From Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by The 7 Lakes Route offers travelers a chance to see some of Argentina’s most breathtaking natural scenery, all packed into about 10.5 hours. For $60 per person, you’ll traverse an eye-popping landscape of lakes, forests, and mountains, with a friendly guide leading the way. This tour is especially popular, often booked 38 days in advance, which speaks to its appeal.
What we love about this experience is the stunning scenery—the lakes and mountain vistas are even more impressive in person than in photos. The lakes, including Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, Escondido, and Machónico, are the real show-stoppers, offering countless postcard-perfect moments. The second highlight is the chance to wander around San Martín de los Andes, a charming Patagonian town on Lake Lacar, where you can enjoy local cuisine and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Guide was ok but he had a lot more to say in Spanish than English. We expected more insight to the area. It’s a long day otherwise.
This tour requires a lot of driving at very low speeds. The 7 Lakes route to San Martin de Los Andes goes through wild country and makes a few stops to take photos. The guide and driver were prepared and punctual. The views are pretty, but the drive was a bit too long.
What an amazing trip with views that will take your breath away. It was a long day but the bus was comfortable and the guide and driver were very kind and accommodating.
One possible drawback is the length of the day and the drive time. Several reviews mention the long hours on the bus, sometimes feeling monotonous or overly rushed, especially if you’re not a fan of sitting for most of the day. Plus, some travelers have expressed frustration over the seating comfort or the limited time at each stop. If you’re looking for a quick visit or a more active adventure, this might not be the best fit.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, beautiful lakes, and a relaxed day soaking in nature and small-town charm. It’s ideal if you don’t mind a full day on the bus and want a guided experience with detailed information from knowledgeable guides.
Key Points
- Spectacular Scenery: The drive along the Route of the Seven Lakes offers countless postcard views of lakes, mountains, and forests.
- Charming San Martín de los Andes: The town provides a lovely spot to enjoy lunch, explore shops, and relax by Lake Lacar.
- Guided Convenience: Led by friendly guides, you get insightful commentary in either English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
- Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a 10+ hour experience with several stops, some travelers find it a bit lengthy or repetitive.
- Value for Money: At $60, including transfers and guide service, many reviewers feel the tour offers good value, especially given the scenery.
- Some Consistency Issues: Several reviews highlight discomfort in transportation, occasional miscommunication, or feeling rushed, so managing expectations is wise.
A Detailed Look at the 7 Lakes Route Tour from Bariloche
If you’re in Bariloche and craving a full day of eye-popping natural beauty, this tour promises just that. It’s a classic South American scenic drive, showcasing the iconic Route of the Seven Lakes, a route celebrated for its striking lakes, lush forests, and rugged mountain backdrops.
What the Tour Includes
For about $60, you get round-trip transport from your hotel in Bariloche to the starting point at Av. Bustillo Km 8, plus a guide who switches seamlessly between Spanish, Portuguese, or English, depending on your preference. The total duration is around 10.5 hours, which is quite a long day but packed with views and stops.
The tour is designed to be flexible, with stops at several lakes, including Correntoso and Escondido, where the water acts like a mirror reflecting snow-capped peaks and dense forests. The highlight is the visual spectacle of lakes that mirror mountains, forests, and blue skies, changing with every curve of the road. The drive is scenic but also includes a stop for lunch in San Martín de los Andes, a town loved for its relaxed, mountain village vibe and picturesque waterfront.
Beautiful area but Too long and monotonous .Bariloche tours refused to Pick us up as contract said ..
This trip is nice and offers great views and the guide was really nice and knowledgeable. But here's the rub: you're basically in the bus for the whole day except for the 2 hours at San Martín DLA, stopping just to take pictures. So if you're the hiking type (or just not the sit-all-day type) I…
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Valentin was fantastic! Very knowledgeable, very kind and accommodating to everyone during the entire journey. I absolutely recommend this tour and him!
