Puerto Canoa is the central entrance to the splendid Parque Nacional Lanín, 30km (19 miles) from Junín. Here, you'll find a 30-minute interpretive trail and the departure spot for catamaran excursions across Lago Huechulafquén, which looks out onto the snowcapped, conical Volcán Lanín. Lahuen Co offers an excellent day trip into the park's interior. Río Chimehuín begins at the lake's outlet and offers outstanding fishing opportunities. Several excellent hiking and backpacking trails traverse the area, with a few rustic backcountry huts; you can pick up information at the ranger station at Puerto Canoa. Towering behind Junín is the park's namesake volcano. Volcán Lanín is 3,776m (12,400 ft.) tall. Experienced mountaineers can mount the summit with a licensed guide. If you're in San Martín de los Andes, stop by the park's headquarters, the Intendencia Parque Nacional Lanín, Emilio Frey 749 (tel. 02972/427233).

Founded in 1883, but populated by native Mapuches for centuries, Junín is one of the older towns in the area. The Mapuche Museum, Ginés Ponte 550 (tel. 02972/492322), is worth a stop. Nearby, the Museo Don Mosés, C. Juarez and San Marín (no phone), is a turn-of-the-20th-century general store that has been totally preserved. Outside town on the road to Volcán Lanín, you can visit the wool and woodworking workshop of the local native Mapuche people at Reserva Indígena Chiuquilihuin, open daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm. Take RP 60 toward Tromen, turning right at Km 13. Local guides also run short hikes in the area. Ask at the workshop for more information or book a tour of the Mapuche villages with Alquimia Viajes in San Martín (tel. 02972/491355; www.alquimiaturismo.com.ar).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.