Argentina

How to get from Buenos Aires to San Martín de los Andes

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, flight. Prices, durations and practical tips.

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FASTEST
≈ 2h 18min
💶
From
≈ 60€
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Distance
1299 km
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⚡ Quick answer

Options listed from Buenos Aires to San Martín de los Andes: Flight, Bus. Durations and prices on this page are indicative estimates, not checked against a live listing: compare current offers before booking. Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): JetSmart, JetSMART Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas; main departure point: Ministro Pistarini Airport.

Distance: 1299 km. Data updated on .

There are 2 ways to get from Buenos Aires to San Martín de los Andes

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

Flight
2h 18min – 2h 53min
CHEAPEST FASTEST
≈ 60 – 250 € estimate
View
Bus
19h 36min – 25h 29min
≈ 70 – 126 € estimate
View
🚌 Departure from Buenos Aires
📍For bus departures, most services leave from Retiro Bus Terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro), the main long-distance bus hub in Buenos Aires. It's a large, multi-level terminal with numerous platforms.
🚇Retiro Bus Terminal is easily accessible from downtown Buenos Aires. You can take a taxi or use public transport; the 'Retiro' station serves Subte Line C, and various bus lines (colectivos) also stop nearby. A taxi from the city center typically costs around 5-10€ and takes 15-20 minutes.
⏰Bus services to San Martín de los Andes typically depart in the late afternoon or early evening, providing an overnight journey. Frequencies can vary, with multiple departures per day during peak season.
💸 Transport from 60€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 2h 18min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Companies selling this route on 12Go

Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.

CompanyModeDeparts fromFromOffers
JetSMART Airlines Flight Ministro Pistarini Airport €50 1
JetSmart Flight Ministro Pistarini Airport €59 2
Aerolineas Argentinas Flight Jorge Newbery Airpark €92 1

See all offers on 12Go ›

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Practical tips

💡
Book Flights Ahead

For flights to San Martín de los Andes, especially during peak season or long weekends, booking several weeks in advance is highly recommended to secure better prices and availability. Flights can fill up quickly.

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Choose Your Bus Seat Wisely

On long overnight bus journeys, opting for a 'cama' (bed) or 'semi-cama' (half-bed) seat offers significantly more comfort than a standard 'ejecutivo' seat. This small upgrade makes a big difference for a 20-hour trip.

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Verify Departure Terminals

Always double-check your departure terminal or airport. Buenos Aires has several, and confusing them can lead to missing your connection. Your ticket should clearly state the exact location.

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Pack Snacks and Water for Bus

While some long-distance buses offer refreshments, it's wise to bring your own snacks and sufficient water, especially for a 20-hour journey. This ensures you're comfortable throughout the trip.

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Allow Time for Transfers

If you're connecting flights or buses, build in ample buffer time between connections. Delays can occur, and having extra time reduces stress and the risk of missing your next leg.

The journey experience

Navigating Argentina's vast distances can be tricky, but getting from Buenos Aires to San Martín de los Andes doesn't have to be. For independent travelers like you, the key is to weigh speed against cost and comfort. This route offers a clear choice between a quick flight and a longer, scenic bus journey, allowing you to instantly determine the best fit for your travel style and budget.

Your options for this journey are straightforward: a flight takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 60€, offering the fastest way to reach your destination. Alternatively, a bus journey spans about 20 hours, with tickets priced at approximately 70€. While the flight is significantly faster, the bus offers a more immersive experience for those who enjoy the landscapes and don't mind the longer travel time.

When faced with such choices across Argentina, remember that longer routes often present this flight vs. overnight coach dilemma. Always compare durations and price ranges side-by-side to make an informed decision. For this specific trip, if saving time is your priority, flying is the smarter choice. If you prefer to save a bit of money and enjoy the journey, a comfortable semi-cama or cama bus seat will get you there, ensuring you avoid spending unnecessary time on the road when a quicker option exists. Booking ahead, especially for high season, guarantees your preferred option.

Frequently asked questions — Buenos Aires → San Martín de los Andes

Why visit San Martín de los Andes?

  • ✓ Navigate Lake Lácar and explore its pristine beaches like Yuco and Quila Quina.
  • ✓ Hike or bike along the scenic 'Seven Lakes Route' to Villa La Angostura.
  • ✓ Ski or snowboard at Chapelco Ski Resort, offering stunning panoramic views.
  • ✓ Discover the local Mapuche culture and buy handcrafted souvenirs.
  • ✓ Savor Patagonian cuisine, including traditional lamb and trout dishes.
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Recommended stay
3 to 5 nights — perfect for exploring lakes, mountains, and local culture at a relaxed pace.

When to visit San Martín de los Andes?

MOUNTAIN TEMPERATE COLD

December to March — warm and sunny for outdoor activities; July to September — prime for winter sports.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😊
Apr 😐
May 😞
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😐
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Oct 😊
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Dec 😊
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In San Martín de los Andes — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in San Martín de los Andes
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in San Martín de los Andes?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
⛰️
Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort
Discover Cerro Chapelco, a premier Patagonian ski resort offering stunning mountain vistas and diverse slopes for all levels. Ideal for winter sports, it also features hiking and biking in summer. Arrive early to avoid queues, especially on weekends; ski pass prices start around 70€.
🌅
Mirador Arrayanes Panoramic View
Hike to Mirador Arrayanes for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Lácar and the surrounding Andes. This accessible trail offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunset. The path is well-marked and free; bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the ascent.
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Ruta de los 7 Lagos Drive
Embark on the iconic 'Ruta de los 7 Lagos', a scenic drive connecting San Martín de los Andes with Villa La Angostura. Marvel at crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and stunning viewpoints. Allow a full day to stop and enjoy the scenery; a rental car is recommended for flexibility.
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Lake Lácar Catamaran Tour
Take a relaxing catamaran cruise on Lake Lácar, exploring its pristine waters and hidden coves, often reaching Quila Quina indigenous community. It's a peaceful way to appreciate the lakeside landscape. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and start around 30€; book in advance during high season.
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Explore Downtown San Martín
Wander through the charming streets of San Martín de los Andes, admiring its unique Patagonian architecture and local artisan shops. The main street, Avenida San Martín, is bustling with life and dining options. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, perhaps sampling some local chocolates or craft beers.
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Fly Fishing Experience
Experience world-class fly fishing in the crystal-clear rivers and lakes surrounding San Martín de los Andes, renowned for their trout populations. Many local guides offer half or full-day excursions suitable for all skill levels. Expect to pay from 150€ for a guided trip, including equipment and permits.
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Local Gastronomy & Craft Beer
Indulge in San Martín's local culinary scene, featuring Patagonian lamb, trout, and artisanal chocolates. The town also boasts a growing craft beer culture with several breweries offering unique flavors. Visit a 'chocolatería' for free samples, and expect a good meal to cost around 20-35€.
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Laguna Rosales Hike
Discover Laguna Rosales, a less-trafficked, serene lake accessible via a rewarding forest hike. This peaceful excursion offers a chance to observe local flora and fauna away from the main tourist crowds. The trail is free and takes about 3-4 hours round trip; bring insect repellent.

How long to visit San Martín de los Andes?

3 to 6 days

For an independent traveler, plan 4-6 days to fully experience San Martín de los Andes and its surroundings. This allows for hiking, exploring the town, and enjoying a scenic drive along the Seven Lakes Route. If time is limited, a 3-day trip provides a good overview, focusing on key attractions and outdoor activities.

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