Things To Do
in San Martín de los Andes
San Martín de los Andes is a mountain town in Argentina's Patagonia renowned for its sapphire lakes, pine forests, and Alpine charm. Nestled at the edge of Lanín National Park on the shores of Lake Lacar, it blends rugged outdoor appeal with a relaxed, village-like atmosphere. In winter the snow-swept slopes of Chapelco attract skiers, while summers invite hikers, fishermen, and cyclists to explore forested trails and lakefront promenades.
The town also offers cozy cafés, rustic parrillas, and artisan shops that reflect Patagonian culture and hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Argentine pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of San Martín de los Andes, admiring the charming wooden architecture that reflects the town's alpine spirit. Visit the Artisan Market to browse handmade crafts and local artworks that capture the essence of Patagonia.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a restaurant overlooking Lake Lácar, where you can indulge in regional specialties like trout or lamb. Post-lunch, take a guided walking tour of the historic center, learning about the town's fascinating history and its indigenous Mapuche influences. Don’t forget to snap pictures at the iconic Plaza San Martín, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a lakeside restaurant for a romantic dinner, trying out the local wines. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline of Lake Lácar, watching the colors of the sunset reflect on the water. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the warm ambiance and perhaps some live music.
Head to Playa de la Bahía for a refreshing morning by the lake, where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the invigorating atmosphere as you paddle around, taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After some water activities, relax on the sandy beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene environment.
For lunch, pack a picnic with local delicacies and enjoy it on the beach while listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. Afterward, take a guided boat tour around Lake Lácar, learning about the local ecology and spotting wildlife such as birds and fish. Spend some time swimming in the lake, surrounded by the breathtaking Patagonian landscape.
As the day winds down, return to town for a casual dinner at a pizzeria, where you can savor delicious Argentine-style pies. After dinner, take a stroll through the waterfront promenade, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the lake. Consider stopping for gelato at a nearby shop to end your day on a sweet note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $2-4 |
| 🥐Pastry or breakfast item | $2-5 |
| 🧀Local cheese or bakery item | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to outdoor activities
- Relaxed, friendly Patagonia ambiance with good cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be changeable and some services are seasonal
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in San Martín de los Andes
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-open lake views with pine forests and mountain silhouettes; especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
Promenade with views across the lake, framed by coniferous trees and the town's alpine architecture.
High-elevation vantage points offering sweeping panoramas of the town, lake, and distant peaks.
Food in San Martín de los Andes
San Martín de los Andes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled trout from nearby streams, often served with potatoes or a light salad.
Must-Try!
Herb-roasted Patagonian lamb, a staple at traditional parrillas.
Savory pastries filled with beef, onions, and spices; widely available at markets and eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, cured meats, and pastries.
Casual street food featuring grilled chorizo on crusty bread with chimichurri or toppings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; among friends a cheek kiss may occur. Politeness and a friendly tone go a long way.
Arrive on time for formal events; casual social plans are flexible and may start later.
Tread lightly on trails, dispose of trash properly, and follow park guidelines to protect the environment.
Safety
Tipping in San Martín de los Andes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. In many restaurants, a 5–10% tip or rounding up is common if service is good; some places include a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, ideal for hiking, boating, and lake activities. Expect mild to warm days with possible afternoon thunderstorms.
Cool temperatures and vibrant foliage. Great for scenic drives and photography, with decreasing crowds.
Snowy and cold; peak ski season at Chapelco. Dress in layers and be prepared for icy conditions.
Refreshingly cool and windy; wildlife activity returns and trails begin to thaw for early-season hiking.
San Martín de los Andes at Night
Hiking in San Martín de los Andes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes on the foothills offering forest and mountain views near town.
Gentle coastal hike around the lake with photo opportunities and sunset views.
Section of the scenic drive with viewpoints and shorter hikes along the lake-and-mountain corridor.
Airports
How to reach San Martín de los Andes by plane.
Small regional airport offering limited domestic flights; convenient for accessing the town.
Major regional hub with more flight options; approximately a few hours by road to San Martín de los Andes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longtime Patagonian families and seasonal workers who support tourism infrastructure.
Visitors from Argentina, Chile, and abroad, drawn to outdoor activities and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Chapelo resort is popular in winter for all levels, with picturesque snowy scenery.
Trout fishing in lakes and streams around the region is a beloved pastime.
Numerous trails explore forests, lakes, and mountains across the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Martín de los Andes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for salads, grilled vegetables, empanadas with cheese and spinach, grains, and potato-based dishes; many places can adapt dishes on request.