Best Photography Spots in Junín de los Andes

Best Time: Sunrise and late afternoon/golden hour

Best Season: Spring (October-November) for wildflowers, Autumn (April-May) for fall colors, Summer (December-March) for accessibility

Getting There: Drive west from Junín de los Andes on RP61, a well-maintained gravel road that leads directly to Lago Huechulafquen. There are several viewpoints along the northern shore offering unobstructed views of Volcán Lanín. The drive takes approximately 1 hour.

Utilize a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the lake and volcano. Look for reflections on calm mornings. Bring a telephoto for detail shots of the summit. The air can be crisp, even in summer.

Best Time: Early morning and late afternoon

Best Season: Spring and Summer for active wildlife, especially fishing season (November-May)

Getting There: From Junín de los Andes, head south on RN40. The river runs alongside the road in many sections. Curva Grande, a famous fly-fishing spot, is easily accessible by car via a short turn-off from RN40, just a few kilometers south of town.

This river is famous for trout, and you can often photograph anglers in action. Look for kingfishers, ducks, and other riparian birds. A telephoto lens is essential for wildlife. Be mindful of fishing regulations if you are venturing off the main road.

Best Time: Mid-morning to late afternoon, and night-sky

Best Season: Summer and early Autumn for best accessibility and weather stability

Getting There: Continue past Lago Huechulafquen on RP61. Lago Epulafquen is the second of the interconnected lakes. La Escorrentía, where solidified lava flows meet the lake, is further along. The road is gravel but generally navigable by a 2WD vehicle, though higher clearance is beneficial.

The lava flows offer unique textural elements against the clear lake waters. This area is less visited, providing excellent opportunities for serene landscape shots and astrophotography due to minimal light pollution. A sturdy tripod is a must for night photography.

Best Time: Any time of day; golden hour for forest light

Best Season: Autumn for vibrant lenga and ñire tree colors; Spring for lush greenery

Getting There: Located within Lanín National Park, access is via RP61. There are clearly marked trailheads for short hikes. A rental car is essential to reach the park entrance and trailheads, which are a considerable distance from Junín de los Andes.

Explore the ancient forests of coihue and arrayán. Look for interesting fungi and moss-covered trees. A macro lens can be rewarding here. The play of light through the canopy creates dramatic scenes. Bring appropriate hiking shoes.

Best Time: Early morning for dramatic light on Volcán Lanín, sunset for warm hues

Best Season: Summer (December-March) when the pass is usually open and snow-free

Getting There: From Junín de los Andes, take RP23 north and then RP60 west. This road leads directly to the international border with Chile, offering incredible, close-up views of Volcán Lanín from its northern base. The road can be winding and has gravel sections.

This offers a different perspective of Volcán Lanín, often with snow even in summer. The vast Patagonian steppe also provides unique foregrounds. Be aware of border crossing procedures if you intend to cross. Bring warm layers as it can be windy and cold at altitude.

Best Time: Early morning and late afternoon, also ideal for night-sky

Best Season: Summer and early Autumn for pleasant conditions

Getting There: Drive west from Junín de los Andes on RP61, then turn south onto RP62 (a gravel road that branches off towards Lago Curruhue Grande). The drive is scenic and requires a vehicle, as public transport is non-existent.

This lake is surrounded by dense forest, offering beautiful reflections and serene, less crowded scenes. It's a fantastic spot for calm water reflections and astrophotography due to its remoteness and dark skies. Consider long exposures for silky water effects.