Reserva Natural Urbana Laguna La Zeta

Located just four kilometers from the center of Esquel, on the road leading to the Alto Río Percy area, the Reserva Natural Urbana Laguna La Zeta functions as a green lung and biodiversity refuge integrated into the urban environment. This protected area, covering approximately 1,100 hectares, is not only a conservation zone but also the result of a community-driven initiative aimed at preserving the environmental balance of the region. Its existence is underpinned by Municipal Ordinance No. 23/2013, which provides a management framework focused on sustainable development and community participation.

Ecosystem and local biodiversity

At the heart of the reserve is the lagoon itself, a mirror of clear water surrounded by dense vegetation that defines the character of the landscape. The area features a varied forest composition dominated by native species such as the cordilleran cypress, maitén, laura, chacay, ñire, and pine. This plant diversity supports a rich ecosystem where multiple species of wildlife coexist, making the site a key location for observing natural life in its most undisturbed state.

The setting is framed by the presence of the Cordillera de los Andes and various mountain ranges surrounding the property. The combination of these geographic elements with the presence of streams and forest cover creates a microclimate that supports species dependent on the stability of this protected habitat.

The trail network

A visit to the reserve takes place primarily along its trail network, designed to allow contact with nature without compromising the integrity of the ecosystem. The routes pass through pine stands and cypress remnants, offering an immersive experience in the Andean forest. The terrain suits both more active hiking and contemplative walks, allowing visitors to observe changes in flora and fauna across different sections of the reserve.

The trail infrastructure has been the subject of conservation efforts to ensure that human traffic is compatible with the objectives of the Management Plan. This plan seeks to guarantee that recreational, educational, and sporting activities are carried out in accordance with environmental conditions while maintaining the public character of the space. In this way, the route through Laguna La Zeta presents itself as a transition between the urban activity of Esquel and the imposing scale of the mountains.