FROM BARILOCHE: SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES BY 7 LAKES

Experience the beauty of Argentina’s Lake District on the From Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by 7 Lakes tour

Imagine a day spent winding along a legendary route, crossing lush valleys, glittering lakes, and charming mountain villages. For about $95 per person, we can join a guided tour that takes us from the bustling town of Bariloche northward into some of the most picturesque scenery Argentina has to offer. Starting early at 8:00 AM, this 10-hour journey is perfect for those craving authentic views and a taste of local mountain culture.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the performance of the guides, who are knowledgeable in Spanish, and the well-planned itinerary that balances scenic stops with free time. The route itself, covering roughly 360 km, offers a visual feast. The opportunity to stroll through the quaint village of Villa La Angostura and then explore San Martín de los Andes, perched along the shores of the Lácar Lake, makes this a memorable experience.

One potential consideration is that the tour is offered in Spanish only, which might be a hurdle for non-Spanish speakers. Also, since the trip covers a lot of ground in a single day, travelers should be prepared for long stretches in the vehicle.

This experience suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, are comfortable with guided group settings, and seek an authentic, cost-effective way to see some of Argentina’s most breathtaking scenery in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery along the 7 Lakes route with lakes, mountains, and charming villages
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off included
• Free time in San Martín de los Andes for meals and exploring
• Tour in Spanish suited for Spanish-speaking travelers
• Full-day experience about 10 hours, with significant driving but plenty of scenic stops
• Flexible booking options: cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund

The detailed journey through Argentina’s lakes and mountains

Starting from Bariloche: a scenic departure

The day begins with pickup from your hotel in Bariloche around 8:00 AM. From there, we head north, crossing the town of Dina Huapi and the Limay River via a bridge that marks our entrance to the legendary Route 40. The drive itself is a scenic journey, with views of the surrounding mountains and lakes gradually unfolding as we leave the town behind.

First stop: Villa La Angostura

Our first major stop is the delightful Villa La Angostura, a quaint mountain village that hugs the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Here, we love the way the village’s architecture blends into the natural landscape, with wooden cabins and cozy cafes. It’s an excellent place to stretch our legs and enjoy a short walk, soaking in the mountain air and panoramic views. The guide will give us some context about the area, enhancing our appreciation.

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The highlight: The Seven Lakes Road

After leaving Villa La Angostura, we continue along the famous Seven Lakes Road, a route renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery. We’ll pass by lakes such as Espejo, Correntoso, Villarino, Falkner, Escondido, Machónico, and Lácar. Each lake has its own personality: some mirror the sky perfectly, others are surrounded by lush forests, and some are dotted with small beaches.

The views here are the kind you take photos of and then stare at for a while. The guide might point out interesting features, but the real star is the landscape itself—towering mountains reflected in placid waters.

Arriving in San Martín de los Andes

By around noon, we arrive at San Martín de los Andes, a town famous for its picture-perfect setting beside Lácar Lake. Here, you’ll have free time to explore, buy souvenirs, or enjoy lunch in one of the many lakeside cafes (lunch not included). The town’s quiet streets and local charm make it a worthwhile stop. Several reviews mention that the free time allows for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee while taking in the mountain backdrop.

Returning journey and last stop in Villa La Angostura

After some downtime, we retrace our route, passing through Villa La Angostura again. The drive back offers new perspectives on the scenery, and the guide might share stories or details about the history and geology of the region. The journey ends with an arrival back in Bariloche around 6:30 PM.

Overall value and experience

This full-day tour is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at the 7 Lakes route without the hassle of self-driving or multiple day trips. The cost of $95 covers transportation, a guided experience, and hotel pick-up/drop-off, which makes it a convenient and reasonably priced way to see this spectacular part of Argentina.

Why this tour stands out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of scenic variety and authentic local flavor. The stops are well-chosen to showcase the region’s natural beauty, and the guide’s local knowledge enriches the experience, helping you understand the landscape and culture. The fact that the tour runs in Spanish means it’s best suited for Spanish speakers or those comfortable with a guided experience in that language.

Potential downsides

Travelers should be prepared for the length of the day and the amount of time spent in the vehicle. Also, since the guide speaks only Spanish, non-Spanish speakers might miss some nuanced commentary unless they have a translation app or guidebook. The tour’s focus is on scenery and local towns, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into history or culture, you might want to supplement this with other experiences.

Who will love this?

If you enjoy stunning landscapes, scenic drives, and charming mountain villages, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an all-in-one day trip with minimal hassle, especially if you’re short on time but want a solid taste of Argentina’s Lakes District.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes via the 7 Lakes route offers a wonderful way to experience some of Argentina’s most breathtaking scenery without the need to rent a car or plan complex logistics. The mix of comfortable transportation, scenic stops, and free time in San Martín de los Andes makes it an attractive option for travelers who want a relaxed, visually stunning day.

While the language barrier may be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers, the overall value and quality of the experience shine through. If you’re someone who appreciates mountain lakes, forested landscapes, and charming villages, this tour will hit all the right notes.

For travelers eager to see a true jewel of Argentina’s landscape in one day, for an accessible price, this trip provides both a feast for the eyes and an opportunity to connect with the region’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included, with hotel pick-up and drop-off provided, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with the entire plan covering roughly 360 km.

What language is the tour guide?
The guide speaks Spanish only, so it’s best suited for Spanish speakers or those comfortable with guided tours in that language.

Do I need to pay for lunch?
Lunch is not included in the tour fee, so you’ll want to plan for your meal during the free time in San Martín de los Andes.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the long driving hours and walking in the stops. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day on the road.

What are some highlights I can expect?
You’ll enjoy stunning lakes like Espejo and Lácar, the mountain scenery, and the charming town of San Martín de los Andes.

Is this a small group experience?
The description suggests a group tour, but specific group size isn’t provided. Expect a shared vehicle with other travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable mountain weather, a camera, and some cash for meals or souvenirs during free time.

Will I see wildlife or other animals?
While not explicitly mentioned, the region’s landscape is often home to local birdlife and forest animals, which you might spot along the way.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich day in Argentina’s famed Lakes District. Perfect for those wanting an authentic experience with minimal planning.

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