San Martín de los Andes
A vibrant adventure town on the shores of turquoise Lácar Lake surrounded by volcanic peaks and pristine wilderness. It's a hub for trekking, mountaineering, water sports, and offers excellent restaurants and accommodations.
Things to do
- Lago Lácar kayaking — Paddle the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lago Lácar, surrounded by volcanic peaks and forested shores, with guided tours available for all skill levels.
- Cerro Chapelco skiing — Visit Argentina's premier ski resort on Chapelco volcano during winter months, offering alpine runs and snowboarding with panoramic Andean views.
- Siete Lagos Route trek — Hike or drive the scenic route connecting seven alpine lakes through pristine forests, with multiple trailheads offering day hikes of varying difficulty.
- Cascada Chachín waterfall — Trek through native southern beech forest to reach this powerful waterfall descending from the volcanic highlands, accessible via a moderate 2-hour hike.
- Mirador del Bandurria viewpoint — Ascend to this overlook via a scenic path for panoramic views of Lago Lácar, the town, and surrounding peaks, ideal at sunset.
- Rock climbing at local crags — Scale granite and volcanic rock formations in nearby areas with guided climbing services suitable for beginners to advanced climbers.
- Fly-fishing on Río Hua Hum — Fish for brown and rainbow trout in pristine mountain rivers with experienced local guides familiar with seasonal patterns.
Food to try
- Trucha a la manteca — Fresh lake trout from Lácar prepared simply with butter and local herbs, a signature dish showcasing the region's exceptional fish.
- Cordero Patagónico — Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, traditionally cooked over open fire or in the oven, tender and flavorful from the region's grass-fed herds.
- Choripán — Grilled Argentine sausage served in crusty bread with chimichurri sauce, a ubiquitous local street food and casual meal staple.
- Empanadas de queso y champiñones — Local hand-held pastries filled with local cheeses and wild mushrooms foraged from the surrounding forests.
- Merluza a la cerveza — Fresh hake prepared with local craft beers and regional ingredients, reflecting the town's excellent restaurant scene.
- Chocolate caliente artesanal — Rich, thick hot chocolate made from local and imported quality cocoa, perfect for chilly mountain mornings or après-adventure warmth.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect mountain weather and conditions — Patagonian weather changes rapidly; always check forecasts, carry layers, and inform someone of your hiking plans before heading into wilderness areas.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases — While tourism staff speak English, locals appreciate visitors attempting Spanish, and it enhances interactions at smaller restaurants and shops.
- Book accommodations and activities in advance — San Martín is extremely popular, especially during summer (December–February) and ski season (July–August), so reservations are essential.
- Leave No Trace principles are paramount — The community is fiercely protective of their pristine environment; pack out all waste, stay on marked trails, and respect private property and wildlife.