excursions catalog

Full Experience:

Gastronomy, Lodging and Excursions

Spring Creek Lodge is located in the heart of northern Patagonia’s Lake District and only 25 minutes from the Chapelco Airport. It enjoys easy access to the town of San Martin de los Andes and the Lanin National Park with it’s numerous hiking trails, lakes and rivers. The entire area offers a rich diversity of adventure, cultural and lifestyle excursions.
The combination of the areas numerous activities with the lodge’s unique gastronomy and accommodations are what makes Spring Creek Lodge the best full board option in the region.

Spring Creek Lodge

Index

Spring Creek Lodge’s location allows us to design a wide range of excursions and tours based on our guests travel styles and interests. Most of the activities are set for a medium level of difficulty but can be tailored to be more or less demanding. All excursions listed in this catalog are individualized, with one expert guide and 4WD truck per every two guests. Our teams of guide’s are passionate about their expertise and this helps to ensure that you have the highest quality experience. All guides, vehicles and boats that are used are part of the Spring Creek Lodge’s team.

Most popular Itineraries

Pairing excursions is an art based on experience. Once you have chosen your activities we will design an itinerary that coordinates your desires with the maximization of your valuable time. Check our most popular itinerary options.

Patagonia’s unique geography provides the opportunity for a wide range of outdoor activities for all levels of skills and ages.

Hiking Lanin National Park
Horseback Riding
Fly Fishing
Deluxe Camps
Bike Rides
Kayaking
Boat Rides
White water rafting
Rock Climbing
Winter Activities

Every region has cultural differences that are based on varying customs and beliefs. Native Mapuche’s culture has a strong presence in the surrounding areas and through the years it has blended with the cultures of the areas Austrian and Swiss immigrants. Experience Argentina’s northern Patagonian culture first hand.

Local Artists & Artisans Local Culture Archeology Tours Tango Dancing Class

We believe that enjoyable and memorable experiences are what every traveler is searching to find. Allow our expert team to help you achieve that goal.

In-suite Spa Wine-tasting Special Dinning Events Cooking Class for local recipes Sightseeing Photography Workshop Birdwatchinig Sailing Nahuel Huapi lake Golf Shopping tours

Before your trip

Weather and Temperatures for North Patagonia.

During the summer months, late December through early March, the average daytime temperatures vary between 66º F and 77º F (19º C and 25º C). Nighttime and early morning temperatures are usually cooler so you may need an extra layer of clothing before the sun warms thing up.

Spring and autumn are a bit cooler with daytime temperatures reaching into the 70º F (21º C) with the morning and nighttime lows in the low 60’s F (15´sº C). Having a vest or jacket handy is typically suggested for the evenings and mornings.

Northern Patagonia typically has mild winters (June through September), however it does snow and daytime temperatures can be lower than 40º F (5º C). This provides guests with a great opportunity to participate in winter activities in Patagonia while it’s summer in the northern hemisphere. Activities such as snow skiing, snowboarding and winter snowshoeing are available.

How to get here

From Buenos Aires: AEROLÍNEAS ARGENTINAS fly to San Martin de los Andes. AEROLÍNEAS ARGENTINAS fly to Bariloche. As part of Spring Creek Lodge’s concierge service, for your convenience we will pick you up at either airport.

Travel time to the lodge: Junín de los Andes: 10 minutes. San Martin de los Andes: 45 minutes. Bariloche (non-scenic route): 3 hours 30 minutes. Bariloche (scenic route): 4 hours 30 minutes. Pucón (Chile): +4 hours. (depending upon the border crossing length of time)

Not to forget

Weather in the mountain region of northern Patagonia can be unpredictable. We recommend dressing in layers in order to remain comfortable. It’s important to wear comfortable clothes especially during outdoor activities. Several of the activities that you may be participating in require specialized gear. You are welcome to use your own, however, we can provide what is required. Please inform us in advance what your requirements might be and we’ll make sure that it is available.

Hiking Lanin National Park Horseback Riding Fly Fishing Deluxe Camps Bike Rides Kayaking Boat Rides White water rafting Rock Climbing Winter Activities

Hiking Lanin National Park

Half day or full day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW-HIGH Physical Requirement: LOW-HIGH * Needs to be pre-arranged

Spring Creek lodge´s epicentric location on the Lanin National Park, allows easy access to a wide range of secluded hiking trails. This variety of choices allows us to tailor the experience to your demand, from a very comfortable 1 mile walk for the beginners, all the way to a stepped volcano excursion on the valdivian rain forest for the most fitted guest.All the options offer a unique north patagonian surrounding with nothofagus trees, breathtaking views, and sounds of nature, be that birds, or small streams that cross your paths.

