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Buenos Aires Lake
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Lake Buenos Aires is a massive body of water in Patagonia shared between Argentina and Chile, where it is known as General Carrera Lake. With its impressive surface area, it is the second largest lake in South America after Lake Titicaca. The lake is famous for its incredible variety of blue tones, ranging from bright turquoise to deep sapphire. While the Chilean side features the world-renowned Marble Caves, the Argentine side is characterized by vast plains and a rugged, pristine landscape. The local climate is micro-climatically favored due to the lake's size, allowing for the successful cultivation of cherries in the town of Los Antiguos on its southern shore, a rarity at this southern latitude. The lake's crystalline waters are a major draw for trout and salmon fishing enthusiasts from around the world.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 0 | -1 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 37 | 37 | 29 | 30 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The vast Patagonian lake can be accessed via Ruta 40 on the Argentine side or the Carretera Austral in Chile. Most visitors typically start their journey from nearby border villages.
Best season
The good months to visit this rugged region are from December to February, when the South American summer features the warmest temperatures and the most stable weather conditions.
Terrain & paths
The shorelines of this massive body of water vary greatly between flat, stony beaches and steep, rugged rocky cliffs. Hiking paths surrounding the lake are mostly unpaved.
What to bring
Due to the notoriously strong Patagonian winds, completely windproof clothing, a warm insulating layer, and sturdy, closed hiking boots are absolutely essential for exploring.
Parking
Vehicles can usually be parked without any issues in the surrounding small towns, such as Los Antiguos, or at designated viewpoints along the scenic panoramic coastal roads.
Safety
Sudden, powerful gusts of wind can become dangerous when standing near shore cliffs or while boating. The lake water is exceptionally cold all year round, posing a severe hypothermia risk.
Time needed
A simple photo stop along the coastal road often requires just an hour or two, whereas extensive shoreline hikes or guided boat tours can easily occupy an entire, fulfilling day.
Geography
Facts
- Total area of 1,850 km², with 880 km² in Argentine territory
- Second largest lake in South America by surface area
- Deepest lake in South America with a maximum depth of 590 meters
- The town of Los Antiguos is Argentina's cherry capital
- Waters are drained by the Baker River into the Pacific Ocean
- Renowned for its world-class trout and salmon sport fishing
- Formed by the retreat of massive Pleistocene glaciers
- Features intense sapphire and turquoise blue water colors
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Buenos Aires Lake (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is this the largest lake in Patagonia?
It is one of the largest lakes and lies on the border with Chile.
What can one do here?
Hiking, fly fishing, and enjoying the impressive nature.
Are there any sights nearby?
Yes, Cueva de las Manos with its cave paintings is highly recommended.
How is the weather?
Often windy, so good layered clothing is very important.
Where to stay?
The towns of Los Antiguos or Perito Moreno offer accommodations.
Buenos Aires Lake: where is it located?
Buenos Aires Lake is located in Argentina.
Buenos Aires Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Buenos Aires Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Buenos Aires is a massive body of water in Patagonia shared between Argentina and Chile, where it is known as General Carrera Lake.
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