Ruta De Los Siete Lagos

Winding through the northern Patagonian Andes, the Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes) is one of Argentina's most spectacular drives. This 110-kilometer stretch of RN 40 (and connecting gravel roads) links the lakeside towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura, weaving past a string of glacier-fed lakes, ancient forests, and snow-capped peaks. The route is a feast for the senses: electric-blue water, the scent of coihue and lenga trees, and the distant rumble of waterfalls. While the road is passable year-round, the best time is from November to March, when days are long and the weather mild. Plan for a full day to allow stops at every lake, with time for short hikes, a picnic, or a chilly dip.

Highlights & What to See

• Lago Lacar – Start in San Martín de los Andes on the shores of this deep-blue lake, ringed by mountains. Rent a kayak or take the scenic chairlift up Cerro Chapelco for panoramic views.
• Lago Machónico – A quieter lake with a pebble beach perfect for a swim stop; the surrounding forest is prime for spotting woodpeckers and foxes.
• Lago Hermoso – True to its name, this small, emerald lake has a mirador (viewpoint) just off the road. It's a favorite for photographers at golden hour.
• Lago Villarino & Lago Falkner – These twin lakes are connected by a short isthmus. Hike the Sendero de los Arrayanes trail to see the cinnamon-barked arrayán trees.
• Lago Espejo – Named for its mirror-like reflections, this lake is a prime spot for windsurfing and has a popular campground.
• Lago Correntoso – One of the deepest lakes in Patagonia, famous for its fly fishing and the photogenic Río Correntoso, said to be the shortest river in the world.
• Villa La Angostura – End your journey in this alpine-style village on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi, known for its chocolate shops, craft breweries, and access to Arrayanes National Park.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day (8–10 hours) to drive the route one-way without rushing, including stops at each lake and a picnic lunch. For a more immersive experience, split the drive over two days with an overnight in Villa La Angostura or at one of the lakeside lodges. If you're short on time, you can cover the highlights in 4–5 hours, skipping the longer hikes. The road is a mix of paved and gravel sections; a rental car with good clearance is recommended, but a standard 2WD is fine in dry conditions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• San Martín de los Andes – The northern gateway, a lively town with excellent trout fishing, hiking in Lanín National Park, and ski slopes at Cerro Chapelco.
• Villa La Angostura – The southern terminus, offering upscale dining, the quirky Bosque de Arrayanes (myrtle forest), and boat trips to Isla Victoria.
• Bariloche – A 1.5-hour drive south of Villa La Angostura, this larger city is the adventure capital of the Argentine Lake District, with world-class trekking, cycling, and chocolate.
• Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi – Argentina's oldest national park, encompassing the route's southern section, with trails like the Cerro Catedral and the Refugio Frey.
• Parque Nacional Lanín – North of San Martín de los Andes, dominated by the conical Volcán Lanín; a great area for multi-day treks and wildlife watching (condors, pudú deer).

Please check official sources for current details.