Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by 7 lakes

Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by 7 Lakes — An In-Depth Guide for Travelers

If you’re visiting Bariloche and want to see some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery without the hassle of planning every detail, the 7 Lakes tour is a solid choice. This full-day experience, priced at around $144 per person, takes you through seven stunning lakes, charming towns like San Martín de los Andes, and offers some of Patagonia’s most iconic views. The trip lasts between 7 and 10 hours, depending on your starting point and pace, with pick-up from centrally located hotels or meeting points.

Two things we love about this tour are the spectacular vistas of lakes such as Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, and Espejo, which are viewed from several scenic viewpoints along the route. Plus, the opportunity to explore San Martín de los Andes—a lakeside town with a cozy mountain charm—adds a personal touch to the day. The knowledgeable guides (notably Natalia, as some reviews mention) enhance the experience with just the right amount of facts, without overwhelming.

One possible consideration is the length of time spent in San Martín de los Andes—around 2 hours. Some travelers have expressed a wish for a slightly longer stop to have lunch and stroll more leisurely, rather than rushing through the town. This might be worth considering if you’re eager to soak in every detail or enjoy a relaxed meal.

This tour suits travelers who value stunning scenery, ease of logistics, and authentic small-town charm. If you’re someone who prefers a guided experience that minimizes planning, or if you want to see the lakes with a group, this is likely to fit your needs.

Key Points

• Stunning Lakes: Cross seven lakes with incredible views and photo opportunities.
• Charming Towns: Spend time in San Martín de los Andes, a picturesque lakeside village.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insights without info overload.
• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pick-up and drop-off make logistics smooth.
• Flexible Duration: Tour lasts approximately 7-10 hours; check availability for specific times.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, guide, and stops in beautiful locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 7 Lakes Tour from Bariloche

An Overview of the Route and What You’ll See

Starting from Bariloche, this day-long journey is essentially a scenic drive through a stunning corridor of lakes and mountains. The route follows the lakeside roads along Nahuel Huapi, one of Patagonia’s most famous lakes, before weaving through a series of other extraordinary lakes—Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, and Machónico. These lakes are not just bodies of water; each offers unique features like beaches, rugged shores, and viewpoints that make for fantastic photo ops.

From the bus, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of shimmering waters against the backdrop of forested mountains—each turn revealing a new picture-perfect scene. The elevations and viewpoints dotted along the way provide opportunities to step out, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the landscape.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Nahuel Huapi Lake is the starting point—famous for its expansive surface and surrounding mountains. As the bus skirts along its shore, you’ll get glimpses of the famous lakeside resorts and beaches, which are perfect for quick photos.

One of the highlights is a stop in Villa La Angostura, a lovely town known for its colorful houses and serene setting. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief stop, often lasting about 30 minutes, giving you time to stretch your legs, take photos, or grab a quick snack.

Next, you’ll arrive in San Martín de los Andes on the shores of Lake Lácar. This is the main stop, usually around 2 hours. The town itself is charming, with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and cafes. It’s a good chance to have lunch (not included in the tour cost, so plan accordingly), explore the waterfront, or even take a quick walk to soak in the mountain scenery.

On the return trip, the route retraces the same lakeside roads, giving you different perspectives of the lakes and mountains. Some reviews mention that the return stop in Villa La Angostura can feel a bit rushed, so if you’re keen on more leisure time, consider this when planning your day.

Transportation and Group Size

The transportation is typically a comfortable bus, with hotel pickups up to km8 of Bustillo Avenue. The group size varies but is generally small enough for an intimate experience, with guides providing personalized attention. The guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, making it accessible for international travelers.

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The Value of Guided Tours in Patagonia

Having a guide like Natalia (mentioned in reviews) who shares interesting facts about the region enhances the experience. The guide’s role is to keep the group engaged, point out scenic details, and ensure everyone gets the most out of the stops. Some travelers have noted the guides strike a good balance—providing enough information without overwhelming.

The Experience: What You Really Get

The scenery is undeniably the main attraction. You’ll see lakes of different shapes and sizes, each with its own character. The views are spectacular, especially on clear days, and the route is visually engaging.

You’ll also get a taste of local life in San Martín de los Andes, which feels authentic and less touristy than Bariloche. The town’s lakeside setting is perfect for a leisurely lunch or a quick walk.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour’s cost includes transportation and guide services, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something in San Martín de los Andes. If you prefer more time in the town, you might consider exploring local restaurants or cafes, which offer regional dishes.

The longer duration (up to 10 hours) means you should be prepared for a full day. Some reviews mention starting early at 8 am and returning before 8 pm—so pack comfortable shoes, layers, and a camera.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a lot of Patagonia’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving or detailed planning. It’s perfect if you prefer guided transportation and want to maximize sightseeing with minimal stress. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning lakes and mountain vistas, especially with the guidance of knowledgeable guides.

However, if you’re looking for more leisurely exploration or a flexible schedule, you might find the timing in San Martín de los Andes a little tight. Still, for most, this trip offers excellent value and authentic scenic beauty.

FAQ

Is a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, a live guide is included, speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese to help you understand the region’s highlights without information overload.

How long is the stop in San Martín de los Andes?
Typically around 2 hours, giving you enough time to explore the town, have lunch, and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food in San Martín de los Andes.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the scenery is best enjoyed in spring or summer, when lakes are vibrant and the weather is milder. Always check local weather conditions and availability.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your plans.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most likely yes, especially since it involves comfortable bus travel and scenic stops. However, consider the full day length and physical mobility when planning for young children or seniors.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, a camera, and snacks if you prefer to skip the included meals.

Final Thoughts

The Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes 7 Lakes tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Patagonia’s most iconic and beautiful landscapes without the stress of self-driving. With its well-organized stops, expert guides, and unforgettable scenery, it’s a great option for those who want to see “the lakes” with ease and comfort.

If you’re a fan of natural beauty, charming towns, and easy logistics, this trip will meet or even exceed your expectations. Remember, the scenery is the star here, so bring your camera and a sense of adventure.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value guided convenience, authentic regional ambiance, and the chance to capture incredible photographs—making it a memorable highlight of any Patagonia visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby