San Martín de los Andes
Save19 hand-picked places in 8 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See a ready-made day plan ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Lakefront promenade and town beach on the shores of Lago Lácar.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Best at sunset
- Kayaks and bikes for rent in summer
- Water is cold even in January
📷 Photos
- 2
Classic lookout over Lago Lácar and the town.
- Tip: Late afternoon
2 tips
- Steep walk or short drive up
- Tea house at the top
📷 Photos
- 3
Lookout in Mapuche community land with sweeping lake views.
3 tips
- Small fee paid to the community
- Hike or bike from town
- Bring water
📷 Photos
- 4
Leafy main square with a crafts fair and alpine-style buildings.
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Artisan fair in summer evenings
- Tourist office is nearby
- Start point for town walks
📷 Photos
- 5
Mapuche community beach with clear water, reached by boat or road.
3 tips
- Boat from the town pier is scenic
- Short walk to a waterfall
- Bring a picnic
📷 Photos
- 6
Sheltered lakeside beach a short drive south of town.
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Campsite and kiosk on site
- Calm water for kayaking
📷 Photos
- 7
Small museum on Mapuche culture and the region's early settlers.
3 tips
- Quick visit, under an hour
- Good rainy-day option
- Check limited opening hours
📷 Photos
- 8
Historic timber-and-stone park headquarters on the main square.
3 tips
- Get park info and permits here
- Fine example of park architecture
- Free to look around
📷 Photos
- 9
Pier where boat trips leave for Quila Quina and Hua Hum.
- Tip: Go early
- Tip: Book ahead
1 tip
- Great photos of the town and hills
📷 Photos
- 10
Ski resort in winter, hiking and biking in summer, with Lanín views.
3 tips
- Ski season runs roughly July-September
- Summer chairlift rides offer views
- About 20 km from town
📷 Photos
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Before you go: San Martín de los Andes tips
Transportation
- Fly into Chapelco: Chapelco Airport is about 20 minutes from town, with flights from Buenos Aires in high season.
- Drive the Ruta de los Siete Lagos: The scenic RN40 links San Martin de los Andes with Villa La Angostura past seven glacial lakes.
- Take boats on Lago Lacar: Boat trips from the town pier visit Quila Quina beach and the far end of the lake.
Security
- Drive carefully on gravel: Some side roads in Lanin National Park are unpaved; drive slowly and watch for wildlife.
- Respect fire bans: Summer brings high wildfire risk; follow park rules on campfires.
- Swim cautiously: Lago Lacar is cold and deep; stay close to shore.
Saving
- Compare payment options: Inflation and exchange rates change often; check whether foreign cards or cash get a better rate.
- Cook your own asado: Cabins with grills let you buy meat at the butcher and cook like a local.
- Visit in shoulder season: Spring and autumn bring lower prices and fewer crowds than summer and ski season.
Weather/Clothing
- Ski at Cerro Chapelco in winter: June to September brings snow; bring warm waterproof gear.
- Expect warm days and cool nights in summer: December to February is pleasant, but evenings are chilly.
- Pack for wind: Patagonian winds can be strong; a windproof jacket is essential.
Cultural
- Learn about Mapuche culture: Mapuche communities live around the lake; respect their land and traditions.
- Try Patagonian lamb and trout: Cordero patagonico and local trout are regional specialties.
- Taste local craft beer and chocolate: The town has breweries and chocolate shops.
Local Hacks
- Hike to Mirador Bandurrias: The lookout above town has views over Lago Lacar; a small fee supports the Mapuche community.
- See Volcan Lanin: The snow-capped volcano dominates Lanin National Park and is visible on clear days.
- Rent a bike: Cycling around the lake shore and town is a great way to explore.
1-day itineraries in San Martín de los Andes
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.