San Martin de los Andes Lakes and Waterfalls Boat Trip

San Martin de los Andes Lakes and Waterfalls Boat Trip offers a wonderful way to experience some of Patagonia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Priced at $179 per person and lasting around 7 hours, this tour takes you on a comfortable boat ride through shimmering glacial lakes, native forests, and rugged waterfalls, with plenty of stops to explore on foot. Led by an English-speaking guide, the journey promises not only scenic beauty but also cultural insights and convenient, hassle-free access to Lanín National Park’s highlights.

What we love most about this trip is how it combines relaxing boat navigation with short, nature-filled walks, giving you a well-rounded taste of Patagonia’s diverse environment. The stops at Santa Teresita Island and Hua Hum River bring you close to local flora, fauna, and even a glimpse of international borders—adding a touch of adventure to the day. We also appreciate the small-group feel that keeps the experience intimate and manageable, especially with a knowledgeable guide to enhance the scenery with stories and context.

One thing to consider is the price, which might seem high compared to local options—especially if you’re booking through a third-party site and find cheaper local rates. Also, since the tour depends on weather conditions and a minimum number of travelers, it’s worth planning for flexibility. This tour is ideal for travelers who love outdoor scenery, want to see multiple highlights in one day, and prefer guided comfort over DIY exploring.

This experience suits those who appreciate nature, photography, and cultural hints—especially travelers wanting a comprehensive visit to Lanín National Park without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple activities. If you’re curious about Patagonian lakes and waterfalls and want a guided, scenic, and comfortable day out, this is a good choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary with many stops for sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.
• Experienced bilingual guides help bridge language gaps and enrich the experience.
• Multiple scenic locations including lakes, waterfalls, islands, and border areas.
• Convenience of a single tour that covers diverse terrain and highlights.
• Good value for those who appreciate guided tours and want to maximize sightseeing time.
• Price considerations due to third-party booking markups; local prices may vary.

An In-Depth Look at the San Martin de los Andes Lakes and Waterfalls Boat Trip

If you’re planning a trip to San Martin de los Andes, this boat trip offers a chance to see some of Patagonia’s most photogenic landscapes with minimal effort. The tour begins at the pier on Lake Lacar, where you’ll collect your tickets and board a comfortable vessel. The journey is about seven hours long, during which you’ll visit several highlights, each offering unique scenery and opportunities for photos, exploration, or simply soaking in the tranquility.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour is structured around a series of stops, each carefully chosen to showcase different facets of the region’s natural beauty. You’ll start with a scenic parade through Lanín National Park, where the boat navigates for approximately 28 km, giving you sweeping views of the rugged mountains, glaciers, and dense forests. This is a great chance to get a sense of the park’s vastness, especially as the boat pauses for short visits and photo opportunities.

Next, the tour visits the Quila Quina area, on the southern shore of Lake Lacar. Here, you can stretch your legs, enjoy the beaches, and perhaps grab a quick lunch at the local restaurant (note that food is not included in the tour price). It’s a laid-back area, perfect for those who appreciate quiet lakeside scenery or want to buy handcrafted souvenirs from local vendors.

The third stop takes you to Chachín Port near Nonthue Lake, home to the Chachín Waterfall, which plunges about 30 meters down amidst pristine Valdivian forests. The path to the waterfall involves avoiding a narrow channel between lakes, adding a touch of adventure. Visitors frequently comment on the power of the waterfall and the lush forest surroundings—“a waterfall of about 30 meters high in the middle of the Valdivian Forest,” as one review notes.

From there, the boat heads to Hua Hum Port, close to the border with Chile. This low mountain pass (around 640 meters elevation) is a significant geographical feature, with thick greenery reflected in still, clear waters. The border crossing is just a few kilometers away, adding an international flavor to your day. It’s a peaceful spot, where you can imagine how travelers and traders have crossed this route for centuries.