Our specialty guides will lead your way, accomodating all your needs.

It´s important to bring the bassics for any hike. Comfortable, waterproof footwear, suitable for trekking. Several layers of warm clothing, including a waterproof layer, Cap and sun glasses and Sunscreen. Reusable Water bottles will be provided at the lodge.

Horseback Ride at El Alamo Ranch

Half day or full day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged

Enjoy a scenic horseback ride in the Andes Mountains at El Alamo Ranch. You’ll ride through the native sub-Antarctic forest before eventually reaching tree line where you’ll experience the areas stunning views. The duration of this gentle ride is typically 2 to 3 hours and concludes with a delicious meal back at the ranch.

Optionally, for those seeking a bit more adventure enjoy a 5 to 6 hour ride to Laguna Rosales or over the north face of Cerro Colorado. A picnic lunch will be packed and served halfway through the ride. The ride will conclude back at the ranch with a delicious dinner and fine Argentine wine served as the sunsets over Lake Lolog.

Multiple Days Horseback Ride

Multiple day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged

Experience a two-day ride with an overnight in our deluxe camp. We will visit a neighboring estancia with amazing natural scenery riding from the river valley to reach the stunning higher elevations views. Odds are you will have the chance to spot condors and other wildlife such as red stag, rheas and guanacos. Rock formations featuring petroglyphs will also be viewed. The night will be spent in a unique setting while being pampered by our Deluxe Camp Service. Dinner will feature a lamb cooked on the iron cross “gaucho style” over the open fire.

Also included will be great wines, sausages and other treats masterfully prepared by a full camp staff. This is an excellent way to experience Patagonia as you view a sky full of stars while telling stories by the bonfire. This activity is ideal for families and couples that are looking for a unique Patagonian experience. We will complete the ride the following day or built in another half-day activity for the afternoon.

The area between Junín de los Andes and Alumine in Northern Patagonia is the most prolific dry fly fishing region in the world. The variety and abundance of fishable water would allow you to fish a different location each day for more than 100 days. Dry fly fishing is available throughout the entire season, November through May. For those in search of a complete Patagonian experience we can offer a 2 days float, with an overnight stay in our deluxe camp.

Daily Outings

Full day or Multi day excursions Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: LOW Season: November 1st through May 1st * Needs to be prearranged

North Patagonia is famous for its quality fly fishing that is available for all levels of angling skill. Chose from full day or multiple day floats on one of our world class rivers, walk and wade on several small rivers, creeks and streams, or spend a day fishing a glacial formed lake from one of our powerboats. All of these options are available. Every month of the season has something different to offer. From the dragonfly hatch on the lakes during December, the willow tree inch-worm hatch on the Alumine River (and other adjacent rivers) during January, or the minnow run in late February. Don’t forget autumn (March and April), when amazing hatches occur that produces some of the seasons best dry fly fishing.

We welcome the opportunity to assist novice anglers that want to improve their skills or first timers that just want to see what it’s all about. Patagonia is a dream destination for anglers from across the world and our hungry trout make it perfect for a first time fly fishing outing. Our guides are skilful instructors that enjoy the opportunity to teach and share their knowledge. All the necessary equipment is provided.

Deluxe Camps

* Needs to be pre-arranged

Our dedicated camp staff will have your camp completely prepared prior to your arrival. Your only responsibility is to sit back and enjoy yourself! All camps include: Large sleeping tents equipped with cots, inflatable sleeping pads, pillows, freshly laundered sleeping bags, nightstand and flashlight Toilet tent with chemical toilets Shower tent with hot water Dining tent with tables and chairs Electric power generator which will illuminate the camp area and provide power to recharge your devices Personal waterproof gear bag that includes a shower towel Camp staff to prepare and serve meals and responsible for all camp chores.

Our Deluxe Camps allows you to fully immerse yourself into the Patagonian experience without giving up your creature comforts. Imagine a day where you hike, horseback ride or fish the river, creek, or lake of your dreams, and conclude the evening gazing into the southern night sky. This is an opportunity for you to see a side of Patagonia that most people can only fantasize about but will never know.

