Argentina Guide
Neuquén and the Lake District
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Ruta de los Siete Lagos
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos, or "Seven Lakes Route", one of Argentina's classic scenic drives, cuts right through Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, connecting San Martín de los Andes to Villa La Angostura, and continuing on to Bariloche in spectacular fashion. Along the way, the route goes through forested valleys and gives access to many more than seven wild lakes. You'll pass several fishing spots – buy permits before setting off (from tourist offices, YPF stations or campsites). The route is mostly paved, but the remaining unsealed section – between Lago Villarino and Lago Espejo – can get extremely dusty, especially in summer. El Ko-Ko and Albus conveniently run daily services along the route between San Martín and Villa La Angostura.
The seven principal lakes dotting the roadside are, from north to south: Machónico, Falkner, Villarino, Escondido, Correntoso, Espejo and Nahuel Huapi. The route straddles Parque Nacional Lanín and Nahuel Huapi, though only Lago Machónico lies in Lanín.