a total distance of 85 kilometers. El Nihuil is also included in the Cañón del Atuel tourist circuit. This gives you both the specific road connection and the broader tourist circuit to consider when planning your trip. The road connection draws attention to the route, while the circuit provides an additional tourist context.

Accommodation in Villa El Nihuil

Villa El Nihuil is located on the reservoir’s right bank and is considered a place for a peaceful stay. At the same time, it brings together essential services for visitors: there are campsites, cabins, hotels, restaurants, and shops for everyday necessities. Restaurants and shops add dining and everyday shopping options to your stay.

Dunes and Activities in the Sand

The Dunas del Nihuil are a 30,000-hectare desert landscape with dunes that reach up to 200 meters high. The area and maximum dune height convey two aspects of the same landscape: its expanse and the dunes’ relief. The Dunas del Nihuil have hosted the Dakar Rally several times. Sandboarding is one of the main activities there. 4x4 and off-road tours through the sand are also offered; a 4x4 vehicle and a guide or group are recommended for these outings.

Activities at the Reservoir and Along the Shore

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are listed as activities at El Nihuil; wind and water conditions vary. Kayaking is considered suitable for beginners and families on calm parts of the lake or river. Canoeing on calm lake water typically involves light, stable boats. Stand-up paddleboarding focuses on balance and contact with the water. Boating on calm water is described as taking place in a motorboat or sailboat. Sport fishing focuses on pejerrey and trout and is listed as an activity from the shore or a boat. Walks along the shores of El Nihuil add to the outdoor experiences. You can also choose activities according to the conditions: calm water is typical for kayaking, canoeing, and boating, while wind and water conditions vary for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Discover more destinations: Rincón Del Atuel, Pedro Vargas, Salto De Las Rosas, Rama Caída, San Rafael, Punta Del Agua, Las Paredes, El Sosneado

For the broader travel overview: San Rafael Department.