San Martin De Los Andes Airport (CPC) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Quick Facts

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the breathtaking Lake District of northern Patagonia. The single-terminal facility connects San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes with Buenos Aires through regular daily flights. Major renovations completed in early 2026 have doubled the terminal space, adding modern amenities, expanded commercial areas, and improved passenger flow. Here is what you need to know before flying into this scenic mountain airport situated at 2,569 feet above sea level.

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport features a single-terminal layout currently undergoing significant transformation. The original structure has been expanded with over 1,000 square meters of covered space, doubling the total terminal area. The linear design places all passenger services—check-in, security, departures, and arrivals—within one interconnected building, making navigation refreshingly simple compared to larger Argentine hubs.

The newly configured terminal incorporates a spacious central hall, separate departure and arrival areas, and clearly differentiated passenger corridors that optimize internal circulation. Radiant floor heating runs throughout, complemented by granite marble flooring and automatic doors installed to meet the standards of Argentina's major airport terminals. The architectural identity of the original building has been preserved, with the expansion extending toward the front of the existing structure.

Walking from the main entrance to the farthest boarding gate takes no more than five minutes. The compact layout means you will not encounter moving walkways or shuttle systems—everything is reachable on foot. For connecting passengers, this single-terminal design eliminates the stress of terminal changes entirely.

Navigating Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Terminals

Main Terminal Building

• Airlines: Aerolíneas Argentinas and JetSMART both operate from this single terminal, with check-in counters located in the central hall.
• Key Features (as of April 2026): The newly inaugurated departures sector boasts expanded seating capacity, dedicated workspaces with charging stations for electronic devices, a VIP lounge area, and completely renovated accessible restrooms equipped with changing tables. The commercial zone has doubled from four to eight retail spaces.
• Dining and Shopping: Multiple retail shops now occupy the main hall, with a cafeteria planned for the arrivals level on the ground floor. Current options include snack kiosks, regional product boutiques offering Patagonian chocolates and crafts, and basic travel essentials.
• Arrivals Area: The redesigned arrivals section features two independent exits—one leading back into the terminal hall and another providing direct exterior access—designed to decompress passenger traffic during peak periods. A second-phase cafeteria and offices for the Airport Security Police (PSA) are under construction.

Transportation to and from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport sits along Ruta Nacional 40, roughly halfway between San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes. While public transit options are limited compared to major city airports, the available choices—rental cars, taxis, remises, and intercity buses—cover the essential connections travelers need to reach both towns and the surrounding mountain destinations.

Getting to and from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport by Car

Driving to the airport from San Martín de los Andes takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes via RN-40 heading north. From Junín de los Andes, plan for a similar 25-minute drive south on the same highway. The route is a well-maintained two-lane road winding through the Patagonian steppe with views of the Andes on clear days. During winter months (June through September), snow and ice can affect driving conditions, so vehicles equipped with chains or 4WD are strongly recommended.

The airport offers parking directly in front of the terminal. Rates are affordable compared to Buenos Aires or international airports, with short-term parking available for approximately $3 to $5 USD per day. The lot is uncovered and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservation system exists, but capacity typically meets demand except during peak winter ski season when spaces fill earlier. No dedicated cell phone waiting lot is available, but the small lot layout allows for quick pickups curbside. Curbside drop-off directly outside departures has a practical time limit enforced by airport staff—plan to unload and move within 5 to 10 minutes during busy hours.

Several hotels in San Martín de los Andes offer park-and-fly packages where guests can leave vehicles for extended periods. Inquire directly with properties like Hotel Chapelco Resort or Loi Suites Chapelco for current offers.

Getting to and from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare apps like Uber and Cabify have limited presence in San Martín de los Andes. The local equivalent is the remis service, a pre-booked private car available through agencies in town. Taxis and remises wait outside the arrivals exit for scheduled flights. Fares to central San Martín de los Andes run approximately $12 to $18 USD, while the trip to Junín de los Andes costs around $15 to $22 USD. Drivers generally accept Argentine pesos in cash; some remis services allow pre-payment by credit card when booked through hotels or agencies. Always confirm the fare before departing, as meters are not always used.

