ocean travel bariloche

25 Jun Your Complete Guide to Bariloche: The Entrance to Patagonia

Welcome to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina – a cozy town in northern Patagonia known for its bright blue lakes, mountain views, colorful forests and delicious chocolate! Often the beginning or end of an extensive trip through Patagonia, Bariloche has something to offer for the adventure seeker, foodie, or someone just looking to relax.

In this travel guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to visit and some of my favorite recommendations as someone who loved Bariloche so much they stayed a month. If you’re interested in the best things to do and some insider travel tips, then keep reading!

Is Bariloche Good for Solo Travelers?

Yes! Bariloche is an amazing place for solo travelers and in my opinion, one of the best solo travel destinations in Argentina. It’s safe, has good public transport, lots of tours available, and there are many activities you can do on your own. If you wish, it’s also really easy to meet other travelers as its a popular destination.

I enjoyed my solo travels to Bariloche so much that it may one of my favorite places in Argentina and I couldn’t recommend it more for other solo travelers.

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Where is Bariloche?

How to get to bariloche, ways to get around bariloche, where to stay, things to do in bariloche.

• Circuito Chico
• Cerro Campanario
• Villa Traful
• Colonia Suiza
• Walkings Tours
• Cerveza Patagonia
• Exploring the city
• Try typical dishes & treats
• Gutierrez Lake & waterfall

Mate Tasting

Restaurants & bars.

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.

San Carlos de Bariloche is in the Rio Negro province of Argentina, at the southern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake not far from the border of Chile. It’s in what’s called the Lake District of Patagonia and considered the northernmost entry point to Patagonia from Argentina. 

Bariloche itself is a small city, but is the perfect hub to explore many surrounding destinations during your stay.

Below you can find Bariloche on a map.

HOW TO GET THERE

To get to Bariloche you can fly, take a bus, or drive yourself if you’re on a road trip.

Direct flights are only available from Buenos Aires and Cordoba. Make sure to keep this in mind if you’re planning a trip through Patagonia as there are no direct flights from El Calafate to Bariloche.

To take a bus to Bariloche you can get one from practically all surrounding Argentina destinations. Admittedly though, this can result in some pretty long haul drives since Argentina is such a massive country. 

For perspective, I took the popular backpacker route from El Chalten to Bariloche and it was a 24 hour long bus… It definitely wasn’t my favorite day but the driver did stop multiple times for food and coffee and the bus wasn’t bad in terms of comfort beyond just being long. For budget travelers or those looking to fly less, you’ll be fine, just download a lot of movies and don’t forget to bring a book.

You can easily book bus tickets online  or you can purchase them at the terminal. If you’re coming from anywhere in southern Patagonia to Bariloche, I strongly recommend buying your ticket early since the seats can fill up especially in high season. The company used is Marga Taqsa .

Alternatively, if you’re road tripping through Patagonia,  you’ll drive on the famous Route 40 to reach Bariloche.

WAYS TO GET AROUND BARILOCHE

One of my favorite things about Bariloche is that there are many different modes of transportation, especially for a destination focused on outdoor activities. This means it’s really easy to get around for all types of travelers.

Like most places, there are plenty of taxis around that you can hail, just make to have cash to pay. You likely won’t take them often, but taxis are useful to get to trailheads if buses are full.

Note, as of March 2023 there are no rideshares like Uber available in Bariloche.

The most affordable way to get around is definitely by public bus which is pretty well organized and easy to navigate with the help of Google Maps and the Bariloche Tourism website . If you’ve already traveled to Buenos Aires you may be familiar with SUBE, the same public transportation system used in Bariloche.

SUBE is used by purchasing a SUBE card and then loading money onto the card at a kiosco or online. When taking the bus, you hop on at a stop and the driver will ask the name of your end destination. Based on this, your fare will appear on the SUBE screen and you’ll tap your card to pay.

It’s pretty straightforward, the only issue is that finding a SUBE card is sometimes difficult because they’re very scarce. Therefore if you find one, hold onto it! I bought mine in Mendoza and thankfully saved it to use in Buenos Aires and then Bariloche which saved me a lot of hassle.

But if you’re arriving in Bariloche without a SUBE card, you can try to buy one at the tourism office or a kiosco with a SUBE sign. 

The price of the SUBE card can depend but shouldn’t be more than a few USD or less. Because of Argentina’s high inflation the price of bus fares will change over time, but when I visited the fare was around 100 pesos which at the time equaled about 25 ￠USD.

To find out when and where buses stop, you can see the  Bariloche bus schedule here .

Lastly, if you want to visit other towns close by like El Bolson, Villa Angostura, or San Martin de Los Andes, there are also private buses available. Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus terminal.

Probably the most fun way to travel around Bariloche is with a car so that you can freely explore and go on mini-road trips. Renting can be done easily  online , and if you’re visiting during high season I recommend doing so ahead of time.

Overall prices of rentals can vary, but when my friend and I rented a car for a weekend in March 2023 it was about 12,000 pesos per day which equaled about $30 USD.

Another way to get around Bariloche is to bike. Just note that it is a pretty hilly region, so depending on where you’re going prepare for a small challenge.

Bike rentals are available within the town or outside of it right at the beginning of Circuito Chico at km 18*. 

*What do I mean about km 18? Bariloche has sectioned and labeled the area by km so often you’ll hear destinations or bus stops being at a certain km. If you go to the tourism office they’ll give you a map with these references.

WHERE TO STAY

The most convenient place to stay (especially if you’re without a car) is in Bariloche’s city center where you’ll be close to restaurants, tour agencies, and the main bus stops. If you’re renting a car for the duration of your trip, there are also many accommodation options outside of the city center. These are ideal if you’re looking for a more private or tranquil place.

My Recommendations

Penthouse 1004 is a favorite hostel of mine because of its helpful staff, friendly atmosphere, and clean rooms. Not to mention that it has one of the best views of Bariloche in the city, and offers a free breakfast. Check availability here.

But if you’re looking for a cheaper option, I recommend Hopa Home Hostel , a comfy house with a welcoming vibe in a fantastic location. Check availability here .

Standard $$

If you want a private space but still reasonably priced, there are many private apartments. For example, check out  this studio  within the city, and this beautiful house outside of Bariloche.

If you prefer a fully serviced hotel though, I recommend H ostería Güemes  or Peninsula Petit .

The most famous hotel in Bariloche, and possibly Patagonia, is the Llao Llao Resort which sits on a hill in between the Moreno and Nahuel Huapi Lakes along Circuito Chico.

Inside the hotel the decor embodies the comfort sought out in the mountains and guests are rewarded with views of the Andes from their room and terraces. Check availability here  for this bucket list stay.

THINGS TO DO IN BARILOCHE

Explore circuito chico.

Circuito Chico is a scenic loop-road outside Bariloche’s center that tourists can drive or bike, stopping at a number of viewpoints, landmarks, trails, and eateries. 

Many of Bariloche’s top destinations are located somewhere on this route, so taking a day trip to explore is a great way to get started in Bariloche. If you’re short on time, it’s also the best way to see the main sights in one day. 

This was the first activity I did in Bariloche, and I think it’s what sold me. Immediately I fell in love with the sights and the colors. The cute food trailers every few kilometers also helped. My only tweak if I were to complete it again, would be to rent an electric bike. Circuito Chico is pretty hilly!

Here’s a few places I suggest stopping along Circuito Chico:

• Punto Panoramico
• Patagonia Cervecería
• Cerveceria & Restaurante Gilbert
• Lago Escondido
• Mirador Bahia Lopez
• Llao Llao Resort
• Capilla San Eduardo

You’ll also see much more along the way and can pull over whenever you like! If you rent a bike, they’ll also give you a map with the stops labeled.

→ Read more details about how to bike Circuito Chico in this post

Hike to Cerro Llao Llao, Refugio Frey & More

I cannot begin to say how much I love the hiking in Bariloche, for the views of course, but also the level of accessibility. There are many trail options depending on difficulty and length. Plus, with Bariloche’s bus system you can reach most trailheads easily and without a car.  The Bariloche Trekking website is especially useful for planning your hike.

Must do hikes in my opinion are the Llao Llao lookout (easy and short) and Refugio Frey (more difficult and longer, but SO worth it).

Some other popular trails are Refugio Lopez and Sendero de los Arrayanes combined with Lago Escondido and Villa Tacul.

Pro tip: If you’re from the U.S. and hike often, you’ve probably heard of AllTrails. This is a great resource even still, but typically in Argentina locals use an app called WikiLoc . It works the same way, you can download trails to follow. I highly recommend using it in combination with the Bariloche Trekking website .

Some of my hiking picks

Checkout the views at Cerro Campanario

Cerro Campanario is probably the most popular viewpoint in Bariloche because of its 360 views of the lakes and mountains all around. To reach the peak, you can either take a joyride up on the ski lift, or hike a short – but very steep – 30 minutes to the top.

If you want to skip this hike, make sure to arrive before 5 PM (when the ski lift closes) and bring some cash to pay. When I visited it was around $5 USD calculated with the blue rate.

The best part, at the top there’s a cafe where you can enjoy some hot chocolate and shield yourself from the wind while still enjoying the views.

Getting there by bus: take the city bus labeled 20 (double check here in case this has changed) from the city center to km 17.5. Cerro Campanario is a very popular stop so the driver will shout it out.

Another popular mirador you can reach by ski lift is Cerro Otto!

7 Lagos Road Trip to San Martin de Los Andes

Another staple activity while in Bariloche, is to visit the 7 Lakes along route 40 towards San Martin de Los Andes. Each lake offers viewpoints from above or at the base where you can dip your toes in.

Although there are many day tours available, I have to say this is most enjoyable if done as a road trip. Driving yourself offers much more flexibility so you can take your time and stay overnight in San Martin. A road trip also allows you the freedom to make additional stops at waterfalls, food trucks, and to even swim in one of the lakes.

If you’re a solo traveler like me, I really encourage you to try and make a friend to do this with. You can also drive it on your own, if you’re comfortable. All the areas along the route are safe and the roads are well paved, just curvy at some parts.

Solo travel tip: some ways to meet friends in Bariloche are on a tour, by  staying at a hostel , or striking up conversation with someone on the bus or in a restaurant. People are really friendly in this area!

Here’s some of the stops I recommend:

• Lago Espejo (lake 1)
• Lago Correntoso (lake 2)
• Lago Escondido (lake 3)
• Lago Vallarino (lake 4)
• Lago Falkner (lake 5)
• Lago Machónico (lake 6)
• Lago Lácar (lake 7)

More stops you can make that I recommend:

• Cascada Rio Bonito
• Villa Angostura
• Mirador Bahía Blanca & Mansa
• Cervecería at Lago Falkner
• Cascada Ñivinco
• San Martin de Los Andes

Pro Tip: there’s no service for most of the drive. Make sure to pin destinations you want to stop on your Google Maps app and don’t forget to download offline maps. At the same time though, if you forget, don’t panic! It’s mostly one way so it’s difficult to get lost, and there are many signs for viewpoints.

Tours available if you prefer:

Visit villa traful.

Villa Traful is a small town at the base of Lago Traful along a road known as Circuito Grande. It’s a bit off the beaten path for most tourists, especially international, but in my opinion, the drive offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. Those exploring will have to tolerate a sometimes rough dirt road, but will be rewarded with mountains on both sides and an incredible lookout of the lake.

The town itself is very small so don’t expect too much, but there are a few places to grab a bite to eat and some stunning camping areas near the water.

If you’re looking for an adventure that feels like off-roading just to see some amazing views, Villa Traful and Circuito Grande are for you.

