From Bariloche: San Martín De Los Andes via the 7 Lakes Route

Exploring the stunning 7 Lakes Route from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes is a must-do for any Patagonia enthusiast. This full-day tour showcases the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, from vibrant blue lakes to lush forests and majestic rock formations. Led by a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the tranquil landscapes and learn about the area’s rich history and culture. With convenient pickup and an array of inclusions, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure. What awaits along this scenic journey?

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes that showcases the stunning 7 Lakes Route, featuring vibrant blue and emerald lakes, rock formations, rivers, and forests.
• The tour includes stops at lakeside beaches, scenic viewpoints, and the town of San Martín de los Andes, led by a bilingual guide with round-trip transfers and entrance fees included.
• The tour price starts at $99.00 per person, with inclusions such as round-trip transfers, bilingual guide, and entrance fees to Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks.
• Pickup begins from central hotels in Bariloche, with a maximum group size of 30 travelers for an intimate experience, and punctuality is advised as the tour departs at 8:00 am sharp.
• The tour experience features mixed reviews, with positive comments on the stunning lake views and knowledgeable guides, and critiques on long bus journeys and limited time in San Martín.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The full-day tour from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes via the 7 Lakes Route takes travelers through Patagonia’s stunning landscapes, featuring a series of blue and emerald lakes, dramatic rock formations, rivers, and alpine forests.

Key lakes include Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, Escondido, and Machónico.

Stops feature lakeside beaches, scenic viewpoints, and the town of San Martín de los Andes, allowing exploration of local culture and cuisine.

The tour is led by a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) and includes round-trip transfers from central hotels in Bariloche and entrance fees to Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks.

Pricing and Inclusions

The price for the tour ranges from $99.00 per person. This includes round-trip transfers from central hotels in Bariloche, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), and entrance fees to Nahuel Huapi and Lanin National Parks.

The key inclusions are:

• Round-trip transfers from central Bariloche hotels

• Bilingual guide (English and Spanish)

• Entrance to Nahuel Huapi National Park (approx ARS 20,000)

• Entrance to Lanin National Park (approx ARS 20,000)

However, the tour excludes food, beverages, and any unspecified services.

Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Pickup and Logistics

Pickup for the tour commences from central hotels in Bariloche, with travelers being transported to Av. Bustillo Km 8.

The tour commences pickup from central Bariloche hotels, transporting travelers to Av. Bustillo Km 8.

If your hotel isn’t listed, alternative pickup arrangements will be communicated to you. The tour departs at 8:00 am sharp, so punctuality is advised.

The maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the pickup location.

The tour operates on a set schedule, so it’s essential to be ready at the designated time to avoid any delays or missed experiences.

Tour Experience and Feedback

How have traveler reviews depicted the tour experience? Overall, reviews have been mixed. Many have praised the stunning views and knowledgeable guides, while some have complained about the long bus journey and limited time in San Martín.

Positive comments highlight the beauty of the lakes and friendly guides, but critiques include issues with language discrepancies, comfort of transportation, and insufficient time for exploration in San Martín de los Andes. Notable reviews mention the tour being overly focused on bus travel with minimal stops for exploration.

To enhance the experience, travelers suggest:

• Considering car rentals for greater flexibility

• Confirming the language of the tour in advance

• Reducing lunch stop duration to allow more time in San Martín

Stunning Landscapes of Patagonia

Though the tour may focus heavily on the journey by bus, the stunning landscapes of Patagonia are the true highlight of this experience.

The winding 7 Lakes Route takes travelers through a diverse tapestry of natural beauty. Vibrant blue and emerald lakes shimmer amidst dramatic rock formations and towering alpine forests. Rushing rivers carve through the rugged terrain, while scenic viewpoints offer panoramic vistas.

From the iconic Nahuel Huapi to the lesser-known Machónico, each lake possesses its own unique charm and character. This picturesque journey showcases the raw, untamed splendor of the Patagonian region.

Exploring the Seven Lakes

As the bus winds its way along the picturesque 7 Lakes Route, travelers are treated to a mesmerizing display of Patagonia’s natural wonders.

The journey takes them past stunning lakes in hues of blue, green, and turquoise, each with its own unique character:

• Serene Nahuel Huapi Lake, the largest in the region

• Emerald-colored Correntoso Lake, nestled amidst towering mountains

• Secluded Escondido Lake, a hidden gem

• Milky-blue Machónico Lake, fed by glacial meltwater

• Tranquil Lácar Lake, the gateway to the town of San Martín de los Andes

This breathtaking scenic drive offers a glimpse into Patagonia’s enchanting landscapes.

Discovering San Martín De Los Andes

After traversing the breathtaking 7 Lakes Route, travelers arrive in the charming town of San Martín de los Andes. This Patagonian gem offers a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Wander the quaint streets, browse artisan shops, and savor regional delicacies. The lakefront promenade provides stunning vistas of Lake Lácar and the surrounding mountains.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike through pristine Lanin National Park. With its alpine ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, San Martín de los Andes is the perfect place to cap off the 7 Lakes adventure and take in the heart of Patagonia.

Recommendations for a Memorable Journey

To make the most of the 7 Lakes Route tour, travelers can consider a few key recommendations.

First, renting a car provides greater flexibility and the ability to explore at one’s own pace. Plus, confirm the tour language in advance to avoid any confusion.

While the lunch stop is an enjoyable part of the experience, travelers may want to reduce its duration to allow more time in San Martín de los Andes itself.

Some recommend prioritizing the natural wonders over excessive bus travel. Ultimately, the 7 Lakes Route offers a scenic journey, but tailoring the experience to individual preferences can lead to a more memorable visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Stops Are Included Along the 7 Lakes Route?

The tour includes several stops along the 7 Lakes Route, including key lakes like Nahuel Huapi, Correntoso, Escondido, and Machónico, as well as lakeside beaches, scenic viewpoints, and the town of San Martín de los Andes.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour’s pricing excludes food and beverages, so travelers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks. However, they cannot be consumed on the bus to maintain cleanliness during the journey.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour instead of a group tour. Travelers can inquire about private tour options, which may offer more flexibility and personalized experiences along the 7 Lakes Route from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration to Have More Time in San Martín De Los Andes?

Yes, travelers can typically extend the tour duration to have more time in San Martín de los Andes. This would allow for greater exploration of the town’s local culture and cuisine. However, additional costs may apply for the extended tour time.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on photography. Travelers are free to take photos throughout the journey, capturing the stunning Patagonian landscapes and scenic stops. However, it’s advisable to respect fellow travelers and avoid disrupting the group experience.

The Sum Up

The 7 Lakes Route from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes showcases Patagonia’s stunning natural beauty. Travelers can expect breathtaking scenery, including vibrant lakes, lush forests, and majestic rock formations. This full-day tour, led by a knowledgeable guide, promises an unforgettable experience exploring the region’s renowned landscapes and charming lakeside towns. It’s a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the natural wonder of this remarkable destination.