San Martin de los Andes is a charming city located in the province of Neuquen, Argentina, in the Patagonia Region.
With an estimated population of 30,000 inhabitants and a privileged natural environment, it allows the development of activities in nature. It is 640 meters above sea level, in a natural system characteristic of the Patagonian Andes, with mountains covered by dense native forests, crystalline streams, and great biodiversity.
San Martin de los Andes Argentina Sights
1. Plaza San Martin
Plaza San Martin is the historic center of the city. From this square, the distribution of streets was outlined when the city was founded, on February 4th, 1.898.
In the center of the square is the monument to General San Martín and a succession of native trees on its four sides.
2. Parroquia San Jose
Parroquia San Jose is located in the historic center of the city close to Plaza San Martin and next to the San Martin de los Andes Town Hall. The church has a beautiful interior.
3. Seven Lakes Route
The Seven Lakes Route is certainly one of the must-see attractions in the region. It is possible to make the route on your own by driving or through the various tours available.
On the route, you will pass each of the lakes and will have incredible views.
4. Lanin National Park
Lanin National Park was created to preserve and protect this part of the Andean-Patagonian forests. The park has more than 20 lakes, including Lacar Lake and Huechulafquen Lake, to the north.
On the site, you will find mountains, rivers, and the extinct Lanin Volcano – the snow-covered, conical peak on the border with Chile.
5. Lacar Lake
San Martin de los Andes is located beside Lacar Lake and from its pier, the main water activities are carried out on the lake. On the right is an extensive sandy beach widely used by residents and tourists as a summer resort and recreation place.
6. La Islita
La Islita is a beach located 9 km from the city center, very popular with local youth. For beautiful views do not miss passing by Mirador Bandurrias.
7. Cascada Chachin
Cascada Chachin is a beautiful waterfall that can be accessed by boat or car. The path to the waterfall is spectacular.
8. La Pastera Museo del Che
La Pastera Museo del Che is a museum located 750 meters from Plaza San Martin. The museum is a different alternative to get to know Che‘s life and thoughts.
The main hall features dynamic and informative panels that recreate the life of the revolutionary leader.
9. Visitors Center & Lanin National Park Museum
The new Visitor Center & Lanin National Park Museum occupies a historic building.
The historical sample allows the visitor, through panels, to display old elements of daily use and to recreate a forest guard section, to better understand the process of occupying the territory of Patagonia, the creation of the National Parks system.
10. Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort
Cerro Chapelco is a ski resort located 19 km from San Martin de los Andes city center.
11. San Martin de los Andes Charming Streets
San Martin de los Andes has beautiful architecture and charming streets with restaurants, chocolate shops, and craft shops to be explored.
Hot to get to San Martin de los Andes
During the high tourist season, flights from Buenos Aires and cities in the region arrive daily at Chapelco Aviador Carlos Campos Airport, located 22 km from the city center.
The city also has a bus terminal located in front of Lacar Lake that receives buses from various parts of the country.
For visitors wishing to arrive by car, there is an extensive network of routes connecting San Martin de los Andes with the rest of the country, Chile, and the cities of Villa la Angostura and Bariloche.
Distances
San Martin de los Andes – Villa la Angostura – 108 km
San Martin de los Andes – Bariloche – 191 km
Where to eat
- La Nonna Itália Pizzería
- Mamuschka
- El Regional Restaurante
Where to stay
The Patagonia Plaza is a beautiful hotel located in the heart of the historic center of San Martin de los Andes. The rooms have a flat-screen TV and a minibar. The hotel has a swimming pool, solarium, sauna, and gym. Book here.
Antares Patagonia Suites & Eventos is located in the heart of the city near Lacar Lake. The rooms have a flat-screen TV, safe, electric kettle, and minibar. The hotel has a swimming pool, gym, solarium, and sauna. Book here.
Casona del Alto is located 7.5 km from the historic city center on a hill surrounded by forests. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, sauna, gym, and spa. Book here.
The Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel is a charming hotel located 16.7 km from the city center. The rooms are modern and luxurious and have a flat-screen TV, kettle, and minibar. The hotel has a heated swimming pool. Book here.
Shopping
San Martin de los Andes Tourist Center
Av. San Martín y Juan Manuel de Rosas, Av. San Martín, San Martin de los Andes, Neuquén, Argentina
San Martin de los Andes Map
Book Your Trip
Book Your Accommodation
Book your hotel with Booking.com as they consistently provide the cheapest and lowest rates.
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Momondo. Momondo is a flight search engine that searches many different airlines, including budget carriers.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, and cancellations. It’s a protection in case anything goes wrong. You can book your travel insurance with Travelexinsurance.com.
See also
7 Best Hotels in San Martin de los Andes
6 Reasons to Visit Bariloche in Summer
How to spend 3 days in Buenos Aires