Getting to and from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport by Public Transportation

An intercity bus line connects Junín de los Andes with San Martín de los Andes, stopping at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport along the route. This service is primarily used by workers, students, and budget travelers. The bus runs on a limited schedule, typically operating during daylight hours.

The bus stop is located on the main road outside the airport entrance, a short walk from the terminal. From the airport, a ticket to San Martín de los Andes costs around $3.50 USD, while a trip originating in Junín de los Andes and ending at the airport is approximately $4 USD. The Provincial Transport Directorate publishes updated fare tables regularly, so checking current rates before travel is advisable.

Key Amenities at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

ATMs

One ATM is located inside the main terminal hall. It dispenses Argentine pesos only and may charge withdrawal fees depending on your home bank. Carrying some cash is wise, as card payment infrastructure in the region, while growing, can be inconsistent in smaller establishments outside town centers.

Lost and Found

Lost items are managed by the Airport Security Police (PSA) office located within the terminal. For inquiries, call the main airport phone line at +54 2972 42-8888 and ask to be connected to the PSA desk.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available free of charge in the arrivals area. Luggage wrapping services and storage lockers are not currently offered, so plan to keep bags with you or arrange storage through your accommodation in town.

Pets

Small pets in approved carriers are permitted inside the terminal. An outdoor pet relief area is located on the grassy strip near the parking lot—look for signage near the main entrance. Check with your airline for specific pet travel requirements, as Aerolíneas Argentinas and JetSMART have distinct policies regarding cabin versus cargo hold transport.

Showers

Shower facilities are not available to general passengers. The VIP lounge may offer limited amenities for eligible guests.

Currency Exchange

No dedicated currency exchange bureau operates within Aviador Carlos Campos Airport. The nearest exchange houses are in central San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes, approximately a 20 to 25-minute drive away. Plan to exchange currency before arriving or withdraw pesos from the terminal ATM upon landing.

Smoking Area

Smoking is prohibited inside the terminal. A designated outdoor smoking area is located near the departures entrance. Look for posted signage or ask terminal staff for directions.

Terminal Building Features

The completely renovated terminal now offers radiant floor heating, granite marble flooring, and automatic sliding doors meeting modern accessibility standards. Seating areas with built-in charging stations for phones and laptops appear throughout the expanded departures hall, a welcome upgrade for travelers accustomed to hunting for power outlets in older regional airports.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the "Chapelco WiFi" network and accept the terms on the splash page. Speed is adequate for messaging, email, and basic browsing. Charging stations in the new departures seating areas complement the digital connectivity.

Other Amenities

• Information Desk: A staffed information counter operates during flight hours in the central hall.
• Medical Services: Basic first aid is available through airport staff; the nearest hospital is Hospital Ramón Carrillo in San Martín de los Andes, about 22 km away.
• Chapel/Prayer Room: A dedicated prayer room is not available, though quiet seating corners in the expanded terminal offer privacy for personal reflection.

Airport Lounges at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

A newly introduced VIP sector debuted with the April 2026 terminal expansion. While modest compared to the sprawling lounges of Buenos Aires airports, it offers a quieter, more comfortable space for travelers seeking respite from the main hall.

Airline Lounges at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

VIP Lounge (Sector VIP)

• Location: Departures level, past security in the newly expanded area.
• Standout Features: Comfortable seating, dedicated charging stations, and a quieter atmosphere away from the main concourse. The lounge is relatively new, launched as part of the terminal renovation project.
• How to Access: Available to passengers flying on premium Aerolíneas Argentinas tickets, elite status holders in Aerolíneas Plus, and potentially through select credit card programs. Day pass availability and pricing were still being finalized at opening; contact Aerolíneas Argentinas upon check-in for current access policies.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

No credit card-branded lounges (such as American Express Centurion Studio or Priority Pass-affiliated spaces) operate at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport. The VIP sector remains the only premium waiting area.

Priority Pass Lounges at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Priority Pass currently has no lounge or experience partner at this airport. Travelers holding Priority Pass memberships via AmEx, Capital One, or Chase should not expect to use their benefits here.