Multiple years of offering this unique lodging option has literally equipped us to provide for all of your needs. Our camp cooks have mastered the art of cooking over an open fire so be prepared to delight your taste buds. Dinners include Argentine asados, roasted lamb prepared gaucho style and much more. Prior to dinner enjoy freshly prepared hors d’ oeuvres, drinks from the mini-bar and fine Argentine wines. Our dedicated camp staff will pamper you so that you never have to lift a finger! Our camps are best paired with: Multiple Day Hikes,

TRAIL BICICLE RIDES & MOUNTAIN BIKE

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged All necessary gear is provided

Numerous trails and circuits are available in the national parks and neighboring ranches. This is a perfect half-day activity that can be combined with other leisure options. Prior to your ride you will discuss with your guide the type of outing that you are looking to experience.

For those looking for more adventure we offer full day rides on circuits with a higher level of difficulty. These rides take place on the scenic trails in the national park forests and are geared more towards experience raiders.

Kayak session on lake Machonico

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM No previous experience required * Needs to be pre-arranged

This half-day activity is frequently combined with: Early Dinner at Avataras Organic Farm.

This morning we will take a short drive through the Seven Lakes District before reaching Lake Machonico. There, we will meet our kayaking guide for a morning kayaking session on the lake. We will be paddling the pristine river that connects Machonico Lake with Pichi Machonico Lakes. Today’s lunch will be served on the beach along a pristine shoreline. We will complete the lop circuit discovering the lakes furthest shore before returning to the vehicles.

Lake Lolog / Lake Tromen

Full day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: LOW

This full day activity is frequently combined with: Hikes, Fly Fishing, Birdwatching, Photography

Discover Patagonia’s most concealed corners on board a motorboat. The Northern Patagonia Lakes District is home to many large glacial formed lakes where the majority of them have experiences minimal boat and human pressure. Most of these lakes have limited access and extensive undeveloped shorelines. These lakes, located inside the Lanin and Nahuel Huapi National Parks, are a wilderness paradise. Two of our favorites are Lake Lolog and Lake Tromen that are both located in the Lanin National Park. Included is a delicious lunch, with wine, served on the shoreline.

UPPER Chimehuin River

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged Season: September through January

The Chimehuin River runs through the property and starts as natural drainage from Lake Huechulafquen. The upper section of the river is ideal for mild difficulty white water rafting with Class lll rapids. This is suitable for all ages and does not require previous experience.

Neoprene suits are available. Fishing can also be incorporated into this activity.

The area surrounding the town of San Martin de los Andes offers numerous climbing walls with varying degrees of difficulty. All of these climbs are easily accessible and many are suited for beginners that would like to give this activity a try. However, the diversity of alternatives also provides experienced climbers with ample options (crack, wall and overhanging climbing) to enjoy this sport.

Several of these routes are geared with permanent anchors and cover climbing difficulties from 5.10 to 5.40. Our guides are more than willing to instruct beginners and all gear and equipment is provided.

HALF DAY WITH MANU PARADA

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: Adaptable Physical Requirement: MEDIA to HIGH * Needs to be pre-arranged

In the heart of the Seven Lakes Road district we have several multi-pitch routes. Prior climbing experience is required to participate in this activity.

The approach to the climbing area requires bouldering for 1 to 2 hours. After arriving at the wall you will have 3 different climbing alternatives that vary for 700 to 900 feet in length and between 5.10 and 5.80 in difficulty. All of the climbs take place in a pristine environment that few climbers have experienced.

Winter in this part of the southern hemisphere brings snow and we have the perfect natural playground. Our location, 40º south latitude, enjoys mild winter weather but still produces quality snow conditions. Patagonia is the perfect place to enjoy snow sports and winter activities when it is summer in the northern hemisphere. Snow boarding, skiing and snowshoeing are available along with year round activities that include: horseback riding, hiking, bicycle riding and even lake kayaking.

BACK COUNTRY SKIING

Full day excursion Technical difficulty: MEDIA Physical Requirement: MEDIA * Needs to be pre arranged

This is a great activity for those who are looking for some solitude and adventure in the heart of the Andes. You’ll have the chance to ski untouched powder where the only tracks that you see are your own.

There are numerous options and trails featuring easy bowls, long step runs, gutters and rock outcroppings. The variety and diversity of terrain can satisfy the needs of beginners to experts.

One of our expert guides will be with you for the entire outing. All equipment is provided and will be fitted the evening prior to your outing.

