In Lácar Department, different ways of exploring come together: a long road connecting two national parks, hiking trails with scenic views, and insights into the history and traditions of the Mapuche people. There are also activities on Lake Lácar, from paddling to diving. To help plan your trip, consider which perspective appeals to you most: a road trip, a hike, mountain activities or experiences on the water.
A road, a lake and different perspectives
The Route of the Seven Lakes is a scenic, fully paved stretch of Route 40. Spanning more than 96 kilometers, it connects Nahuel Huapi National Park with Lanín National Park and runs through Lácar Department. The drive can begin in San Martín de los Andes. As a continuous road route, it offers a different focus from individual hikes or viewpoints: this stretch links two national parks, while walking trails each bring a specific destination to the fore.
Lake Lácar is of glacial origin and is protected by Lanín National Park. Mirador Bandurrias offers views of San Martín de los Andes, the lake and Cerro Chapelco. A hiking trail from downtown San Martín de los Andes also leads to a natural viewpoint with panoramic views. This lets you explore the lake and the surrounding area from different perspectives, without combining the road route and local trails into a single excursion.
Hikes and mountain views
Cerro Colorado is 1,742 meters high and lies 12 kilometers from downtown San Martín de los Andes. Local hikers and tourists use the area for hiking. Its elevation and distance give the mountain a clear geographical context; the hike there is also one of the described ways to explore the area on foot.
Cerro Chapelco has 31 ski runs for all ability levels. Expert-led hikes are also available, with views of Lake Lácar and Lanín Volcano. This mountain therefore offers both ski runs and guided hikes. Another named trekking option is in the southern sector of Lanín National Park: the Quila Quina–Hua Hum route. It adds a trekking route with two explicitly named endpoints to the mountain and hiking areas described here.
Quila Quina: Culture and activities on the water
In Quila Quina, visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Mapuche people in a small Mapuche community. Mapuche communities also organize horseback riding excursions there. The place thus combines a cultural discovery with a horseback excursion, though these need not be the same experience: you can focus on history and traditions or consider a community-organized horseback excursion.
Visitors can rent kayaks and paddle on Lake Lácar in Quila Quina. Diving is also possible there, with professional guidance and appropriate equipment. The activities differ in form: kayaking focuses on paddling on the lake, while diving includes professional guidance and equipment. Boats from the pier in San Martín de los Andes reach the coast of Quila Quina in about half an hour. If you plan to take the boat, check the current schedule in advance.
Whether you are more interested in the long road connection, hiking, Mapuche traditions or Lake Lácar, Lácar Department offers different ways to shape your trip. You can choose among the options described according to your interests, without committing to a set itinerary.
Discover more destinations: San Martin De Los Andes, Paso Hua-hum, Quilaquina, Chos Malal Department, Huiliches Department, Ñorquín Department, Confluencia Department, Añelo Department.
For the regional travel overview: Neuquén.