Other Airports in the Region

Aeropuerto Internacional Teniente Luis Candelaria (BRC) – Bariloche

• Distance to San Martín de los Andes: Approximately 185 km south (3 to 3.5 hours by car via RN-40, or Ruta de los Siete Lagos in summer).
• Best for: Travelers combining San Martín de los Andes with the broader Lake District including Villa La Angostura and Bariloche. This airport offers more frequent flights and international connections.
• Unique Advantages: Larger terminal with full services, multiple airlines including LATAM and Flybondi, direct flights to several Argentine cities, and seasonal international routes to Brazil and Chile. Better backup option when Chapelco flights are full or canceled.

Aeropuerto Internacional Presidente Perón (NQN) – Neuquén

• Distance to San Martín de los Andes: Approximately 430 km east (about 5 hours by car).
• Best for: Travelers who find significantly cheaper flights into Neuquén and plan to rent a car for a longer road trip through Patagonia.
• Unique Advantages: The largest airport in Neuquén Province with extensive domestic connections operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas, Flybondi, and JetSMART. More rental car inventory and lower rates sometimes offset the long drive.

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Overview

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport carries the IATA code CPC and is widely known locally as Aeropuerto Chapelco, named after the nearby Cerro Chapelco ski resort that draws thousands of winter visitors. The official name honors Carlos Campos, an Argentine military aviator. The airport sits at geographic coordinates 40°04′S 71°08′W, placed strategically between the towns of San Martín de los Andes (22 km north) and Junín de los Andes (19 km south) along the iconic Ruta Nacional 40—Argentina's legendary highway running the length of the Andes.

This is a civilian airport owned and operated by the Neuquén provincial government. The facility operates 24 hours a day and maintains Fire Category 6 classification. Annual passenger traffic has climbed significantly in recent years alongside Patagonia's rising popularity as a year-round destination, with estimates of around 250,000 travelers passing through annually. The single terminal building, recently expanded to approximately double its previous size, handles all arrivals and departures.

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Postal Code

• Postal Code: Q8370
• City: San Martín de los Andes
• Province/State: Neuquén
• Country: Argentina
• Complete Mailing Address: Aeropuerto Aviador Carlos Campos, Ruta Nacional 40, Km 2226, Q8370 San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén, Argentina

Duty Free and Shopping at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport does not feature a traditional international duty-free shop, as all commercial flights from CPC are domestic (to and from Buenos Aires). However, the terminal's expanded commercial zone now houses eight retail spaces—double the previous four—offering regional products, snacks, reading material, and travel essentials. Shoppers will find locally made chocolates, Patagonian preserves and jams, leather goods, and wool textiles characteristic of Neuquén Province.

The best souvenirs specific to the region—handcrafted Mapuche silverwork, artisanal ceramics, and locally produced liqueurs made from native berries like calafate and sauco—are better purchased in the shops and ferias of San Martín de los Andes or Junín de los Andes, where selection is wider and prices more competitive. Airport shops serve as convenient last-minute stops for packaged regional delicacies and reading material for the flight.

Security Wait Times at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Given the airport handles only a handful of daily flights, security lines move quickly compared to major Argentine hubs. Most passengers clear security in under 15 minutes. The busiest windows occur 45 to 60 minutes before each scheduled departure, especially on winter weekends when flights to Chapelco ski resort attract larger crowds. Even during peak ski season (July-August), wait times rarely exceed 30 minutes.

Standard Argentine domestic security requirements apply: liquids in containers of 100ml or less, electronics removed from bags, and government-issued photo ID presented at check-in. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are United States programs and do not apply at Argentine airports. CLEAR is similarly unavailable. Arriving 90 minutes before departure provides comfortable buffer time; during peak winter weekends or holidays, arriving two hours early eliminates any stress.

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

• Departures Drop-Off Zone: Vehicles pull up curbside directly in front of the main departure entrance. No long-term waiting is permitted in this zone. Unload passengers and luggage quickly—airport staff may ask drivers to move after extended idling.
• Arrivals Pick-Up Zone: The same curbside area serves arriving passengers exiting the terminal. Two dedicated arrival exits now operate—one leading to the interior hall and one directly outside—making passenger pickup coordination easier. Agree on a meeting spot near the exterior exit doors.
• Cell Phone Lot: No formal cell phone waiting lot exists. Drivers waiting for arriving flights typically park in the general parking area (short-term rate around $1-2 USD per hour) and walk to the arrivals exit, or simply time arrival with the flight's landing.
• Kiss and Fly Zone: A designated Kiss and Fly zone is not marked; the curbside area serves this purpose informally. Quick goodbyes work fine.
• Commercial Vehicle Zones: Taxis and remises wait in marked spaces directly outside the arrivals exit. Intercity bus service stops along the main road outside the airport entrance.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Two airlines serve Aviador Carlos Campos Airport with regularly scheduled flights, both connecting exclusively to Buenos Aires. The route map may be simple, but the frequency and reliability meet the demands of a growing tourism market.

