Bandurrias Lookout Trail

The trail to the Bandurrias Lookout (Mirador Bandurrias) is, without a doubt, one of the most rewarding introductory experiences for those visiting San Martín de los Andes. This path stands out not only for the natural beauty of its surroundings but also for the profound cultural component of trekking through the lands of the Curruhuinca Mapuche community. The route offers a perfect balance between accessibility and visual reward, making it a favorite for families and hikers alike seeking an immediate connection with the Andean landscape.

The starting point is located at the end of Juez del Valle Street, just behind the water treatment plant in the Costanera area. From the very first steps, the trail makes its character known with an initial slope that, while demanding in some sections, is well-marked and sheltered by the generous shade of native vegetation. The ascent passes through an Andean forest dominated by Pellín Oak, Radal, and Arrayán (Chilean Myrtle), creating a cool microclimate even on the warmest days of the Patagonian summer.

A fundamental aspect of this journey is its location within the territory of the Curruhuinca community. Along the way, visitors will find handicraft stalls and small booths where local residents manage access. The payment of a small fee or contribution not only helps maintain the path but also represents a recognition of the territorial sovereignty and the care the community provides to this ancestral forest. It is common to observe the daily life of Mapuche families here, whose homes and small gardens are harmoniously integrated with the mountain terrain.

Upon reaching the highest part of the trail, you arrive at the Bandurrias Lookout. This natural balcony is named after the frequent presence of the Black-faced Ibis (Bandurria), a long-necked bird with a metallic call that often soars over the slopes. From this point, the panoramic view is breathtaking: to the west, the vastness of Lake Lácar unfolds, framed by the imposing silhouettes of Cerro Abanico and Cerro Sabana. It is also possible to clearly distinguish the beaches of Catritre and Quila Quina, appearing as patches of light sand between the deep blue of the water and the dense green of the forests.

For those wishing to extend the adventure, the path offers the possibility of continuing to “La Islita.” After rejoining the main trail from the lookout, a descent of approximately half an hour leads to this picturesque corner. It is a small white sand beach with calm waters, protected by a rocky peninsula that gives it its name. It is the ideal spot for an extended rest or a lakeside picnic before heading back to the city via the same trail or the vehicle road that also descends from the community.

Ultimately, the Bandurrias Lookout trail encapsulates the essence of San Martín de los Andes: the coexistence of mountains, water, and the region’s cultural roots. It is an invitation to walk without haste, listening to the birdsong and the whisper of the wind among the oaks, while discovering one of the most cherished postcards of Argentine Patagonia.