In short: Icalma Lake is in the municipality of Lonquimay, next to the Icalma International Pass, which connects with Villa Pehuenia (Argentina). It is 130 km from Temuco and 780 km from Santiago, close to Galletué Lagoon and Melipeuco. Its name means "mirror of water" in Mapudungun, because of the hills reflected on its surface.
Key facts: Icalma Lake
| Municipality | Lonquimay, Araucanía Region |
|---|---|
| Distances | 130 km from Temuco and 780 km from Santiago |
| Border | Icalma International Pass (Chilean customs in the area), toward Villa Pehuenia, Argentina |
| Nearby | Galletué Lagoon, Batea Mahuida and Melipeuco |
| Activities | Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding |
| Meaning | "Mirror of water", in Mapudungun |
| Local information | Municipal tourist office |
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, access and prices may change: confirm them before you travel.
Icalma Lake is one of the tourism icons of the municipality of Lonquimay. Its name means "mirror of water" in Mapudungun, because of the hills reflected in the water.
The Icalma area is home to the Chilean customs post of the Icalma International Pass, which connects with Villa Pehuenia in Argentina, 11 kilometers away. Icalma is 130 kilometers from Temuco and 780 from Santiago, on the shore of Icalma Lake, a few kilometers from Galletué Lagoon, Batea Mahuida and Melipeuco.
In Icalma you can go hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, among other activities. For more information, stop by the municipal tourist office.
Frequently asked questions about Icalma Lake
Where is Icalma?
In the municipality of Lonquimay, Araucanía Region, Chile, 130 km from Temuco, next to Icalma Lake and the border crossing with Argentina.
How do I get to Icalma?
It is about 130 km from Temuco. You can get there via Melipeuco, passing Galletué Lagoon, or via Lonquimay.
What is there to do in Icalma?
Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding around the lake, and a visit to Galletué Lagoon. The municipal tourist office has information on available activities.
Can you cross into Argentina at Icalma?
Yes. Icalma has the Chilean customs post of the Icalma International Pass, which connects with Villa Pehuenia, in Argentina.
What does Icalma mean?
In Mapudungun it translates as "mirror of water", because of the hills reflected in the lake.
More to see nearby: Galletué Lagoon · Things to do in Melipeuco · China Muerta National Reserve