Aerolíneas Argentinas operates the majority of flights, using Boeing 737-700 and 737-800 aircraft on the approximately 2-hour-and-20-minute journey to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP), Buenos Aires's domestic airport. Flight numbers AR1652/1653, AR1654/1655, AR1656/1657, and AR1658/1659 appear regularly on the schedule, with multiple daily frequencies depending on the season.

JetSMART entered the route as a low-cost alternative, flying Airbus A320 aircraft to Buenos Aires (both AEP and occasionally EZE). Their presence has introduced competitive pricing on the corridor.

All routes are domestic. No international flights operate from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport. Seasonal charter flights occasionally serve the airport, particularly during ski season when tour operators arrange direct flights from Brazilian cities like São Paulo to feed the winter sports demand at Cerro Chapelco.

Popular destinations reached via connection through Buenos Aires include Córdoba, Mendoza, Salta, Iguazú, Ushuaia, and El Calafate—tying San Martín de los Andes into Argentina's broader air network.

Getting to and from Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Reaching town from the airport is straightforward, with rental cars offering the most flexibility for exploring the surrounding lakes, mountains, and the Ruta de los Siete Lagos. Taxis and buses provide budget-friendly alternatives for those staying within San Martín de los Andes or Junín de los Andes.

Car Rental at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Renting a car is highly recommended for anyone visiting this region. The area's attractions—Cerro Chapelco ski resort, Lago Lácar, Lago Hermoso, the Lanín National Park, and the scenic Seven Lakes Route—are spread out and largely inaccessible by public transit. Avis operates a delivery-only service from the airport with 4x4 and luxury vehicle options. Invernalia and Taraborelli Rent a Car are local agencies offering counter or delivery service at the airport. Rental prices average around $55 to $90 USD per day for a standard sedan or small SUV; a 4x4 in winter commands a premium, often $100 to $150 USD daily.

Rental counters or meeting points are located near the arrivals exit, coordinated by prior arrangement with the rental agency. Book well in advance for winter (July to mid-September), as inventory is limited and ski-season demand is intense. Reserving three weeks ahead is the sweet spot for best pricing. A valid driver's license from your home country is accepted; an International Driving Permit is not required for most renters but can smooth the process.

Returning a rental car with a full tank is standard practice. The nearest fuel station is on RN-40 in San Martín de los Andes, fill up before heading to the terminal.

Aviador Carlos Campos Airport Taxi Services

Taxis and remises (private hire cars) queue outside arrivals during flight windows. Fares to central San Martín de los Andes range from $12 to $18 USD, while Junín de los Andes costs $15 to $22 USD. Payment is primarily in Argentine pesos cash; confirm the fare with the driver before getting in. Some remis companies accept credit cards if booked in advance through your hotel. The ride to either town center takes about 20 to 25 minutes on RN-40.

Private Car Services at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Pre-arranged private transfers through tour operators and hotels provide a premium alternative with fixed, pre-paid rates. Drivers meet passengers at the arrivals exit with name signs. This option works well for families with ski equipment, groups, and business travelers wanting guaranteed, comfortable transport without negotiating fares at the curb.

Bus Services at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

The intercity bus connecting Junín de los Andes and San Martín de los Andes stops at the airport entrance on RN-40. Fares from the airport to San Martín de los Andes run approximately $3.50 USD, with service roughly every two to three hours during daylight. This is the most economical option but requires some schedule flexibility, as frequencies are not aligned with every flight.

