While divers have long been familiar with the wonders Argentina’s ocean environment holds, it is possible to visit some amazing mountain lakes where equally fantastic diving can be had. Situated high above sea level, these places require some traveling to get to, but once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with crystal clear water and amazing topside views.
Lago Nahuel Huapi
Lake Nahuel Huapi is situated in northern Patagonia, between the provinces of Neuquen and Rio Negro. Formed from several glacial valleys, the lake is located within Nahuel Huapi National Park and has a surface area of 529 square kilometers. Its depth is 438 meters at the deepest point, and it is situated a breathtaking 770 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll find a spectacular sunken sculpture museum, located just offshore from Gallina Island, with log carvings more than three meters tall. Submerged forests rise up from the lakebed, and massive boulders add even more interest to the underwater landscape.
Between November and April, divers can embark on tours that leave from the city of San Carlos de Bariloche, and once beneath the surface, divers from novice to expert can enjoy encounters with perch, salmon, and different trout species as they explore the sculpture park, which includes a sphinx and a fantastic depiction of King Neptune in all his glory, plus a submerged chairlift which makes an ideal spot to take a photo of your dive buddy. Experienced divers can explore a wall that shows how the glaciers carved their way through rock eons ago. The planned excursion includes a special hike, plus lunch.
Lago Traful
Lake Traful, with a surface area of 70 square kilometers, is the starting point of the Traful River, which empties into the much larger Nahuel Huapi. Famous for its glacial cliffs and the little hamlet of Villa Traful, which has a population of fewer than 500 people, the lake is situated 720 meters above sea level. With crystal clear water and native perch, plus trout and salmon, the lake is the site of an ancient sunken cypress forest that can be seen from the surface. Diving between the leafless pillars, with their incredible root systems still intact is an amazing experience, as the sun’s rays cascade through the water to illuminate the venerable trees, which have been submerged since the 1960’s, when a landslide dammed the lake. With maximum depth at just 15 meters, it is possible for all divers to experience this magical site. Topside, grottoes and cliffs, plus soaring rock formations add to the natural splendor, and white sandy beaches complete the picture.
The climate here in these high mountain lakes is quite dry, and the winds can be powerful. The water is chilly, with temperatures averaging 10-12 degrees Celsius, so a dry suit is recommended. Visibility is generally better than twenty meters, making for some splendid underwater views. There are several types of accommodations available in Patagonia, plus plenty to do while you are not diving, including fishing, kayaking, and even playing golf. If you hope to visit, make reservations well in advance, as these tours only operate during the cool summer; diving is not possible during the freezing cold winter months.