Lago Escondido
A serene Patagonian lake, part of the iconic Ruta de los Siete Lagos, known for its natural beauty and ongoing sovereignty discussions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Lago Escondido
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Patagonian lake, part of the iconic Ruta de los Siete Lagos, known for its natural beauty and ongoing sovereignty discussions.
"Beautiful lake but the views from this vista point are basically covered by the trees, so not worth the stop."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Lago Escondido and the Seven Lakes Route at your own pace.
🥾 Be Prepared for Trails
Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some paths to viewpoints can be uneven or slightly challenging.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Hidden' Lake Itself
Lago Escondido
A serene Patagonian lake, often part of the scenic Seven Lakes Route, offering a tranquil natural escape.
Scenic Seven Lakes Route
Ruta de los Siete Lagos
Drive or cycle this iconic route, dotted with breathtaking lakes and diverse landscapes in Patagonia.
Trekking Through Patagonian Forests
Surrounding trails
Embark on short hikes through lush forests to reach viewpoints or discover hidden natural gems.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access and Sovereignty Concerns
Navigating the 'Seven Lakes Route'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Lago Escondido and the Seven Lakes Route at your own pace.
🥾 Be Prepared for Trails
Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some paths to viewpoints can be uneven or slightly challenging.
🌳 Views Can Be Obscured
Some vista points might have trees blocking the full view of the lake. Manage expectations!
🗣️ Understand the Context
Be aware of the ongoing discussions about public access and sovereignty issues surrounding the lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Lago Escondido and the Seven Lakes Route at your own pace.
🥾 Be Prepared for Trails
Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some paths to viewpoints can be uneven or slightly challenging.
🌳 Views Can Be Obscured
Some vista points might have trees blocking the full view of the lake. Manage expectations!
🗣️ Understand the Context
Be aware of the ongoing discussions about public access and sovereignty issues surrounding the lake.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera to capture the stunning Patagonian landscapes along the route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Lago Escondido to be a beautiful natural spot, often appreciated for its tranquility and inclusion in the scenic Seven Lakes Route. However, some reviews mention that views can be obstructed by trees, and the lake's access is a topic of ongoing public discussion.
"Beautiful lake but the views from this vista point are basically covered by the trees, so not worth the stop."
Trachemysta
"Lake hidden behind trees. Not a great view but it is one of the 7 lakes of the circuit."
Ruben Ruiz
"Nice but hard to go down"
Facundo Suarez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago Escondido is typically accessed via the scenic Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route) between San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore this area and stop at various viewpoints.
Yes, Lago Escondido is often considered one of the 'seven lakes' that give the famous Ruta de los Siete Lagos its name. It's a common stop for those driving this iconic Patagonian route.
Public transport options directly to Lago Escondido are limited. It's best to join a guided tour or rent a vehicle to fully experience the Ruta de los Siete Lagos and its various attractions.
Many travelers recommend driving or cycling the Ruta de los Siete Lagos to fully appreciate the scenery. Consider an overnight stay in nearby towns like Villa La Angostura or San Martín de los Andes to explore at a relaxed pace.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer excursions along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos, which often include stops at Lago Escondido and other notable lakes. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there are no entrance fees to access the public viewpoints of Lago Escondido. However, be aware of the complex situation regarding private land and access rights, which has been a subject of public debate.
While public access to viewpoints is usually permitted, there have been reports and discussions regarding restricted access due to private land ownership. It's advisable to stick to designated public areas.
Lago Escondido is an outdoor natural attraction, so it's accessible during daylight hours. The surrounding roads are also generally open year-round, though weather can affect conditions in winter.
Lago Escondido is often mentioned in relation to Bariloche's 'Circuito Chico,' but it's more accurately part of the larger Ruta de los Siete Lagos. The Circuito Chico itself typically doesn't have an entrance fee, but specific attractions within it might.
Information regarding access rights is often discussed in local news and social media campaigns advocating for public access. Following accounts that highlight these issues can provide context.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the natural beauty, take photos, and appreciate the tranquility. Some visitors mention short trails for light trekking.
While there are viewpoints, some reviews suggest that trees can partially obscure the lake's view, so manage your photo expectations.
While the lake is beautiful, swimming and water sports might be limited due to its remote location and potential access restrictions. Some reels show kayaking, suggesting it's possible in certain areas.
Most visitors stop for a short period to admire the scenery, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour, as part of a larger drive along the Seven Lakes Route.
Expect typical Patagonian landscapes with forests, mountains, and the pristine waters of the lake. It's a great place for nature lovers seeking peace.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow on the water and surrounding mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive Patagonian scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The main viewpoints along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos offer opportunities. Be prepared for potential tree obstructions and explore different angles to find the best shots.
Drone regulations can vary, especially in areas with potential access disputes. It's crucial to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
Popular shots often include the lake's serene surface, reflections of the surrounding mountains, and the winding roads of the Ruta de los Siete Lagos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some trails might be too challenging for very young children, shorter, flatter paths can be manageable. The key is to take your time, allowing for spontaneous stops and ensuring kids can enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. Be mindful of the sovereignty discussions; while not a primary concern for kids, it's part of the area's context.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider downloading offline maps, as cell service can be spotty. The experience is about the journey as much as the destination, so embrace the freedom to pull over whenever a view captures your eye.
🌿 Nature & Photography Lovers
While some viewpoints might be partially obscured, the overall beauty of the region, with its forests and pristine waters, provides ample photographic opportunities. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sovereignty Debate at Lago Escondido
Activists and citizens frequently organize marches and campaigns to highlight the issue of 'extranjerización' (foreignization) of natural resources in Patagonia. These movements aim to raise awareness about the importance of national sovereignty and the right of all Argentinians to enjoy their country's natural heritage.
Understanding this context adds a layer of significance to your visit. While the natural beauty remains, the discussions around access and ownership are an integral part of the Lago Escondido story.
Experiencing the Ruta de los Siete Lagos
Travelers often describe the route as breathtaking, with each lake offering unique vistas of crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and majestic mountains. The road itself is an experience, winding through diverse landscapes and providing numerous opportunities for photography and short hikes.
Popular activities along the route include stopping at various miradores (viewpoints), enjoying picnics, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. Many visitors recommend dedicating at least a full day, or even an overnight stay, to truly appreciate the charm of each lake and its surroundings.
Navigating Viewpoints and Trails
This means that while the journey along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos is spectacular, the immediate view of Lago Escondido from certain points might not be as expansive as anticipated. However, the surrounding Patagonian forests offer opportunities for short, pleasant trekking experiences.
It's recommended to wear comfortable footwear for any short walks or hikes. The overall experience is about immersing yourself in the natural Patagonian environment, even if the 'hidden' aspect of the lake means its full grandeur isn't always immediately apparent from every stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit