Top tips for doing the 7 Lakes Route from Bariloche

The 7 Lakes Route is magical all year round. Dare to connect Bariloche with San Martín de los Andes through one of the most beautiful roads in Argentina.

Sometimes, driving along the roads of Argentina becomes an unforgettable experience. You never know when you’ll come across dazzling scenery. In Patagonia there is a road that only seems to connect two cities, but it turns out to be much more. You’ll get in the car and drive through mountains, lakes and forests. The Route of the 7 Lakes awaits you, a section of the mythical National Route 40.

The best way to do the Seven Lakes is leaving from Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. In both cities you can rent a car with Rentennials and begin your journey along this beautiful road. With your time, in your own way and without rushing.

In this article we leave you the best tips to explore at your own pace and embark on the adventure.

Panoramic of the Route of the 7 Lakes

What is the Route of the 7 Lakes

The cities of Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes are connected by the mythical National Route 40. It is 190 kms, but it is only in Villa La Angostura where the Route of the Seven Lakes begins, the famous 110 km section that passes through places that will remain engraved in your memory.

The tour can be done in one day, but it is best to stop little by little, contemplating and enjoying the landscape. There are seven lakes: Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico and Lácar. In addition, there are some alternative paths that go to other places.

There are trails to walk, campsites to get in touch with nature and wake up on the shores of a lake, treks to climb a hill, beaches to rest, and much more.

How to do the Route of the 7 Lakes

The first thing is to rent a car in Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. If it is in the city of Rio Negro, you can spend a few days to see the must-see places near Bariloche and then begin the adventure.

There are several ways to explore this section of Route 40 in depth:

1- Go and return in the day from Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. Although sometimes there is no time, we recommend that you take this route calmly and slowly. Each place is incredible and it is worth going slowly.

2- Drive to Villa la Angostura and stay a few days. There, you can make a base to go and return to the lakes. This way, you will spend more time in each place.

3- Make a base in San Martín de los Andes, and get to know each point from this city.

4- The best option is to leave from Villa La Angostura and stop at some strategic points. If you are one of those who like camping, there are several options to put up the tent. In addition, along the way there are cabins and inns.

Here is the map with the route of the Route of the Seven Lakes

MAPA EMBEBIDO

Places to visit on the Route of the 7 Lakes

There are many places to stop and enjoy along the way. Below we leave you all the information with the best stops on the Route of the Seven Lakes leaving from Bariloche.

Villa La Angostura

This town in Patagonia is one of the favorite places to base yourself and tour the 7 Lakes circuit. It is worth staying a few days because it is a place that is full of beauty and tranquility. In addition, it has a great offer of cabins, hotels and restaurants.

The Villa is on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, between the Inacayal, Bayo and Belvedere hills, which makes its surroundings beautiful. In the winter, the Bayo hill has a ski slope for snow sports. During the summer, there are some circuits to tour, such as the Bayo hill circuit and the Bonito River waterfall.

In Villa La Angosturra is the pedestrian entrance to the Los Arrayanes National Park. It is a 12 km trail that takes you to the southern end of the Park where the arrayanes forest is present everywhere. The trail is done on foot or by bike previously rented in the town. To get your ticket to the Park, go to this link.

Villa La Angostura

Correntoso Lake and River

Coming from the south, this is the first lake on the circuit. It is one of the largest lakes, with beaches and bays. There is an old wooden bridge where you can see the Correntoso River, one of the shortest in the world. There are campsites in the area to spend the night.

Espejo Lake

Continuing a few kilometers along RN 40, a gravel road leads to this lake. It is an ideal place to spend time, with a picnic area and beautiful beaches.

Further on, you will find Bahía del Guardaparque. This is a bay with cauquenes, teros and a different landscape.

From here, a small path leads to one of the beaches of Lake Correntoso.

Mirror Lake

Lago Espejo Chico

Although it is not part of the Seven Lakes Route, it is easily accessed. Once you have passed Lake Correntoso, there is a 2 km gravel road to get there. There is a campsite to spend the night.

Villa Traful and its lake

By detouring a few kilometers along Provincial Route 65, you will reach this mountain village located within the Nahuel Huapi National Park. On the shores of Lake Traful, the town transmits peace and nature. If you want to rest, or choose a place to base yourself, this is your place. To find accommodation, go to this link.

There are trails of different levels of difficulty to reach waterfalls, hills and virgin forests. The recommended ones are the trail to the Coa Co and Arroyo Blanco waterfalls, and the trail to Cerro Negro. It is important that you register with the Park Ranger before setting off on the hike. In general, these are self-guided trails, although there are some where you need to be accompanied by a guide.

In addition, horseback riding and water sports are offered in the area on the lake, including the incredible diving in the submerged forest.

Lake Traful

Lago Escondido and Cascada Ñivinco

Continuing north on RN 40, you will find this lake. There is a viewing point to contemplate this beautiful body of water. A little further on, you will reach Pichi Traful, one of the arms of Lake Traful. Taking a small detour, there is a campsite without services.

A little further north, you will find one of the must-sees on the Seven Lakes Route: the Ñivinco waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Patagonia. You have to walk along a short trail of medium difficulty to reach the waterfall.

Villarino Lake and Falkner Lake

These two lakes are located just one kilometer from each other. Villarino Lake has a free camping area and the Villarina Inn.

At Falkner Lake, the beaches are ideal for resting and enjoying the water. There is a campsite with services for spending a few nights in nature. In addition, from here there is a difficult trail to Falkner Hill. It takes between 4 and 5 hours, so you have to be well equipped. Before going up, you must register for the trek.

Hermoso Lake and Machónico Lake

Huapi National Park and the beginning of Lanín National Park. Hermoso Lake is accessed by a small gravel road. It is ideal for spending the night. There is a campsite and, further on, the Hermoso Eco Lodge.

Continuing along Route 40, there is Machónico Lake, which can only be enjoyed from the viewpoint. Further on, at the crossroads with the Hermoso River, there is a wide range of accommodation.

Villa and Maliquina Lake

Towards the end of the route there is a small detour of about 15 kilometers along RP 63. It leads to a small town on the shore of the lake with great beauty where tranquility has completely taken over the surroundings.

There are many activities to do, such as going to the Caleufó pools or continuing along RP 63 to Filo Hua Hum Lake. If you would like to spend a few days in the middle of a beautiful landscape, book a few nights in one of the cabins. In this link you can see some accommodation options.

Lácar Lake and San Martín de los Andes

At the end (or beginning) of the route is this lake that bathes the shores of one of the most beautiful cities in Patagonia. There are many activities, from trails, horseback riding, water sports and, if you go in winter, skiing.

Smaller than Bariloche and with its essence intact, San Martín de los Andes is an excellent place to stay for a few days and begin the tour of the Route of the 7 Lakes.

Lake Lacar

Places to camp on the Route of the 7 Lakes

Here are some campsites on the Route of the 7 Lakes. Keep in mind that in many places there is no cell phone signal or Wi-Fi.

• Camping Rosenda Mapuche Community. On the Nahuel Huapi very close to Lake Correntoso. Tel: 02944579543
• Camping La Bellunesse. Between Lake Correntoso and Lake Espejo. Tel: 54294 4238762
• Camping Lago Espejo Chico. Has a supply store and restaurant.
• Camping 7 lakes. It is located on the north arm of Lake Traful.
• Camping Nuevo Falkner.

In the summer it is best to arrive early or after noon to get a place.

How many days are needed to travel the Seven Lakes Route

On a quick trip, you can cover the best of the Seven Lakes Route in one or two days. However, it is worth taking at least a week to enjoy each lake, waterfall or trail. You can sleep along the way in a cabin, inn or campsite.

The best time to travel to Patagonia

During the winter you may not be able to do many trails. In addition, snow can become a problem when driving.

The best time of year to do this tour is from October to April. In January, you’re sure to find yourself with a lot of people, so you need to book your accommodation in advance (or arrive early at the campsite).

Rent your car with Rentennials

Traveling around Patagonia by car is a different experience. Few roads will surprise you like this one. That’s why renting a car with Rentennials will make your trip much easier: fast, economical and safe. Enjoy every kilometer on one of the most beautiful routes in the country.

Go ahead and discover Patagonia your way!

5 recommendations for touring Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego by car

Discover Tierra del Fuego by touring the island by car from Ushuaia and live a unique experience. Connect lakes, forests, steppe and sea by driving less than 200 kilometers.

Traveling to Ushuaia can be much more than sailing through the Beagle Channel, walking through the Tierra del Fuego National Park or walking the trail to the beautiful Esmeralda lagoon. It is true that many travelers choose to visit the must-sees of Ushuaia in a few days, but only some dare to go beyond the provincial capital. Driving from Ushuaia you will find an island waiting to be discovered, with lakes, forests and the most deserted and southern beaches in Argentina.

The best way to get to know the end of the world is to rent a car in Ushuaia and, from there, begin the adventure around the Island. First, spend a few days in the places near the provincial capital. Once you have enjoyed Ushuaia and its surroundings, it is time to embark on the adventure. Take the beautiful National Route 3 to Tolhuin and, if you dare, continue towards the beaches of the southern Argentine Sea.

At Rentennials we give you five tips to make your trip to Ushuaia an unforgettable experience.

Lakes of Tierra del Fuego

1. Rent a car in Ushuaia and start the trip

It all starts by renting a car as soon as you arrive at the Malvinas Argentinas airport. Having the freedom to drive and explore at your own pace will allow you to live a unique experience on your trip to the end of the world. Although some sites can be explored on foot, for others it is ideal to have a car.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park is the southernmost protected area in Argentina. Here, the Andes Mountains meet the sea, making the landscape unique in the country.

The ideal is to visit it in a day. There are eight trails that are short and of an easy difficulty to share with the whole family. If you are a fan of something more demanding, then choose one of the five longer and more complex trails. To find out more, click on this link.

To get to Tierra del Fuego National Park, you have to take National Route 3. It is only 12 kilometers, although the last part is gravel. At the end of the route, an incredible viewpoint awaits you with views of Lapataia Bay.

Lapataia Bay Viewpoint / Photo by @visitargentina

The End of the World Train

Getting on the old Fuegian Southern Railway is a journey into the history of the end of the world. During the journey, the train crosses inaccessible areas of the National Park, crossing forests and bridges. More than a century ago, this same train transported prisoners from the old penitentiary to carry out tree felling work.

The train departs 7 km from Ushuaia and arrives at Tierra del Fuego National Park. It is important to note that the journey ends at the main station, so you will not be able to continue exploring the park from there.

There are three daily departures: 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00. The round trip time is 1 hour 50 minutes. It is open all year round and you can book tickets at this link.

Beagle Channel

One of the most unforgettable experiences is sailing through the mythical Beagle Channel. On a catamaran you will travel to islands that are full of marine fauna: sea lions, birds and penguins. In the warmer months you can disembark on one of the islands. And, of course, you will find the famous Les Éclaireurs lighthouse.

To take the excursion you have to go to the Port of Ushuaia. It is best to book in advance.

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse

Get to know the city of Ushuaia and its history

Ushuaia is a city full of history, from the native peoples to the first pioneers who dared to inhabit these inhospitable lands. After enjoying an excursion, you can visit several museums that will allow you to learn more about its fascinating past.

The old Ushuaia penitentiary is one of the most symbolic places in the region. Touring its cells and meeting the characters who inhabited them becomes a strange experience. Currently, there are several museums in the building and you can visit it every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Where and what to eat in Ushuaia

Patagonian cuisine makes its presence felt. Don’t forget to try the Patagonian lamb, seafood dishes and the famous king crab. And always accompanied by a good Argentine wine.

Ushuaia has restaurants of diverse categories, here we only leave you three proposals. In season we recommend you make a reservation or go early.

• Ramos Generales El Almacén. Av. Maipú 749
• Kaupé. Pres. Julio Argentino Roca 470.
• Kalma. Gdor. Manuel Fernández Valdez 293

After dinner, Jeremy Button Gintonería is the ideal place for a drink.

2. Arrive at Puerto Almanza and enjoy unique cuisine

It is best to spend a full day in this small fishing village to taste some typical dish from the Patagonian sea. Continuing a little further, you will reach one of the historic estancias in the area.

Puerto Almanza

This fishing settlement is just 70 km from Ushuaia. There are some trails to explore, but what you really can’t miss is trying the dishes prepared on the spot in the town’s restaurants. The gastronomic offerings are unforgettable, especially those focused on the king crab, a crustacean that lives on the seabed of these cold waters.

Some of the places to eat in Puerto Almanza are:

• Puerto Pirata
• La Mesita de Almanza
• Fronton Gable Restó

Puerto Almanza / Photo by @visitargentina

Estancia Harberton

This is an estancia founded in 1886 by the Anglican missionary Thomas Bridges, the first white man who decided to inhabit these lands. A place that combines the steppe with the Patagonian sea.

Today, it offers many activities for the whole family, such as guided tours of the buildings of the estancia. In addition, it has the Acawaia restaurant, an ideal place to taste Patagonian food, and it also offers accommodation. For more information, go to this link.

