Lácar Department
Accommodation in Lácar Department
Lago Lácar, mountain views and a scenic stretch of Ruta 40 define Lácar Department. Between hiking, water activities and cultural discoveries, there are many different ways to spend your stay. When choosing your apartment, you might first consider whether you want to focus on the scenery around the lake, active days or the sights along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos.
Lake and mountain views
Lago Lácar is glacial in origin and protected by Lanín National Park. Mirador Bandurrias offers views of the lake, San Martín de los Andes and Cerro Chapelco. You can also take in the surroundings from a natural lookout with panoramic views: a hiking trail leads there from downtown San Martín de los Andes. Those who enjoy walking will also find a hiking area around Cerro Colorado, used by local hikers and tourists. Cerro Colorado is 1,742 meters high and is 12 kilometers from downtown San Martín de los Andes.
A paved route and a range of active days
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos is a scenic, fully paved stretch of Ruta 40. It runs for more than 96 kilometers, connecting Nahuel Huapi National Park with Lanín National Park, and the route can be started in San Martín de los Andes. If you enjoy experiencing different landscapes along the way, this route is a defining part of planning your trip. The distance of more than 96 kilometers refers to the stretch of road described. You can therefore use it as a guide when choosing your outings, rather than as the distance of a hiking trail.
Cerro Chapelco also offers a range of options: its ski area has 31 slopes for all skill levels. Expert-guided hikes are also available on Cerro Chapelco, with views of Lago Lácar and Lanín Volcano along the way. These provide additional mountain activities to choose from alongside the hikes around Cerro Colorado.
Water, trekking and encounters in Quila Quina
Quila Quina offers several ways to experience Lago Lácar. Boats from the pier in San Martín de los Andes reach the shore at Quila Quina in about half an hour. Visitors can rent kayaks there and paddle on Lago Lácar. Diving is also possible with professional guidance and the appropriate equipment. This means you can choose between a boat ride, getting out on the water under your own steam, or a guided dive for your outings.
For a hike, the Quila Quina–Hua Hum trekking route lies in the southern sector of Lanín National Park. Encounters with Mapuche culture are another experience available in Quila Quina: horseback rides are organized by Mapuche communities. Visitors can also learn about the history and traditions of the Mapuche people in a small Mapuche community.
Explore more places
For more places to explore in Lácar Department: San Martin De Los Andes, Paso Hua-hum and Quilaquina.
For the broader travel overview: Neuquén.
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