Float & Wade
Fish broad runs from the boat, step out to work productive banks and riffles, or dedicate the day to wading selected stretches with your guide.
The Lodge
The Main House preserves the welcoming atmosphere of a family home. It features four upstairs bedrooms—two en suite and two sharing a bathroom—along with a comfortable living room with fireplace, bar and dining room.
A short walk through the walnut trees leads to the separate Walnut House. This cozy guest house offers two additional bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, as well as its own living room, dining area and deck.
Together, the two houses offer six bedrooms while maintaining the personal character of a traditional Patagonian estancia.
Despite its sense of seclusion, Pilolil is conveniently located approximately 45 minutes from Chapelco Airport. The 24,700-acre property lies along the Alumine River, placing guests close to the water and at the heart of the open landscapes that define this part of Northern Patagonia.
A Historic Patagonian Estancia
Estancia Pilolil’s story reaches back to the late nineteenth century. Today, it remains a family-owned Patagonian estancia, where historic character, personal hospitality and life on the land are still central to the guest experience.
The estancia takes its name from Pilo Lil, meaning “holed stone” in the Mapuche language—a remarkable rock formation of towers, caves and natural bridges overlooking a section of the Alumine River.
The Fishing
The Alumine is one of Northern Patagonia’s most enjoyable rivers to float, flowing through open valleys and striking volcanic landscapes. Its clear waters move between gentle glides, lively riffles and deeper pools, creating an unhurried fishing day with changing opportunities for dry flies, nymphs and streamers.
From mid-December through late January, willow worm activity can produce some of the season’s most exciting dry-fly fishing. Its timing and intensity can never be predicted with complete certainty, but when conditions align, the experience can be remarkable.
The estancia’s internal roads provide quick, private access directly to the river.
Ask About PilolilFish broad runs from the boat, step out to work productive banks and riffles, or dedicate the day to wading selected stretches with your guide.
Each morning, guides and guests decide how the day will unfold—choosing the stretch of river and fishing approach that best suit the conditions while shaping the plan around each guest’s interests and requests.
Days away from the river can include a visit to San Martin de los Andes or a round at Chapelco Golf. At the estancia, guests can also walk across the property, explore by e-bike or ride through the landscape on horseback.
After the River
The day does not end when the rods are put away. At Pilolil, food, wine and the places where guests gather are an essential part of the experience.
La Chicheria
La Chicheria is one of Pilolil’s most distinctive gathering places: a rustic room centered around the open hearth, where guests share appetizers, Argentine wine and traditional asados. Its warmth and character make dinner feel like an occasion rather than simply the end of the day.
The original room, open hearth and long table give Pilolil’s asado evenings their unmistakable character.
When the weather allows, the chef prepares snacks and small bites on the deck—an informal outdoor moment before dinner is served inside.
That easy hour between the river and dinner becomes time for Argentine wine, cocktails and stories from the day.
For families and groups of friends, shared meals are part of the experience. When the weather allows, lunch or an asado may move outdoors for good food, conversation and an easy afternoon together.
Beyond Fishing
Pilolil’s 24,700 acres invite guests to experience the landscape beyond the river. Follow estancia tracks toward Cerro Mesa and Vista Linda on horseback, by e-bike or in a 4x4, or set out on foot for a quieter look at the valley.
Activities are shaped around each guest’s interests, pace and the conditions of the day, making them a natural option for non-anglers, families or anyone taking time away from fishing.
Horseback Riding · E-Bikes · Hiking · 4x4
A Seasonal Pursuit
Pilolil’s 24,700-acre property also offers opportunities for red deer hunting during the autumn roar. For guests interested in combining fishing with another sporting tradition, hunting arrangements can be discussed separately according to the season and availability.
Photo Journal
Explore the lodge, the Alumine River and the moments that shape a stay at Pilolil—from days on the water to meals, landscapes and time shared at the estancia.
The LodgeView 32 photos
The Alumine RiverView 21 photos
Life at PilolilView 24 photos
Approximately 45 Minutes from Chapelco Airport
Estancia Pilolil can be planned as a focused Alumine River stay or included within a broader Northern Patagonia journey. Tell us your dates, group size and fishing priorities, and we will recommend the right length of stay and itinerary.
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