Lago Machónico
A stunning Patagonian lake on the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, offering breathtaking panoramic views and vibrant lupine fields.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, stunning colors
Lago Machónico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, stunning colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Patagonian lake on the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, offering breathtaking panoramic views and vibrant lupine fields.
"The most outstanding panoramic view! Definitely worth the stop on the Ruta de los 7 Lagos."
📸 Stop for the View
Don't miss the main viewpoint for incredible photos! Be prepared to climb slightly for the best angle.
🚗 Roadside Parking
Parking is informal along the road. Be mindful of other vehicles and pull over safely.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Viewpoint
Roadside viewpoint
Breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. A must-stop for photos!
Ruta de los 7 Lagos
Along Route 40
Experience one of Argentina's most iconic scenic drives, with Lago Machónico as a highlight.
Lupine Fields
Lakeshore
Vibrant purple lupines bloom along the shores, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lago Machónico
Navigating the Ruta de los 7 Lagos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Stop for the View
Don't miss the main viewpoint for incredible photos! Be prepared to climb slightly for the best angle.
🚗 Roadside Parking
Parking is informal along the road. Be mindful of other vehicles and pull over safely.
📵 Limited Connectivity
Expect no cell service or Wi-Fi. Download offline maps before you go.
🌸 Admire the Lupines
In bloom, the purple lupines add a magical touch to the lake's edge.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Stop for the View
Don't miss the main viewpoint for incredible photos! Be prepared to climb slightly for the best angle.
🚗 Roadside Parking
Parking is informal along the road. Be mindful of other vehicles and pull over safely.
📵 Limited Connectivity
Expect no cell service or Wi-Fi. Download offline maps before you go.
🌸 Admire the Lupines
In bloom, the purple lupines add a magical touch to the lake's edge.
🚶♀️ Easy Access (mostly)
While clean and free to access, mobility can be medium difficulty due to steepness.
🚲 Cycling Paradise
A stunning part of the 7 Lakes route for cyclists, offering pure, unfiltered nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the outstanding panoramic views at Lago Machónico, calling it a must-see on the Ruta de los 7 Lagos. The natural beauty, including blooming lupines and surrounding mountains, is consistently praised. While access to the lake shore is steep, the viewpoint offers a worthwhile experience for a brief, memorable stop.
"The most outstanding panoramic view!"
Mariana Marshall
"Good road"
Sitanggang BIG Prana
"To see the lake from the viewing platform, you have to be tall or carefully climb to a higher place, but the view is definitely worth it. Unfortunately, you can't go down to the lake because it's very steep."
Andrea Aparicio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago Machónico is located along the famous Ruta de los 7 Lagos (Route 40) in Patagonia, Argentina. It's situated between Lago Falkner and Lago Villarino, approximately 25 km from San Martín de los Andes. You can reach it by car, either driving the entire Ruta de los 7 Lagos or as a day trip from San Martín de los Andes. 
The road to Lago Machónico is part of the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, which is generally well-maintained but can be winding. It's a popular route for both cars and cyclists.
Yes, you can visit Lago Machónico from Bariloche as part of a longer drive along the Ruta de los 7 Lagos. It's a significant stop on this iconic scenic route.
Many travelers recommend driving the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, stopping at various viewpoints and lakes like Lago Machónico. Cycling is also a popular and immersive way to experience the route.
Public transportation directly to Lago Machónico is limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle or as part of an organized tour from nearby towns like San Martín de los Andes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Lago Machónico and its viewpoint is free. It's a natural attraction along the public Ruta de los 7 Lagos.
Lago Machónico is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the best viewing times are during daylight hours.
No, no tickets are required to visit Lago Machónico as it is a free-access natural site.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and practice Leave No Trace principles.
While the description mentions water sports, swimming conditions can vary. It's advisable to check local conditions or inquire locally if you plan to swim.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the stunning panoramic views from the roadside viewpoint. You can also take short walks along the shore, admire the lupines, and appreciate the surrounding Patagonian landscape.
Yes, the area is generally child-friendly, but adult supervision is recommended, especially near the steep lake edges. The viewpoint offers a safe place to observe the scenery.
The most popular and outstanding panoramic view is from the designated roadside viewpoint. You might need to climb slightly to get the best angle.
Accessing the lake shore directly can be difficult due to steep terrain. The main attraction is the view from the elevated viewpoint.
Visitors have reported seeing various types of birds, adding a special touch to the natural beauty of the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The main roadside viewpoint offers incredible panoramic shots of the lake and mountains. The blooming lupines in season also provide beautiful foreground elements.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The main viewpoint is the most recommended spot. Some visitors mention climbing to higher points for even better perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in national parks or protected areas in Argentina.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Cyclists
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and you have offline maps, as services are scarce along this stretch. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Ruta de los 7 Lagos
+1Many travelers choose to drive this route, taking their time to stop at various viewpoints and short trails. Cycling is also a popular way to experience the Ruta de los 7 Lagos, allowing for a more intimate connection with the landscape. The autumn foliage is particularly spectacular, transforming the forests into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, as seen in some stunning reels.
+1 It's important to note that cell service is unreliable along much of the route, so downloading offline maps and being prepared for limited connectivity is crucial for a smooth journey. Experiencing Lago Machónico's Natural Beauty
The area is known for its lush vegetation, including forests of lenga trees, and in certain seasons, the shores are adorned with vibrant purple lupines. These wildflowers add a striking splash of color against the blue of the lake and the green of the landscape, making it a photographer's delight.
While the primary activity is sightseeing, the lake's setting makes it a peaceful place to pause during your journey. The clean environment and free access make it an easily integrated stop for anyone exploring the Ruta de los 7 Lagos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit