San Martín de los Andes is one of those destinations best understood by living it day by day, with a stroll, a look at the mountain range, and a coffee or hot chocolate along the way. It is a place with great versatility depending on the time of year. You can enjoy a snowy winter or a summer by the lakeshore.
In this guide, we provide ideas for each of the seasons. Take advantage of these plans designed so you can explore Patagonia to the fullest with the greatest comfort.
3 Must-Do Plans in the City of San Martín de los Andes
Starting with the downtown and waterfront area is the best plan for a first impression of San Martín de los Andes. It is a city that is very easy to explore on foot. These are the spots you can’t miss.
San Martín Square
To start discovering this destination, it’s best to visit San Martín Square and walk along San Martín Avenue, which is the city’s commercial hub. In the square, you’ll find an artisan fair with regional products and entrepreneurs. In addition to buying souvenirs, you can stop by the Tourist Information Office to learn about current activities.
Lácar Lake Waterfront
A stroll along the Lácar waterfront is a must-do plan. You can start from downtown, walk by the water, and find a bench from which to gaze at the mountain range.
Arrayanes Viewpoint
If you want to go higher and get another perspective, you can walk for an hour to reach the Arrayanes viewpoint, where you can enjoy a wide view of the city and the lake. Access to the trail is free and its difficulty is medium-low, but the terrain is quite steep. It is an 8-mile round trip. However, if you are traveling with children or seniors, you can go up by car or taxi, or go by boat and walk back, or vice versa, for an affordable price.
Activities to Do in San Martín de los Andes in Winter
The city turns into a ski resort in winter. The weather is cold, there is snow, and the atmosphere revolves around Cerro Chapelco, where the ski station is located. On the mountain, you can practice downhill skiing, ski touring, or snowboarding on the various slopes, attend the ski school, or go sledding.
To visit the mountain, it is recommended to wear thermal clothing, a snow jacket, a hat, gloves, and appropriate footwear. You can rent all the equipment in downtown San Martín de los Andes or take advantage of well-known brand stores to buy a complete outfit.
Don’t ski or do winter sports? You can still stroll through Chapelco, take a photo at the summit, or have some hot chocolate.
Winter calls for warm clothes, planning, and care with temperatures and roads. Therefore, if you prefer to enjoy the snow from the window of your accommodation, our equipped and climate-controlled mountain houses are the best alternative for you. Contact us!
What to do in San Martín de los Andes in summer?
Summer is one of the best times to enjoy the natural environment without the intense cold. The lake takes center stage, the sun comes out, and many options for hiking, bike rides, and outdoor activities open up. Get inspired by these ideas for things to do in San Martín de los Andes in summer!
- Biking to Laguna Rosales is an ideal excursion for those seeking nature and adventure near San Martín de los Andes. The route follows marked trails with some demanding sections and leads to a small and very peaceful lagoon. It is recommended to bring a map, water, and food to enjoy a picnic and rest by the forest.
- Trek to the Regimiento Waterfall, which goes through a forest with several cascades and ends at a very beautiful and uncrowded waterfall. Access can be difficult, as the trail is not marked and has steep sections. To find the start, look for a trash can with a red piece of wood, which marks the spot to park and begin the hike.
- Spending the day at Yuco Beach is an excellent option to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches on Lácar Lake. Access is via a gravel road in fair condition, suitable for cars and with parking, bathrooms, and a small grocery store. It is recommended to bring food and drinks to enjoy the day more comfortably.
Plans for Rainy Days in San Martín de los Andes
On rainy days, the city offers museums, cultural centers, bookstores, cafes, and bars perfect for taking shelter and continuing to enjoy yourself without the weather ruining your day.
Natural History Museum of San Martín de los Andes
This museum invites you to discover Patagonian dinosaurs, mega-mammals, and the biodiversity of Neuquén. Its exhibition brings together more than 40 fossils and 20 complete skeletons. It is ideal for families, children, and groups, as it combines science, education, and adventure in a fascinating journey through the natural history of Patagonian San Martín de los Andes.
First Settlers Municipal Museum
It is a warm and free museum that shows the origins and evolution of San Martín de los Andes. Its collection is small but allows you to learn about local history. It is especially interesting for families and foreign travelers who want to understand the city’s identity.
La Pastera
This is a museum located in a historic 1946 building that traces the life and thoughts of Ernesto “Che” Guevara. Photographs, audiovisuals, and original objects allow you to learn about his history and part of the history of Latin America. Visitors recommend taking the guided tour.
Book a Mountain House and Live the Full Experience
San Martín de los Andes is an incredible city, but there is nothing like the calm and exclusivity offered by the mountains. Our houses in the Tierra de Sol neighborhood offer you more privacy and more comfort.
Enjoy the best of Patagonia in an accommodation that conveys the warmth of our destination. Contact us and check availability!