The final stop on the tour is Santa Teresita Island, a small lush patch of land in Lake Lacar with rocky coasts and native forests. The island features a tiny chapel dedicated to Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús, which lends a spiritual and cultural touch to the natural scenery. Many visitors appreciate this quiet, scenic spot—“the island has a small Chapel with the image of Santa Teresita,” as one traveler shared.

What the Tour Feels Like in Practice

The tour begins at noon, giving you an afternoon to enjoy the sunlight and the cooler parts of the day. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery. The guide’s bilingual narrative ensures you won’t miss out on interesting facts or cultural nuances, making the experience accessible for English-speaking travelers.

Groups are capped at 116 participants, but the reviews suggest that many travelers find the experience intimate and engaging. The small group size at each stop allows for personal photos and leisurely exploration—perfect for nature lovers or those who like to take their time.

Authenticity and Scenic Value

What truly stands out is how well the tour captures the essence of Patagonia’s landscape. The glacial lakes shimmer with a turquoise hue, a testament to their icy origins. The waterfalls are powerful yet serene, framed by forests that seem to go on forever. The border area adds a hint of international intrigue, reminding travelers of Patagonia’s remote, rugged character.

The boat ride also gives an immersive perspective that’s hard to replicate from land. We loved the way the water and mountain scenery blended seamlessly, creating a painterly view everywhere you look. The stops at beaches and islands allow you to leave the boat and get closer to the environment, an important feature for travelers craving authenticity.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is largely positive, it’s good to keep in mind that the price can seem steep if you’re comparing it with local rates or other options booked directly on-site. Some reviews mention paying three times more through third-party platforms, which highlights the importance of checking local prices if you’re on a budget.

Weather can also influence the tour’s quality; the experience is weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions turn poor. If the tour is canceled due to weather or insufficient travelers, you’re usually offered a different date or a refund.

Lastly, the tour does not include lunch, transportation from your hotel, or entrance fees to Lanín National Park. Planning for these extras—whether packing snacks or arranging your own transport—can make your day smoother.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a guided, scenic exploration of Patagonia’s lakes, waterfalls, and forests without the hassle of planning multiple activities. Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in local ecosystems will find plenty to admire. It’s also suited for curious travelers eager to experience the region’s remote border crossings and island environments.

If you’re someone who values comfort, informative guides, and a diverse itinerary packed into one day, this tour offers significant value. However, if budget is your main concern, or if you prefer independent exploring with fewer stops, you might consider alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from my hotel? No, the tour starts at the pier on Lake Lacar; you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What time does the tour start? It departs at 12:00 pm, so plan to arrive 15 minutes early at Av. Costanera 901.

How long is the boat ride? The boat navigates for about 28 km during the main part of the trip, with stops along the way, making for a leisurely but scenic journey.

Are all stops included in the price? Yes, the stops at Quila Quina, Chachín Waterfall, Hua Hum River, and Santa Teresita Island are part of the tour fee. However, shopping or dining costs are extra.

Can I bring food or drinks? Food and drinks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring snacks to enjoy during the stops.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for the weather—layers and waterproofs are advisable in case of rain or wind.

Is the tour suitable for children? Generally, yes, but consider the boat ride length and activity level; it’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat and walking short distances.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a refund.

How many people typically join the tour? The maximum is 116 travelers, but reviews suggest that groups often feel intimate and manageable.

Final Thoughts

The San Martin de los Andes Lakes and Waterfalls Boat Trip offers a well-rounded, scenic experience that balances boat travel with short explorations of iconic landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a guided day immersed in Patagonia’s natural beauty—without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. You’ll love the peaceful lakes, powerful waterfalls, and the chance to see the border with Chile in a single day.

While it’s priced higher than some local options, the value lies in the ease of access, the scenic variety, and the informative guides. It’s particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural hints in a single, memorable outing.

If you’re eager to photograph waterfalls, explore lakes, and enjoy the Patagonia scenery in comfort, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to check the weather and plan for some extra snacks—then sit back and enjoy the stunning views.