The Perito Moreno in Lake Nahuel Huapi

In 1873, Francisco Moreno began his study trips to Patagonia supported by the Argentine Scientific Society and the Government of the Province of Buenos Aires. He arrived at Lake Nahuel Huapi for the first time at the beginning of 1876 and a year later, accompanied by Carlos Moyano, he reconnoitered the course of the Santa Cruz River up to its source in Lake Argentino, discovered by Feilberg in 1873. Although the resources assigned to the commission explorer were very small, she managed to carry out her mission and Moreno reached Lake Nahuel Huapi for the second time: "We were the first whites, from the Atlantic, to reach the high mountain ranges to reveal their riches and indicate, with the compass, the path that Argentine weapons would later follow”, stated the same Expert in a letter sent to General Bartolomé Miter in 1883.

On January 20, 1876, Francisco Pascasio Moreno, known as "The Expert," or Perito in Spanish, became the first white man to reach the shores of Nahuel Huapi, hoisting the flag alongside the breathtaking landscape, showcasing our light blue and white colors.

Moreno, a significant figure in Argentine history, not only played a crucial role in defining the Nation's borders and donating land for the first National Park but also embodied patriotism and noble ideals. Despite his remarkable contributions, he was eventually forgotten and passed away in poverty.

Born in Buenos Aires on May 31, 1852, at the age of 23, he embarked on his adventure to reach the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi from the east. Traveling through territories dominated by indigenous people, he faced numerous challenges.

After obtaining permission from the great cacique Sayhueque, Moreno ventured alone and reached Lake Nahuel Huapi on January 20, 1876, planting the Argentine flag and becoming the first white person to reach the eastern shores. He had to rush back as the Indians were preparing for a raid.

On November 11, 1879, Moreno made a second attempt. Despite facing difficulties, including being poisoned by wild strawberries, he miraculously survived. He was taken prisoner and endured 15 days of captivity before escaping with the help of his guides, Gavino and Melgarejo. Their dramatic escape lasted seven days, navigating treacherous waters while Indians pursued them. Fortunately, they were eventually rescued.

Moreno's explorations also included traversing the Santa Cruz River from its mouth in the Atlantic to its source in the Andes, discovering lakes such as Argentino, San Martín, and Viedma, which he named.

Later, the Argentine government appointed him as an expert in boundary issues with Chile due to his extensive knowledge of the region and unwavering love for his country.

Despite his significant contributions, Moreno's personal wealth declined as he dedicated his resources to the service of his country. In his final days, he expressed his financial struggles, having given so much to Argentina without leaving any property for his children.

Francisco Pascasio Moreno passed away on November 22, 1919. In 1934, the National Congress approved the construction of a mausoleum on Sentinel Island in Nahuel Huapi to house his remains, along with those of his wife. Today, his ashes rest amidst the majestic beauty and tranquility of the lake, a tribute to his exceptional and selfless contributions to making Argentina great. He remains a rare hero, inspiring numerous actions that shaped the country's history.