Lanín Volcano

Calm lakes, forests, and volcanic landscapes

Country: Argentina 🇦🇷

Video

Overview

A relaxed Lake District itinerary centered on San Martín de los Andes and the iconic Lanín Volcano.

This region is quieter and less urban than Bariloche, with stronger focus on volcano scenery, forests, and calm lakes. It works best as a standalone short trip or as a natural extension from Bariloche.

Province: Neuquén
Overall time: 3–6 days
Main focus: volcano views, lakes, relaxed nature
Ranking: strong regional highlight
Best season: November–March

📷 Photo albums
instagram Lanín Volcano & Lácar Lake
Arrival & San Martín de los Andes (Base) ▾


Arrive in San Martín de los Andes by flight or via Bariloche.

From Bariloche:
• Bus via Ruta de los Siete Lagos
• Rented car (most scenic option)

Base:
• San Martín de los Andes – 3–6 nights

What to do in town:
• Walk along Lake Lácar
• Small beaches and waterfront paths
• Cafés and relaxed evenings

San Martín de los Andes is compact, quiet, and easy to explore.

Lanín Volcano Excursion ▾


Visit Lanín Volcano, the dominant natural landmark of the region.

Highlights:
• Symmetrical snow-capped volcano
• Forests, rivers, and open volcanic landscapes

How to visit:
• Organized day tour (recommended)
• Rented car (long distances, limited services)

What to expect:
• Viewpoints and short walks
• No technical hiking required unless climbing (not included)

Duration:
• Full day

Lakes & Seasonal Boat Trips ▾


Explore the surrounding lakes and forests.

Highlights:
• Lake Lácar and nearby beaches
• Short forest walks
• Seasonal boat trips (summer only)

Notes:
• Boats operate mainly during high season
• Calm water and scenic mountain surroundings

Duration:
• Half day to full day

Optional – Route to Chile (Pucón) ▾


Optional cross-border extension into Chile.

Route:
• San Martín de los Andes → Pucón

Highlights:
• Villarrica Volcano
• Chilean lakes and forests
• Resort-style town with good infrastructure

Notes:
• Border crossing required
• Weather dependent
• Can be done as a multi-day extension

This is optional but rewarding if combining Argentina and Chile.

Transportation

  • Car recommended, especially for Lanín and lake exploration
  • Buses work well between towns, less so for remote areas
  • Tours are the easiest way to reach Lanín Volcano

Connections

  • San Martín de los Andes → Bariloche (Ruta de los Siete Lagos)
  • San Martín de los Andes → Pucón (Chile, seasonal)
  • San Martín de los Andes → Neuquén (bus / flight connections)

Notes

  • This region is calmer and less developed than Bariloche
  • Weather can change quickly in the mountains
  • Best suited for slow travel and nature-focused trips