Chapelco Mountain Resort

Full day excursion Technical difficulty: MEDIA-LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIA * Needs to be pre-arranged

Chapelco Mountain Resort, which is rated in the Top 3 in Argentina, is located only one hour from the lodge. The resorts partially forested terrain offers spectacular scenery and mind-blowing views of the snowcapped Lanin and Villarrica Volcanoes.

Skiers of all skill levels can enjoy a wide variety of runs with the longest being 3.2 miles long and a gradient that ranges from 20 to 40 degrees.

Your outing will be hosted by one of our guides that is familiar and knowledgeable with the resorts amenities, features and terrain. Equipment will be provided and fitted to your liking the night prior to your outing.

SNOWSHOE HIKES

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM Needs to be pre-arranged Only available June through August

Many of our most popular summer hikes, including some that reach high mountain ridges, are perfect for snowshoeing. You can participate in either a half-day outing with a gentle walk of 2-3 hours or a full day excursion. The areas countless snowcapped peaks provide spectacular scenery and great photo opportunities. Your guide will pack hot drinks and lunch.

Local Artists & Artisans
Local Culture
Archeology Tours
Tango Dancing Class

The northern Patagonia region has become the home for many talented artists. These groups of talented individuals has been inspired by the areas natural beauty combined with the calm and peaceful way of living.

Silver & Jewelers

Half day excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

Ideal to combine with: San Martin de los Andes Tour, Hike to Panoramic Views, Kayak Lake Machonico, Lake Lolog Boat Ride, Georg Collection, El Alamo Ranch Horseback Ride, Clay Oven Cooking Class, Tango Dancing Lesson

Multiple artist in the area are inspired to create fantastic works using silver as their medium. You can tour multiple showrooms and ateliers while discovering unique knives, cutlery and amazing jewelry designs. You will be able to interact with the artists and learn about the techniques they incorporate into their creations. This is a great opportunity to purchase that “special gift” to remind you of Patagonia.

Pottery Workshop

Half day excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

Ideal to combine with: San Martin de los Andes tour, Hike to Panoramic Views, Kayak Lake Machonico, Lake Lolog Boat Ride, Georg Collection, El Alamo Ranch Horseback Ride, Clay Oven Cooking Class, Tango Dancing Lesson

The soils found in Patagonia provide unique materials that have inspire multiple artisans to create unique pieces ranging from Mapuche style vases to modern earthenware. We invite you to visit these artisans and participate in a workshop where you will have the chance to dip your hands in the clay. Your patience, balance and concentration will be put in play as you create your own unique piece.

Patagonic Sheep Wool Tour & Workshop

Half day excursion
* Needs to be pre-arranged

Patagonia is Argentina’s main wool and yarn producing region. Included is the production of merino wool, fine mohair yarn from the goats of Neuquén Province and the super fine guanaco yarn produced by the native communities.

The legacy of the local Mapuches traditions with wool has brought creative and prolific knitters and weavers to the region. We invite you to meet local artisans and learn about the whole process from the fiber, natural dying, hand spool and weaving technique. Understanding the entire wool creating process will be helpful when you have the chance to create your own piece in the workshop. You will have shopping opportunities to acquire unique creations from different designers and styles.

Georg Collection “Home of Arts in Patagonia”

Half day excursion *Needs to be arrange on arrival day

Ideal to combine with: San Martin de los Andes Tour, Hike to Panoramic Views, Kayak Lake Machonico, Lake Lolog Boat Ride, Silver & Jewelers, El Alamo Ranch Horseback Ride, Clay Oven Cooking Class, Tango Dancing Lesson

Master impressionist Georg Miciu Nicolaevici has spent significant portion of his life in San Martin de los Andes. It is here that he created this singular gallery and family museum. A visit to the collection offers the chance to discover firsthand the amazing talent of the different artist in the Miciu family. Beside family painters and fine art photographers you will discover the works of Emiliano Celiz, master silversmith, and his fascinating silver vases. The museums five-story building is by itself a work of art.

If you are interest in art and curious about Argentine art than a visiting to the Georg Collection is a must. This one of the kind gallery features pieces from: Georg Miciu Nicolaevic (pallet knife impressionist painter) – Emaus Miciu (canvas, impressionist painter) – Eliseo Miciu (fine art photographer) – Isaias Miciu (sporting life photographer) – Emiliano Celiz (master silversmith) Diverse creations from local artists are also featured.

