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Best Day Trips from Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)

Embark on an unforgettable self-drive adventure along Argentina's iconic Ruta de los Siete Lagos, a breathtaking stretch of Patagonia renowned for its pristine azure lakes, ancient forests, and majestic Andean peaks. This route serves as a perfect base for exploring a wealth of natural wonders and charming Patagonian towns, offering unparalleled freedom and flexibility for travelers with a rental car. Discover hidden coves, panoramic viewpoints, and vibrant local culture at your own pace.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
6 day trips
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The Ruta de los Siete Lagos, or Seven Lakes Route, is a spectacular section of Argentina's legendary Ruta 40, winding through the heart of the Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks. Connecting the picturesque towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura, this scenic road offers constant postcard-perfect views. With a rental car, you gain the ultimate independence to explore not just the famous lakes like Lácar, Machónico, Escondido, Correntoso, Espejo, and Nahuel Huapi, but also to venture off the beaten path to discover hidden waterfalls, charming villages, and stunning trekking trails. This guide provides comprehensive information on exciting day trips from this central Patagonian gem, ensuring you make the most of your self-drive experience.

Area Overview

The Ruta de los Siete Lagos forms a central axis (predominantly RN-40, formerly RN-234 in some sections) between San Martín de los Andes to the north and Villa La Angostura to the south, traversing approximately 110 kilometers. Most of this route is paved, offering smooth driving. To the south of Villa La Angostura, RN-40 continues towards Bariloche. East of San Martín de los Andes, RP-62 leads into Lanín National Park towards Lago Lolog, and RP-19 to Lago Huechulafquen. The area is mountainous, with winding roads and numerous viewpoints. While signage is generally good, having an offline map or GPS is recommended, as cell service can be spotty. Be prepared for varied weather conditions, even in summer.

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Day Trips

San Martín de los Andes

easyCar Required
Distance: Approximately 45-110 km (depending on starting point on the route)Drive Time: 1 to 2 hours

A charming mountain town nestled on the shores of Lago Lácar, San Martín de los Andes offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore its vibrant main street, indulge in local gastronomy, or enjoy water sports on the lake. The town is the northern gateway to the Seven Lakes Route.

Best For: Culture, food, lake activities, family-friendly exploration
Lake Lácar waterfrontArtisan shops and local cuisineMirador Arrayán viewpointChapelco ski resort (seasonal)

Villa La Angostura

easyCar Required
Distance: Approximately 45-110 km (depending on starting point on the route)Drive Time: 1 to 2 hours

Known as the Garden of Patagonia, Villa La Angostura is a picturesque village set amidst lush forests and the crystalline waters of Lago Nahuel Huapi. Its architecture, reminiscent of European alpine villages, complements the stunning natural surroundings. It is the southern gateway to the Seven Lakes Route.

Best For: Nature lovers, hiking, quaint village charm, photography
Arrayanes Forest National Park (Bosque de Arrayanes)Puerto Manzano marinaCerro Bayo ski resort (seasonal)Stunning lake views

Bariloche (San Carlos de Bariloche)

moderateCar Required
Distance: Approximately 100 km from Villa La AngosturaDrive Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

San Carlos de Bariloche, often called the 'Swiss Patagonia,' is a bustling city famous for its chocolates, stunning lake views, and outdoor activities. It serves as a major hub for tourism in the region, offering a wide array of excursions and amenities.

Best For: Adventure sports, city amenities, chocolate lovers, diverse activities
Circuito Chico scenic driveCerro Campanario (panoramic views)Chocolate factories and artisanal shopsNahuel Huapi National Park activities

Parque Nacional Lanín: Lago Huechulafquen & Volcán Lanín

moderateCar Required
Distance: Approximately 80 km from San Martín de los AndesDrive Time: 1.5 hours

Venture into the pristine wilderness of Lanín National Park to witness the majestic Volcán Lanín and the vast Lago Huechulafquen. This area offers stunning landscapes, opportunities for fishing, trekking, and appreciating indigenous Mapuche culture.

Best For: Nature immersion, trekking, fishing, cultural experiences
Views of Volcán LanínLago HuechulafquenRío Chimehuin (fly fishing)Mapuche communities and handicrafts

Confluencia Traful & Villa Traful

easyCar Required
Distance: Approximately 30 km from the Seven Lakes Route (near Lago Correntoso turnoff)Drive Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (from route)

Take a detour off the main route to the serene Lago Traful and the charming village of Villa Traful. This tranquil destination is less crowded, offering breathtaking views, unique geological formations like the 'Bosque Sumergido' (Submerged Forest), and excellent fishing.

Best For: Tranquility, unique natural sights, photography, off-the-beaten-path exploration
Lago Traful (panoramic views)Bosque Sumergido (visible by boat tour)Mirador del Viento (wind viewpoint)Trekking and fishing opportunities

Lago Espejo Grande & Cascadas Ñivinco

easyCar Required
Distance: Approximately 20-30 km from Villa La Angostura (along the Seven Lakes Route)Drive Time: 30-40 minutes

Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lago Espejo Grande, known for its calm beaches and stunning reflections. A short, easy hike nearby leads to the beautiful Cascadas Ñivinco (Ñivinco Waterfalls), a perfect stop for nature photography and a refreshing break.

Best For: Relaxation, easy hiking, family outings, nature photography
Swimming and relaxing at Lago Espejo Grande beachesEasy hike to Cascadas ÑivincoLush forest sceneryPicnic spots

Best Season to Visit

The best season for day trips from the Ruta de los Siete Lagos is spring (October-November) and summer (December-March). During these months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, all roads are accessible, and conditions are ideal for hiking, water sports, and enjoying outdoor activities. Autumn (April-May) offers stunning fall foliage but can bring colder temperatures. Winter (June-September) is beautiful for snow-capped landscapes and skiing, but many smaller roads and services may be closed, and driving requires extra caution due to snow and ice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entire Ruta de los Siete Lagos paved?

Yes, as of recent years, the entire 110 km stretch of the Ruta de los Siete Lagos (RN-40) between San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura is fully paved, offering a comfortable driving experience.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to explore the area?

A 4x4 is not strictly necessary for driving the main paved Ruta de los Siete Lagos. However, if you plan to explore unpaved side roads, venture deeper into national parks, or travel during shoulder seasons with potential for unpaved sections to be muddy, a vehicle with higher clearance or 4x4 capability would be beneficial.

Are there gas stations along the Seven Lakes Route?

Gas stations are located in the main towns at either end of the route, San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura. It's advisable to fill your tank before embarking on the journey, as there are no gas stations directly on the route itself.

What are the driving conditions like in winter?

Driving during winter (June-September) can be challenging due to snow and ice. Chains may be required, and some roads, particularly unpaved sections, might be closed. Always check road conditions before setting out and ensure your rental car is equipped for winter driving.

Can I do these day trips without a rental car?

While some towns like San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura are accessible by intercity buses, exploring the numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and less-frequented lakes along and off the Ruta de los Siete Lagos is extremely difficult without a personal vehicle. A rental car offers the freedom and flexibility essential for fully experiencing the region.

Are there entrance fees for the national parks?

Yes, both Lanín National Park and Nahuel Huapi National Park may have entrance fees, especially for certain trails or attractions within their boundaries. It's advisable to check current fees at visitor centers or official park websites before your visit.

What is the best time of day to drive the Seven Lakes Route?

To fully appreciate the scenic beauty and allow for stops at viewpoints and short hikes, it's best to start your drive in the morning. This provides ample daylight, especially if you plan to visit attractions at either end of the route or take detours.

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