The Route of the Seven Lakes, or Camino de los Siete Lagos, is the most celebrated scenic road in the Argentine Andes, and the full-day trip from Bariloche to San Martin de los Andes is the easiest way to do it. The journey runs about 190 kilometres on paved highway north through Nahuel Huapi National Park, passing lakes including Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner and Machónico, then arriving at Lake Lácar at San Martin de los Andes. The departure runs about nine hours from a 9:00 start with hotel pickup, stops at Puerto Manzano, a small town with sawmills and fishermen, and at Villa La Angostura, and finishes with free time in San Martin de los Andes, where you can walk the lakefront, have lunch and put your feet in Lake Lácar. The guide speaks Spanish. Travelling in a vehicle with a guide means you can watch the scenery rather than the road, and the drive is long enough that it makes sense as a dedicated day.
The road is the attraction. Starting at Bariloche, the highway follows Ruta 40 through forest, along lakes with colours from slate to turquoise, and across passes with views toward the Andes and the Chilean border. Stops include lookouts over lakes, a flag monument early in the route and the village of Villa La Angostura, a chalet-style town on Nahuel Huapi's northern shore.
The scenery changes from dense Valdivian-style forest to open steppe beyond, which is part of the appeal. The highway is paved and open all year, but one lane in each direction, winding curves and heavy truck traffic mean that a guided vehicle takes the stress out of the drive.
Timing and season matter. Autumn, when the lenga and ñire trees turn red and gold, is the most photographed time, and summer brings warm days and long light. In spring, November, the lakes are full and the peaks hold snow, with fewer visitors and cooler weather, so layers are needed. In winter, snow can block the road temporarily, and ice is a risk in shaded sections. Whatever the season, treat the day as a long outing, bring snacks and water, and plan for a late return to Bariloche in the evening.
Language and logistics
The guide on this departure speaks Spanish, so visitors who do not speak Spanish should plan to read about the stops beforehand and use a map or app for context. Food and drinks are not included, so budget for lunch in San Martin de los Andes, a pleasant lakeside town with restaurants near the water.
The cancellation window is free until 24 hours before, and rescheduling is allowed within that window, which gives some flexibility if the forecast changes. If you would prefer to drive yourself, rental cars are available in Bariloche and the road is straightforward, but plan fuel stops ahead, as stations are limited on the route.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day drive along Ruta 40 and the Seven Lakes road, with hotel pickup, photo stops, Villa La Angostura and free time in San Martin de los Andes.
Best time
Autumn for foliage, summer for warm days, and spring for full lakes and snow-capped peaks with fewer visitors.
How long
About nine hours, starting at 9:00 with hotel pickup.
Tips
Bring snacks, water and layers, plan lunch in San Martin de los Andes and note that the guide speaks Spanish.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want the full scenic drive without the driving, and a taste of another lake town.
- Families
- A long day in a vehicle, so best for children comfortable with long drives; bring snacks and games.
- Couples
- A scenic day with lakeside lunch, unhurried views and a different town to explore.
- Pair with
- A quieter day at Colonia Suiza or the chocolate shops the day after.
- Time needed
- A full day, back in Bariloche in the evening.
Good questions
How long is the Seven Lakes route?+
The drive between Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes is roughly 190 kilometres on paved highway, and the full-day tour takes about nine hours including stops.
Which lakes does the route pass?+
Commonly listed lakes include Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner and Machónico, with Lake Lácar at San Martin de los Andes. Other lakes lie along the way.
Does the tour include lunch?+
No, food and drinks are not included. San Martin de los Andes has restaurants for a lakeside lunch during the free time.
Is the route open in winter?+
The road is open all year but can be blocked temporarily by snow and ice, so check conditions in the ski season, June to September.
Can I cancel or reschedule?+
The booking page allows free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the visit. Check the terms for your chosen date.
