Family Travel: Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route)
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure along Argentina's Ruta de los Siete Lagos, a breathtaking scenic drive through the heart of Patagonia's lake district, perfect for creating cherished memories amidst stunning natural beauty.
8 min readThe Ruta de los Siete Lagos, or Seven Lakes Route, is a legendary section of National Route 40 in Patagonia, Argentina, connecting San Martín de los Andes with Villa La Angostura. This spectacular drive winds through a landscape of pristine, vibrant blue and green lakes, ancient forests, and majestic mountains. It's an ideal destination for families seeking adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature. With a reliable rental car, families gain the ultimate flexibility to explore at their own pace, stopping for impromptu picnics, short hikes, and dips in the crystal-clear waters. This guide will help you navigate this incredible journey with children of all ages, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Short Hikes & Viewpoints
OutdoorNumerous well-marked, short trails and viewpoints along the route offer easy access to stunning lake vistas. Look for trails near Lago Espejo, Lago Villarino, and the Arrayanes Forest for gentle walks perfect for little legs or stroller use with good wheels.
Beach Time at the Lakes
OutdoorMany of the lakes, particularly Lago Lácar in San Martín de los Andes and sections of Lago Nahuel Huapi near Villa La Angostura, have accessible beaches. Kids can splash in the shallows, skip stones, or build sandcastles. Remember the water is cold, even in summer!
Kayaking or Paddleboarding
OutdoorRent kayaks or paddleboards in San Martín de los Andes or Villa La Angostura for a peaceful way to explore the lakes. Many rental places offer tandem kayaks, perfect for an adult and child.
Puerto Manzano Adventure Park
OutdoorLocated near Villa La Angostura, this park offers zip-lines, canopy walks, and adventure circuits suitable for various age groups, providing an adrenaline rush amidst the forest.
Safety for Families
Patagonia is generally very safe, but its wild nature requires respect. Always be prepared for rapid weather changes – pack layers, rain gear, and sun protection (hats, sunscreen) regardless of the forecast. Stay on marked trails, be aware of wildlife (though dangerous encounters are rare), and ensure children are always supervised, especially near water. Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in your car. Major towns like San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura are safe for walking, even at night.
Healthcare Facilities
For medical emergencies, there are hospitals (Hospital Ramón Carrillo) in San Martín de los Andes and a smaller hospital (Hospital Dr. Oscar Arraiz) in Villa La Angostura. Both towns also have pharmacies (farmacias) where you can find over-the-counter medications, baby supplies, diapers, and formula. In case of serious emergency, dial 107 for an ambulance. Keep local emergency numbers easily accessible.
Common Risks
- !Rapid weather changes (sun, rain, wind in one day)
- !Cold lake water (even in summer)
- !Sun exposure at high altitude
- !Uneven terrain on hiking trails
- !Mosquitoes and other insects (especially near water)
- !Dehydration (carry plenty of water)
Age-Specific Tips
Toddlers (0-3)
Frequent stops are key! The beauty of a rental car is the flexibility to pull over whenever needed for diaper changes, snacks, or a quick run-around. Pack plenty of easy-to-eat snacks and drinks. Look for playgrounds in towns like San Martín de los Andes. A comfortable, all-terrain stroller or baby carrier is essential for enjoying short walks.
Young Kids (4-7)
Engage them with scavenger hunts for specific leaves, stones, or wildlife. Point out the different colors of the lakes. Pack binoculars for spotting birds. Short, rewarding hikes to viewpoints are perfect. Consider bringing water shoes for comfortable lake exploration.
Preteens (8-12)
They'll enjoy more challenging hikes and the opportunity to try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Encourage them to take photos or keep a travel journal. Many fishing excursions cater to families and can be a great way to experience the lakes.
Teens (13-17)
The Seven Lakes Route offers plenty of thrills for teens, from mountain biking and white-water rafting (available through tour operators in major towns) to longer, more strenuous hikes. Give them some autonomy in choosing activities or navigating. Wi-Fi can be spotty, so download movies/games beforehand for car rides.
Rent a Car in Patagonia
Browse Car RentalsFamily-Friendly Dining
- 1La Casona, San Martín de los Andes (offers a varied menu with pizzas, pastas, and local dishes in a cozy atmosphere)
- 2Parrilla La Vieja Estación, Villa La Angostura (classic Patagonian 'parrilla' with options kids enjoy like empanadas and simpler meat dishes)
- 3Ruca Malen, Villa La Angostura (renowned for its Patagonian lamb and trout, often accommodating families with simpler meal requests for children)
- 4Ice cream shops ('Heladerías') in both towns (a must-do treat after any activity!)
