José de San Martín

José de San Martín is the seat of the Tehuelches department in western Chubut. It has 1,592 residents (2022 census). The town has the monument to chief Casimiro Biguá, a National Historic Monument since 1998: in 1869 the Tehuelche chief and five other Patagonian leaders chose to swear allegiance to the Argentine flag, an event remembered every 3 November.

Things to do

• La Cruz viewpoint: panoramic views of the town and the valley.
• Trekking on the hillsides, among native plants and wildlife.
• Genoa stream: fishing for salmonids and silverside, birdwatching and walks along the banks.
• Festivals: the National Bagual Festival (30 December to 1 January, with a gaucho parade, colt races and rodeo), the Provincial Carnival (February) and the Regional Potranca Festival (April).

Getting here

Along National Route 40 and provincial route 63. Short-distance bus companies connect it with other towns.

Its name

It honours General José de San Martín.

Distances: Tehuelches department · National Route 40 and provincial route 63