Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of Seven Lakes)
Argentina, south-america
107 km
1,200 m
easy
November-April, with peak autumn color in April-May
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos is a 107-kilometer stretch of Ruta Nacional 40 between San Martin de los Andes and Villa La Angostura in the Argentine Lake District of northern Patagonia. As its name suggests, the road passes seven stunning glacial lakes, each with its own distinct color ranging from deep emerald to brilliant turquoise, set against a backdrop of snow-dusted Andean peaks and ancient Araucaria (monkey puzzle) forests.
The seven lakes along the route are Machonica, Falkner, Villarino, Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, and Lacar. The road climbs through Lanin and Nahuel Huapi National Parks, crossing mountain passes that offer sweeping views of the lake-studded landscape below. Numerous pulloffs and short trails lead to hidden beaches, viewpoints, and waterfalls. The route is equally spectacular in every season, from the wildflower-covered meadows of spring to the fiery autumn colors of the southern beech forests.
Where is it?
Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of Seven Lakes) is located in Neuquen, Patagonia, Argentina (south-america). Coordinates: -40.6000, -71.5000
Driving Tips
The road is now fully paved. Allow a full day to enjoy the viewpoints and short walks. Bring a picnic as there are beautiful lakeside spots but limited restaurants. Fuel up in San Martin de los Andes or Villa La Angostura. The route is popular with cyclists. Autumn (April-May) offers spectacular fall foliage from the southern beech trees.
Road Surface
Paved, well-maintained two-lane road
Road Details
- Country
- Argentina
- Continent
- south-america
- Region
- Neuquen, Patagonia
- Length
- 107 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,200 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Surface
- Paved, well-maintained two-lane road
- Best Season
- November-April, with peak autumn color in April-May
- Coordinates
- -40.6000, -71.5000
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