All Comparisons

Seven Lakes Route vs Carretera Austral

A short, paved, and incredibly scenic drive through pristine Patagonian lakes and charming towns.

An epic, rugged, and remote journey through Chile's untouched Patagonian wilderness, demanding adventure and rewarding self-sufficiency.

Embark on an epic Patagonian road trip: Argentina's iconic Seven Lakes Route offers stunning paved vistas and charming towns, while Chile's legendary Carretera Austral promises a wild, untamed adventure across vast, remote landscapes. Discover which iconic route suits your driving style and wanderlust for an unforgettable journey through South America's southern frontier. Whether you crave comfort or challenge, both destinations provide unparalleled beauty.

Patagonia beckons with its unparalleled beauty, and for self-drive enthusiasts, two routes stand out as legendary: Argentina's picturesque Seven Lakes Route and Chile's formidable Carretera Austral. While both promise breathtaking scenery, they offer vastly different experiences. The Seven Lakes Route, a manageable 110-kilometer paved section of Ruta 40 between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes (often extended from Bariloche), is renowned for its easy accessibility, charming lakeside towns, and stunning alpine landscapes. In stark contrast, the Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway, is Chile's epic 1,240-kilometer journey through largely untamed wilderness, a testament to human endeavor that cuts through fjords, glaciers, and dense forests. This guide will help you navigate the choices, comparing these two iconic drives to determine which adventure awaits you on your Patagonian escapade, highlighting the unique appeal and challenges of each for the ultimate self-drive experience.

Pros & Cons

Seven Lakes Route

Best For: Families, first-time Patagonia visitors, those seeking comfort and easy access to nature, shorter trips, and luxury travelers.

Pros

  • Fully paved, excellent road conditions
  • Easy accessibility from Bariloche
  • Stunning, serene lake and forest scenery
  • Charming towns with diverse amenities (San Martín de los Andes, Villa La Angostura)
  • Family-friendly and suitable for all types of vehicles
  • Numerous viewpoints and easy short walks

Cons

  • Can be crowded during peak season (January/February)
  • Shorter adventure, less of a 'remote' feel compared to Carretera Austral
  • Fewer dramatic, raw wilderness experiences like glaciers or fjords
  • Limited multi-day trekking opportunities directly on the route

Carretera Austral

Best For: Adventurers, experienced travelers, self-drive enthusiasts, those seeking raw nature, multi-day treks, and a challenging long road trip.

Pros

  • Unparalleled, diverse, and raw wilderness scenery (fjords, glaciers, volcanoes, rainforests)
  • Ultimate adventure and off-the-beaten-path exploration
  • Fewer crowds, especially outside of peak season
  • Access to incredible national parks (Queulat, Pumalin, Patagonia) and unique attractions (Marble Caves, Futaleufú)
  • Rewarding experience for experienced self-drivers and trekkers
  • Opportunities for wild camping and true immersion in nature

Cons

  • Mostly unpaved gravel roads, requiring cautious and often challenging driving
  • Requires significantly more time (7-14+ days) and thorough planning
  • Fewer amenities and services in remote areas (limited fuel, accommodation, food options)
  • Weather is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly
  • Ferry crossings required for certain sections, adding to logistics and cost
  • Can be more expensive due to vehicle wear, fuel, and ferry fees

Head-to-Head Comparison

CategorySeven Lakes RouteCarretera AustralWinner
ScenerySerene turquoise lakes, ancient forests, and alpine mountain vistas.Dramatic fjords, hanging glaciers, active volcanoes, dense rainforests, and open steppe.Carretera Austral
Road ConditionsFully paved (Ruta 40), excellent and smooth.Mostly gravel and dirt roads, challenging and often bumpy.Seven Lakes Route
AccessibilityVery easy, accessible from Bariloche airport (BRC), short drive.Remote, requires more complex planning, longer driving distances, and ferry crossings.Seven Lakes Route
Adventure LevelRelaxed scenic drive, family-friendly, comfortable.High-octane adventure, rugged, requires self-sufficiency and robust vehicle.Carretera Austral
Time Required1-3 days for the route itself, easily combined with Bariloche.7-14+ days for a comprehensive one-way or loop journey.Seven Lakes Route
CrowdsCan be very busy, especially during Argentinian summer holidays.Generally much less crowded, even in peak season, especially off the main road.Carretera Austral
AccommodationWide range of comfortable hotels, cabins, and resorts in charming towns.More basic guesthouses (residenciales), hostels, and limited cabin options, wild camping prevalent.Seven Lakes Route

Scenery

The Seven Lakes Route dazzles with its pristine freshwater lakes, such as Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Espejo, and Lake Correntoso, nestled among lush native forests of coihues and arrayanes, all framed by the majestic Andes mountains. It's a landscape of serene beauty, perfect for picturesque stops. The Carretera Austral, however, presents a dramatic tapestry of Patagonian extremes: from the towering glaciers of Queulat National Park and the intricate Marble Caves of General Carrera Lake, to the temperate rainforests of Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, and the rugged, arid steppe further south near Cochrane. Active volcanoes like Chaitén add to the raw, untamed allure, offering a far more diverse and imposing wilderness experience.

Activities

On the Seven Lakes Route, activities revolve around enjoying the scenery with ease: scenic viewpoints, short accessible hikes, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the calm lakes, and exploring the charming towns of Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes with their boutique shops and craft breweries. The Carretera Austral, in contrast, is an adventurer's playground. It offers world-class multi-day trekking in places like Cerro Castillo National Park and Jeinimeni National Reserve, exhilarating rafting on the Futaleufú River, kayaking tours to the Marble Caves, soaking in natural hot springs, and extensive exploration within several expansive national parks. It caters to those seeking more active, immersive wilderness experiences.

Accommodation

Accommodation along the Seven Lakes Route is generally more developed and comfortable, especially in towns like San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura. You'll find a wide range of options from luxury hotels and boutique inns to cozy cabins, guesthouses, and well-equipped campsites, often with lake views and modern amenities. The Carretera Austral offers a more rustic experience. Options are primarily guesthouses (residenciales), hostels, and basic cabins in smaller, spread-out towns. Wild camping is popular and often necessary in remote stretches, as accommodation can be scarce, particularly if not booked ahead during peak season.

Food & Dining

The Seven Lakes Route benefits from being close to larger tourist hubs, offering a diverse culinary scene. Expect delicious Patagonian lamb, freshly caught trout, artisanal chocolates, craft beers, and a variety of international and traditional Argentine cuisine in its towns. The Carretera Austral provides a more local and often simpler gastronomic experience. Local specialties include Patagonian salmon, seafood influenced by the nearby Chiloé Archipelago (like curanto), and hearty, home-cooked meals in smaller eateries. Options become limited in more remote villages, so carrying some provisions is always a good idea.

Cost Comparison

The Seven Lakes Route is generally a mid-range travel destination, with costs for fuel, accommodation, and food being standard for Argentina's tourist regions. While it can be enjoyed affordably, there are also luxury options available. The Carretera Austral can be significantly more expensive due to its remoteness. Fuel prices in Chile are generally higher than in Argentina, and in isolated areas, they can increase further. Ferry crossings, which are often unavoidable, add to the expense. Vehicle wear and potential need for a 4x4 rental can also elevate overall costs. Budgeting for emergencies is also prudent given the remote nature of the trip.

Accessibility

The Seven Lakes Route is exceptionally accessible. It's fully paved as a section of Argentina's Ruta 40, easily reached by flying into Bariloche (BRC) and renting a car. The drive is straightforward, well-signed, and suitable for any standard 2WD vehicle. In stark contrast, the Carretera Austral is a journey into remote Chilean Patagonia. While accessible from Puerto Montt (PMC) via ferry or from Argentina via several border crossings, the majority of the 1,240-kilometer route is unpaved gravel, demanding robust vehicles and careful driving. Many sections require ferry crossings, adding to logistical complexity and travel time. It's a long, challenging drive requiring more preparation.

Weather

The Seven Lakes Route experiences distinct four seasons. Summers (December-February) are typically mild and pleasant, with long daylight hours and average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), though rain can occur. Winters bring cold temperatures and significant snowfall, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. The Carretera Austral's weather is notoriously unpredictable and highly variable, even within a single day. Expect a mix of sun, strong winds, and heavy rain regardless of the season. Temperatures can fluctuate wildly. The southern sections tend to be colder and windier than the northern parts. Preparedness for all conditions is crucial year-round.

