Bariloche: 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Road Trip

Exploring the Scenic Beauty of the 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes

If you’re visiting Bariloche and craving a full day of jaw-dropping landscapes, the 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Road Trip offers a carefully curated glimpse into Argentine Patagonia’s most picturesque corners. For around $91 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours immersed in nature, traveling along National Route 40, one of South America’s most beautiful roads. Your journey will take you through a string of lakes, charming mountain villages, and end in the delightful town of San Martin de Los Andes.

What we love about this tour is its balanced approach: it offers plenty of stunning views without feeling rushed, and the guides seem genuinely keen on sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for the area. The small-group atmosphere makes for a more personal experience. Two standout features include the scenic stops at iconic lakes like Correntoso and Espejo, and the opportunity to explore Villa La Angostura, with its Alpine-inspired architecture.

One possible drawback? The long bus ride, with about 5 hours of travel time, might challenge those craving more walking or outdoor activity. But if your priority is soaking in incredible vistas and hearing expert stories, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value scenic drives, photo ops, and learning a bit about Patagonia’s natural wonders. Perfect if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the lakes district.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: The drive along Route 40 reveals some of South America’s most breathtaking lakes and forests.
• Expert Guides: Travelers rave about knowledgeable guides who provide engaging commentary and local insights.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned buses make the long hours more pleasant.
• Flexible Exploration: Free time in San Martin de Los Andes allows for a relaxed stroll or quick meal.
• Value for Money: At $91, the trip offers a full day’s worth of views, stories, and local flavor.
• Limited Walking: Mostly sightseeing with short stops—ideal for those who prefer scenic views over extensive hikes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Experience

Setting Off From Bariloche

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in central Bariloche or nearby locations, making it easy to join without extra fuss. The scenic journey kicks off with a comfortable bus ride, giving you your first glimpses of Patagonia’s expansive forests and rolling hills. The guides often chat about the area’s geology, history, and flora, setting the scene for a day immersed in natural beauty.

The Enchantment of the Lakes

The core of the trip is the Road of the Seven Lakes, a segment of National Route 40 that winds through some of the most photographed lakes in Argentina. These include:

• Correntoso Lake: Famous for its long, narrow shape and the Correntoso River connecting it to Lake Nahuel Huapi. Travelers mention stopping here for photos, marveling at the clarity and vibrant colors.
• Espejo Lake: Known for its mirror-like surface, it offers perfect reflections of the surrounding peaks, often described as a “dream landscape.”
• Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Hermoso, and Machonico Lakes: Each one boasts unique scenery, with lush forests, rocky outcroppings, and tranquil waters. Many reviewers highlight how each stop feels like stepping into an untouched postcard.

Villa La Angostura – A Mountain Village Charm

Just a few kilometers before the lakes, you’ll visit Villa La Angostura. This village charms visitors with its Alpine-style wooden architecture, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs, snap a few pictures, and soak in the mountain ambiance. Multiple reviews mention how this stop feels authentic and relaxed, offering a taste of local life amid stunning scenery.

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San Martin de Los Andes: A Town on Lake Lacar

The highlight of the trip is the visit to San Martin de Los Andes, a lakeside town with a laid-back vibe. You’ll have about three hours here to explore at your own pace, whether that means wandering along the waterfront, grabbing a local meal, or just soaking in the mountain views from the town’s streets. Many travelers find this free time perfect for a quick stroll or some souvenir shopping, as noted by those who wish they had a little more time.

The Return Journey

After your free time, the bus makes its way back along the same scenic route. On the way, guides often share additional tidbits about the region’s natural parks and the history of the lakes district. Expect a comfortable ride with rest stops for photos and stretching, making the nearly 5-hour return journey manageable.

Time Management and Group Dynamics

The tour is structured with two pickup points and two drop-off locations, simplifying logistics. It’s generally a small-group experience, with reviews praising the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make effort to answer questions and personalize the experience. Guides often speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, which helps cater to a diverse group.

The timing is well-paced—about 2.5 hours of travel each way, with the bulk of the day spent sightseeing and exploring. However, some reviews point out that the short stops for photos (around 5 minutes) might feel rushed if you’re eager to linger. If you prefer a more leisurely pace with longer walks, this might not suit you.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in central Bariloche, a guided experience, and insurance. You’ll need to pay cash for the national park entrance fee, and food, drinks, or personal expenses are extra. Travelers often recommend bringing snacks and comfortable shoes to make the most of the stops.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides, with comments like “Federico was a great guide, knowledgeable, funny and always helpful.” Many mention how the stunning scenery exceeded their expectations— “the lakes were all stunning, and I didn’t feel rushed.” Others appreciate the organized nature and smooth communication from the company, even when bookings are last minute.

Several travelers point out that the bus was comfortable and safe, and the scenic stops are well-chosen. A few reviews mention minor frustrations, like short photo stops or long travel times, but overall, the consensus is positive: this is an excellent way to see Patagonia’s lakes district without much hassle.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for those who want to see the highlights of the lakes district without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or spending nights away. It’s perfect if you value stunning landscapes, expert guides, and a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities.

Travelers looking for more outdoor activity or longer hikes might find it a bit limited, as most stops are brief and focused on sightseeing from the bus or at viewpoints. If you’re on a tight schedule but still want to capture the essence of Patagonia’s lakes, this tour offers great value and unforgettable views.

In short, it’s a clean, scenic, informative, and enjoyable experience—well-suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the area’s natural splendor.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in centrally located hotels in Bariloche and up to KM 8, making access straightforward.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with approximately 2.5 hours of travel each way and breaks in between for sightseeing and free time.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for limited walking, and consider packing snacks or drinks for the bus ride. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the bus.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring most travelers understand the commentary and explanations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a guide, and insurance. You will need cash for national park entrance fees.

Can I stay longer in San Martin de Los Andes?
You’ll have about 3 hours of free time there, which is enough for a quick exploration or meal, but not for extensive sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, the scenic drive and short stops make it manageable for children, provided they’re comfortable with bus travel.

What about the scenery?
Prepare for breathtaking lakes, forests, and mountain views. Many reviews mention how the lakes’ vibrant colors make the stops worth every minute.

Is the tour worth the price?
Given the stunning scenery, expert guides, and organized logistics, most travelers find it offers excellent value for experiencing the Patagonian lakes district in a single day.

To sum it up, this 7 Lakes & San Martin de Los Andes Road Trip from Bariloche delivers an accessible, picturesque, and well-organized way to see some of Patagonia’s finest natural sights. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking iconic vistas, interesting commentary, and a comfortable day out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or just short on time, this tour offers a memorable slice of Argentine wilderness—beautiful, informative, and worth every peso.

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