From Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by The 7 Lakes Route

From Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by The 7 Lakes Route – A Detailed Review

Imagine winding through landscapes of luminous blue and emerald lakes, towering rock formations, and lush forests—all within a single day. That’s exactly what this full-day tour from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes offers. For $99 per person, you’ll spend about 10 and a half hours exploring some of Patagonia’s most breathtaking scenery, with the company of a friendly bilingual guide (Spanish and English).

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular views with authentic local culture. The stops at picturesque lakes like Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, Escondido, and Machónico are highlights that make the long drive worth it. Plus, the chance to stroll around San Martín de los Andes—a charming town on Lake Lacar—adds a lovely cultural touch.

That said, one consideration to keep in mind is the duration of travel; some reviews mention that it’s a long bus ride, which may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer more active outings or shorter excursions. Nonetheless, if you’re eager to see a wide stretch of Patagonia’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving yourself, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy photography, scenic vistas, and learning about the area from a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Stunning Lakes and Landscapes: The route features some of Patagonia’s most iconic lakes with postcard-perfect reflections.
• Comprehensive Scenic Drive: About 3 hours of traveling through forests, mountains, rivers, and rock formations.
• Charming San Martín de los Andes: A perfect spot for lunch, exploring local shops, and soaking in Patagonian town life.
• Guided Experience: Bilingual guides enrich the trip with stories and insights, making the scenery more meaningful.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a 10-hour journey, with multiple photo stops and scenic viewpoints.
• Limited Flexibility: Some reviews mention that the stops could be shorter or more diverse, especially on the return.

A Closer Look at the 7 Lakes Route Tour

Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to showcase Patagonia’s most mesmerizing lakes and mountains along the well-known Camino de los 7 Lagos. The journey starts early, with pickup from your Bariloche hotel, and takes you through a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Expect to see lakes such as Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Hermoso, and Machónico—each offering unique views and photo opportunities.

The drive itself is a significant part of the experience. The route winds through alpine forests, crossing rivers and jagged rock formations. Many travelers comment on the beauty of the scenery, with one reviewer noting, “The lakes were really beautiful,” and appreciating the stunning vistas which they felt were worth the long bus ride.

What Makes the Lakes Spectacular?

The lakes mirror the surrounding mountains and forests, creating scenes that seem almost unreal. Stops at lakeside beaches and viewpoint sites allow you to stretch your legs, snap pictures, and really absorb the natural grandeur. As one reviewer said, “Stops at the beautiful lakes were great,” underscoring how these moments are the core of the trip.

The Town of San Martín de los Andes

After about three hours on the road, the tour arrives at San Martín de los Andes, a town on the shores of Lake Lacar. Here, you get roughly six hours to explore. Many reviewers emphasize the charm of this town, mentioning its quaint streets, local restaurants, and the opportunity to enjoy a Patagonian meal. One traveler noted, “The stop in San Martin for a meal and time to enjoy the surroundings was very enjoyable.”

You’ll find that San Martín offers a relaxed atmosphere, with shops and cafes, making it a perfect place to unwind after hours of scenic driving. Some reviews mention that the lunch options are at least decent, although a few suggest that they wished there was more time to explore the shops or walk along the lake.

Group Size, Guides, and Language

The tour is limited to 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate. Guides are bilingual, typically speaking both Spanish and English, with many reviewers praising guides like Valentin for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer said, “Valentin was fantastic! Very knowledgeable, very kind and accommodating to everyone,” highlighting how a good guide can transform this journey.

However, a few travelers have experienced confusion or disappointment around language availability, especially when they paid extra for an English-speaking guide but were told last-minute that only Spanish was available. It’s worth confirming your language preference before the day of the trip.

The Transportation and Duration

The transportation is in a comfortable bus, but some reviewers found the mini bus uncomfortable for a long day. The drive is scenic but lengthy, with some noting it’s primarily a bus ride with short stops, rather than a tour with active exploration. The tour lasts around 10.5 hours, so be prepared for a lot of sitting.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Positives include:
– Great value for the price
– Breathtaking lakes and vistas
– Friendly, knowledgeable guides that provide useful commentary
– The chance to see Patagonian landscapes without the hassle of self-driving

Negatives comprise:
– The long bus ride can be tiring for some
– Stops may feel rushed or limited in time, especially at lakes
– Some travelers felt the lunch stop was somewhat obligatory, with less emphasis on exploring the town

Pricing and Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see a broad stretch of Patagonia’s scenery. When you consider the cost of private transportation, guides, and multiple scenic stops, it’s a good deal. Many reviews mention that the guide’s local knowledge and the views themselves make the trip worthwhile, even if the day is long.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more active or flexible sightseeing, or if you dislike long bus rides, you might find the value less compelling. For those willing to sit back and enjoy the scenery, this tour delivers stunning visuals and cultural insights at a reasonable price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey is perfect for travelers who want to see Patagonia’s lakes without renting a car, especially those who appreciate guided narrative and local insights. It suits photography enthusiasts and nature lovers eager to capture iconic views. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors to Bariloche who want a rundown of this scenic region.

That said, if you’re not comfortable with long bus rides or prefer a more active, less scheduled day, you might want to consider other options. Also, if language is a concern, confirm your guide’s language beforehand, as some travelers have faced last-minute surprises.

Final Words: Is the 7 Lakes Route Tour Worth It?

In short, this tour provides a beautiful, value-packed day of Patagonian scenery, led by guides who are appreciated for their knowledge and friendliness. You’ll love the spectacular lakes, viewpoints, and the chance to soak in the landscape of one of South America’s most stunning regions.

It’s definitely best suited for those who don’t mind a lengthy bus journey and desire a guided, structured experience. If you’re looking for authentic natural beauty, combined with comfort and convenience, this trip will serve you well. Be prepared for a long day on the bus, but with plenty of memorable sights along the way.

FAQs

Does the tour include transportation to and from my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from hotels in Bariloche to the starting point at Av. Bustillo Km 8.

What is the length of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, from pickup to return.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks are not included, and you’ll need to pay for your lunch, beverages, and any extra services.

Can I choose the language of the guide?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English. However, some reviews mention last-minute language changes, so confirm your language preference beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, given the comfortable transportation. However, the long drive might be tiring for very young children or seniors.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day trip along the Route of the Seven Lakes is a fantastic way to see Patagonia’s natural wonders without the hassle of self-driving. It’s a thoughtfully organized experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and value, making it a worthwhile choice for most travelers eager to enjoy Patagonia’s iconic landscapes.