The Verdict

For those seeking a more relaxed, accessible, and family-friendly Patagonian road trip with stunning lake views and charming towns, the Seven Lakes Route is your undisputed champion. It offers comfort and beauty without the demanding logistics. However, if your soul craves raw, untamed wilderness, an epic self-drive challenge, and a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure that reveals Patagonia's most diverse and dramatic landscapes, then the Carretera Austral is calling your name. Choose the Carretera for an unforgettable, multi-week odyssey that tests your vehicle and rewards your adventurous spirit with unparalleled natural beauty and a profound sense of exploration. Ultimately, your ideal route depends on your available time, budget, and appetite for adventure.

Combine Both Destinations

While geographically distinct, it is entirely possible to combine both routes for an ultimate Patagonian road trip, though it requires significant time (ideally 3-4 weeks) and careful planning, preferably with a car rental that allows international crossings. A common approach is to start in Argentina, flying into Bariloche (BRC), driving the Seven Lakes Route to San Martín de los Andes. From there, head south on Ruta 40 towards Esquel or further south towards Los Antiguos. Several border passes connect Argentina's Ruta 40 to the Carretera Austral. For instance, you could cross near Futaleufú (from Esquel) to start the northern Carretera Austral, or cross at Chile Chico (from Los Antiguos) to begin exploring the southern Carretera Austral towards Coyhaique. This mega-trip offers a comprehensive exploration of both Argentine and Chilean Patagonia, showcasing their unique natural wonders and the unparalleled freedom of self-drive exploration.

Car Rental Advice

Renting a car is absolutely essential for experiencing both the Seven Lakes Route and the Carretera Austral to their fullest, providing unparalleled freedom and flexibility. For the Seven Lakes Route, any standard 2WD vehicle will suffice, offering comfort and ease on the fully paved Ruta 40. However, for the Carretera Austral, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. While a 2WD can technically navigate the main gravel sections, a 4x4 provides superior traction, ground clearance, and comfort over rough terrain, significantly enhancing your experience, safety, and ability to explore challenging side roads to national parks or viewpoints. Always ensure your rental agreement permits international travel if you plan to cross between Argentina and Chile, and obtain the necessary notarized authorization from the rental company beforehand. Carry spare tires, basic tools, and sufficient fuel, especially on the Carretera where gas stations can be few and far between. Confirm insurance coverage for both countries and understand roadside assistance options. Driving yourself allows you to stop at every breathtaking viewpoint, explore hidden gems, and tailor your itinerary precisely to your preferences, making it the only way to truly savor these iconic Patagonian drives.

Rent a Car to Visit Both

The best way to explore both destinations is with your own rental car.

Rent a Car to Visit Both

Explore More

Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for the Carretera Austral?

While a 2WD can manage the main gravel sections of the Carretera Austral, a 4x4 is highly recommended for greater comfort, safety, especially on rougher side roads, and for traversing any unexpected challenging conditions or less maintained stretches. It greatly enhances your freedom to explore.

How many days should I allocate for each route?

The Seven Lakes Route can be thoroughly enjoyed in 1-3 days if starting from Bariloche. The Carretera Austral, however, requires significantly more time, typically 7-14+ days for a meaningful one-way or round trip, depending on how many detours and activities you plan.

Which route is better for families with young children?

The Seven Lakes Route is generally much more suitable for families with young children due to its paved roads, shorter driving distances, abundance of amenities in towns, and readily available comfortable accommodation. It's a less strenuous and more predictable trip.

Can I drive the Carretera Austral in winter?

Driving the Carretera Austral in winter (June-August) is possible but extremely challenging. Many sections can be affected by snow and ice, services are limited, and some attractions may be inaccessible. It is only recommended for experienced winter drivers with a well-equipped 4x4.

What is the best time of year to visit both routes?

The peak season from December to March (summer in Patagonia) offers the best weather conditions and full accessibility for both routes, with longer daylight hours. However, this is also when both routes, especially the Seven Lakes, can experience the highest tourist traffic.

Are there direct border crossings between the Seven Lakes region and the Carretera Austral?

Yes, there are several border crossings between Argentina's Ruta 40 (near the Seven Lakes region) and the Carretera Austral in Chile. Popular options include Futaleufú (from Esquel), Palena, and Chile Chico (from Los Antiguos), allowing for seamless transitions between the two countries and routes.

Is it safe to drive alone on the Carretera Austral?

Generally, driving alone on the Carretera Austral is safe. However, due to its remote nature, it's crucial to be well-prepared: inform others of your itinerary, carry emergency supplies (food, water, fuel, first-aid), have a reliable vehicle, and be self-sufficient as cell service can be intermittent.

Seven Lakes RouteCarretera Austral

|