Circuito Laguna Azul – Neuquén Volcanic Route

The Circuito Laguna Azul threads through Neuquén’s volcanic badlands where black lava flows create a Martian landscape dotted with bright mineral deposits. This lesser-known route starts near Zapala and follows old mining tracks through pumice fields so deep they swallow trucks, past sulfur vents that paint rocks yellow and orange, before climbing to Laguna Azul—a startling electric-blue crater lake that changes color with the light. The volcanic glass sections will shred sidewalls if you’re not careful, and GPS coordinates are essential since volcanic landmarks all look identical.

Moderate difficulty but unforgiving terrain—one wrong turn in the pumice maze means hours of backtracking through axle-deep dust. High-clearance 4WD essential, plus multiple spare tires because volcanic rock is merciless on rubber. Spring through fall offers the best access, though summer heat turns this into a furnace and winter brings snow that closes higher elevations. No services exist anywhere on route, so carry fuel, water, and food for 3+ days. The payoff is otherworldly camping beside that impossible blue lake with zero company except condors riding thermals overhead.