Emiliano Celiz Master Silversmith

Half Day Excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

“The mark of a true artist is the courageous skill to redefine the limits of their craft, create from their vision beauty yet to be known. Emiliano Céliz moves beyond artistry through his work. He has created visual poetry through silver, light within darkness, moonlight dancing across churning ocean waves. His work reinvents the art of the silversmith…” Tony Chi Interior design creative development, New York

Emiliano is a one-of-a-kind artist and we feel privileged that he makes San Martin de los Andes his home. Many of his works are on permanent exhibit in several top galleries around the world. If he is available you will have the opportunity to meet him in person and learn firsthand the though process behind his creations.

Suggested for those interested on purchasing his art pieces (you can see his work beforehand at Georg Collection) www.emilianoceliz.com

VISIT SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES ARCHEOLOGY SITES WITH ALBERTO PEREZ

Half day excursion Physical Requirement: MEDIA * Needs to be pre-arranged

Usually combines with: Cooking Class for Argentinean Recipes

Alberto Perez is a locally renowned archeologist who has extensively explored the Neuquén Province. Your time will be spent in the field discovering ancient artifacts at archaeological sites in the area surrounding San Martin de los Andes. During your outing you will discuss how the early native inhabitants lived prior to and after the arrival of the Spanish. You’ll get an understanding of the impact that colonization had on the local native culture and their way of life.

Tango lesson with Marcos and Analia

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged

No visit to Argentina is complete without taking in a tango performance. Why not take it one step further and experience tango firsthand with a private dance lesson. Your instructors will be the talented husband and wife team of Marcos and Analia. This talented couple runs a successful tango school in San Martin de los Andes and they are experts at introducing people to the art of dancing tango. With a little practice you’ll be able to show off your new dance moves to your friends back home!

Once a week they have a performance at Spring Creek Lodge.

In-suite Spa
Wine-tasting
Special Dinning Events
Cooking Class for local recipes
Sightseeing
Photography Workshop
Birdwatchinig
Sailing Nahuel Huapi lake
Golf
Shopping tours

MASSAGE session with Gabriel

Half day excursion

In the privacy of you suite enjoy a 90-minute, full body, deep tissue massages with our talented therapist Gabriel Gómez. This massage is adapted for our most demanding guests who are looking to recover after active outings or just for a fully relaxing experience. Besides a full body message, Gabriel will be happy to focus his efforts addressing specific pain issues that you are experiencing.

A great way to conclude your session is by enjoying a fresh glass of fruit juice or sparkling wine served to you on your private patio.

Argentina’s malbecs

Half day excursion No previous experience required This activity is regularly schedule on arrival nights for all our guests.

Argentina is the home of magnificent wines with malbec being the most renown. However, our cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir and other vintages are also highly regarded. We will take you on a tour sampling different labels as we travel from the northern to southern wine regions of the country. Malbecs will be our focus and you’ll come to appreciate how the same grape, grown under different soil and weather conditions, can produce distinctly different tasting wines.

AVATARAS MELIQUINA

Half day excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

“An unexpected event that every guests at Spring Creek should give it a try, we ate as a top Restaurant in NY virtually on a paradise in middle of nowhere”

The Avataras Meliquina is an organic farming community that lives in a natural paradise within the Lanin National Park. The farm is perfectly located to take advantage of the beautiful view that overlooks Lake Meliquina. At their close door restaurant you will enjoy a 5 to 8 course dinner featuring the freshest farm to table ingredients.

With this activity dinner is typically served fairly early as it is combined with other activities in the Seven Lakes Road region.

DINNER AT EL ALAMO RANCH

Half day excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

“Meeting Yvonne & Raul was one of the highlights of the trip, we had the feeling we were visiting longtime friends. Singular hospitality, and great authentic home style food make this evening a must for our next trip to Spring Creek”

An evening at El Alamo Ranch allows you to relax in a private outdoor setting with great views. Meet our hosts and listen to stories about the area and local culture while delighting yourself with a great traditional meal that’s prepared in large clay oven.

Dinner at El Comedor

Half day excursion * Needs to be pre-arranged

Claudio Abraham is the former chef for one of the biggest lodges in the area. Since 2022 he runs his own closed door restaurant in Junin de los Andes.

His versatile cuisine, combined with the unique setting provide a great dinning experience for guests in search for a variety of local flavours.