Tip: You can either visit Villa Traful on its own from Bariloche, or on a multi day road trip combined with other destinations. 

→ See my 2-3 day 7 Lagos & Villa Traful road trip

Explore colonia suiza & enjoy curanto.

Looking for the most instagrammable place in Bariloche? It’s probably Colonia Suiza. This is a small village you can reach by taking a short detour from Circuito Chico.

Historically a swiss colony, this quaint village is now a touristic center where you can enjoy boutique shops and a market full of goods and various food stands.

While there’s a lot of local food you can try here, the most popular is Curanto. This type of meal originates from the Chiloe islands and is popular in Chile & northern Patagonia – including Bariloche. Essentially it’s a method of cooking where the food is buried in the ground, on top of heated stones which creates an oven. The meat and vegetables slowly cook for hours, and then are unearthed, providing a tasty feast.

I have to admit the coolest part is seeing the cooks unbury the food from the ground. Even if you don’t eat the Curanto meal I recommend going just to see this.

Because this is a huge affair, and obviously a lot of work, Curanto is only offered two times a week in Colonia Suiza: Wednesday’s and Sundays. It’s also required that you sign up to reserve a plate. There are a few Curanto restaurants, I recommend The Gringo which is right in the middle of Colonia Suiza and has an open view of the action.

To reserve, whatsapp them here: +54 9 2944 578178

German and Indigenous walking tours

Bariloche is not without its secrets and stories. Long before it was a hub for controversial German immigration, it was once home to Patagonia’s indigenous people who suffered at the hands of colonization.

If you’re fascinated by this, you can learn about both topics in Bariloche’s two most popular walking tours: The German Footprint and Nazi Presence Tour and the Patagonia Indigenous People’s Tour .

Pro tip: If you’re a solo traveler, walking tours are a great way to get to know other travelers. Strike up a conversation with someone and ask if they want to grab a bite to eat after or join you for a hike the next day!

Kayak on the lake

With stunning lakes all around, it would be a shame to only enjoy them from land. Because of its calm waters, Bariloche is an amazing place to kayak and the perfect afternoon activity paired with a picnic on the beach.

The most popular place to kayak is from Playa Bonita, however it can become crowded here. I much prefer Playa del Moreno: kayaks are cheaper to rent (only a few $ USD) and there are less people. Not to mention the views are much better from Playa del Moreno where you can be an onlooker to fancy cabins in the hills and admire Llao Llao resort in the distance.

hangout At the beaches

Probably not the activity you anticipated doing in Patagonia, but on a sunny day during warmer months a dip in the water followed by reading in the sun might be just what you need.

Some popular beaches in Bariloche are Playa Bonita, Playa Gutierrez and Villa Tacul.

Visit Cerveza Patagonia

This one shouldn’t take much convincing to add to your list because it’s hard to beat sitting in a lawn chair with views like this and a Patagonia beer in hand.

Located along Circuito Chico, you may decide to skip Cerveza Patagonia initially if beer and biking doesn’t sound like a nice combo to you (it didn’t to me). But I encourage you to return for a visit of its own.

At this brewery you can enjoy a golden ale on the lawn paired with some hearty snacks, or sample flights in one of their tasting tours.

Explore the city center & the many cafes and shops

Before or after you catch a bus to go hiking, you must wander through Bariloche’s city center. There are numerous cafes to grab a coffee and shops to tempt you.

In the center you’ll also find an artisanal market full of tasteful souvenirs made from local artists. Personally, I can’t pass up the artisanal markets in Argentina, the uniquely designed rings I’ve found are always my downfall.

Indulge your inner foodie by trying the popular dishes & treats

Not long into a stroll around Bariloche and you can probably guess the treat it’s most famous for: chocolate! Along Mitre Avenue, also known as the Avenue of Chocolate Dreams, you’ll pass by chocolate factories one after another as the sweets tempt you from the glass windows. 

Obviously , you have to indulge yourself. My most recommended chocolate shops are Mamushka Chocolate, Frantom Chocolates, and Rapa Nui (some of the best ice cream I had in Argentina, also located in Buenos Aires).

Other delicacies to try include fondu and trout or salmon (you are surrounded by lakes full of fish, after all). And of course this is Argentina, so it wouldn’t be right to visit a new city without visiting a parrilla for asado and wine.

Visit a Tea House

At this point you may know how popular the herbal drink mate is in Argentina. But in Bariloche, traditional tea rooms are also widely embraced. Many are intentionally situated by the lake so that guests can admire outside views while cozily enjoying a warm tea and patisserie.

There are many tea houses in Bariloche, I suggest visiting at least one (al thought you may have a difficult time choosing). Take a look from the list below noting the views and ambiance.

• Casa de Te Blend
• Paila Co Salón de Tè
• Meiling Tea House
• Bellevue Salon de Te

Explore Gutierrez Lake, Mirador and Waterfall

Although it’s super close to the center of Bariloche, this area can be overlooked by the distraction of Circuito Chico but it’s actually the perfect day trip to combine activities. At Lago Gutierrez you can sunbathe at the beach, kayak on the lake, hike to the mirador and explore Cascada de Los Duendes.

As a tourist in Argentina, you may often see locals drinking mate but wonder where you can try it yourself. It’s more of a personal drink shared amongst friends, but rarely sold anywhere for tourists to try without committing to purchasing the full “kit”. But in Bariloche there’s a really unique touristic experience – mate tasting! During this class not only will you try mate, but you’ll also learn the history, about the different types of yerba, and how to prepare it yourself. 

This was actually one of my favorite things I did in Bariloche because it was such a fascinating experience. I had already drunk a lot of mate while in Argentina, but this gave me the opportunity to learn more about the local obsession.

Puerto Blest & Isla Victoria Boat Tour

Surrounded by lakes, boat tours are a core activity in Bariloche. The two most popular ones are to Isla Victoria and Puerto Blest.

Isla Victoria is in the middle of Lago Nahuel Huapi, and known for the Arrayanes Forest. People go here to explore the lush woodland of pines and enjoy a dip in the clear water from the shore. I actually missed out on this tour, and deeply regret it as the island is meant to be quite magical. 

Puerto Blest is the next most popular boat tour, where you’ll sail across the lake passing some of the most beautiful sections before docking. From the port, you can explore places such as Cascada los Cantaros.

FOOD & DRINK

There’s so much to eat and drink in Bariloche, here are some of my favorites:

RESTAURANTS

Chimi Deli Cocina Natural is a restaurant serving healthy food plus many vegan and gluten free options. Even if you don’t fall into these categories, Chimi is a refreshing break from the traditional hearty dishes of Argentina. I loved this place! 

Chimi Bar de Choris serves delicious choripan sandwiches in many creative varieties and at an affordable price. 

Alto El Fuego Parrilla and La Parrilla de Tony are two of the most popular places in Bariloche  to eat meat. When I went to La Parrilla de Tony they were offering a meal combination including an appetizer, salad, meat entree, desert and a bottle of wine for a discounted price, which meant I was eating like a queen for about $20 USD.

La Fonda del Tio and El Boliche de Alberto Pastas are pasta restaurants high in demand that will put you straight into a food coma but will be so worth it.

Note there’s also the sister restaurant El Boliche de Alberto, which is separate and is a parrilla, another good option for asado.

Familia Weiss serves more variety but is especially good for eating smoked trout or salmon, popular dishes in Bariloche. They also often have music in the evenings.

La Casita Restaurante and La Marmite are fantastic options to eat fondue, which is popular in Bariloche because of the Swiss influence.

Manush is probably the most popular pub in Bariloche with over 20k reviews. But beyond drinks, they serve really tasty food – the bondiola (an Argentina sandwich made with porch shoulder) is especially good.

Berkana Lake Bar is a small bar near the water where you can enjoy a beer and snacks while watching sunset over the water. It’s a very laid back spot to end your day.

Cervecería y Restaurante Gilbert is not in Bariloche’s center but rather along Circuito Chico. However, I highly suggest a visit. Gilbert’s feels like such a rustic local spot and was even mentioned in the show Magical Andes. It’s a quiet pub for sure, but they serve good beer and food for the soul.

CHOCOLATE & SWEETS

Rapa Nui has the best ice cream and there’s even an ice skating rink inside.

Mamushka Chocolate and Frantom Chocolates have loads of chocolate flavors to try, you must treat yourself to a box.

Thanks for reading!

Leave a comment if you found this helpful or if you end up loving Bariloche as much as I did! I’m positive you will.

More Resources for Your Trip to Argentina

If you’re flying to Argentina, the most affordable place to arrive will be Buenos Aires. Because the country is so large, it’s most convenient to fly in between most destinations. I use  Skyscanner  to find affordable flights.

Buses can be really, really long in Argentina, but they are more budget-friendly if you’re willing to endure the long hours to cut back on costs or your flying. However, I don’t recommend them for people not used to buses or who get car sick, just because they can be so long. 

If you do take buses between destinations, it’s cheaper to pay in cash at terminals, but for some buses in Patagonia it’s better to book online and/or ahead of time to secure your seat. I always check  Bus Bud.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is a must to cover an unexpected health issues or cancellations.  Right now I use SafetyWing  which has affordable plans.

Get Phone Data in Argentina

If you don’t have international roaming and you’re looking for a convenient way to have phone data, try an eSim card. Airalo is what I recommend most as it has worldwide plans and an easy set-up.

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Hello, thank you for your detailed article! Very helpful. One question, did you venture into the grocery stores or food markets? We are thinking about staying a month there but just want to make sure it is easy to buy fresh produce if we stay in the downtown area.

Caroline Rose

Hi Jeanne, yes! Actually I stayed a month in Bariloche too and shopped for groceries most of the time. There are plenty of options and fresh produce

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Strung out along the shoreline of Lago Nahuel Huapi, in the middle of the national park of the same name, Bariloche (formally San Carlos de Bariloche) has one of the most gorgeous settings imaginable. This, combined with a wealth of summer and winter activities in the surrounding countryside, as well the production of Argentina's best chocolate, has helped it become the Lake District’s principal destination.

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A Complete Guide for Visiting Bariloche in Argentina

• Post last modified: October 25, 2023
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: August 7, 2023
• Post category: Guides / South America

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Welcome to one of the most stunning cities in South America. Bariloche in Argentina is paradise for those that love nature, and is definitely one of the top places to visit in the country.

Visiting Bariloche was on my bucket list for a long time, and Fede actually surprised me for my birthday with a week-long trip there! I had such high expectations for what it would be like, and I can say that this city didn't only meet my expectations, but it exceeded them in every way!

In this guide we are going to share everything you need to know for visiting Bariloche in Argentina, from the best places to see, to the best restaurants to eat at, where to stay, and so m much more.

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is Bariloche in Argentina?

Bariloche is located in the west of Argentina,in the middle of the country. It is  one of the most popular cities in the province of Rio Negro.

Is Bariloche Considered Patagonia?

Bariloche is considered a part of Patagonia, the biggest and most stunning region of Argentina. It is one of the most northern cities in Patagonia, and a great place to start if you plan on exploring the region.

Bariloche is in the north west part of Patagonia.

How to Get to Bariloche in Argentina

The easiest way to get to Bariloche in Argentina is to take a flight, which is how we visited from Buenos Aires .

What is the Closest Airport to Bariloche?

The closest airport to Bariloche is Teniente Luis Candelaria Airport, which is also known as the San Carlos de Bariloche Airport. It is located just a half hour outside the center of Bariloche, and has regular flights from Buenos Aires , as well as domestic flights from Cordoba, Mendoza, Rosario, Tucuman, and Viedma. If you are coming from Chile or Brazil, Bariloche also has direct flights from Santiago and Sao Paulo .

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for flying to Bariloche in Argentina.

Search for a flight to Bariloche in Argentina:

How to Get to Bariloche from Nearby Cities

If you are in Argentina, and are in the area of Patagonia already, you can also get to Bariloche by taking a bus. Argentina is a lot bigger than people think, so chances are your best option will be to fly. However, if you'd like to visit from another city in Argentina and not fly, there are bus options, some of them even being overnight buses (this will save you on accommodation for a night!).

Here are some popular bus routes that you can book to Bariloche:

• San Martin de los Andes to Bariloche
• Mendoza to Bariloche
• El  Chalten  to Bariloche
• Calafate to Bariloche

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Entry Requirements for Argentina

When visiting a new country it's important to know what are the requirements for visas and vaccines. Here are the different entry requirements for visiting Bariloche in Argentina.

Argentina Visa Entry Requirements

Argentina is a very welcoming country when it comes to tourism, and there are a lot of nationalities which can visit visa-free for a period of up to 90 days. The countries from the Americas that can travel to Argentina  without needing a visa include  Bolivia ,  Brazil , Canada,  Colombia ,  Costa Rica ,  Chile ,  Ecuador ,  El Salvador,  Guatemala,  Guyana ,  Honduras ,  Mexico ,  Nicaragua ,  Panama ,  Paraguay ,  Peru , St Kitts, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines,  Suriname , Trinidad & Tobago,  Uruguay , and the  USA .

European countries which are able to visit Argentina visa-free include Andorra , Armenia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium,  Bulgaria ,  Croatia , Czech Republic,  Cyprus ,  Denmark ,  Estonia , Finland, France,  Georgia ,  Germany ,  Greece ,  Hungary ,  Ireland ,  Iceland ,  Italy , Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg,  Macedonia , Malta, Monaco,  Montenegro ,  Norway , Netherlands, Poland,  Portugal ,  Romania ,  Russia , San Marino,  Serbia , Slovakia, Slovenia,  Spain , Sweden,  Switzerland ,  Turkey ,  United Kingdom , and Vatican City.

Other countries that are able to stay for up to 90 days in the country include Australia, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Mongolia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand , and the  United Arab Emirates . Venezuelans can stay for a period of up to 60 days, and those from Grenada, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia can stay for a period of up to 30 days.

Argentina Covid Entry Requirements

All previous covid-related requirements to travel to Argentina have now been taken away, so you can freely enter Argentina whether or not you are vaccinated. Masks are not required anywhere, nor does anyone wear them anymore.

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Local Adjustments for Visiting Bariloche in Argentina

Another important thing to keep in mind when traveling to new places is that things may change such as currency, language, and the tipping culture. Here are the local adjustments to keep in mind for when you visit Bariloche in Argentina.

What Language Do They Speak in Bariloche?

The official language in Bariloche, Argentina is Spanish.

Currency Used in Bariloche, Argentina

The currency used in Argentina is the Argentinian peso. One thing that makes the currency in Argentina very different than the rest of the world is that there are so many different exchange rates, and they are changing drastically every month! Currently the blue dollar rate is 550 pesos for every 1 USD, and the official exchange is 277 pesos for every dollar.

The blue dollar is what you can get if you exchange USD in an unofficial exchange place, and the official exchange is what your credit card will charge you.

Is Bariloche Expensive?

Bariloche is definitely more expensive than some other areas of Argentina, but is still. very affordable location to travel! The key is bringing US dollars with you, and exchanging them at the "blue dollar" rate. This is one country where you can put away your credit card, and rely solely on cash.

With the blue dollar rate, the exchange is so good that things end up being very affordable while you are in Bariloche, as they are practically 50% cheaper!

Plug Types in Bariloche

Bariloche in Argentina uses plug type I, which has three prongs- one on the bottom which is vertical, and two above it which are slanted towards one another. Argentina runs on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. There are very few countries that use the same plug type, two of them which are Australia and New Zealand. If you are coming from any other country, you will need to get a travel adapter .

Can I Drink Water in Bariloche?

The water around Patagonia is some of the best in the world! It is perfectly safe to drink the water from the tap, so we suggest bringing a reusable water bottle and skipping the bottled water.

Tipping in Bariloche

The tipping culture throughout Argentina is similar to many other countries around the world. While it is never actually mandatory, it is customary to leave an extra 10% tip while out to eat.

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Things to Do in Bariloche, Argentina

Now that you know almost everything you need to know about visiting Bariloche in Argentina, here are the best things to do in and around the city.

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Things to Do in Bariloche #1: Explore the Center

Bariloche seriously took me by surprise by how cute it was. The architecture has a ton of German influence, so it actually feels like a European village rather than a South American one. Take some time to simply wander the streets, and don't miss out on the square where Centro Civico is.

Bariloche has a beautiful German-inspired city center.

Things to Do in Bariloche #2: Visit the Bariloche Sign

While it's a pretty tacky tourist thing, the Bariloche sign is on platform right on the lake, and has stunning views around it! If you'd like a photo with no one around, we suggest going very early in the morning, as this is one of the busiest tourist spots in the city.

The Bariloche sign has stunning natural landscapes behind it.

Things to Do in Bariloche #3: Check out the Chocolate Shops

Bariloche is known for its incredible chocolate, and you can actually find giant chocolate shops all over the center! These are no ordinary chocolate shops though- you can find everything from local jams and liqueurs to stations where you can actually watch them make the chocolates right in front of you.

We definitely suggest checking out a few different chocolate shops, and bringing some home as a souvenir!

Things to Do in Bariloche #4: Go Iceskating in a Chocolate Shop

When we said there are incredible chocolate shops, we meant it. One of the most famous of the chocolate shops is Rapa Nui, which has several sections of the store including handmade truffles, ice cream, local products, and even an ice rink! Rates for iceskating are 4,000 pesos/hour, and there is no need for reservation beforehand.

Things to Do in Bariloche #5: Tour the Havanna Chocolate Factory

Nope! We aren't done with the chocolate recommendations yet! Havanna is basically the Starbucks of Argentina, and they specialize in Argentina's most beloved dessert-the alfajor. All of the chocolate for these cookies actually comes from the factory in Bariloche, and there are tours you can take to learn about the history of chocolate, as well as the company Havanna itself.

Things to Do in Bariloche #6: Ride to the Best Viewpoints

The nature is just breathtaking in Bariloche, and what better way to see it then from a nice viewpoint? Well, there are a couple of great ones that you don't need to hike to get to, and can take a scenic chair lift or cable car ride instead!

Cerro Campanario

This chair lift brings you to one of the most stunning views of the area! The chairlift runs from 9 am to 5:30 pm, and brings you to cafe with big glass windows to appreciate the views from. There are also several balconies you can walk around to appreciate 360 degree views of the area.

You can also purchase a photo from the photographer at the top who captures everyone coming up! We typically don't go for this, but it was super cheap, and it was the only picture we were able to really get due to the harsh weather change once we arrived.

Unfortunately we didn't have the chance to experience Cerro Otto, as they are closed for May, and we were visiting the first week of May. However, this is beautiful cable car ride that gives sweeping views of the Lake Nahuel Huapi, and the outskirts of the city of Bariloche.

Things to Do in Bariloche #7: Do Circuito Chico

If there is one thing to do in Bariloche in Argentina, then definitely let Circuito Chico be it. This loop is just 20 km west of the city, and features incredible hikes, beaches, restaurants, and more! We spent one full day exploring Circuito Chico, and we definitely could have used two days if we had done it at a more relaxed pace.

Want to learn all about how to best explore the area and what things to see exactly? Make sure to read our  Circuito Chico travel guide !

Circuito Chico is one of the top things to do in Bariloche.

Don't have a car? Here are some tours that take you around Circuito Chico:

Things to Do in Bariloche #8: Visit Colonia Suiza

Colonia Suiza is just under Circuito Chico, and we loved it so much we visited a few times! This Swiss-inspired town is colorful and perfectly placed right in front of a gorgeous set of mountains.

The town features an open market with kiosks for local crafts and snacks, as well as some great restaurants. Make sure to visit on with Wednesday or Sunday from mid morning to early afternoon, as this is when all of the kiosks open, and on Sundays you can experience curanto, which is a Chilean style barbecue where they cook the meat underground for hours!

Colonia Suiza is Swiss-inspired neighborhood outside the center of Bariloche.

In this part of the country there are no set hours for anything. They simply close when they feel like it, or when they run out of food. Make sure to go early in the day to get the full experience!

Things to Do in Bariloche #9: Go on a Hike

It's no secret that one of the best things to do in Bariloche, Argentina is to hike. There are an endless amount of hiking trails, some short, and others very long. While we didn't have the time to do the longer ones, they are definitely on the bucket list for next time we visit Bariloche in Argentina. Here are a few of the most popular ones to add to your list:

Laguna Toncek/ Refugio Frey : A challenging but extraordinary hike passing lakes and mountains which takes around 8 hours round-trip

Laguna Negra: A stunning lake that is about 7 hours round-trip

Cerro Lopez: A challenging hike that takes around 7 hours round-trip

Bariloche has a ton of great areas for hiking.

Things to Do in Bariloche #10: Experience Patagonia Brewery

One of Argentina's most popular beers comes from this very brewery! What started as a small project, has since blown up and become one of the most successful beer companies in the country! Not only is it a must to sample their beer, but the entire Patagonia brewery is an experience in itself. 

You'll find an outdoor gallery featuring local photographers' photos, a large picnic-style area, and local food & specialty craft beers served. Cervecería Patagonia was one of our favorite places we visited, and it made for the perfect end of our adventures through Circuito Chico in Bariloche.

Bariloche has the original Patagonia brewery.

Things to Do in Bariloche #11: Take a Tour to Los Arrayanes

Los Arrayanes are a type of special tree that you can find in Patagonia, and there is actually an entire protected forest of them that you can visit on a day tour from Bariloche.

The tours leave from the pier along Circuito Chico, and go from the morning into the late afternoon, with one departure in the winter, and two different departures in the summertime. 

If you'd like to learn more about this incredible tour, you can check out our full guide for visiting Los Arrayanes Forest .

Los Arrayanes is a great day excursion to take from Bariloche in Argentina.

Things to Do in Bariloche #12: Do the Route of the Seven Lakes

The route of the seven lakes is a section of the highway 40 that goes from Villa La Angostura up to San Martin de los Andes , and is known for its several beautiful lakes along the way. You can either take a tour from Bariloche as a day trip, or rent a car and do it yourself. We liked doing the route of the seven lakes our own, as we were able to spend time in both Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes , as well as stop in other cool areas along the way.

The route of the seven lakes is the prettiest road in Patagonia.

Things to Do in Bariloche #13: Visit San Martin de los Andes

San Martin de los Andes may just be the most underrated city in Patagonia, and is definitely one of the top destination to check out in Argentina.

If you are planning on doing the route of the seven lakes, this is actually where it finishes. While some people go as a day trip from Bariloche, we actually spent a night there, and found that it was so worth it! Honestly, we would suggest spending 2 nights in San Martin de los Andes in order to experience all of the stunning nature around it.

Want to learn more about exactly what to do there? Check out our San Martin de los Andes travel guide with all of the details.

Things to Do in Bariloche #14: Take a Trip to Villa Traful

Villa Traful is a true hidden gem of Patagonia. We visited here while doing the route of the seven lakes, as the highway to get there is right off the main road. Villa Traful is a beautiful town located on Lake Traful which is surrounded by the mountains. You can easily do a day trip there from Bariloche, and pair it with a trip to Villa La Angostura.

