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Pan American experiences
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Chile |
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An Unforgettable Voyage on Lake HuechulafquenBy Jazmin Agudelo for Ruta Pantera on 11/10/2025 10:13:47 AM |
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| In San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén, the Catamaran José Julián offers a lake excursion that blends epic landscapes with adventure and relaxation. This motor vessel, designed to explore Lakes Huechulafquen and Epulafquen within Lanín National Park, is a Patagonian tourism icon. With views of waterfalls, native forests, and volcanic formations, this 90-minute journey is more than a ride—it’s an immersion into the wild essence of Patagonia. Perfect for families or couples, the José Julián transforms an ordinary day into an eternal memory. | ||||
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The History of the Catamaran and Its Surroundings The Catamaran José Julián is named after a Patagonian navigation pioneer, but its legacy traces back to the region’s indigenous roots. The Mapuche, the area’s ancestral inhabitants, regarded Lake Huechulafquen—meaning "lake of the end" in Mapudungun—as a sacred site, steeped in legends of spirits and volcanoes. Spanning 104 km², this is Neuquén’s largest lake and a cornerstone of Lanín National Park, established in 1937 to safeguard its unique ecosystems: ancient araucaria forests, wildlife like huemuls and condors, and the towering Volcán Lanín (3,776 m), an inactive stratovolcano dominating the skyline. Lake excursions began in the 1980s as a way to reach the park’s remote corners, but the José Julián, operated by its namesake concessionaire, became the premium choice in the 2000s. Built with modern standards, this two-deck catamaran can carry up to 120 passengers, featuring amenities like restrooms, a bar, and an audio guide. In 2012, after minor eruptions from the nearby Volcán Puyehue, the area saw a tourism resurgence, drawing visitors to its volcanic landscapes. By 2025, with sustainable tourism on the rise, the José Julián adopts eco-friendly practices, such as efficient engines and onboard environmental education. The park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, protects endemic species while balancing visitation and conservation. | |||
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