How to get to Puerto Almanza and the Harberton Estancia

To get to Puerto Almanza from Ushuaia, take National Route 3 until the intersection with Route J. From there, continue for about 30 km.

To get to the Harberton Estancia, continue 3 km on the same road.

3. Drive from Ushuaia to Tolhuin

After seeing the best of Ushuaia, embark on a road trip to the end of the world. This tour along National Route 3 will take you to the small town of Tolhuin. During the journey, you will enjoy incredible landscapes, such as the imposing Monte Olivia.

National Route 3

Esmeralda Lagoon and Turquesa Lagoon Trails

Leaving by National Route 3, about 15 km from Ushuaia, is the Valle de Tierra Mayor Natural and Landscape Reserve. In summer, it is famous for the trails that lead to Esmeralda Lagoon and Turquesa Lagoon. While in winter it has Castor Hill, the favorite for snow sports.

The trail to Esmeralda Lagoon takes you to a body of water surrounded by streams, mountains and forests. Of medium difficulty, it is 9 km long (round trip) that takes about 5 hours.

The trail to Turquesa Lagoon is of medium difficulty, with sections where the slope is steep. Once at the top, you will be able to see the Alvear mountain range and Esmeralda Lagoon. It is 3 km long (round trip), and takes about 3 hours.

Emerald Lagoon

A unique scenic route in Argentina

The Fuegian National Route 3 is one of the most beautiful roads in Argentina. In just a few kilometers, it connects the Andes Mountains, the Patagonian forests until reaching the steppe and the Patagonian sea.

The Garibaldi Pass is the perfect place to stop and contemplate the landscape. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy the views of Lake Fagnano and Escondido.

4. What to visit in Tolhuin

Staying in Ushuaia is the option that most people choose. But there is another possibility. Staying a few nights in the provincial capital and then going to Tolhuin to stay a few more days. It is cheaper with hotels and cabins of different categories.

From Tolhuin there are many activities to do in little-known and dazzling places.

Corazón de la Isla Provincial Reserve

It is a reserve that has more than 100 thousand hectares, with forest and peatlands that are sought to be protected. The best way to get there is to go to the lakes Chepelmuth, Yehuin and Yakush. There is the possibility of kayaking and sport fishing in some of them.

You can get to the Yehuin and Chepelmut lakes by car, while to get to the Yakush lake you have to walk 4 km round trip. For more information, click on this link.

To get there, you have to leave Tolhuin and continue along RN 3 for about 12 km. From there, you have to take Provincial Route 18 and drive 50 km on gravel. There is a park ranger post where visitors have to register.

Lake Fagnano

Tolhuin is on the coast of Lake Fagnano, the largest on the island. It is surrounded by mountains and forests. There are many ways to explore it, either on trails or short 4×4 tours. It is recommended to sleep very close to the lake to enjoy incredible views.

Drive to Cabo San Pablo

This is perhaps the most unknown place on the island. A gravel road through the Patagonian steppe that takes you to one of the most solitary and southern beaches in Argentina. Along the way you can find guanacos and foxes.

Once you arrive and park your car, there is a short walk to the top of the cape, where you will find a viewing point with views of a dazzling sea. On the beach you will find the Desdemona ship, wrecked in 1985.

From Tolhuin it is 80 km. You have to drive 35 km on National Route 3 until the intersection with the complementary route “A”. From there, it is about 40 km of gravel in good condition. There is a ranch and a campsite if you choose to sleep in the area.

Cabo San Pablo / Photo by @visitargentina

5. Travel to Ushuaia at the best time

Tierra del Fuego is beautiful all year round, but depending on what you want to do, there are more advisable months to visit the island.

The best time to visit Ushuaia is from October to April. The weather is more pleasant, there is less rain or snow, and you can enjoy the outdoors.

In winter, activities are limited to snow sports and some authorized excursions. Tours of the Park or Reserves are possible, but you must always take into account the level of snow. Remember that if you travel in winter, you will have to drive with special snow chains.

Recommended number of days to visit Ushuaia

A complete visit to Tierra del Fuego Island should last at least 10 days. On a quicker trip of about four days, you can visit the classic places. If you want to go beyond Ushuaia in this time, you will have to hurry up.

Prepare your travel itinerary in Ushuaia

To travel around Ushuaia by car and explore beyond the city, we recommend organizing your trip in advance. Book accommodations in advance, as it is a highly sought-after destination throughout the year. Also, choose a reliable and safe car rental company, such as Rentennials, to ensure an unforgettable experience at the end of the world.