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bariloche.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Stop 1: The Route of the Seven Lakes
This is the heart of the tour. Over about three hours, you’ll move through a series of lakes that are often called the “seven” lakes, though in reality, the number can vary depending on how you count. Lakes like Falkner and Villarino are especially photogenic, with clear waters and mountain backdrops. Several reviews praise the scenery, calling it "beautiful" and "fascinating," but some find it a bit monotonous if they prefer more active or varied experiences. One reviewer suggested that the lakes could be shortened from 7 to 3 or 4, feeling the drive becomes repetitive.
Stop in San Martín de los Andes
After hours of scenic driving, you arrive in San Martín de los Andes, on the shores of Lake Lacar. Here, you have around six hours to explore, eat, and relax. Visitors say the town is charming with good dining options and shops. Some reviews appreciated the opportunity to “enjoy lunch in one of its picturesque restaurants,” or to “wander through the quaint streets.” However, a few felt the time was too rushed or that the stop could be better optimized—some would prefer more time in the town rather than a lengthy lunch.
The Guide and Transportation
The guide can make or break the experience. Many reviewers appreciate guides like Rody or Valentin, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and full of interesting facts. One reviewer called Rody “outstanding,” highlighting his enthusiasm and depth of knowledge.
Transportation on a small bus is a double-edged sword. While some found it cozy and manageable, others complained about seating discomfort or the bus being too small for a long day. One reviewer noted they ended up in the last row, with limited visibility, which is a common concern on tours that rely heavily on scenery views.
The Cons: What to Watch Out For
Several travelers noted the length of the drive as a challenge, especially if you’re not fond of sitting for hours. Some described the drive as "long and monotonous," with limited opportunities to stretch or move around. Plus, a few reviews mentioned discomfort in transportation, or feeling like the stops weren’t always chosen for their beauty or interest, which can make the day feel less fulfilling.
The timing can also be an issue. For example, some wished for more balanced stop durations, feeling that two hours in San Martín de los Andes was too much time for some and too little for others. The lunch stop, while appreciated, sometimes takes up a large chunk of the day, leading some to suggest it could be shortened.
Authenticity and Value
What sets this tour apart is the authenticity of the scenery and the chance to see how locals enjoy their lakeside towns. Many reviews mention the good value for money, especially when compared to the cost of organizing a private trip or renting a car. The guided aspect adds a layer of context that self-driving might miss, especially if your guide shares local stories, history, or geology.
Final thoughts: Who is this for?
If you’re after spectacular landscapes, a relaxed pace, and don’t mind a long day on a bus, this tour fits well. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer guided comfort over self-driving, or who want a structured experience with insider info. If you’re looking for more active exploration or shorter visits, or if bus comfort is a priority, consider other options.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a window into the incredible natural beauty of Patagonia, with lakes so clear they seem to mirror the sky. The guided service ensures you’ll learn a bit about the area's geography and local towns, making it more meaningful than just a scenic drive. Although the journey is long and some stops could be better optimized, the views and the sense of wide-open wilderness make it worthwhile for many visitors.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see the lakes and enjoy a taste of mountain-town life without the stress of navigating on their own. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the bus, and value detailed guides and scenic stops, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some long hours and occasional crowds at the best photo spots.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though very young children or those with mobility issues might find the long bus ride tiring.
What languages are available on the tour?
Guides speak Spanish, Portuguese, and English, depending on your preference. Confirm your language when booking.
How long is the drive between stops?
The drive is lengthy, about 10 hours total, with several scenic stops along the way. Some reviews mention it can feel monotonous.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and snacks or water. The stops at lakes are perfect for photos and short walks.
Are entrance fees included?
No, you'll need to pay ARS20,000 each for Nahuel Huapi National Park and LANIN National Park, respectively.
Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided group tour with fixed stops, so customization isn’t usually available.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You have about six hours in San Martín de los Andes for eating and exploring.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates only in good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is transportation comfortable?
The bus is described as small by some, with a few reviewers mentioning discomfort. If comfort is a priority, consider this.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 38 days ahead, especially during peak season.
This scenic adventure on the Route of the Seven Lakes remains a favorite for many, offering a memorable glimpse of Patagonia’s natural splendor—perfect for those happy to spend a long day surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes Argentina has to offer.
