Blue water
Very clear.
Osarsan — CC BY 3.0 · Osarsan — CC BY 3.0 · rodoluca — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Osarsan — CC0 · Osarsan — CC BY 3.0
Laguna Azul, the «Blue Lagoon», is a small, deep lake filling the crater of an extinct volcano in the Pali Aike volcanic field, on the Patagonian steppe near the Strait of Magellan, about 62 kilometres south of Río Gallegos. It formed thousands of years ago, the field's last eruptions were less than ten thousand years ago, and it is named for its intensely clear blue water. It is about 560 metres across, ringed by steep black and red basalt walls where ibises nest, with herds of guanacos and rheas on the steppe around. A trail circles the crater rim, another drops to the water's edge, and to the east lies a second, smaller dry crater. The area has been a provincial reserve since 2005 and entry is free; swimming, camping, fires and pets are not allowed. The wind is always strong, so bring windproof clothes, and check opening days before you go.
Very clear.
A circuit trail.
On the steppe.
Pali Aike volcanic field, about 62 km south of Río Gallegos, Santa Cruz
No, swimming and camping are not allowed in the reserve; entry is free.