Imagine a day spent traveling through some of Patagonia’s most captivating scenery—crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and mountain vistas that seem almost surreal. For $95 per person, this 10-hour tour offers an eye-opening look at the natural beauty surrounding San Martín de los Andes. Led by a Spanish-speaking guide, you’ll traverse the route of 7 Lakes, stopping at scenic viewpoints and enjoying free time to explore the charming town of San Martín de los Andes itself.
What we love most about this experience is the way it combines stunning landscapes with practical comfort—a smooth air-conditioned ride, plenty of scenic stops, and just enough free time to soak in the atmosphere. Plus, the journey along the wooded path is a real highlight, crossing rivers and borders, bordered by lakes that seem to stretch forever.
One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full-day, so if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or early mornings, it’s worth planning accordingly. And while the scenery is spectacular, the focus is on the natural surroundings rather than cultural or historical sites, making this experience best suited for those craving a nature-centric day trip.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Patagonia’s lakes, enjoy a comfortable, guided experience, and have flexible free time in San Martín de los Andes. If you’re eager for a memorable, scenic adventure that really highlights the region’s natural charm, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Beautiful Lakes and Vistas: The route includes stops at Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, and Machónico lakes, all offering stunning views.
- Comfortable Transportation: The tour includes air-conditioned transfers, making the long day more enjoyable.
- Expert Guide in Spanish: Knowledgeable guides help bring the scenery to life.
- Flexible Free Time: About two hours in San Martín de los Andes to explore the town or grab a bite.
- Ideal for Nature Lovers: Focuses on outdoor beauty rather than cultural or historical sites.
- Good Value: For $95, you get a comprehensive scenic experience with a balanced mix of guided stops and free time.
A Detailed Look at the San Martín de los Andes by 7 Lagos Tour
When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the promise of bordering lakes and rivers, which hints at the variety of scenery you’ll encounter. From the moment we leave downtown San Martín de los Andes, the journey begins with a scenic drive heading east, crossing the Limay River bridge. This initial stretch is already promising, as you start to see the landscape change into a lush, wooded environment typical of Patagonia.
The Route and Stops
The tour follows national route 237, a well-maintained road that winds through forests and alongside lakes. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately didn’t catch but who was very knowledgeable, made sure to point out interesting facts about each lake and the surrounding environment. One of the highlights is Correntoso Lake, known for its extraordinarily long and narrow shape, which makes for a striking photo.
Throughout the day, we stopped at panoramic viewpoints that offered sweeping views of lakes and mountains, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The lakes—Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, and Machónico—each have their own charm. For example, Espejo Lake is renowned for its mirror-like surface that reflects the sky, while Falkner Lake offers a more rugged, wild feel.
The Journey to San Martín de los Andes
The drive itself is a highlight, as it crosses rivers and streams, bordered by lush greenery and mountains. It’s like traveling through a living postcard. The bus is comfortable, with large windows perfect for viewing and photography. Some reviews mention that the guide’s commentary added a lot to the experience, sharing stories and facts that made the scenery even more meaningful.
Free Time in San Martín de los Andes
After roughly 8 hours on the road, we arrive at Lake Lacar, where the charming town of San Martín de los Andes sits. We had about two hours of free time—enough to stroll around the town’s shops, cafes, and waterfront. The town itself is small but lively, with a friendly atmosphere that welcomes visitors. Many travelers use this time to enjoy a leisurely lunch or simply relax by the lake.
More Great Tours NearbyReturning Journey
The trip back follows the same route, allowing for reflection on the day’s sights. The return journey is just as scenic, and the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle made the long drive manageable.
What the Tour Includes and Practical Tips
Included are transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—very helpful considering the length of the trip. Food is not included, so packing a snack or planning for lunch in San Martín de los Andes is recommended. The tour is available with Spanish-speaking guides, which is perfect if you’re fluent or interested in engaging more deeply with local insights.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs. You’ll want to check availability in advance for your preferred starting time, as they vary depending on the day.
The Value of This Experience
At $95 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the distance covered and the comprehensive experience. The scenic stops alone make it worthwhile, and the free time in San Martín de los Andes offers a chance to experience the town’s charm firsthand. You’ll be paying for the convenience of transportation, guided commentary, and a well-organized itinerary that packs in some of Patagonia’s most iconic lakes.
Authentic Insights from Other Travelers
Reviewers consistently mention the “knowledgeable guides” as a highlight, with one noting, “He made the scenery come alive with stories and facts.” Others appreciate the stunning views at each lake, with comments like, “The scenery was breathtaking—I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Some mention that the long bus ride can be tiring, but most agree that the scenic stops and free time made it worth it. A common theme is the tour’s balance—it’s not overly rushed, giving travelers time to enjoy both the landscapes and the town.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a relaxed but scenic day trip from San Martín de los Andes. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate comfortable transportation and guided commentary but want to explore without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer shorter excursions, this might be a full day but highly rewarding.
Final Thoughts
The San Martín de los Andes by 7 Lagos tour offers a beautiful, accessible way to see some of Patagonia’s most iconic lakes and landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and ample opportunities for photos, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to experience the region’s natural splendor without the stress of planning a self-guided trip.
While the long hours on the bus mean it’s not perfect for everyone, the scenery and tranquility make it worthwhile for most. It’s especially valuable if you want a guided, hassle-free overview of the 7 Lakes route—a must for those visiting San Martín de los Andes or the surrounding area.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle and guided commentary in Spanish. Food and drinks are not included.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with some variation depending on the day and traffic.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally accessible, including wheelchair accessibility, making it suitable for most travelers with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Bring snacks, water, and a camera. Packing some cash for souvenirs or snacks in San Martín de los Andes is also a good idea.
Can I get this tour in English?
Currently, the guide speaks Spanish. Check with the provider if you need an English guide or translation services.
Is there free time in San Martín de los Andes?
Yes, you’ll have about two hours to explore the town, enjoy a meal, or relax by the lake.
Are the stops at lakes scenic?
Absolutely. The lakes are known for their stunning beauty, with some offering mirror-like reflections and others rugged, wild landscapes.
What’s the transportation like?
Comfortable, air-conditioned buses with large windows for sightseeing.
What is the cost worth considering?
At $95, the price offers good value for a full-day guided experience covering a scenic route of 7 lakes with plenty of photo opportunities.
How do I reserve this tour?
You can book online through GetYourGuide, with options to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.
In all, this tour provides a dependable, scenic adventure that highlights the natural beauty of Patagonia’s lakes and forests—ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back yet visually stunning day out.
You can check availability for your dates here: