San Martín de los Andes Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to San Martín de los Andes. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

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San Martín de los Andes
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Discover the enchanting beauty of San Martín de los Andes, a serene Patagonian town offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and tranquil relaxation.

San Martín de los Andes, nestled in the heart of Patagonia, is a picturesque town framed by the majestic Andes mountains and the serene shores of Lake Lácar. This quaint destination is known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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The town itself boasts charming alpine-style architecture, with wooden cabins and cozy lodges that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Stroll through the vibrant streets, where you'll find an array of local shops, cafes, and restaurants offering delicious Patagonian cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try the region's famous smoked trout and artisanal chocolates.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted by the myriad of activities available. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are popular in the summer months, while winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The nearby Lanín National Park is a must-visit, offering breathtaking trails, lush forests, and the iconic Lanín Volcano.
For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Lácar or visit one of the many miradores (viewpoints) for panoramic views of the town and its stunning surroundings. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, San Martín de los Andes promises an unforgettable escape into nature.

When is the best time to visit San Martín de los Andes?

Best: December–February · 24°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)2477
February (best)2480
March2173
April1793
May13109
June9111
July8107
August10105
September14100
October1996
November2383
December (best)2478

Getting to and around San Martín de los Andes

How to get there

San Martín de los Andes is located in the Neuquén Province of Argentina. The nearest airport is Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (CPC), also known as Chapelco Airport, which is approximately 20 kilometers away from the town center. Direct flights are available from Buenos Aires. Alternatively, you can fly into San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) and take a scenic 3-hour drive or bus ride to San Martín de los Andes. Long-distance buses from major cities like Buenos Aires, Neuquén, and Bariloche also connect to San Martín de los Andes.

Transportation

San Martín de los Andes is a walkable town, but for longer distances, there are several options available. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Car rentals are another convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as Lanín National Park. Buses operate within the town and to nearby destinations. Cycling is also popular, with bike rentals available for those who prefer an eco-friendly mode of transport.

Best attractions in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers visitors a picturesque setting surrounded by the stunning Andes mountains and crystal-clear lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the pristine natural landscapes. The town itself boasts charming architecture, local artisan markets, and delicious regional cuisine to sample. Don't miss the chance to explore nearby attractions like the Lanín National Park, the Seven Lakes Route, and the Arrayanes Forest for a truly unforgettable experience in Argentine Patagonia.

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Best landmarks in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers visitors a captivating mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the stunning landscapes of Lanín National Park and the Seven Lakes Route to the charming streets lined with alpine-style buildings, there is no shortage of picturesque views to take in. Visitors can explore the history of the area at the local museums and churches, or embark on outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. Whether seeking relaxation or adrenaline-pumping activities, San Martín de los Andes has something for every type of traveler to enjoy.

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Explore San Martín de los Andes on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers a diverse dining scene that caters to every palate, from traditional Argentine cuisine to international flavors. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood dishes, savory Argentine steaks, and homemade pasta in cozy restaurants with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For those looking for a more casual dining experience, charming cafes and bakeries serve up delicious pastries and coffee. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like Patagonian lamb and regional wines for a true taste of the Andean culinary culture.

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Best bars in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers a vibrant nightlife scene for visitors to enjoy, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a drink with friends or a lively club to dance the night away, you'll find it here. From trendy cocktail bars to traditional pubs, there is something for everyone. Live music and DJ sets are common, adding to the energetic atmosphere. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the nightlife of San Martín de los Andes during your visit.

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Best nightclubs in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers a vibrant nightlife scene for visitors to enjoy, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a drink with friends or a lively club to dance the night away, you'll find it here. From trendy cocktail bars to traditional pubs, there is something for everyone. Live music and DJ sets are common, adding to the energetic atmosphere. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the nightlife of San Martín de los Andes during your visit.

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Best shops in San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a variety of artisanal crafts, locally-made products, and traditional souvenirs available in the charming streets of the town. From handcrafted wooden items to delicious regional delicacies, there is something for everyone to discover and take home as a reminder of their time in this picturesque mountain town. Visitors can explore boutique shops, market stalls, and specialty stores, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and creativity of the local community while finding the perfect memento to cherish.

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San Martín de los Andes essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in San Martín de los Andes, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in the town center, but be aware of potential withdrawal limits and fees. It's a good idea to exchange some money before arriving or use ATMs upon arrival for convenience.
Safety
San Martín de los Andes is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions are always advisable. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the town does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so use hotel safes to store valuables.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 107 for medical assistance, 100 for fire emergencies, and 101 for police assistance. The local hospital, Hospital Dr. Ramón Carrillo, is equipped to handle most medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For more extensive medical care, the city of Neuquén has larger medical facilities.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing overly flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect when visiting religious sites, even though there are no strict dress codes. Public Transport: Do have small change for bus fares and be respectful to fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Using 'Hola' (Hello) and 'Gracias' (Thank you) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'asado' (barbecue) and 'empanadas.' Don't leave a tip out of the bill; instead, leave it on the table or hand it directly to the server.
Local Tips
To experience San Martín de los Andes like a local, visit the Feria Artesanal, an artisan market where you can buy handmade crafts and local products. Engage with locals, as they are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Lanín National Park, home to the Lanín Volcano and numerous hiking trails. For a unique experience, take a boat tour on Lake Lácar or enjoy a day of fishing in the pristine rivers and lakes surrounding the town.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[oh-lah]
GoodbyeChau[chow]
YesSí[see]
NoNo[noh]
Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada[pohr fah-vohr/de nah-dah]
Thank youGracias[grah-syahs]
Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón[dee-skool-peh/pehr-dohn]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[koh-moh ehs-tahs]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[byen. ee too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[ah-blahs een-glehs]
I don't understandNo entiendo[noh ehn-tyen-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-lood]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-yoo-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![veh-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llame a la policía![yah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
Call a doctor!¡Llame a un médico![yah-meh ah oon meh-dee-koh]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Quiero comprar...[kyeh-roh kohm-prahr]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[kwan-to kwehs-tah]
That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro[ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?[pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[keh oh-rah ehs]
It's one o'clockEs la una[ehs lah oo-nah]
Half past (10)Las diez y media[lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
MorningMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
AfternoonTarde[tahr-deh]
EveningNoche[noh-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-yehr]
TodayHoy[oy]
TomorrowMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
1Uno[oo-noh]
2Dos[dohs]
3Tres[trehs]
4Cuatro[kwah-troh]
5Cinco[seen-koh]
6Seis[seys]
7Siete[syeh-teh]
8Ocho[oh-choh]
9Nueve[nweh-veh]
10Diez[dyehs]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?[dohn-deh ehs-tah]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[kwal ehs lah dee-rek-syohn]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puede mostrarme (en el mapa)?[pweh-deh mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (colectivo)?[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (koh-lehk-tee-voh)]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)[oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of San Martín de los Andes

Founding of San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes was founded on February 4, 1898, by Colonel Celestino Pérez. It was initially established as a strategic military outpost to secure the Argentine frontier and promote settlement in the region.

Indigenous Mapuche Influence

Before the arrival of European settlers, the region was inhabited by the Mapuche people. Their culture and traditions have significantly influenced the local customs and heritage of San Martín de los Andes. The Mapuche language, Mapudungun, is still spoken by some community members.

Development of Lanín National Park

Lanín National Park was established in 1937 to protect the diverse ecosystems and the iconic Lanín Volcano. The park covers an area of over 1,500 square miles and is a major draw for tourists, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Arrival of the First European Settlers

European settlers, primarily of German, Austrian, and Swiss descent, began to arrive in the early 20th century. They contributed to the development of agriculture, dairy farming, and the timber industry, shaping the economic landscape of the region.

The Construction of Route 40

The construction of Route 40, one of Argentina's most famous highways, played a crucial role in connecting San Martín de los Andes with other parts of the country. This enhanced access significantly boosted tourism and commerce in the area.

Cultural Festivals and Celebrations

San Martín de los Andes hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, including the National Chocolate Festival and the Snow Festival. These events celebrate the local heritage and attract visitors from all over Argentina and beyond.

Environmental Conservation Efforts

In recent years, San Martín de los Andes has been at the forefront of environmental conservation efforts. Local organizations work tirelessly to protect the natural beauty of the region, promoting sustainable tourism and conservation of native flora and fauna.

Architectural Heritage

The town's architecture reflects its diverse history, featuring a blend of European alpine styles and traditional Patagonian designs. Notable buildings include the Chapel of San José and the local civic center, both of which showcase the town's unique architectural heritage.

Economic Impact of Tourism

Tourism has become the backbone of San Martín de los Andes' economy. The town's scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences attract thousands of visitors annually, providing a significant boost to the local economy.

San Martín de los Andes in Photos

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to San Martín de los Andes

Discover the beauty of San Martín de los Andes with Evendo, a 100% free travel guide app covering all the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more.

  • Comprehensive details on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities.
  • Rich information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences within the app.
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Plan your perfect trip to San Martín de los Andes with Evendo, the free travel guide app that offers comprehensive details on attractions, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more.

  • History of San Martín de los Andes and travel essentials.
  • Curated local tips to experience the city like a local.
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature for spontaneous exploration.
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to San Martín de los Andes with Evendo, your trusted travel companion. Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, this picturesque town offers stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and a rich cultural heritage. With Evendo, explore top attractions like Lanín National Park, the Chapelco Ski Resort, and the scenic Route of the Seven Lakes. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a leisure traveler, Evendo provides detailed information, local tips, and essential travel guides to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Delve into the vibrant culinary scene by discovering renowned restaurants such as La Costa del Pueblo and Domingo. From cozy cafes to fine dining, Evendo has you covered. Our app also highlights the best shops, bars, and nightclubs in San Martín de los Andes, ensuring you experience the local nightlife like a true insider. For accommodations, choose from a curated list of hotels that cater to all budgets and preferences.

Planning your trip has never been easier. With Evendo, you can book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly within the app. No more hassle of searching multiple platforms for information and bookings. Our intuitive 'Near me' feature helps you find attractions, restaurants, and activities close to your current location, making spontaneous adventures a breeze. Plus, with detailed maps and contact information, navigating the city becomes effortless. Download Evendo today and unlock the full potential of your journey to San Martín de los Andes.

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