San Martin De Los Andes lies on the shore of Lake Lácar and is the gateway to the Corredor de los Lagos. This scenic route takes in volcanoes, lakes, streams, rivers, and forests. When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between cultural and nature attractions in the town and other destinations in Lácar Department.

Getting there and getting around

The bus station is opposite Lake Lácar and is served by bus routes from across the country. Chapelco Aviador Carlos Campos Airport is 22 kilometers from the city center. During the high season, it has daily flights from the Capital Federal and cities in the region. As this service is seasonal, check connections for your travel dates.

Local history and nature

The Museo Primeros Pobladores has three rooms dedicated to the history of the Indigenous population and the first immigrant settlers from the early 20th century.

Nature is also part of what there is to discover in San Martin De Los Andes. The Museo de Historia Natural de San Martín de los Andes focuses on the biodiversity of the town and its surroundings. Around 180 bird species live in the area around San Martin De Los Andes. If you prefer exploring on foot, you can hike the Sendero Huella Andina and nature interpretation trails in the San Martín area. The different parts of Parque Nacional Lanín can be reached from San Martin De Los Andes via the southern entrance.

Seasonal activities nearby

Nearby, Cerro Chapelco has 120 hectares of skiable terrain and 20 runs. In summer, the region’s rivers and lakes are ideal for lake outings and water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and sailing.

More destinations in Lácar Department

In Lácar Department, the Ruta de los Siete Lagos can begin in San Martin De Los Andes. This scenic, fully paved stretch of Ruta 40 connects Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi with Parque Nacional Lanín over more than 96 kilometers. Cerro Colorado, which rises to 1,742 meters, is also in Lácar Department, 12 kilometers from the city center. Local hikers and tourists use the area for hiking. Mirador Bandurrias offers views of San Martin De Los Andes, Lake Lácar, and Cerro Chapelco.

Boats from the pier in San Martin De Los Andes reach the shore at Quila Quina in about half an hour; check departure times for your chosen day. In Quila Quina, visitors can rent kayaks and paddle on Lake Lácar. In a small Mapuche community, you can also learn about the history and traditions of the Mapuche people; horseback rides are organized there by Mapuche communities. Another regional route is the Quila Quina–Hua Hum trekking route in the southern sector of Parque Nacional Lanín.

Discover more destinations: Paso Hua-hum, Quilaquina.

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