Hotel Shuttles

Several upscale properties in San Martín de los Andes and near Cerro Chapelco offer airport shuttle services for guests. Loi Suites Chapelco, Hotel Chapelco Resort, and various boutique lodges typically provide complimentary or low-cost transfers when arranged in advance. Contact your hotel directly when booking to confirm shuttle availability and pickup coordination.

Parking at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

• Short-Term Parking: The open-air lot directly in front of the terminal. Rates run approximately $1 to $2 USD per hour or $3 to $5 USD per 24-hour period. No advance booking; first-come, first-served.
• Long-Term Parking: The same lot serves extended stays at the daily rate. Security is limited to standard airport presence, but vehicle theft is rare in this low-crime region.
• Economy/Budget Parking: No separate economy parking lot exists. The single terminal lot serves all parking needs.
• Free Parking Options: No free parking is officially provided. Some travelers park at their accommodation in town and take a taxi or bus to the airport for shorter trips.
• Payment Methods: Cash in Argentine pesos at the parking exit; card payment may not always be available, so carry small bills.
• Electric Vehicle Charging: EV charging stations are not currently installed at the airport.

Places to Explore Near Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

The airport's location between two charming towns and within striking distance of some of Patagonia's most stunning landscapes makes it an exceptional starting point for exploration.

• San Martín de los Andes (22 km, 25 minutes): The main destination for most travelers. This picturesque mountain town on the shores of Lago Lácar offers Swiss-alpine-style architecture, excellent restaurants, craft breweries, and outdoor outfitters. The main commercial street, Avenida San Martín, is lined with chocolate shops, gear stores, and cozy cafes.
• Junín de los Andes (19 km, 25 minutes): A smaller, quieter town known as the trout fishing capital of Argentina and the gateway to Lanín National Park. The Santuario de Nuestra Señora de las Nieves draws religious pilgrims. Less touristy than San Martín, it appeals to anglers and those seeking a more laid-back Andean experience.
• Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort (38 km from airport, 40 minutes): The winter heart of the region, with 28 trails, modern lifts, and terrain spanning beginner slopes to challenging off-piste bowls. Summer transforms the resort into a mountain biking and hiking destination with panoramic views of the Lanín Volcano.
• Lanín National Park (entry near Junín de los Andes, 30 minutes from airport): Dominated by the 3,776-meter snow-capped Lanín Volcano, this park offers hiking trails, araucaria forests, and pristine lakes including Lago Huechulafquen and Lago Paimún.
• Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route): One of Argentina's most famous scenic drives runs 110 km south from San Martín de los Andes to Villa La Angostura, passing seven glacial lakes along a winding mountain road. Full-day excursion recommended.
• Lago Lácar (accessible from San Martín, 25 minutes from airport): A deep blue glacial lake offering boat excursions, kayaking, and beaches during summer.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit San Martín De Los Andes

San Martín de los Andes experiences a temperate mountain climate with four distinct seasons, each offering markedly different experiences.

• Summer (December to February): Temperatures range from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). Long sunny days are ideal for hiking, lake activities, and road trips on the Seven Lakes Route. This is peak domestic tourism season—book flights, cars, and accommodation well in advance.
• Autumn (March to May): Temperatures drop to 35°F to 60°F (2°C to 16°C). The deciduous forests turn brilliant shades of red and gold. Smaller crowds, crisp air, and excellent photography conditions make this a favorite among experienced travelers.
• Winter (June to September): Temperatures range from 25°F to 45°F (-4°C to 7°C). Heavy snowfall blankets the region, with Cerro Chapelco in full ski operation. The town takes on a cozy alpine atmosphere with fireplaces, fondue dinners, and winter sports dominating daily life.
• Spring (October to November): Temperatures climb to 40°F to 65°F (5°C to 18°C). Wildflowers bloom across the mountain slopes, waterfalls surge with snowmelt, and fly-fishing season hits its stride. Variable conditions—sun, rain, and occasional late snow—demand layered clothing.

Best time to visit: For hiking and road trips, mid-December through February delivers the most reliable weather. For skiing, July and August offer peak snow conditions. For solitude and lower prices, autumn and spring months present tremendous value with fewer visitors and still-accessible trails.

Essential Travel Tips

💡 Arrival Time: Arrive at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport 90 minutes before domestic flights. During winter ski weekends or holiday periods, two hours provides peace of mind without excessive waiting.

