How much walking is involved in this tour?

The tour includes guided walks through the Pil Pil and Arrayanes forest circuits, which involve moderate terrain with uneven paths. The circuits are designed for casual hikers; there are no steep climbs, but comfortable walking shoes with grip are essential.

Is hotel pickup really included?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in San Martín de los Andes are included. Confirm your hotel location with the operator the day before departure.

What's the difference between this tour and just going to Chapelco Hill independently?

This guided tour combines Chapelco Hill with exclusive access to the Pil Pil and Arrayanes forest circuits, plus cultural commentary about Mapuche communities from a knowledgeable local guide. The small-group format (max 12 people) and transportation eliminates self-drive hassle.

Do I need to be an experienced hiker?

No. The forest circuits are moderate difficulty, suitable for active travellers in reasonable fitness. The pace is leisurely with frequent stops for views and photos.

Bring layers and a waterproof jacket (weather is unpredictable), comfortable walking shoes with grip, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Patagonian sun is intense at altitude, so hat and sunglasses are recommended.

Can I visit the artisanal shops during the tour?

Yes, the tour includes free time to explore local shops and viewpoints, typically at Chapelco Hill or other scenic stops along Lago Lácar.

Chapelco Hill Tour Including Pil Pil and Arrayanes Circuit

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Chapelco Hill Tour Including Pil Pil and Arrayanes Circuit

(3)

San Martín de los Andes, Argentina

City ToursNature Tours

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About this activity

Explore the stunning Patagonian landscape surrounding San Martín de los Andes on this half-day minivan tour, combining mountain vistas from Chapelco Hill with scenic walks through the Pil Pil and Arrayanes circuits. You'll travel alongside the crystalline Lago Lácar while learning about the region's Mapuche heritage and local culture from a knowledgeable guide.

Take in the dramatic natural beauty of the Argentine Patagonia on this 4-hour tour by minivan. Starting from San Martin de los Andes, travel along the sparkling blue Lago Lácar on the way to Chapelco Hill, a world-class ski resort, and enjoy free time to explore artisanal shops and see the sights. Capture sweeping panoramas of the Andes mountain rage and learn from a knowledgeable guide about the Mapuche communities you pass through along the way. Bonus: This small-group tour limited to 12 people comes with hotel transport.

Highlights

✓Panoramic views of the Andes from Chapelco Hill ski resort
✓Scenic drives along turquoise Lago Lácar
✓Guided walks through native forest trails (Pil Pil and Arrayanes circuits)
✓Insight into local Mapuche communities and traditions
✓Artisanal shops and viewpoints with free exploration time
✓Small-group experience (max 12 people) with hotel pickup included

Insider tips

★Bring layers and weatherproof jacket—Patagonian weather changes rapidly, especially at higher elevations
★Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip for forest trails
★Visit in afternoon to catch the best light for photography of Lago Lácar and mountain reflections
★Ask your guide about Mapuche history and local plant species along the circuits for deeper cultural context

Good to know

•Hotel pickup and drop-off included; confirm location with operator the day before
•Total duration is 3.5 hours including drive and walking segments
•Trail difficulty is moderate; forest circuits involve uneven terrain but no steep climbs
•Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera; limited food vendors on route
•Small-group format ensures personalized attention and flexibility for photo stops

Who it's for

Nature and hiking enthusiasts seeking authentic Patagonian landscapeCulture-focused travellers interested in indigenous Mapuche heritagePhotography-minded visitors wanting mountain and lake sceneryActive travellers comfortable with moderate forest walking

Best time to visit

Visit during late spring to early autumn (November–March) when trails are fully accessible and weather is most stable. Early afternoon departures offer the best natural light for mountain photography and comfortable walking conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Emma K.

Jul 2025

our guide Ana sorted everything for us and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and mid-week so it was quiet.

Grace N.

Mar 2025

Mateo our guide very good, and a stop the guide added on the fly we love it. Is much better than the tour we do in Paris before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

Olivia M.

Jan 2025

kemal our guide was class, handy if youre short on time, and ran the full 4 hours promised, no joke

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