The best walks and hikes in Reserva Nacional Lacar
4.3
(75)
419
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking in Reserva Nacional Lacar offers diverse landscapes within Argentina's Patagonian Andes. The region features significant altitudinal variation, from high peaks to dense Andean-Patagonian forests, including species like coihue, raulí, and araucaria. Over 20 lakes, such as Lake Lácar, are present, alongside volcanic and mountainous terrain with peaks like Volcán Colorado and Cerro Chapelco. This area preserves representative northern Patagonian Andean ecosystems, providing varied environments for exploration.
Best hiking trails in Reserva Nacional Lacar
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4.8
(26)
142
hikers
10.6km
03:14
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(19)
79
hikers
5.78km
01:46
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(5)
83
hikers
7.47km
04:25
760m
760m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(4)
19
hikers
17.2km
05:11
530m
530m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Reserva Nacional Lacar
Tips from the Community
Excellent landscapes and wonderful routes to explore, both trekking and by bike.
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To make it quiet
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The Mirador Bandurrias offers stunning panoramic views of the deep blue Lago Lácar and the surrounding Andean mountains. From the viewpoint, you can see not only the lake in all its glory, but also the town of San Martín de los Andes, which sits picturesquely on the shore. The path up is well signposted, and although it gets a bit steep in places, every effort is worth it once you can take in the scenery. Especially in high season, you'll find small stalls along the way where you can buy snacks and local handicrafts - a nice addition to the hike. The entrance fee is charged by the local community, around 1500 ARS in February 2024, and supports the preservation of the area. What I particularly liked about this hike is the mix of tranquil nature and the lively atmosphere created by the proximity to San Martín. Be sure to take some time to enjoy the view and maybe spot one of the rare Bandurria birds after which the viewpoint is named. A perfect place to fully enjoy the beauty of the Reserva de Biósfera Andina Norpatagónica
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Fantastic view over Lago Lácar. Beautiful place to take photos or simply enjoy the view! To enter the viewpoint, the local community charges 1500 ars entrance fee (February 2024).
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Easy walk with some great views
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nice place to stay at CG Acar Camp
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In San Martín de los Andes, you will find something to refuel for the next few days, and treat yourself to a good meal, while enjoying the beach, the mountains, and the forest. There is no shortage of housing options for all wallets. This village located at the gates of the Lanín National Park, is frequented in summer and winter alike. It looks a bit like Bariloche, but smaller. Here, the same wooden chalets, and the same avenues. It is ideally located on the edge of Lake Lácar. The village is recent and was founded in 1898. The Pehuenches and Mapuches Indians used to live here before the Argentine army took possession of the place.
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Beautiful view, 5hs round trip hike
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Reserva Nacional Lacar?
Reserva Nacional Lacar offers a diverse range of landscapes, from high peaks to dense Andean-Patagonian forests featuring species like coihue, raulí, and the iconic araucaria. You'll also find over 20 crystal-clear lakes, including Lácar Lake, and varied volcanic and mountainous terrain, with peaks such as Volcán Colorado.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Reserva Nacional Lacar?
Yes, Reserva Nacional Lacar has several easy trails. An excellent option for beginners is the View of the Mountains loop from San Martín de los Andes, an easy 5.8 km path offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
Hikers can explore the ancient Andean-Patagonian forests, home to unique trees like araucaria and coihue, and observe 'barba de viejo' lichen, indicating a pure environment. The region is also dotted with numerous lakes, such as Lácar Lake and Machónico Lake, which provide stunning views and waterside trekking opportunities.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Reserva Nacional Lacar?
Yes, many trails in Reserva Nacional Lacar are circular. For example, the popular La Islita loop from San Martín de los Andes is a moderate 10.6 km route offering views around Lake Lácar. Another option is the San Martín de los Andes – Arrayán Tea House loop, which is about 10.3 km long.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Reserva Nacional Lacar?
The best time to visit Reserva Nacional Lacar for hiking is generally during the warmer months, from spring to autumn (roughly October to April). During this period, the weather is more stable, trails are clear of snow, and the diverse flora is in full bloom, offering optimal conditions for exploration.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Reserva Nacional Lacar?
The trails in Reserva Nacional Lacar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes from forests to lakes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, experienced trekkers will find challenging options. The Summit of Volcán Colorado loop from Pampa del Trompul is a moderate 7.5 km trail with significant elevation gain, often taking over 4 hours. For a longer and more difficult challenge, consider the Hiking loop from San Martín de los Andes, which spans 17.2 km.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the hiking areas?
San Martín de los Andes, located on the shores of Lake Lácar, serves as a primary gateway to the region and offers various amenities, including cafes and restaurants. You can find options there before or after your hike.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking?
Reserva Nacional Lacar is rich in biodiversity. While hiking, you might spot native wildlife such as the pudú (a small deer), puma, and huiña (a wild cat). The diverse ecosystems support a variety of bird species as well.
Are there any multi-day hiking options or long-distance trails in the area?
For more ambitious hikers, Reserva Nacional Lacar is part of the extensive 'Huella Andina' long-distance trail. This trail spans over 500 km, connecting several Patagonian national parks and offering opportunities for multi-day treks, including options around Lake Lácar itself.
What are the typical trail conditions and terrain like?
The terrain varies significantly across Reserva Nacional Lacar. You'll encounter well-defined paths through dense Andean-Patagonian forests, rocky sections on volcanic slopes, and lakeside trails. Some routes involve significant elevation changes, particularly those ascending mountains or volcanoes, while others offer gentler strolls around the lakes.
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