💡 Flight Status: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Check flight status through your airline's app or the airport's social media channels before heading to the terminal. Fog and snow can cause delays, particularly in winter.

💡 Packing Advice: Layers are essential year-round. Even summer evenings require a jacket. In winter, pack thermal base layers, a waterproof outer shell, sturdy boots, and sunglasses—the high-altitude sun reflecting off snow is intense. If skiing, reserve equipment in advance in San Martín de los Andes.

💡 Currency: Argentine pesos are the local currency, accepted everywhere. USD are not widely accepted in San Martín de los Andes but can be exchanged at banks and exchange houses in town. Carry a mix of cash and cards; some smaller restaurants and shops remain cash-only. The airport ATM dispenses pesos.

💡 Language: Spanish is the primary language. English is spoken at larger hotels and tour agencies in San Martín de los Andes, but less so in Junín de los Andes and at smaller establishments. A few Spanish phrases go a long way.

💡 Documentation: A valid passport is required for international visitors. Citizens of many countries (USA, Canada, EU nations, Australia, Brazil) do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. Check current Argentine immigration requirements before travel.

💡 Driver's License for Car Rental: Your home country driver's license is generally accepted by rental agencies at the airport. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have held a license for a minimum of one year. Additional driver fees apply.

💡 Fuel Stations: The nearest gas station to the airport is the YPF service station in San Martín de los Andes, about 20 minutes from the terminal on RN-40. Junín de los Andes also has fuel stations. Fill your tank before returning a rental car, as no fuel station operates at the airport.

About the City

San Martín de los Andes sits at the eastern edge of the Andes, on the shore of the crystal-clear Lago Lácar, within the province of Neuquén. Founded in 1898 as a military outpost, the town evolved through the 20th century into one of Argentine Patagonia's most charming alpine destinations. Today, approximately 30,000 permanent residents call it home, with the population swelling significantly during summer and winter tourism seasons.

The architecture reflects an intentional aesthetic: wood-and-stone buildings with steep-pitched roofs, evoking a Swiss or Austrian mountain village transposed to the Southern Hemisphere. Avenida San Martín serves as the main artery, lined with artisanal chocolate shops—a tradition brought by early European immigrants—outdoor equipment stores, restaurants serving Patagonian lamb and trout dishes, and cafes where travelers linger over medialunas and coffee.

San Martín de los Andes delivers exceptional dining for a town its size. Local specialties to seek out include trucha a la parrilla (grilled trout from nearby rivers and hatcheries), cordero patagónico (Patagonian lamb slow-cooked over open fire), and picadas of regional cheeses and smoked meats paired with craft beers from local breweries. Dessert demands chocolate—Mamusia and Abuela Goye are beloved local institutions.

The town serves as an ideal base for exploring both the Lanín National Park to the north and the Nahuel Huapi National Park corridor to the south. Outdoor recreation defines daily life: in summer, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing; in winter, skiing and snowboarding at Cerro Chapelco. Cultural attractions include the Museo de los Primeros Pobladores, documenting the Mapuche people's history and early settler life, and the artisan market offering authentic crafts distinct from mass-produced souvenirs.

For travelers seeking an authentic Patagonian mountain experience with ample infrastructure and a strong connection to the outdoors, San Martín de los Andes consistently delivers. Its combination of natural beauty, accessibility through Aviador Carlos Campos Airport, and year-round appeal keeps visitors returning across seasons.

Start Your Journey at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport

Arriving at Aviador Carlos Campos Airport places you in the heart of northern Patagonia's Lake District, closer to the mountains, trails, and crystal waters that define this spectacular region. The expanded terminal, updated facilities, and steady flight schedule to Buenos Aires have elevated the travel experience to match the destination's caliber.

A rental car unlocks everything—the spontaneous stops along the Seven Lakes Route, the sunrise trailhead access in Lanín National Park, and the freedom to discover the quiet corners of San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes on your own schedule. Demand outpaces supply during peak seasons, so booking your vehicle in advance through the airport's available agencies is the single most impactful planning step you can take.

Pack layers, bring a sense of adventure, and prepare for one of Argentina's most rewarding mountain gateways. Your Patagonian journey starts the moment you step off the plane.