Cooking Class with our Chef

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW

Spend an afternoon with our Chef Federico, learning classic Argentine recipes. You will begin by preparing the famous chimichurri and criolla sauces that will later be serve with the meal. We will continue with the typical beef empanadas and learn how to prepare the tasty dough and several different beef fillings. Your creations will served as appetizers prior to tonight’s dinner.

Every province in the country has developed unique empanada recipes and they all claim to have the best. You will be focused on the styles that are unique to Mendoza and Salta Province’s.

Class & Dinner at El Alamo Ranch*

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW * Needs to be pre-arranged

Spend the afternoon with Raul Pizales and Tomas Campbell at El Alamo Ranch. You’ll be assisting with the food preparation for this country style dinner that incorporates the clay oven and open flame. While helping with the preparations Raul and Tomas will entertain you with their stories about the people and traditions of the area. This is fantastic activity that gives you the opportunity to meet interesting local residents and share some wine while enjoying the view overlooking Lake Lolog.

Your outdoor dinner will be served as the sunsets over another day.

This activity is frequently combined with sailing Lake Nahuel Huapi, Birdwatching, Photography Outings, Nivinco Falls Hike, Gourmet Outing / Buena Vista Restaurant.

SEVEN LAKES ROAD

Half day to Full Day excursion Physical Requirement: LOW * Needs to be pre-arranged

This activity is frequently combined with sailing Lake Nahuel Huapi, Birdwatching, Photography Outings, Nivinco Falls Hike, Gourmet Outing / Buena Vista Restaurant.

This road is the most emblematic sightseeing drive in Patagonia. In addition to joining the towns of San Martin de los Andes and Villa La Angostura the road runs across the heart of the Lake District and through the Lanin and Nahuel Huapi National Parks. The Seven Lakes Road is a 107 km (66.5 miles) long section of National Route 40 that stretches south to north, from Ushuaia, to la Quiaca. During the tour we will view the typical characteristics of the Patagonian Andes region: green forests, snowcapped peaks, and beautiful lakes. If you visit during the autumn months of April and May you’ll view the trees as they change color from green to vibrant reds, yellows and oranges.

Along the way you will have the opportunity to stop for photos and if you like take several short hikes. After reaching our destination, Villa La Angostura, you’ll have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant overlooking stunning Lake Nahuel Huapi. The afternoon can be spent exploring Villa la Angostura or taking a sail on the lake.

THE BEST OF SAN MARTIN TOUR

Half day excursion Physical Requirement: LOW

Typically, this is a great half-day activity for the first day of your visit or it can be easily combined with many other activities.

San Martin de los Andes, located only 40 minutes from Spring Creek Lodge, is a charming resort town. It is situated on the eastern edge of the Lanin National Park and the park’s beautiful Lake Lacar.

The town is one of the most picturesque in the northern Patagonia Lakes District and features great restaurants, bars and unique shopping opportunities. San Martin is also the home of many talented artists, artisans and is a great outdoor recreational playground for locals and visitors.

We will explore the history of the area and visit several panoramic lookouts to discover how the town is situated in the overall environment. Following a gentle hike to the top of one of the nearby mountains we’ll head back to town for refreshments and some shopping.

EZEQUIEL LAPRIDA

AVAILABLE WITH ADITIONAL COST Needs to be prearranged

Professional photographer Ezequiel Laprida will partner with you for a day in the outdoors. The focus of the workshop will be how to best capture natural images, lighting, composition, and if time permits editing some of the images that you captured today. Content of the class will be adjusted according to your current photographic knowledge.

Meliquina Area with Ornithologist Florencia Mancini

Half day excursion Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged

Florencia, a biologist and university teacher, has resided in San Martín de los Andes (Patagonia) since 1999. She is an active member of a local non-profit, non-governmental conservation organization (Asociación Conservación Patagónica).

This Half day activity is frequently combined with: Gourment Outings / Avataras Organic Farm

The Northern Patagonia region contains an abundance of birdlife. Records show that there are more than 140 different species that are divided into three categories: steppe, forest and aquatic. Florencia Macini is our specialist for this activity. We have three different outings that are planned to discover birds of different ecosystems: Magallanic Forest, Patagonian Steppe and the transition zone between the two. Each of the sub-areas will allow you to view different birds in diverse environments. Some of the most distinguishable species in the forested areas are the Megallanic Woodpecker and Campephilus Megellanicus. In the Patagonian Steppe you’ll find the Andean Condor, Buff-necked Ibis and Darwin’s Rhea.

