The Open Road Atlas

Seven Lakes Route Itinerary

It gives a concentrated, high-impact view of Argentina by road, with Arrayanes adding a strong side-trip option.

Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Country
Argentina
Region
South America
Distance
110 km
Suggested duration
1-3 days
Best season
October to April
Difficulty
Easy mountain-lake road

Why drive the Seven Lakes Route

Seven Lakes Route is a practical 1-3 days road trip through Argentina, linking San Martin de los Andes, Lago Machonico, Villa La Angostura, Bariloche with mountain roads and waterfront towns. The route is built for real-world planning: clear stop spacing, useful detours, and enough variety to work as more than a simple point-to-point drive.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Start with San Martin de los Andes and Lago Machonico for orientation, supplies, and the first signature viewpoints.
  2. Build the middle of the trip around Villa La Angostura, Bariloche, leaving time for side roads, local food, and short walks.
  3. Finish through Villa La Angostura and Bariloche and add Arrayanes if weather and timing allow.

Main stops along the Seven Lakes Route

Detours worth adding

Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Road to El Chalten in Patagonia
Fitz Roy from the road near El Chalten
Fitz Roy from the road near El Chalten
Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia
Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia

Book this road trip

Flights Search flights into the closest useful airport for this route. Car Rentals Compare vehicle hire and transfer options for this route. Campervans Find bookable road-trip transport and useful extras. Stays Book hotels, route stops, and destination essentials. Experiences Tours, passes, ferries, museums, and guided days. Insurance Travel essentials and destination services for the trip. Saily eSIMs, navigation apps, and connectivity essentials.

Seven Lakes Route road trip FAQ

How long do you need for the Seven Lakes Route?

Plan on 1-3 days for the core 110 km drive. Add extra time if you want slower overnight stops, side roads, or longer detours.

When is the best time to drive the Seven Lakes Route?

The usual best window is October to April. Check local road closures and weather before committing to fixed dates.

What are the main stops on the Seven Lakes Route?

Core stops include San Martin de los Andes, Lago Machonico, Villa La Angostura, Bariloche.

Is the Seven Lakes Route difficult to drive?

The route is best described as: Easy mountain-lake road. Build in time for fuel, rest stops, and changing conditions.

What detours are worth adding?

Popular detours include Arrayanes, Cerro Bayo, Nahuel Huapi.

See the full route, mini map, closest airports, and booking modules on the interactive atlas.

Open Seven Lakes Route on the map →

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