Villa Traful is a great day trip from Bariloche in Argentina.

Things to Do in Bariloche #15: Check Out Las Buitreras

Looking for some otherworld landscapes? Las Buitreras is the perfect day trip from Bariloche, just an hour west of the city. The incredible rock formations are similar to those in Cappadocia, and hiking here is definitely something we plan on going back for.

Things to Do in Bariloche #16: Explore the National Park Nahuel Huapi

Nahuel Huapi is a huge National Park in Bariloche, and there are several areas to visit. The area we are specifically talking about is near Villa Mascardi. Route 82 goes right into the park, and there is a ton to see and do! The one tricky part though is that the road is only open towards Pampa Linda (the road that goes through the park) until 2 pm and the road coming back opens up at 4 pm. Here are a few things you can see in this area:

• Lake Mascardi:  As soon as you enter the lake will be on your right, and it goes for several km. There are small beach areas to enjoy the lake, and you can also find a heart shaped island there as well.
• Cerro Tronador:  One of Bariloche's best hikes, taking 9-12 hours roundtrip
• Glaciar Castaño Overo:  views of a beautiful glacier with waterfalls

Things to Do in Bariloche #17: Take a Ride to Puerto Blest

Looking for some of the most stunning waters in the area? Puerto Blest is the place to go, and the best way is by tour. The port is located at the end of the Blest arm of the Nahuel Huapi Lake, and many of the tours are boat rides that go down to it, and many also allow you to visit Cascada Cantaros, a beautiful waterfall nearby.

Book a tour to Puerto Blest:

Things to Do in Bariloche #18: Swim in Rio el Manso y el Pileton

Just an hour south of Bariloche is a stunning area to hike and swim, Rio Manso y el Pileton. The Manso River is surrounded by greenery, and has crystal clear waters. If you walk about 10-15 minutes on the trail going down the river, you'll find El Pileton, which is a perfect natural pool with a stunning turquoise color. This is the perfect place to cool off if you are visiting in summertime.

Things to Do in Bariloche #19: Take a Trip to El Bolson

Located just two hours south of Bariloche is a stunning area to add to your Patagonian travels called El Bolson. This quaint town is situated on the Quemquemtreu River, and has plenty of beautiful nature around it such as waterfalls, glaciers, rivers, and more.

Things to Do in Bariloche #20: See the Tulip Fields in Trevelin

Patagonia is absolutely enormous, and some cities are over 24 hours driving away! Because of this we are including some places that aren't SO close, but Bariloche is actually one of the biggest cities you can travel to in order to reach Travelin. Every October you can find large fields of tulips, just like you would in the Netherlands! We didn't have time last time, but plan on visiting there this October.

Things to Do in Bariloche #21: Take a Trip to Villa La Angostura

Just an hour up the road from Bariloche is another charming town that is worth visiting. It is the starting point for the route of the seven lakes, but also has plenty of other reasons for visiting! We particularly loved Bahia Brava, which is a bay with beaches, a pier, and super turquoise waters with mountains in the back.

The town is adorable, and also has some great places to stay! We actually stayed a night there before doing the route of the seven lakes, and fell in love with the hospitality of Acceso Bayo , a family run cabin with breakfast included.

Villa la Angostura is a beautiful town just an hour from Bariloche.

Things to Do in Bariloche #22: Go Skiing

Bariloche is one of the most popular destinations for skiing in South America! There are a ton of great ski resorts in the area, one of the best being at Cerro Catedral Resort . Another plus about skiing in Argentina is that it is much more affordable than many other places in the world!

Things to Do in Bariloche #23: Have a Spa Day

Most of the things to do in Bariloche include physical activity, so you'll definitely need some relaxation during your trip! The amazing thing is that while a spa day can be extremely expensive in places like Europe and the US, it is surprisingly affordable in Argentina.

We had quite a bit of rain when we visited Bariloche in Argentina, and being that many activities were outside, we had to find things to do that were inside. So after our intense day doing CIrcuito Chico, there was no better option on that rainy day then taking advantage and using it as a spa day!

We got our spa day pass at Selina, which is where we were staying. Even if you are not a guest, it is open to everyone, and you'll find it's quite popular with the locals as well!

Things to Do in Bariloche #24: Go Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding is a special experience, and if you're not one for hiking, then this can be a great activity for you. While we aren't a fan of riding horses, we do know that it is a popular activity, especially for families with children.

Book a horseback riding tour in Bariloche:

Local Food & Drink in Bariloche

Let's be honest- one of the best things to do when traveling somewhere new is to experience the local dishes! Here is some info that will help you have the best experience exploring Bariloche's food & drink scene.

What is the Cuisine of Bariloche?

Argentina in general has a very heavy meat culture, and Bariloche is no different. Patagonia has a lot of meat dishes, especially those that are local to the area such as lamb and deer, which are definitely our top recommendations. The country is also known for their Malbec, which pairs perfectly with their incredible meat dishes.

Bariloche also is known for its chocolate, as well as the cheese. Going to the chocolate shops and trying the truffles and pastries is a must. Another popular option is fondue, which is particular to Bariloche due to the influx of European settlers in the past.

Other than the red wine, another beverage you don't want to miss out on is the beer! Patagonia brewery originated in Bariloche, and they have unique flavors to try that you can't find elsewhere in the country.

Want to learn more about Argentinean cuisine? Check out our full article about dishes you should try!

The Best Restaurants in Bariloche, Argentina

We ate at so many great places in Bariloche! Here are some of our top recommendations for eating and drinking:

• Experiencia Patacon: everything here from the decor and service to the exquisite dishes are top notch. This is definitely one of the best restaurants in Bariloche!
• Alto Fuego: some the best meat you'll find in the area, with two locations in Bariloche
• Punto Panoramico: part of Circuito Chico, this restaurant has incredible views and local dishes.
• Cerveza Patagonia: a must for beer, views, and a great Patagonia experience!
• Casa Abueloa Goye:  a local favorite for chocolates, with the cutest cafe and backyard
• Confiteria del Cerro Campanario: a cute cafe with some incredible views

El Patacon is one of the best restaurants in Bariloche.

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How to Get Around Bariloche in Argentina

We decided to rent a car in Bariloche, and were extremely happy with our decision. This allowed us to experience all of the stunning nature around the area of Bariloche, as well as do day trips (there are a ton of them!). While renting a car in Argentina isn't as cheap as public transportation, we certainly think it is the way to go if you like to fully explore a place.

Do I Need a Car in Bariloche?

We love to fully explore everywhere we go, and there are a ton of incredible places on the outskirts of Bariloche that would be difficult to get to without a car.

If you are on a tight budget, you can definitely enjoy a ton of things in Bariloche without a car. However, we thought it was well worth the money to have the car and explore more in our limited time.

Having a car allows you to explore more of the surroundings of Bariloche in Argentina.

Rent a car in Bariloche:

How Do You Get Around Bariloche Without a Car?

If you do not have a rental car, or aren't planning on getting one, then you can take public transportation to places like Circuito Chico, or to some of the other popular spots such as the cable cars and viewpoints. For some of the other spots, such as doing the route of the seven lakes or visiting Las Buitreras, you can sign up for tours. Here are some of the most popular ones:

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Where to Stay in Bariloche, Argentina

There are several great options when it comes to places to stay in Bariloche, and a couple of different areas worth looking at.

Hotels in the Center of Bariloche

If you plan on getting around by foot or public transportation, then the best place to stay in Bariloche is in the heart of the town. There are a lot of different options for all types of budgets, and here are a few that we recommend:

Cinerama Hostel: the most affordable hostel in Bariloche, for those on a budget

Hotel Tres Reys: the nicest hotel in Bariloche for those looking for something special- it also is perched right on the lake, with the most prime location in the city center.

Selina: an upscale hostel with both shared and private rooms, a restaurant, community kitchen, and bar. They also have a nightly DJ, special events, and day passes for their gym & spa. This is a happy medium between budget and luxury, and our number one recommendation for value.

Hotels in Circuito Chico

Circuito Chico is a great area to stay if you'd like to be surrounded by the stunning nature of Bariloche in Argentina. If you plan on renting a car, then this is a great part of Bariloche to stay as it has the best views, and gives you easy access to Los Arrayanes and the hikes along Circuito Chico . Here are the top two places we recommend in Circuito Chico:

Llao Llao Hotel & Resort: the most iconic hotel in all of Bariloche! This resort is one of the most gorgeous hotels featuring a beautiful restaurant, boutique shops, and manicured gardens.

Llao Llao Resort is the most famous hotel in Bariloche.

Hotel Amancay: a large hotel on the lake with some of the best views, and the tastiest medialunas

Hotel Amancay has stunning views of Circuito Chico.

Is Bariloche in Argentina Safe?

While many areas of South America and Argentina can be quite bit dangerous, Patagonia is generally a super safe area to visit, and is very tourist-friendly. We found everyone from Bariloche in Argentina to be very welcoming, and we felt safe both during the day and at night walking on the streets.

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Other Things to Know About Visiting Bariloche in Argentina

Now you know almost everything you ned to know for visiting Bariloche in Argentina! But here are a few other things to keep in mind before you go.

What is the Climate like in Bariloche?

Bariloche in Argentina experiences all four seasons, with warm and sunny summers, and super cold and snowy winters. If you happen to visit in the spring or fall as we did, the weather can be pretty unpredictable. One minute it can be warm and sunny, while the next it can be cold, cloudy, and windy. If you visit in the spring or fall, it's important to be prepared for all types of weather.

This is what Bariloche looks like the first week of May.

What are the Best Months to Visit Bariloche in Argentina?

We decided to visit Bariloche in Argentina the first week of May, which is the middle of of their autumn season. The leaves were all colorful, and it was so beautiful at this time. While we had mostly good weather, it is also the start of the rainy season, so it can really be hit or miss at this time. May is the rainiest month, and also things start to close, so we would suggest the end of April if you'd like to experience the fall colors.

The most popular months to visit Bariloche are in the summer for hiking (from December to March) and in the winter for skiing (from June to August). If you'd like to get the best prices but still have good weather, we would suggest going late November to early December, or in March. The end of April is the best for fall colors with good weather, and October is a great month to visit if you'd like to see the tulip fields down in Trevelin (a city 4 hours south of Bariloche).

Being that Bariloche is surrounded by  mountains, you can see snow on the top for a good portion of the year, which is why we loved visiting the beginning of May or the end of September!

Bariloche is surrounded by the mountains.

What to Wear in Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche is a pretty casual place, and most of the things to do are out in nature. Layers are always crucial, even if you are visiting in the summer, as temperatures can drop in the mountains. There are great places to swim, as well as spas, so you'll definitely want to bing a bathing suit with you as well. Comfortable hiking clothes are a must, and a nice outfit or two if you plan on going to some of the nicer restaurants in the evening.

Bringing layers and comfortable clothes to hike is a must in Bariloche!

Packing List for Bariloche

Here are a few of the things we suggest bringing for when you travel to Bariloche in Argentina:

• Reusable Water Bottle  (we use  this water bottle from Cafago  because it holds the temperature)
• Layers  or a  jacket
• Comfortable clothes to hike in
• Bathing suit
• Flip Flops for the beach (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops , as they are comfy and long lasting) 
• Sneakers  (for hiking)
• Zippered Bag or Backpack  - check out these  backpacks for travelers!
• Power Bank  (we use  Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Drone for some awesome content (We use the Mavic Mini Pro 3  because it's super light and takes incredible footage)
• Travel Adapter  (we use  Tessan travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)

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Is it Worth Going to Bariloche in Argentina?

