Seven Lakes Route Day Trip & Guide from San Martin

Summary

San Martin de los Andes scenic drive with local Mapuche flavors

This day trip along Argentina’s Seven Lakes route lets you ride through ancient forests, snack on Mapuche specialties by Correntoso Lake, and wander Villa La Angostura at your own pace. Enjoy stories from your local guide and take in views that stretch all the way to Chile—perfect for travelers who want scenery and culture in one easy day.

What’s the experience like?

Our driver waved as we climbed into the minivan just after sunrise, the windows still foggy from the cool mountain air. We rolled out of San Martin de los Andes, following the edge of Lago Lácar—its surface so still that even the ducks seemed to tiptoe. Our guide, Martín, pointed out how the early light made the cypress trees look almost silver. He shared stories about Lanín National Park and explained why locals call this stretch “the Road of the Seven Lakes.”

A little later, we pulled over near Correntoso Lake where a few Mapuche women had set up a table under a blue tarp. The smell of fried cakes drifted over before we even got out—honestly, it was hard not to grab two at once. I tried their homemade cheese and ham too; everything tasted simple but fresh, like it had just come from someone’s kitchen. Martín chatted with them in Spanish and translated for us, sharing bits about their community and traditions.

The drive kept surprising me—one moment we were crossing an old wooden bridge, next we were winding past rivers so clear you could spot trout darting below. At Espejo Grande viewpoint, I swear you could see all the way to Chile if you squinted right. By midday, we reached Villa La Angostura. The village felt relaxed; people strolled between bakeries and shops while dogs napped in doorways. Lunch was on our own, so I wandered into a tiny café for empanadas before meeting up with the group again for our ride back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Road of the Seven Lakes Tour

• Depart San Martin de los Andes by minivan
• Drive along Lago Lácar rim
• Snack stop at Correntoso Lake
• Visit Small Mirror Lake and Espejo Grande viewpoint
• Lunch and explore Villa La Angostura
• Return to San Martin de los Andes hotel

Top questions

How long does the Seven Lakes day trip take?

The full-day tour usually lasts around 8 to 9 hours including stops for snacks and free time in Villa La Angostura.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have free time to buy food in Villa La Angostura or bring your own if you prefer.

What should I wear or bring for this trip?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking; a jacket or sweater is recommended since weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Are there any physical requirements for joining?

This tour is suitable for all fitness levels as most activities involve light walking and scenic stops rather than strenuous hikes.

What’s included

Your experience comes with hotel pickup and drop-off in San Martin de los Andes plus transport by comfortable minivan. You’ll have a professional local guide throughout the journey who shares insights about each lake and introduces you to Mapuche community members along the way—and when it’s time to explore or eat in Villa La Angostura, you’re free to choose your own pace before heading back together.