- 5Casual cafes and bakeries for empanadas, facturas (pastries), and sandwiches (great for quick, affordable meals)
Driving with Kids
Car Seat Rules
In Argentina, children under 10 years old or weighing less than 36 kg (approximately 79 lbs) are required to use appropriate child restraint systems (car seats or booster seats) in the rear of the vehicle. Always ensure your rental car comes with the correct car seats for your children's age and weight, and verify they are properly installed. Booking car seats in advance with your rental is highly recommended.
Road Trip Tips
- 1Rent a spacious car: A comfortable rental car with enough room for luggage, strollers, and stretching is crucial. Look for SUVs or larger sedans. This platform often has great options with car seat availability.
- 2Break up the drive: While the route isn't excessively long (around 100 km), frequent stops are essential for kids. Plan for stops at each lake's viewpoint, picnic areas, and short walks.
- 3Pack entertainment: Books, small toys, tablets (downloaded content for offline use), and car games will keep boredom at bay during longer stretches.
- 4Snacks and hydration: A cooler with drinks, fruits, sandwiches, and easy-to-munch snacks is a lifesaver. Remote areas have limited services.
- 5Music and audiobooks: Create a family playlist or download kid-friendly audiobooks for shared enjoyment.
- 6Leave no trace: Teach kids about respecting nature by packing out all trash and keeping the beautiful environment pristine.
Best Routes
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos itself (National Route 40) is the primary route. You can start from San Martín de los Andes and drive south to Villa La Angostura, or vice versa. Both directions offer spectacular views. Consider spending a few nights in each town to fully explore the surrounding areas and break up the driving. An ideal family itinerary would be 2-3 nights in San Martín de los Andes, 1-2 nights along the route (camping or cabins), and 2-3 nights in Villa La Angostura (or extending to Bariloche).
Rainy Day Options
- 1Visit the Arrayanes Forest (Bosque de Arrayanes): Even on a rainy day, the unique cinnamon-colored trees are magical, and the covered areas provide some shelter.
- 2Explore the 'Centro Cívico' in San Martín de los Andes or Villa La Angostura: Browse local craft shops for souvenirs, enjoy a warm coffee and pastries.
- 3Cultural Centers or Museums: Check local listings for small museums or cultural exhibits that might be open.
- 4Indoor Playgrounds or Arcades: Some hotels or larger towns like Bariloche (a bit further south) might offer these options.
- 5Cooking Class: Some resorts or specialized kitchens offer short, family-friendly cooking classes where you can learn to make local dishes.
- 6Relax in your cabin/hotel: Enjoy board games, movies, or simply reading by a cozy fireplace.
Rent a Car in Patagonia
Explore this destination at your own pace. Find the perfect rental car for your Patagonia adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit the Seven Lakes Route with family?
The ideal time is during the warmer months, from November to April. Summer (December-February) offers the best weather for outdoor activities, but it's also peak season. Spring (November) and Autumn (March-April) provide beautiful colors, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures, though some services might be reduced in shoulder seasons.
Is it safe to drink the water from the lakes?
No, it is generally not recommended to drink water directly from the lakes without proper filtration or purification. Always rely on bottled water or purified water for consumption, especially for children.
Where can I find baby supplies like diapers and formula?
Major towns like San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura have supermarkets (e.g., La Anónima, Jumbo) and pharmacies where you can find a good selection of diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food. Stock up before heading into more remote sections of the route.
Are there many public restrooms along the route?
Public restrooms can be scarce in the more remote stretches. It's advisable to use facilities in towns, gas stations, or restaurants whenever available. Many campsites also have facilities. The flexibility of a rental car means you can always pull over discreetly if absolutely necessary.
What kind of clothing should we pack for the family?
Layers are crucial! Pack clothing for all seasons, even in summer. Include light shirts, sweaters, a warm fleece or jacket, waterproof outer layers, long pants, shorts, comfortable walking shoes, hats for sun and warmth, and swimsuits. The weather can change rapidly.
Is Wi-Fi widely available along the Seven Lakes Route?
Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes in the main towns (San Martín de los Andes, Villa La Angostura). However, expect limited or no cellular data/Wi-Fi coverage in between towns along the scenic route itself. Plan accordingly by downloading maps, entertainment, and important information beforehand.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available for family dining?
Yes, most restaurants in San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura are becoming more accommodating. You'll often find pasta, salads, vegetable empanadas, and sometimes gluten-free bread options. It's always best to communicate any dietary restrictions to your server when ordering.