San Martín de los Andes Travel Guide: Patagonia’s Alpine Paradise

Tucked away in the Andean foothills of Neuquén Province, San Martín de los Andes is a charming town that serves as the gateway to Lanín National Park and the famous Route of the Seven Lakes. Unlike its more famous cousin, Bariloche, this lakeside town offers a quieter, more serene Patagonian experience.
 

Surrounded by forests, mountains, and pristine lakes, it’s a destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature in one of Argentina’s most photogenic regions.

📌 Quick Facts

📍 Location: Neuquén Province, Northern Patagonia

🌄 Elevation: 640 meters (2,100 ft)

🛫 Nearest Airport: Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (CPC)

🏞️ Famous For: Lanín National Park, Lake Lácar, scenic drives

🚗 Distance from Bariloche: ~190 km (3.5–4.5 hours)

🕒 Best Time to Visit: December–March (summer) or June–August (ski season)

🌟 Why Visit San Martín de los Andes?

🏞️ Jaw-dropping landscapes with lakes, peaks, and native forests

🚴 World-class hiking, biking, and kayaking

❄️ Excellent winter sports at Cerro Chapelco

🐟 Fly-fishing and wildlife watching

🍽️ Delightful regional food and chocolate

🛶 Access to the Seven Lakes Road, Patagonia’s most scenic route

🏞️ Top Things to Do in San Martín de los Andes

1. 🌊 Lake Lácar (Lago Lácar)

Right next to the town, Lake Lácar is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing on the beach.

Popular beach: Playa Catritre (just 4 km away)

Boat trips available to Quila Quina and other remote beaches

Sunset here is unforgettable

🧭 Tip: Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a peaceful adventure on the water.

2. 🚗 Route of the Seven Lakes (Ruta de los Siete Lagos)

This iconic road trip connects San Martín de los Andes to Villa La Angostura, winding past seven (and more!) pristine lakes surrounded by Patagonian forest.

Lakes along the route:

Lácar

Machónico

Falkner

Villarino

Escondido

Correntoso

Espejo

🕒 Full-day trip by car or guided tour
📸 Countless photo stops, picnic areas, and hidden trails

3. 🥾 Hiking in Lanín National Park

Lanín National Park is a paradise for hikers of all levels. The park is home to glacial lakes, ancient forests, and the snow-capped Lanín Volcano.

Top Hiking Trails:

Mirador Bandurrias – 2-hour roundtrip for panoramic lake views

Sendero a la Cascada Chachín – Moderate, ends at a beautiful waterfall

Volcán Lanín Base Trek – Challenging but rewarding

Lago Escondido Trail – Peaceful and shaded

🎒 What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, layers, and trail snacks

4. 🧗 Adventure Activities

🚴 Mountain Biking – Trails for all levels around the park and lake

🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rent equipment by the beach

🐟 Fly Fishing – Río Chimehuin is world-famous for trout

🧗‍♂️ Rock Climbing – With guides available for beginners and pros

🐎 Horseback Riding – Great way to explore hidden valleys

5. 🏔️ Climb or View Volcán Lanín

Towering at 3,776 meters (12,388 ft), Lanín Volcano is one of Patagonia’s most majestic peaks.

Multi-day guided ascent for experienced climbers

Day hikes to viewpoints and the base area

Instagram-worthy photos from Lago Tromen

6. 🎿 Cerro Chapelco (Winter Sports)

If you visit in winter (June–August), Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort offers:

Alpine skiing and snowboarding

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

Snow parks and activities for kids

Stunning views over the Andes and Lake Lácar

🚌 Shuttle services run from town during the season

🛍️ Artisan Markets & Local Culture

Explore the town’s walkable center with:

🧶 Artisan fairs (especially weekends)

🍫 Handmade chocolate and jams

🖼️ Art galleries featuring Patagonian artists

🧥 Wool clothing and leather goods

🍽️ Where and What to Eat

Patagonian cuisine is warm, hearty, and often paired with great wines or local craft beer.

Local Specialties:

🍖 Patagonian lamb (slow-cooked over a wood fire)

🍝 Sorrentinos (stuffed pasta)

🧀 Smoked cheeses and meats

🍫 Chocolate artesanal

🍺 Craft beer – many local microbreweries

Recommended Restaurants:

Torino Bar & Bistro – Gourmet cuisine and great cocktails

La Costa del Pueblo – Lakeside views and trout dishes

Kaleuche – Elegant Patagonian food with local wines

El Regional Cervecería – Rustic and family-friendly

Chopen – A favorite for burgers and local beer

🏨 Where to Stay in San Martín de los Andes

Luxury:

Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel – Golf resort with spa

Antares Patagonia Suites & Eventos – High-end boutique hotel

Mid-Range:

Le Chatelet Hotel – Comfortable and centrally located

Hotel y Cabañas Le Village – Charming alpine-style stay

Budget:

Rukalhue Hostel – Social and friendly

Hostel El Refugio – Good location, cozy vibes

Unique:

Cabins (Cabañas) – Available all over town and great for families

Estancia Lodges – Rural luxury near Lanín National Park

📆 Best Time to Visit

🧭 Peak season is January & February — book lodging early.

🚗 Getting to San Martín de los Andes

✈️ By Air:

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (CPC)

Flights from Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and Neuquén

🚗 By Road:

From Bariloche: ~190 km via Route 40 and 234

From Neuquén: ~430 km (~6–7 hours)

Bus companies run daily routes

🛻 Renting a car is ideal for exploring lakes and mountain routes.

🧳 What to Pack

🧥 Layered clothing – cool mornings, warm afternoons

👟 Hiking boots or sturdy shoes

🧢 Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock (sun is strong at altitude)

📷 Camera or drone – the scenery is incredible

🩱 Swimsuit (in summer), gloves and jacket (in winter)

🎒 Daypack for hikes and water bottle

🧭 Sample 3-Day Itinerary

📆 Day 1: Lake & Town

Morning: Walk along Lake Lácar & kayak

Afternoon: Explore artisan market & museum

Evening: Dinner at Torino Bar & Bistro

📆 Day 2: Route of the Seven Lakes

Early start for full-day drive or tour

Stop at Machónico, Falkner, and Espejo Lakes

Picnic lunch with lake views

Return for craft beer and sunset dinner

📆 Day 3: Lanín National Park

Morning hike to Mirador Bandurrias or Cascada Chachín

Optional boat ride to Quila Quina

Evening: Relax at a local lodge or enjoy a Patagonian lamb dinner

🌍 Responsible Travel Tips

🚯 Leave no trace in natural areas

🛍️ Support local artisans and farmers

💧 Carry a reusable bottle — water is clean and fresh here

📸 Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance

❄️ In winter, check road conditions before driving

✅ Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love San Martín de los Andes

Whether you're dreaming of serene lakes, snowy peaks, or outdoor adventure, San Martín de los Andes delivers a Patagonian experience that’s both peaceful and exhilarating. Less commercial than Bariloche but just as beautiful, it’s ideal for those seeking natural beauty, authentic culture, and real connection to Argentina’s southern spirit.