To target the best bird activity all three viewing locations will require a very early start. Your outings will be on private ranches and in the Lanin National Park and will require easy gentle hikes. Binoculars and/or telescopes will be provided.

Sailing Nahuel Huapi Lake with Captain Ernesto

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: LOW * Needs to be pre-arranged

“It was my first time on a sail boat and I was a bit reluctant and especially concerned with our young daughter coming with us. It turned out to be an amazing experience where all the family got to work as a team and learn the basics of sailing”

This activity is normally paired with a visit to Villa la Angostura or the Seven Lakes Road Tour. Captain Ernesto will take you on a wonderful sail on the crystal clear waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Throughout the sail you’ll be able to view the spectacular scenery of the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Ernesto will introduce you to the basics of sailing, as you become part of the crew for a few hours.

CHAPELCO GOLF

Half day excursion Technical difficulty: LOW Physical Requirement: MEDIUM * Needs to be pre-arranged

AVAILABLE WITH ADITIONAL COST

Spend the morning at Chapelco Golf Course, the first in South America designed by Jack Nicklaus. This 18 hole, par 72 was designed to capture and highlight the areas spectacular scenery. The course is considered one of the top-5 in Argentina and part of the PGA Latin America Tour. Lunch will be served at the clubhouse.

We will arrange rental clubs for your round.

Shopping Tour

Half day excursion

Ideal activity to combine with: Georg Collection Visit, Hiking Bike Riding,Tango Dancing Class

San Martin de los Andes city center and its surroundings hold a variety of shops and artisans. Fine leather goods, handcrafted knives and jewelry, photographs, local spirits and wines plus more are available. This will be an opportunity to discover representative items from the region and find that special item to bring home. Your guide will select several of the best stores and shops to combine with your interests and style.

Additionally, this is a perfect time to walk and enjoy downtown San Martin de los Andes and possibly visit one of the local ice-cream shops or a neighborhood bar for a glass of wine.

Most Popular Itineraries

Some of our most popular tour and activity choices are listed below. These are two examples of ideas and how they can be combined. Please take a look a look at our catalog and let us know what looks interesting. We look forward to building a customized itinerary for your stay at Spring Creek Lodge.

ACTIVE STYLE

Four days, five nights itinerary

DAY 1, Arrive to CPC Airport – Check in at the Lodge – Argentina Wine Tasting – Meet your host and discuss and decide upon tour and activity options – Welcome Dinner

DAY 2, Morning Kayak session at Lake Machonico with beach picnic Lunch – Afternoon bicycle ride in Lanin National Park – Dinner at the Lodge

DAY 3, Full Day Horseback Ride at El Alamo Ranch with picnic lunch on the mountains – Dinner at the Ranch enjoying sunset view over Lake Lolog

DAY 4, Full day Hike to Achen Niyeu Volcano with picnic lunch on the top – Afternoon visit natural Hot Springs – Dinner at the Lodge – Tango Dancing Show

DAY 5, Morning Zip Line Excursion at Miramas continuing with hike in the Chapelco Mountains – Dinner at the Lodge

DAY 6, Morning departure for The Best of San Martin de los Andes Tour with gentle hike to Panoramic lookout – Lunch in Town – Private transfer to Chapelco Airport in early afternoon

LEISURE STYLE

Four days, five nights itinerary

DAY 1, Arrive to CPC Airport – Check in at the Lodge – Argentina Wine Tasting – Meet your host and discuss and decide upon tour and activity options – Welcome Dinner

DAY 2, The Seven Lakes Road Tour – Morning Hike to Nivinco Waterfall – Lunch at El Mirador Social Club – Explore Villa la Angostura – Return to the Lodge for Dinner

DAY 3, Bird watching on the Patagonia Steppe – Lunch at the Lodge – Afternoon visit to Georg Collection “Home of Arts in Patagonia – Dinner at OMA de los Andes

DAY 4, Morning in suite SPA at the Lodge – Afternoon Cooking Class with Chef Federico Castro – Dinner & Tango Dancing Show at the Lodge

DAY 5, Morning Kayak Session at Lake Machonico with picnic lunch on the beach – Visit Avataras Meliquina for a special 8 course gourmet dinner with sunset over the lake

DAY 6, The Best of San Martin de los Andes Tour & Shopping Tour – Lunch in Town – Private transfer to Chapelco Airport in early afternoon.