Where Lago Atuel fits in the canyon
The Atuel river is dammed in a cascade of reservoirs as it leaves the Andes, and the stretch held back at the upstream end is the lake known as Lago Atuel. It sits at roughly the 55 km mark along RP173, before El Nihuil village, and its wide turquoise banks make it the natural centre for water activities.
- Approached along RP173 from San Rafael — see the full driving guide.
- Close to El Nihuil village, where you find food, camping and supplies.
- Wide, accessible banks make it the easiest water access point in the canyon.
Rafting on the Atuel river
Rafting is the signature activity of the canyon and the reason many visitors come. The Atuel is a dam-release river, so difficulty changes with how much water is being released on the day rather than staying fixed.
- Operators assess conditions each morning and will cancel if the water is unsuitable.
- Helmets and life jackets are provided; transfers and a guide are usually included.
- Expect to get thoroughly wet — quick-drying clothing is far more useful than cotton.
- Book ahead in peak season, and treat the departure time as fixed.
Kayaking, paddleboarding and boat trips
If rafting sounds like too much, the calmer water on the lake and on the reservoirs downstream is ideal for paddling and for boat rides. These are also the better options for families and for anyone who would rather stay dry.
- Kayak and stand-up paddle sessions typically run one to two hours and suit beginners.
- Boat rides and fishing are best on calm, low-wind days.
- Wind is the main thing that cancels water activities — check the forecast before you commit.
Water safety in an Andean snowmelt river
This water comes down from Andean snowmelt and stays cold all year, even when the air temperature is high. That combination catches people out, so treat it with more respect than a warm lowland lake.
- Water temperature stays low regardless of how hot the day feels.
- Never swim where no lifeguard or operator is present.
- Wear the provided life jacket, and keep children within arm’s reach at all times.
- Cold water drains strength quickly — keep sessions short and get warm afterwards.
Best time of day and season
Water activities generally run from morning to late afternoon. Mornings are usually calmer, which matters for kayaking and boat trips, while afternoons can bring the wind that the canyon is known for.
- Morning: calmest water, best conditions for paddling and boats.
- Afternoon: wind builds; rafting still runs but lake activities may pause.
- Summer: busiest and hottest — book early and start early.
- Winter: cold and fewer operators running; confirm what is actually operating before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
It is the lake formed where the Atuel river is held back by the El Nihuil dam, along with the name of the small settlement on its shore. It is the main area in the canyon for rafting, kayaking, boat rides and swimming.
In peak season and on public holidays, yes — book at least a day ahead. Departures also depend on how much water is being released from the dams, so operators may cancel on the day even with a booking.
It is Andean snowmelt and stays cold all year, so it is a genuine cold-water environment. Swim only where a lifeguard or operator is present, wear the life jacket provided, and keep sessions short.
Yes. A common pattern is to drive RP173 in the morning, stop at the viewpoints, then do the water activity around midday and finish at El Nihuil before returning to San Rafael.