Villa Traful on Lake Traful

Location and landscape

Villa Traful is located within Nahuel Huapi National Park. In Los Lagos Department, the town lies on the shore of Lake Traful, surrounded by Coihue forests and the landscapes of the Andean-Patagonian Cordillera. The viewpoints around Villa Traful offer views of the lake as well as volcanic and mountainous landscapes. The interplay of lake, forest, and mountains defines the natural setting of a stay here.

Boat trips and fishing

Boat trips on Lake Traful lead to the Bosque Sumergido, an underwater forest of about 60 dead cypress trees rising from the lakebed. Fishing is one of Villa Traful’s main attractions. Notable fishing waters include the Machónico River and Pichi Traful, Lake Traful, and the Catarata Stream. They provide habitat for landlocked salmon as well as rainbow, brown, and Fontinalis trout. Local fishing regulations may vary; check the rules in force beforehand.

Trekking, horseback riding, and Cascada Coa Có

Villa Traful offers trekking through native forests and horseback riding. The excursion to Cascada Coa Có is considered a must-stop for visitors. When planning, the activities offer different highlights: boat trips lead to the Bosque Sumergido, while trekking and horseback riding provide other ways to get around. Cascada Coa Có is another named excursion for your stay.

Villa Traful on the Ruta de los Siete Lagos

Villa Traful is one of the towns included in the Ruta de los Siete Lagos. In Los Lagos Department, the 110-kilometer route connects San Martín de los Andes with Villa La Angostura and crosses parts of Lanín and Nahuel Huapi national parks. The Ruta de los Siete Lagos can be traveled by bicycle or motorcycle. With overnight stays at different campsites, the trip can take three or four days. The 110 kilometers refer to the route between its endpoints; the duration of three or four days depends on overnight stays at different campsites.

Provincial Route 65 connects Villa Traful with the Ruta de los Siete Lagos. A provincial report dated January 5, 2026, noted that paving work on this section had resumed after a weather-related closure. The work was intended to improve road access, traffic safety, and Villa Traful’s connection to the region’s tourist corridor. Check road conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Cultural connections in Los Lagos Department

In the broader destination of Los Lagos Department, the Capilla Nuestra Señora de Traful is located in Villa Traful; it is part of the Camino de la Fe Neuquino, a tourist and cultural route through Neuquén Province. Its simple architecture features stone walls, a gabled roof, and a small bell tower. The chapel adds a cultural connection to the area’s landscape-focused appeal.

Discover more destinations: Andacollo, La Lipela.

Go to the broader travel overview: Neuquén.