Patagonia Lakes District

Itinerary:
[Patagonia Lakes Districk Itinerary.docx](https://1drv.ms/w/c/4b97fc10272c70a0/EYruWjTRr61LmtrnTtmrQ20BAY_0ci4jJ_CNypdbOkAD8A?e=BByZCM)

****Wanderers that did the first trip will get first dibs on this trip. Then people that speak spanish and then....people that are willing to drive and are great drivers will get special preference!🤣

Unlike the dramatic glacial landscapes of El Calafate or the jagged granite spires of Torres del Paine, Argentina’s Lake District offers a gentler yet equally captivating version of Patagonia. Here, the scenery is shaped by lush temperate forests, sparkling alpine lakes, and rolling ridgelines rather than sheer rock walls and ice fields. The hiking is more varied and often more accessible, weaving through native woodlands, along lakeshores, and up to panoramic summits with fewer crowds but no shortage of natural beauty while still capturing the wildness of Patagonia.

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Patagonian Peaks & Lakes: A Journey from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes
This unforgettable hiking trip begins with a flight into San Carlos de Bariloche, the gateway to Argentina’s Lake District, where snow-capped peaks, deep blue lakes, and lenga forests set the stage for a classic Patagonian adventure.
From the airport, we head south to El Bolsón, a laid-back mountain town beneath the dramatic face of Piltriquitrón. Here, we warm up with moderate to strenuous hikes through the Andean foothills, with trails leading to natural wonders like Cascada Escondida, Cajón del Azul, and the high ridgelines of Cerro Piltriquitrón itself. This region is known for its accessible backcountry refugios and well-marked paths, as well as its vibrant artisan scene and organic food culture.
Next, we travel north to the Llao Llao Peninsula, a scenic area tucked within Nahuel Huapi National Park. While the trails here are gentler, the rewards are immense—panoramic viewpoints over Lake Nahuel Huapi, hidden lakes like Lago Escondido, and dense forests of coihue and arrayán trees. We’ll tackle trails like Cerro Llao Llao and the Sendero de los Arrayanes, with options to extend hikes to more remote lookouts.
From there, the journey continues along the iconic Ruta de los Siete Lagos, one of South America’s most scenic drives. This winding mountain road connects pristine lakes and rivers framed by snow-dusted peaks and forests, offering countless trailheads along the way.
We finish in San Martín de los Andes, a charming alpine town on the shores of Lake Lácar. From here, we set out on hikes into Lanín National Park, home to the towering, glaciated Volcán Lanín and a network of trails ranging from lakeside walks to demanding climbs. Treks such as the Sendero a Laguna Rosales or Mirador Bandurrias deliver stunning views and a sense of Patagonia’s wild vastness.
About Hiking in This Region
Patagonia’s Lake District is a hiker’s paradise. Trails here range from gentle lake circuits to rugged alpine climbs. Elevation gains can be significant on some hikes, especially those reaching panoramic viewpoints or high ridgelines, so good fitness and sturdy footwear are essential. Expect a mix of terrain: forest paths, rocky ascents, open meadows, and hanging bridges over glacial rivers. Weather can shift rapidly—even in summer—so layering and waterproof gear are key.
This trip is designed for those ready for moderate to strenuous hiking, with daily excursions typically ranging from 4 to 6 hours. Hikers should be prepared for altitude changes, uneven trails, and occasional stream crossings. The effort is well worth it: every step brings you deeper into Patagonia’s awe-inspiring beauty.