Hot Springs: Caviahue-Copahue
Caviahue-Copahue sits at the foot of the active Copahue Volcano in Neuquén province, offering Argentina's most remarkable volcanic thermal experience. Fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and mineral-rich hot springs emerge from a dramatic volcanic landscape unlike anywhere else in Patagonia.
6 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 SeasonIntroduction
The twin villages of Caviahue and Copahue occupy a stunning volcanic valley in northern Patagonia, at elevations between 1,500 and 2,000 meters above sea level. The Copahue Volcano, one of the most active in the Andes, heats an extraordinary system of thermal waters rich in sulfur, iron, and other minerals prized for their medicinal properties. For over a century, visitors have come to Copahue for therapeutic treatments, and today the area combines traditional thermal medicine with modern spa facilities. The landscape itself is dramatic: steaming fumaroles, emerald crater lakes, araucaria forests, and black volcanic rock create an atmosphere that feels almost primordial.
Hot Springs
Termas de Copahue
ResortThe historic Termas de Copahue complex is the centerpiece of the region's thermal tourism. It offers a comprehensive range of thermal treatments including sulfurous water baths, volcanic mud applications, vapor cave sessions, and algae wraps. The waters are classified into nine different types based on their mineral composition, each recommended for specific ailments. Medical professionals on-site can recommend personalized treatment plans.
Anfiteatro Hot Springs
NaturalThe Anfiteatro is a natural volcanic amphitheater where thermal water pools in rock formations surrounded by fumaroles and steaming vents. The raw volcanic landscape makes this one of the most visually dramatic hot spring sites in all of Patagonia. Bathers can find pools at varying temperatures, from warm to very hot, as water seeps through volcanic rock.
Las Maquinitas
WildLas Maquinitas is named for the machine-like sounds produced by steam escaping from fumaroles across a surreal volcanic field. Hot water bubbles up through sulfurous mud, creating natural pools of varying temperatures. This is an active geothermal area and should be approached with care, but the experience of soaking in a wild volcanic landscape is unforgettable.
Laguna Las Mellizas Thermal Area
NaturalNear the beautiful twin lakes of Las Mellizas, warm thermal water seeps into natural pools along the lakeshore. The temperatures here are milder than at Copahue, making them suitable for longer soaks. The setting among araucaria forests with views of the volcanic peaks is spectacular.
Safety Tips
Never approach active fumaroles or boiling mud pools — the ground can be unstable and temperatures lethal
Stay on marked trails in geothermal areas, as thin crusts can hide scalding water below
The altitude (1,500-2,000m) can cause mild altitude effects; acclimatize gradually
Copahue Volcano is active; check volcanic alert levels before visiting the thermal area
Sulfurous gases can be strong near fumaroles — avoid prolonged exposure if you have respiratory conditions
The road to Copahue is snow-closed from May to October; verify conditions before traveling
Bring sun protection, as UV radiation is intense at altitude
What to Bring
- Swimsuit (dark colors recommended as mineral water can stain)
- Old towel (sulfur smell can be persistent)
- Water shoes with good grip for volcanic rock
- Plenty of drinking water
- Sunscreen and hat
- Warm layers (temperatures drop quickly at altitude)
- Cash in Argentine pesos
- Hiking boots for reaching wild springs
- Plastic bag for wet items
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The thermal season at Caviahue-Copahue runs from November to April, as the Copahue area is inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall. Peak season is January and February when all facilities are open and weather is warmest. December and March offer pleasant conditions with smaller crowds. Caviahue itself is accessible year-round and operates as a small ski resort in winter.
Getting There
Caviahue-Copahue is located in northwestern Neuquén province, Argentina. The nearest city is Zapala, about 150 km south, accessible via Ruta Nacional 22 and Ruta Provincial 26. The nearest airport is Neuquén (NQN), approximately 350 km southeast, with flights from Buenos Aires. From Neuquén city, the drive takes about 5 hours. Bus service from Neuquén to Caviahue runs during summer. A rental car is recommended for flexibility, especially for exploring the thermal areas around Copahue village.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Copahue hot springs open year-round?
No, the village of Copahue and its thermal facilities are only open from approximately November to April. Heavy snowfall blocks the road in winter. Caviahue village, 18 km away, is accessible year-round.
Are the medicinal properties of Copahue waters scientifically proven?
The mineral composition of Copahue's thermal waters has been studied extensively, and the complex has operated as a thermal medicine center for over a century. The waters contain sulfur, iron, arsenic, and other minerals used in balneotherapy for skin conditions, rheumatic disorders, and respiratory issues.
Can I visit the wild hot springs without a guide?
The Anfiteatro can be visited independently as the trail is reasonably well-marked. For Las Maquinitas and other geothermal areas, a local guide is strongly recommended due to unmarked terrain and active volcanic hazards.
Is Caviahue-Copahue suitable for families with children?
The developed Termas de Copahue complex is suitable for families, with controlled pool temperatures and professional staff. Wild hot springs and geothermal areas are not recommended for young children due to unpredictable temperatures and terrain.
How does the volcanic activity affect the hot springs?
The Copahue Volcano's activity directly heats the thermal waters. During periods of increased volcanic activity, some areas may be temporarily closed for safety. The thermal complex monitors conditions closely and adjusts operations as needed.