Things To Do
in San Martín de los Andes
San Martín de los Andes is a picturesque town located in the Argentine Patagonia, known for its stunning lakes, mountains, and lush forests. It serves as a gateway to the Lanín National Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town boasts a charming alpine-style architecture and a vibrant local culture, offering a range of activities throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and a variety of local culinary delights year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza San Martín, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café and take in the beautiful surroundings.
After breakfast, explore Lake Lácar by renting a kayak or taking a boat tour to appreciate the stunning views of the Andes mountains.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring Patagonian cuisine and enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade as the sun sets.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hiking trip to the Arrayanes Forest, where you can see unique Arrayán trees.
After your hike, have lunch at a nearby food market, then visit the Lanín National Park for more hiking or wildlife watching.
Return to town and enjoy a night out at one of the local pubs, where you can experience live music and vibrant local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍕Pizza | $8 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $3 |
| 🥩Steak Dinner | $15 |
| 🛏️Hostel Bed | $20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lakes and mountains
- Wide range of outdoor activities year-round
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Public transportation can be infrequent
- Higher prices during peak tourist seasons
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in San Martín de los Andes
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views and perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
A ski resort and mountain offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for capturing the beauty of Patagonia.
A unique forest featuring rare Arrayán trees with orange bark, providing a magical setting for nature photography.
Food in San Martín de los Andes
San Martín de los Andes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of meat, often cooked on a grill or open flame.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught Patagonian trout, typically grilled or pan-fried and served with local vegetables.
Savory pastries filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables, and baked to perfection.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local artisan market held on weekends where you can find handmade crafts and enjoy street food like choripán.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A common greeting is a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting someone for the first time.
Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and it's polite to compliment the meal.
Engaging in conversation about local culture and sports is appreciated, but avoid discussing politics unless initiated.
Safety
Tipping in San Martín de los Andes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally expected in restaurants, with a standard of 10% to 15% of the bill being appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Warm weather and long days perfect for water sports, hiking, and enjoying the vibrant local festivals.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create stunning landscapes, ideal for photography and hiking.
Cold weather brings snow to the mountains, making it a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding.
San Martín de los Andes at Night
Hiking in San Martín de los Andes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-marked trail offering stunning views of the Andes and Lake Lácar, suitable for various hiking levels.
A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with breathtaking views and a chance to experience Patagonian wildlife.
Airports
How to reach San Martín de los Andes by plane.
Located approximately 20 minutes from the town center, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest air access point for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The local population is primarily of Argentine descent, with a mix of indigenous heritage contributing to the cultural fabric.
A significant portion of the population during peak seasons consists of tourists from Argentina and abroad, enhancing the diversity of the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
During the winter months, skiing is a major sport in the region, attracting both local and international tourists to Cerro Chapelco.
The area is famous for its trout fishing, with many enthusiasts visiting the lakes and rivers to enjoy this tranquil sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Martín de los Andes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask for modifications as traditional Argentine cuisine often includes meat.
Gluten-free options are available, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff about cross-contamination.