Patagonia is full of hidden gems and one of them is located in the province of Río Negro, two hours from Bariloche, in a scenic landscape surrounded by coihues, larches, hazelnuts and laurels. It is a turquoise river that can only be accessed through extensive trekking. The Motoco River, located in the town of El Bolsón, is a beautiful mirror of crystal clear water in which bathing is allowed despite the low temperatures it registers and is surrounded by great natural beauty. To get to this place you have to walk from the Río Azul footbridge and cross hanging bridges along the way. In total, the itinerary lasts between seven and eight hours and you have to be relatively trained to be able to do it.

Because the path is long, it is recommended to leave early in the morning to return the same day (the return trip is shorter), but those who wish can also stay overnight on the mountain. The place where you can spend the night is the Motoco Shelter, which is located 850 meters above sea level within a Mapuche reserve, and has capacity for 40 people, wood heating, gas stove and dishes available for those who wish to cook. your own dishes. It also has its own fast food service, night lighting and a camping area next to the river with a community fire pit. From this refuge it is possible to see the Argentine mountain valleys. 

From this refuge you can also begin a trekking classified as very difficult to the Rock of Time, which is located just two meters from the border with Chile and which offers panoramic views of Argentina and the trans-Andean country.

 

Article from "Noticias Argentinas"