Bariloche is definitely worth visiting! In fact, it is one of the most stunning spots in the whole country. If you love being out in nature, eating homemade chocolate, and doing a variety of activities, then Bariloche is certainly a place that you will want to travel to.

How Many Days Do I Need in Bariloche?

There is so much to do in Bariloche, that you could honestly spend a month! We stayed 5 days, and certainly wished that we had at least another 2. Being that there are also so many great cities surrounding Bariloche (such as San Martin de Los Andes or El Bolzon), you could easily add on days, and never run out of things to do.

We would definitely suggest visiting for a week if you are able to, or at least 4-5 days if you just want to focus on seeing Bariloche itself.

There are so many great places to experience in and around Bariloche in Argentina.

Travel Planning Tools

Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!

Booking.com   is what we use to book our hotels, as you can collect points and get discounts the more you travel.

Economy Bookings :  the cheapest car rentals around the world

Local Rent a Car : for the best local car agencies

Bus Bud : the most complete site for bus tickets around the world

Flix Bus US : the cheapest bus tickets in the US

Train Line : our go-to for trains in a ton of different countries

Omnio : our secondary choice for train or bus tickets

Airalo is a company that offers E-SIM cards for almost every country in the world, to keep you connected during your travels.

Get Your Guide is a site that gathers tours from local tour operators for unique experiences around the world.

Radical Storage is a company that connects you to the closest luggage storage spots so that you can explore on your layovers, or for hotels that won't hold your belongings.

So are you ready to explore one of the most incredible cities in Patagonia? There are so many stunning locations throughout this country, and we love continuing to explore everything that Argentina has to offer.

Want to discover more amazing spots around the area? Make sure to check out all of the other Argentina travel guides that we have written! Also remember to subscribe to our newsletter to hear about more related articles that we have each week, as well as exclusive tips and discounts we offer our subscribers.

Are you ready for the most epic trip of your life? Well, you don't need to spend a fortune in order to have the most incredible experiences. Now Scratch Your Mapa offers travel planning services which are guaranteed to save you both time and money. Check out some of the different travel packages  that we offer, or  email us for your free consultation.

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1. From Bariloche: San Martín de los Andes by The 7 Lakes Route

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3. German Footprint & Nazi presence - Walking Tour in Bariloche

4. Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour

5. Adrenaline Rafting on the Manso River to the Andes Border

6. Half a day of kayaking on the Nahuel Huapi lake in private service

7. Bariloche: Half Day Small Circuit Tour - Mt Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula

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9. Half-Day Tour to Circuito Chico and Cerro Catedral with Transportation

10. Trekking day in the mountains close to Bariloche

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14. Fly Fishing Trips in Bariloche

15. Nahuel Huapi Lake Cruise with Victoria Island and Arrayan Forest Walk

16. Excursion to Puerto Blest + Cantaros Waterfalls + Lake Frias

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What travelers are saying.

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Bariloche: Ultimate Guide to ‘Argentina’s Switzerland’

Bariloche, nestled along the shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi and surrounded by snow-capped peaks serves as the gateway to the playland of Patagonia.

The Rio Negro province’s largest city offers not only postcard-worthy views but alpine-style comforts from which to explore Argentina’s Lakes District.

Ever since Europeans landed in the area, Bariloche has been called the ‘Switzerland of Argentina’ due to the cultural influence of the immigrants who settled here.

Table of Contents

Establishing Argentina’s ‘Switzerland’

In 1895, Carlos Wiederhold, a Chilean of German descent, built a general store in Bariloche called ‘ La Alemana ’ (‘The German’).

Seven years later President Julio Argentino Roca, — eager to secure claims of Argentinean land in Patagonia amidst border disputes — officially decreed the village an agricultural settlement named ‘San Carlos de Bariloche,’ after its founder.

Although remote — it’s 1650 kilometers from Buenos Aires —  the area’s natural beauty meant Bariloche was destined to develop into a coveted holiday haven.

In 1903, academic and explorer Francisco ‘Perito’ Moreno donated 19000 acres of land here to the government, paving the way for the creation of Argentina’s national park system in 1934.

Argentina was one of the world’s richest nations at the time and was the third country to establish a national park system , after the United States and Canada.

Originally known as Parque Nacional del Sur , Nahuel Huapi was Argentina’s first national park, followed closely by Iguazu Falls National Park .

Today Nahuel Huapi National Park spans over two million acres and includes the city of Bariloche.

Argentina’s economic crisis at the turn of the 21st century meant suddenly the country was affordable for foreigners. The city welcomed more international visitors than ever before, particularly from Israel and Europe.

Today, the town is nicknamed ‘ Braziloche ’ thanks to its popularity with vacationing Brazilians.

Locals in the tourism industry speak not only English, but also Portuguese – or at least the Spanish-Portuguese mix dubbed, ‘ Portuñol .’

With a thriving chocolate industry and romantic getaways such as Isla Corazon (Heart Island) Bariloche is also famed as a honeymoon destination.

The Indigenous People of Bariloche 

Hunter-gatherer tribes migrated south to this area at least 10,600 years ago.

Three native tribes occupied the Nahuel Huapi area: the Puelches in the mountain grasslands, the Tehuelches along the eastern and southern shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake, and Mapuche who lived along the northern part of the Limay river up to Lanin Volcano.

Small groups of families lived clustered together and used the lakes and rivers as trade routes.

The Spaniards first landed in Lake Nahuel Huapi in 1620 but it wasn’t until 1760 that Jesuit missionaries began to document the native population here.

The Mapuche people were universally recognized as the most courageous natives in the area. They spoke ‘ Veliche’, a dialect of ‘Mapudungun,’ a language shared among different tribes stretching from Aconcagua to southern Patagonia.

‘Bariloche’ got its name from the Mapudungun word ‘ Vuriloche ,’ or ‘people who live between the mountains.’

(The common Argentine address of ‘che’ , meaning ‘people’ also comes from Mapudungun.)

While the original Jesuit missionaries, led by Father Nicolo Mascardi, lived peacefully with the locals, the tribes withheld their secret trade roots from the foreigners, which initially helped them defend their territory throughout Patagonia and Chile’s Araucania region at the start of the government’s deadly ‘Desert Conquest’ campaign.

The military campaign, led by then-General Julio Argentino Roca decimated the indigenous population.

Thousands of Mapuche were killed in the fighting and tens of thousands were displaced.

In the 135 years since the Mapuche have continued to experience marginalization and human rights abuses.

It wasn’t until 2006 that the indigenous remaining in the area received reparations for their lost legacy.

The restitution, managed by the Nahuel Huapi National Park administration, includes property rights of ancestral lands for three Mapuche communities and a co-management program of the national park.

The Lof-Wiritrai , who live on the northeast shores of Mascardi Lake, operate a camping and a cultural center.

The Lof-Huenchupan , run the Villegas River area along route 40 on the way to El Bolson. They focus on native sustainable practices such as harvesting rainwater and replanting native trees and medicinal plants.

The Lof-Kinxikex , who settled in the northern area of the National Park en route to Villa la Angostura and Los Arrayanes National Park, oversee a hunting area and commercial craft workshop.

In recent years, tensions between the Mapuche and the Argentine government have increased as capital interests come head-to-head with the ancestral land claims of the minority indigenous community.

Native Folk Tales of the Region

A few Mapuche stories are still well-known among Bariloche locals.

The most popular is the folk tale of Nahuelito — Argentina’s version of the Loch Ness Monster.

The original Mapuche story, called ‘ trülke wekufü ‘ meaning ‘leather,’ refers to a mythical cowhide that turns into a mutant creature similar to a large snake.

In 1988 Río Negro’s daily newspaper published a picture of a strange creature on the lake, reviving the legend.

Modern versions of the Nahuelito legend claim the creature inhabiting in the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi is similar to an ancient plesiosaur.

The story of Nahuelito endures although the lakes of Patagonia were formed long after the extinction of dinosaurs.

Andean Cave Art

Nahuel Huapi National Park contains 88 archaeological sites considered ‘sites of National Importance’ by the nation’s Culture Ministry.& Andean Cave Art.

Forty-eight of the sites contain historic rock art . The cave drawings provide insight into the native population’s world-views, with multicolored human and animal motifs.

Hikers can visit these sites on their own by renting a car or hiring a local driver familiar with the area.

 The Creation of Bariloche’s Downtown

In the 1930s Argentine National Park service’s director, Exequiel Bustillo, hired his brother Alejandro to create a ‘ garden city ’ that would serve as the hopping off point to Nahuel Huapi National Park.

The cathedral, and local iconic hotels such as Llao Llao and Puerto Blest Hostel were built in the trademark Bariloche style with cypress wood and larch tiles.

In 1940 the Bariloche Civic Center was inaugurated.

The stone complex, shaped like the letter U, was meant to be ‘one-stop shopping’ for everything including city hall, the central library, the customs office, post office, a telegraph office and the town’s main museum.

The civic center was declared a National Historic Monument in 1987.

Bariloche’s downtown hasn’t changed much since it emerged as a holiday destination in the 1930s, aside from more lodging establishments and the retirement of the telegraph office.

Downtown Bariloche : Attractions & Activities  

Downtown Bariloche can easily be explored by foot.

The Civic Center plaza remains a central meeting spot. An enduring pastime for tourists strolling through the plaza is to snap a photo with a Saint Bernard dog, the unofficial mascot of Bariloche .

The Francisco P. Moreno Patagonia Museum in the Civic Center is small but worth a visit for its quirky curation.

The museum’s exhibits span the area’s prehistoric indigenous civilizations through to the colonial conquest, up until modern day Bariloche.

The permanent exhibit of Patagonia’s unique flora and fauna highlights endemic species such as the Challhuaco frog and the endangered but nevertheless hearty bucktooth rodent called the Colonial Tuco Tuco (Ctenomys sociabilis).

The nearby Cathedral of Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi , named for the patron saint of Bariloche, is the town’s iconic neo-gothic cathedral.

The 1944 church rests overlooking the lake near the civic center. Peek inside to see the stained-glass panel depicting the stations of the cross.

The rose garden on the grounds are also a popular spot for photos in spring.

For a less pious attraction, head to the Ice Bar on Spain St., near Bariloche’s main street, Mitre.

The bar, made entirely of ice, is open all year and is where a ‘yeti’ greets visitors with a fur coat to warm them up on a cold winter day.

There are two public ice-skating rinks in town where visitors can rent skates and take whirl.

Downtown on Mitre Street is a rink in the popular Rapanui artisanal chocolate shop and cafeteria, which is a worthwhile stop on its own for a hot chocolate after burning some calories on the ice.

A couple of blocks away along the shore, is Nevinska Bariloche , another ice rink where visitors can take a class on Saturday mornings.

Shopping for Unique Items in Bariloche

Bariloche is known more for its activities than its shopping, but there are a handful of downtown boutiques with beautiful handmade items.

The municipal handicraft fair takes place in the summer, behind the Civic Center in the Derechos de la Mujer plaza.

Some of the most unique items to take home are the clothes and blankets made with hand-spun and dyed wool created by the Zuem Mapuche collective at Moreno and Villegas streets.

At other times of year check out the La Casa de los Artesanos at Ada María Elflein and Morales streets.

Serious shoppers will want to visit the largest handicraft fair in the region, a couple of hours away in the laid back town of El Bolson, where an outdoor craft fair takes place three days a week.

Patagonia’s Best Cuisine

Bariloche is Patagonia’s most celebrated destination for gastronomy, as Anthony Bourdain discovered in 2007 filming his program here.

There are more than 450 food establishments, including smoke and grill houses, homemade pasta shops, wood-fired pizza restaurants, tea houses, jam factories, bakeries, pastry and Bariloche’s famous chocolate shops.

Local specialties reflect the influence of European immigrants here.

Delicious dishes such as goulash , fondue , lightly sauced red or white meats such as wild boar and venison accompanied by regional mushrooms, papillote cooked trout or salmon , with white wine and black butter, and thanks to Argentina’s Italian roots , plenty of fresh pasta .

Serious carnivores won’t want to miss Patagonia lamb ( cordero ) grilled over a firewood pit, or Argentina’s typical, ‘ parrillada’ (grilled meats) , prepared by an expert asador , which always solicits an applause for the grill chef.

Among the unique high-end dining experiences in Bariloche is La Cueva Restaurant , set in a cave that can only be reached by quad bike or snowmobile.

Another esteemed restaurant in Bariloche that has hosted well-known guests over the years is El Patacón .

For typical Patagonic food that it a little less pricey, try the family-run El Chucaro .

To try the native dish of curanto brought from Chile and adapted to Argentina, head to Colonia Suiza (the Swiss Colony). Ask for ‘Gringo Goye’ to be pointed in the right direction.

Get to the Swiss colony before noon to experience the entire ceremony including lighting the fire and dining three hours later.

Patagonia Sweets and Desserts

Patagonian dessert options abound: mousses, sweet pastries , artisanal ice-cream, hot brownies, and crepes Suzette with sweet natural berries that thrive in this area: raspberry, cherries, boysenberries, blackberries, elderberry and rose hips.

Bariloche is most famous for its chocolate, ranging from milk chocolate to dark unsweetened chocolate with 100% cacao.

Chocoholics will want to make a beeline to Mamushka, Bariloche’s most renowned chocolate shop . They also have ice cream and continually are inventing new flavors, such as pineapple and ginger and almond honey-cinnamon nougat.

Chocolate lovers on a budget usually head to the nearby ‘Del Tourista,’ also known as the ‘Tourist Shop,’ for free samples and to stock up on more affordable chocolate.

Booze unique to Bariloche

While the most popular Argentinian wines are produced in Mendoza ,  Cafayate , and the Neuquén and San Juan provinces, Río Negro has its own ‘wine route’, with wine cellars such Emilce Notaro and Bodega Humberto Canale.

Local fine wines and champagnes from the coldest zones of the Rio Negro Valley will surprise connoisseurs.

When it comes to booze though, Bariloche is most celebrated for its hand-crafted beer .

Most people order the local bitter red IPA, made with regional hop that is hard to find anywhere else, apart from the United States.

One of Argentina’s most recognized breweries, ‘ Cervecería Patagonia ’ is 20 kilometers from downtown.

Today owned by the Anheuser-Busch group, the brewery is surrounded by its own hops plantation and offers Instagram-worthy views overlooking the city.

Patagonia’s Amber Lager was Patagonia’s original variety.

In 2010 they introduced the Bohemian Pilsener and Weisse.

In 2015 they released their Patagonia Pale Ale, named ‘Küné’ meaning ‘twins’ in Mapuche, in honor of the Victoria and Mapuche hop used in its preparation.

Visitors can check out the brewery as part of the Seven Lakes Tour or by renting a car .

Budget travelers can take bus number ten from downtown Bariloche to reach the brewpub. Happy hour is from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m.

Another pub beer lovers won’t want to miss is Cerveceria Blest , the area’s first microbrewery, which opened over 30 years ago.

For artisanal beer downtown, try Manush , popular with locals for its beer and ample something-for-everyone menu. Manush has a location in the center of Bariloche and another outside of town along the water toward Villa Campanario and Villa Suiza.

To try the ultimate Bariloche treat, RapaNui chocolate shop offers a Berlina Imperial Stout and a Chocolate RapaNui ‘Choco beer’, made with 90% cacao from Colombia.

→ Wondering what that cubierto charge on your restaurant check is and how much to tip? Read our FAQ for Dining in Argentina

Bariloche Lake Tours

Patagonia lake excursions are a classic in Argentina that everyone from retired couples to families with small kids, school groups and independent travelers enjoy.

The two most common lake excursions are Isla Victoria and the Arrayanes Forest , and Puerto Blest .

Isla Victoria (Victoria Island)

The boat that goes to Isla Victoria is the famous Modesta Victoria . Eva Duarte de Perón, Barack Obama, and Argentina’s former President, Mauricio Macri have all ridden this boat.

Known as the ‘ Lady of the Lake ’ it is a European-style navy boat.

The 39-meter-long boat was built in Amsterdam in 1937. It has three teak-wood decks, bronze fittings, alabaster lampshades and a specially designed rudder.

The tour rides along Lake Nahuel Huapi for an hour before reaching the Quetrihué Peninsula .

Disembark to walk along an easy path of boardwalk through the Arrayan (Myrtle) Forest, a landscape which inspired animator, Walt Disney, before reaching the ‘ Casita del Bosque ‘ (Forest House).

The second stop on the 7700-acre Victoria Island is  Anchorena Port .

Here visitors see unique vegetation of Patagonia on a walk to Playa del Toro , where there is cave art left by the former indigenous inhabitants. The Victoria Island and Myrtle Forest tour ends on a lovely volcanic sand beach.

 Puerto Blest & Los Canteros Waterfall

The trip to Puerto Blest starts off with an hour-long sail through the Blest branch of Nahuel Huapi Lake and past Centinela Island , the resting place of Perito Moreno (the ‘Godfather’ of Argentina’s national parks) and passing the impressive Canteros Waterfall .

Here the hiking trail goes through the lush vegetation of the Valvidian Forest until reaching Los Cántaros Lake, where a 1,500 year old Larch tree can be observed.

After another short boat ride, the tour reaches Puerto Blest. Here visitors can see Lago Frías, yet another glacier-made lake which is famous for its bright viridescent water.

All of Bariloche’s lake excursions depart from Pañuelo Port , located 25 kilometers from downtown on the Llao Llao peninsula .

To get to Port Pañuelo visitors have the option to take public bus n°20, hire a car, or book the full service tours listed below, which include pickup:

⇒ Book the Isla Victoria and Arrayanes Forest Tour

The boats depart at 9:00 a.m. During the summer season there is a second excursion at 2:00 p.m.

‘Bariloche’s Scenic Road Trips: Short Loop and Long Loop’

‘ Circuito Chico (Short loop) and Panoramic Point,’ a two-hour trip through the west part of Bariloche, includes stops at Pañuelo Port, San Eduardo Chapel, Tacul Village, Mount Llao Llao, Colonia Suiza, and Morenito Lake.

All along this route there are short easy hikes. One of the most popular is the Lago Escondido , or ‘Hidden Lake’ walking trail.

Another is the steep but short climb up Mount Llao Llao , and through the Arrayán (Myrtle) forest, similar to the myrtle forest found on Victoria Island.

There is also the longer 240 kilometer Seven Lakes ‘Circuito Grande’ ( Large loop ) tour which winds through the lakes district all the way north to the charming town of San Martín de los Andes , the gateway to Lanín National Park.

The Swiss Colony 

On the ‘ Circuito chico ’ (short loop) tour, a not-to-be-missed stop is the Colonia Suiza (‘Swiss Colony’), 25 kilometers from downtown Bariloche.

This village was established the same year as Bariloche by the French-speaking Swiss family the Goyes, who crossed over from Chile.

The hard-working pioneers grew fruit and made preserves that they delivered along the Andean lakes in homemade boats.

Visitors may want to schedule a visit to the Swiss Colony at mealtime to try ‘ curanto .’

‘Curanto’ means ‘hot rock’ in the Araucano language from Chile.

The elaborate ancient food preparation involves wrapping meat and vegetables in ‘ nalca ’ (rhubarb) or ‘ maqui ’ (wineberry) leaves and cooking them underground over hot stones.

Head to ‘Don Goye’, where Sr. Victor Goye, grandson of the village founders, cooks up curanto every Wednesday and Sunday (reservations recommended).

Also worth a visit is the village museum where another Goye descendant oversees a collection of knick-knacks from the Swiss Village’s original pioneer families.

On Sundays there is an artisan fair in the Swiss Colony.

Sports and Activities to Do Around Bariloche

A notable attraction of Bariloche is its setting in an ecologically diverse area .

Within 100 kilometers there are three different ecosystems: grassland plains , natural woodland , and mountainous rainforests . The area lends itself to all sorts treks and outdoor activities.

Hiking and Mountaineering

Since its founding of Bariloche has enjoyed a reputation as a mountaineering paradise.

Here Europeans escaped a tumultuous post-war Europe while practicing skiing, trekking and mixed rock and ice climbing.

The Club Andino, or Andean Club , formed by Europeans who settled in the area, was central to establishing the outdoor industry and today visitors of all fitness levels enjoy trails ranging from short, easy day hikes to ten-day hut-to-hut treks.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Bariloche

The ‘Switzerland of Argentina,’ is quite cold and snowy in winter with freezing temperatures at night and warmer temperatures during the day.

Hiking and vehicle tours are limited due to snow and ice, but when it comes to winter sports, Bariloche is one of South America’s top ski and snow sport destinations.

Snowboarding, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, quad rides, snowshoeing and sledding, are mainly enjoyed on Cerro Catedral , South America’s largest ski resort.

Smaller resorts nearby such as Piedras Blancas (White Rocks), Cerro Otto and Cerro Campanario are great for beginners too.

Visitors can book a ‘baptism’ in any ski/snowboard school to get a basic idea of how to ski or ride a snowboard and then explore the diverse piste on their own.

Rafting and Kayaking

This area of Patagonia has dozens of bodies of water, ranging from placid lakes to class five river rapids.

Beginners to advanced river rafters can hire a guide for an exciting  rafting voyage down the Manso Inferior or Limay Rivers.

The best time to take a rafting excursion  is from November to February. It will be a bit colder, but prices are more accessible in the shoulder season months of October and March/April.

Kayakers have plenty of lakes to choose from, among them Azul, Foyal, Moreno, Mascardi, Gutierrez, Guillermo, and Nahuel Huapi.

Nahuel Huapi lake is also popular for standup paddle and sailing excursions .

Horse Riding

Horseback riding is available in the national park. Excursions through beautiful scenery can be booked for a few hour ride up to a day-and-a-half.

Beginners are welcome as the horses are well-trained by the local gauchos (cowboys).

Road & Mountain Biking

Those fit enough for the hills around Bariloche can enjoy an abundance of bike rides.

Popular rides on road bikes are the ‘circuito chico’ (the ‘short loop’ mentioned above)  or a shorter day trip to the Swiss Colony and back.

Rugged mountain bike trails include Cascada de los Duendes and Virgin de los Nieves .

During the late spring and summer mountain bikers can cheat by grabbing the ski lift up Mount Cathedral with their bike and riding down the 700 meter drop.

Sport Fishing

November to April is this area of Patagonia’s fishing season. Bariloche is very popular for fly fishing, spinning and trolling.

The most popular lakes for sport fishing in the Bariloche area are Mascardi, Steffen, Los Moscos, Hess, Roca and Fonk lakes, in the southern part of the National Park.

In the Traful River valley  it’s said that even the unluckiest fishermen or women are almost guaranteed a bite. Here there are huge salmon as well rainbow , brook and brown trout .

A fishing permit can be purchased at the park’s administrative office or in kiosks in downtown Bariloche. Don’t forget to get a permit, as illegal fishing is taken seriously and fines are steep.

During the off-season fishing is catch-and-release only.

Sport Hunting

Hunting in Patagonia is regulated by the National Park. Certain areas of Nahuel Huapi National Park are designated areas to hunt ciervo rojo and javalí (red deer and boar) , which are considered invasive species because they prevent the regrowth of the forest.

Hunters must get a permit for their guns before entering the country. Plan with plenty of time because the permit also needs to be notarized.

Once in Argentina, hunters must get a hunting permit from the provincial government.

Check this link to get learn about how to meet the requirements to hunt in Argentina.

(*This blog encourages responsible, sustainable travel and does not promote sport hunting. We urge you to consume the meat or donate it to a local community soup kitchen to eat.)

Paragliding

Paragliding, known as parapente in Spanish, is a popular, if newer, past time for the adventurous in Bariloche. No experience in needed to do a tandem jump here (although we would recommend travel insurance !)

Make sure an introductory class is included with the jump — any reputable paragliding company will have a thorough preparation class. The most popular take off point for paragliding is Mount Otto.

Ziplining is among the more modern activities that can be enjoyed in Bariloche.

Ziplines offer a chance to see the Patagonia forests from high up while enjoying a gravity-induced adrenaline rush.

Find the zipline at the Piedras Blancas resort on Mount Otto. (You can book a cable car ride to the top of Mount Otto here ).

Getting to and Around Bariloche

Traditionally domestic travelers have taken the long but comfortable 24-hour bus ride to reach Bariloche by bus.

Today flying to Bariloche is more accessibly priced , thanks to the introduction of budget airlines to Argentina , but when making reservations beware that delays and cancellations are frequent on the budget airlines.

Bariloche’s airport is only ten minutes from town and getting a taxi there is much more straight forward than at Buenos Aires’ international airport.

Public transportation is somewhat sparse in Bariloche, with a public bus service being the only local means of transportation.

Bus riders will need a subte smart card that can be purchased in convenience stores in Buenos Aires, Bariloche or other major cities of Argentina.

Popular lines such as the 10 to the Swiss Colony and Cerveceria Patagonia and the 20 to Puerto Pañuelo  run all night.

Check the local bus schedule here .

Hitchhiking is still common around Bariloche. Budget travelers who aren’t afraid to use their thumb will probably have decent luck hitchhiking around here if they look like they don’t smell and speak a little Spanish .

Renting a car is a good option to take popular road trips around the area such as the circuito chico, or the circuito grande (Seven Lakes route) and hikes in areas outlying Buenos Aires.

In the winter, skiers and snowboarders may want a car to get to the resorts if their hotel is not within walking distance, as the bus to Cerro Catedral ski resort from downtown only leaves once an hour.

When to Go to Bariloche

Most visitors go to Bariloche in the winter or summer .

In the summertime the city receives a lot of porteños (people from Buenos Aires) looking to escape the city heat and enjoy activities on the lakes, as well as international tourists, among them many hikers.

For skiing and other snow sports visitors will want to go to in the winter months between June and September , with July and August being the high season.

Be aware when booking your trip that Bariloche is the traditional destination for students taking their winter senior trip. The town becomes overrun with high school students from mid-July to early August (when Bariloche also has its two-day ‘Snow Festival’).

During that time the buses fill up quickly, the lift lines are long, and a lot of amateur skiers are on the slopes.

Going to Bariloche in the off-season can be a good way to save money.

In June, at the beginning of the ski season, there may not be much snow, but early September is a good time to enjoy spring-like conditions on the slopes and avoid the throngs of high school kids.

As in Buenos Aires, the spring months of October and November are lovely in Bariloche and are good months to enjoy spring flowers and bird watching .

Accommodations in and around Bariloche

The accommodations in Bariloche ranges from romantic getaways tucked into the mountains to party hostels in the city, family-friendly resorts along Nahuel Huapi lake and basic mountain huts for hikers run by the Andean Club

The most famous hotel in Bariloche —if not all of Argentina — is the luxury Llao Llao Hotel & Resort , 26 kilometers from downtown.

It offers all the usual five-star resort amenities, an 18-hole golf course, five in-house restaurants and amazing views of Mount Tronador and Mount Lopez.

In and around the town of Bariloche Hosteria del Lago and La Cascada are old standbys that offer a good value and amazing views.

Hostels are more likely to adjust to backpacker budget than private suites. One well-run hostel popular for its lake view is the Hostel Inn .

Those who want to be closer to nature and hiking trails can try the all-wood cozy Fortaleza Hostel , a twenty minute bus ride outside of town.

Even more further afield and closer to nature is the historic Hotel Puerto Blest , on the shores of Lago Friás, 44 kilometers from downtown Bariloche.

The reasonably-priced three-star hotel has a jacuzzi and is a perfect location from which to explore the Valvidian Forest, Mount Tronador and the Black Glacier .

— Daniela Massolo

*None of the businesses mentioned in this article are sponsored placements. While many blogs earn income by paid placements, we prefer to provide unbiased opinions and instead work directly with our wonderful guests to offer excellent value trips and services.

Feel free to get in touch and ask us about our customized travel packages — no overseas travel agent can match our great value vacation packages .

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15 Incredible Things to Do in Bariloche Argentina

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You don’t have to search too hard to find countless awesome things to do in Bariloche Argentina.

The town is well renowned as Argentina’s skiing capital, with hordes of people coming to shred the slopes every year. But it’s far more than just an off-piste paradise and in fact caters to every kind of visitor.

There are those looking to pass a peaceful week or two in picturesque surroundings. Others are on the lookout for an extreme adventure. Many more come simply for the chocolate and the beer.

Whatever your bag, there are endless things here to keep you entertained. Here’s our pick of the bunch.

Cerro Campanario

This incredible viewpoint tops many people’s lists of best things to do in Bariloche and it’s easy to understand why. The peak provides picturesque panoramas across seemingly hundreds of miles of the surrounding lake region.

It’s impossible not to be wonderstruck.

The cerro or hill is about a half hour journey from the city centre by bus or by taxi. And unlike many of the other viewpoints in Bariloche which are at the end of long hikes, it’s widely accessible.

You can walk up its steep but relatively straightforward trail for free in around half an hour. But there’s also a chairlift that will carry you up the hillside in an exhilarating 7 minute ride.  

However you choose to get to the top, it’s more than worthwhile. The 360 degree views over the breathtaking local landscapes are truly magnificent.

Refugio Frey

One of the most popular things to do in Bariloche, drawing thousands of visitors each year, is the excellent hiking. The route up to Refugio Frey is one of Bariloche’s definitive treks.

There are a few different routes to the top of Cerro Catedral’s highest point, where Refugio Frey is located. Which one you choose will depend on your experience and skill levels as well as the weather conditions.

The standard route runs from Bariloche’s skiing hub at the base of Cerro Catedral. It’s the largest ski centre in South America and its season runs from around June to October.

From here it’s a scenic ascent through ancient forests overlooking the shimmering Lake Nahuel Huapi and Bariloche town itself.

After about 3-4 hours you reach Refugio Frey and its gorgeous, secluded surroundings. Needle peaks encircle the turquoise, crystal clear waters of Lake Toncek. Not only is it beautiful, those brave enough can take a refreshing dip in the icy cold waters.

Refugio Otto Meiling

Another of Patagonias classic hikes, visiting Refugio Otto Meiling was easily one of our favourite things to do in Bariloche Argentina. We’d never even seen a glacier before this trek. So the thought of spending the night between two of the things, on a mountaintop, was a bit overwhelming.

It didn’t disappoint.

Arriving in Pampa Linda where the hike begins, you’re immediately transported to another planet. Up ahead of you is the formidable Cerro Tronador, its face draped in a vast cloak of brilliantly white ice.

We immediately began to wonder how on earth we were meant to reach the top of the ice-glazed rock that confronted us.

The hike is predictably challenging in parts. Long, steep ascents are made more difficult by the noticeable lack of oxygen as your altitude increases.

But if you’re able and willing to put in the effort, you can’t help but be dazzled by what awaits you at the top.

Refugio Otto Meiling’s location between the glaciers Castaño Overo and Alerce is mind-blowingly audacious. “Why?” was a question that popped into my mind more than once.

But when surveying the gravity defying sheets of ice cascading over the mountainside, the answer is instantly obvious.

This hike is best to be completed across two days with an overnight stop in the Refugio itself. You could feasibly get up and down in a single day but you’d completely miss the point of going up at all.

Cerro Llao Llao

A less popular but equally-as-impressive alternative to Campanario, Llao Llao is one of the coolest things to do in Bariloche. It’s on the route of the Circuito Chico and a wonderful detour to take from the bike ride.

There’s no chairlift so you’ll have to get to the top using leg power only. But it’s a reasonably easy, well marked path that takes an hour or two each way, depending on your route.

There are a few different starting points you can begin from depending on how much time you have. Along the way you can choose to include visits to Lake Escondido, an Arrayanes forest, Playa Moreno, and Playa Tacul.

The final stretch to the top of Llao Llao Municipal Park’s highest peak is the same for all of them.

The view isn’t as expansive as the one from Campanario, but is still truly spectacular and somehow feels more intimate. Despite the name, you can’t actually see Hotel Llao Llao as it lies in the opposite direction to the viewpoint.

But what you do see is a completely untouched natural landscape.

A travel adaptor that works anywhere in the world? Yes please. It’s one of the most useful things we own & an absolute essential for your trip. This one’s lightweight, durable & also has 1 USB-C port and 2 standard USBs. Get one in your bag.

Cycle the Circuito Chico

This 27km route is one of the things to do in Bariloche that simply can’t be missed. It’s a circular loop that takes in some of the region’s most magnificent landmarks. And cycling is the perfect way to experience it.

Don’t worry if you didn’t pack your mountain bike, it’s simple to hire one close to where the circuit starts. They give you all the necessary safety gear as well to keep you safe on the ride.

Along the way you can take in incredible views, stop at some of the best local breweries and restaurants. There are also a few fantastic detours and add ons you can include to make a full day of it.

Highlights include aerial views of Hotel Llao Llao, alluring turquoise lakes, snow capped mountains and lush green forests.

The route has some reasonably steep climbs in parts but virtually anyone who can pedal a bike can complete it. And plenty of people jump off and push the bike up the steepest hills.

Chocolate Tasting

Along with the European migration that the town is built on came many of the settler’s traditions and crafts. Chocolate making is, thankfully, one of the skills they brought with them that has endured to this day.

It’s natural then that chocolate tasting is one of the essential things to do in Bariloche.

It’s no exaggeration to say that everywhere you turn in the centre of Bariloche Argentina there’s a chocolate shop. There are dozens and dozens of them. From giant international brands to tiny artisanal one man band operations, chocolate is a local obsession.

There’s really no need to over complicate this one. Simply get yourself into as many chocolate shops as you find and ram your gob full of the good stuff.

Our favourite chocolate shop in Bariloche Argentina is Rapanui. But other notable chocolatiers include Mamuschka, El Reino de los Chocolates, Del Turista, and Havanna to name a few.

Ice Skating

One of the more unusual things to do in Bariloche has got to be going for a spin on its ice rink.

You may be wondering “What’s unusual about ice skating?”. Well it’s not the activity itself, but the fact that the ice rink is in the middle of a chocolate shop.

Rapanui is one of Bariloche’s most famous (and easily the best in my humble opinion) chocolate producers. Their shop in the centre of town is a chocolate lover’s fantasy and decked out more like a chocolate cathedral.

Different rooms and spaces boast selections of goodies of all descriptions.

There’s the pick and mix handmade chocolates here, alfajors there, a cafe serving up all manner of succulent treats. There’s ice cream, waffles, tostados, a chocolate fountain, you name it, they have it.

And to top it all off they even have their very own ice rink, the height of decadence. Sit and watch skaters glide by from the cafe or hire some boots and take to the ice yourself.

Not found the perfect travel camera yet? We have. The Olympus Tough Tg-6 is waterproof, shockproof, dust proof, crush proof & freeze proof. But best of all it takes awesome photos with very little skill required.

Thanks in part to its European heritage and in particular the German influence, this town is Argentina’s craft beer capital. Following what seems to be a worldwide trend, craft beer is now big business here.

Even if you’re not a massive beer fan, sampling a few of the local brews is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bariloche. It’s also the perfect way to wind down after a long hike.

You can’t walk more than about 20 yards in the centre of town without coming across a cerveceria. So your main problem will be trying to settle on just one.

Hands down our favourite bar in Bariloche, this is a true residents favourite. It doesn’t look much from the outside and isn’t flash or trendy like many of the other places in town.

But they do great beer, fantastic food, and there’s a buzzing local atmosphere. It’s also great value, with a happy hour that goes on until midnight.

Blest is one of the oldest and best loved breweries in Bariloche and they routinely kick out top quality ale. Their bar in town is in a stunning building in a prime location and upstairs has huge windows with views over Nahuel Huapi.

Coolest place in town? Maybe. It’s packed to the rafters every night and has a really chill, laid back vibe. Food here is great, be sure to arrive early(ish) to get a table if you want to eat.

Beers are from the brilliantly named Van Titter brewery and Blest.

This is a no frills spit and sawdust type bar that turns into a late night venue after hours. But it also has a nice outdoor seating section that’s literally in the road. Top beer courtesy of its own microbrewery.

Plus they serve surprisingly good food with huge portions – don’t miss their signature lamb burger.

A tiny bar with a large outdoor area, Stradibar has a long happy hour and kicks out fantastic pizzas. The musical theme is a bit random but the guitars growing out of the ceiling are pretty cool.

Delicious burgers are served up along a large choice of artisanal beers. What’s not to like? It’s also pretty cheap despite its prime location in town.

Patagonia Brewery

A bit of an anomaly on this list, the Patagonia Brewery is actually on the route of the Circuito Chico and not in Bariloche town. But it’s well worth a stop off if you’re cycling the route, or even a dedicated trip if you’re not.

The views are out of this world, the food is top notch, and the beer is internationally renowned.

Check Out the Architecture in Centro Cívico

In reflection of its European heritage, Bariloche contains plenty of architecture that you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find in Argentina. Rather than colourful colonial structures, it’s full of wood based chocolate box style chalets and Swiss/German inspired cabins.

While these would be wildly out of place in the rest of the country, here they totally fit. This is thanks to the surroundings that are reminiscent of the Alps in Southern Europe.

The Centro Cívico in Bariloche is a great example of this style of architecture. It’s a series of impressive buildings built around a large square and was designed to be the focal point of the town.

Though they’re built out of a local stone, wood features heavily in the buildings’ design. They look as though they could have been lifted straight from a Swiss alpine skiing resort.

The buildings include the town’s municipality, a library, police station, the former post office, and the Museum of Patagonia. You’ll also find the tourist office located here, a great starting point for any extra info you might need.

Visit Los Arrayanes National Park

Rumoured (falsely) to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s creation of Bambi, the Arrayanes forest is completely unique.

There’s literally nowhere else in the world where they grow like this in such abundance.

The striking, cinnamon-coloured Arrayan trees themselves are native to the central Andes region between Chile and Argentina. But whereas elsewhere they’re dotted among other species, in Los Arrayanes National Park they’re virtually the only trees found there.

Something that many visitors are unaware of is that it’s not a completely natural phenomenon. The land Los Arrayanes National Park sits on was previously privately owned by a local family.

They loved the Arrayanes so much that they destroyed everything else on the land, allowing them to flourish without competition.

Regardless of the forest’s dubious origins, it’s a charming place to visit. And because it’s a one off, one of the most compelling things to do in Bariloche.

The forest lies at the end of a peninsula that juts out into Lake Nahuel Huapi. You can get to it via a 12km hike or cycle, or a catamaran ride that provides unrivalled views of the surrounding scenery.

Hit the Water

Now this one is highly dependent on time of year and weather conditions. But you’re in Argentina’s lake district. You’re surrounded by some of the lushest, crystal clear, most inviting bodies of water you’re likely to set eyes one.

It would be a real shame not to get in.

If you make it to the top of Mount Catedral to Refugio Frey, you must have a splash in Lake Toncek. Swimming at over 1,500 metres is not to be missed.

There are loads of beaches where you can simply pull your keks on and go for a refreshing dip. The warmest lake is reportedly Lago Gutierrez but it’s also possible to swim in plenty of places along Nahuel Huapi.

If swimming doesn’t convince or you’re after something a bit more active, you can try out some water sports instead.

Kayaking is an extremely popular pastime here and a great way to check out the landscapes from a different perspective. Check out this half day kayak tour that takes in some of the most stunning local landmarks.

Another great way to see the lakes is on a stand up paddle board. You can rent SUPs here for just $10 and hour.

Fishing is also a big activity here with anglers coming from far and wide to net the local varieties. If that’s your bag, this full day fishing trip takes you to some of the region’s best fishing waters with experienced guides.

Where to Stay in Bariloche Argentina

Bariloche is a surprisingly large town and there is a vast range of accommodation to suit all budgets. Whether you’re a luxury globetrotter or a bargain backpacker, you’ll find something you love.

That’s if you book ahead. Bariloche is a popular place year round. And between the hiking and skiing doesn’t really have an off season.

Here’s our pick of the bunch of Bariloche accomodation.

Affordable Luxury: Hotel Eco Max

This newly renovated modern Bariloche hotel is an absolute gem of a find. It’s got views for days and some seriously stylish decor. There’s plenty of choice of different rooms for singles, couples and families.

There’s on site restaurant that serves a cracking continental or buffet style breakfast. It has a central location meaning everything is close by. There’s WiFi throughout plus a 24 hour front desk.

Mid-Range: Selina Bariloche

This Bariloche hotel is seriously great value and so many extras such as a swimming pool, gym with you studio and sun terrace. There’s plenty of choice of different rooms, with private or shared bathrooms.

There’s also a spacious restaurant and a great bar that has evening entertainment on the regular too. It’s one of the Booking.com’s best sellers for Bariloche accommodation and easy to see why.

Cheep & Cheerful: Hospedaje Penthouse 1004 

If you are looking for a hostel in Bariloche this simply has to be your first choice. The views from the rooms and roof top terrace over Nahuel Huapi Lake are unbelievable. And the breakfast is a proper treat.

There’s both dorms and private rooms depending on your preference. And plenty of chill out spaces too. They have heating, lockers, WiFi and free luggage storage for if you’re away hiking overnight somewhere.

World Class Hotel: Llao Llao Resort

It would be remiss of us not to include this stunner of a place when writing about the best accommodation in Bariloche. Because it quite simply is the best. But the price tag reflects it. 

Hot tubs with insane views are standard at this place. It has everything. And then some. So if you’re looking for some serious luxury or after a special treat for someone – this is absolutely your place. 

Getting to Bariloche Argentina

There are two main ways of getting to Bariloche, by bus or by plane. Which one you choose will depend on your budget, desired comfort levels, and also where you’re arriving from.

There are numerous airlines that operate flights to and from Bariloche from various airports across the country. If you’re coming from Buenos Aires then this is definitely the quickest way to get here.

If you’re coming from within Patagonia it may be easier to get a coach. The coach networks are generally well run and comfortable in Argentina and they’re a relatively cheap way to get around.

How to Get Around in Bariloche

Within Bariloche you have three main options to get around the town, public bus, taxis, or remises.

Bariloche has a great public bus system with buses running routes to most of the main attractions and destinations. However, it’s not possible to pay for bus tickets using cash meaning you can’t just jump on and be on your way.

The buses work using the prepaid SUBE card system found in many other cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires. You have to purchase a card, load it with credit and then scan it as you get on a bus.

If you’ve already got a SUBE card that you bought somewhere else then you can use that. If you don’t already have one there are a few places in Bariloche where you can purchase them.

Lots of the small convenience shops sell SUBEs and have the machines needed to put credit on them. Look out for the blue SUBE logo in window fronts or search this interactive map for locations of all local card sellers.

To find which bus you need you can simply put your destination into Google Maps and select the public transport icon. This will then tell you the buses that run there as well as how frequent they are.

For further details and precise times you can then check the Mi Bus website run by Bariloche’s bus company.

Taxis & Remises

Taxis are ten a penny in Bariloche so you’ll have no problem finding one. There are a number of taxi ranks around town or you can flag them down on the street. Look out for their distinctive blue and white colours.

They’re reasonably priced and work on a meter system.

A cheaper alternative to the taxis are remises. Essentially they’re a minicab that you must prebook and you get the price upfront.

If you’re at all concerned about the taxis then these are a brilliant option as they take out the worry and guesswork. There are various remise office throughout town and they have the prices to their most popular destinations in the window.

Packing List Essentials for Bariloche Activities

The weather in Bariloche ranges from bloody freezing to shorts and tshirt temps. This can be in the same day depending on what activities you’re doing.

For this reason it’s best to take clothes that will allow you to dress in layers and err on the side of caution, even in the summer. Take a warm jacket and a windbreaker and wear stuff that you can take off and add on as appropriate.

Other items to take are:

• Camera – you won’t want to forget these views
• Portable charger – stop your gadgets dying when you’re out and about
• Dry bags to keep electrical equipment safe
• Packable  feather down jacket  in case it gets chilly
• Packable  waterproof jacket
• High factor  sun protector

We always travel with a filter water bottle. Not only does it stop us getting ill, but it means we’re not killing the planet or wasting money on plastic bottles. The GRAYL Geopress is hands down the best on the market & makes water from virtually any source safe to drink.

Good Reads About Argentina:

Don’t forget your insurance.

Bariloche is an adventurer’s paradise and it’s vital that you’re properly insured no matter what activities you’re planning on undertaking.

Our go to travel insurance provider is World Nomads. They have a no bullshit approach to policy wording & are perfect for adventurous travellers like us.

Plus you can even buy a policy from them if you’ve already left on your travels.

Get a no obligation quote here:

If you’re exploring more of Argentina you may find these blog posts helpful too:

• Exploring the Mendoza Wineries by Bike
• A Guide to El Chalten’s Best Hikes
• How To Visit Argentina’s Rainbow Mountains

Pin Me For Later…

Travel lover, professional writer and football (soccer) obsessive, James loves nothing more than getting outside and exploring little known corners of the globe. He’s also very partial to a drop of Guinness.

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Hi, we’re James & Sarah

Full time backpackers turned vanlifers.

We’re here to provide you with valuable travel tips, kickass destination guides & serious vanlife inspiration to help you get your travel adventures off the ground!

18 Essential Things to Do in Bariloche

In this article we will show you a complete guide on best things to do in Bariloche , from the most emblematic places such as Cerro Catedral and Nahuel Huapi Lake, to the most exciting activities such as skiing, trekking and rafting.

Bariloche is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Argentine Patagonia , and for good reason. With its breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal clear lakes and forests of lenga and coihue it has much to offer.

🔎 Check out our essential guide to travel to Bariloche .

Table of Contents

1) Tour Bariloche’s Civic Center

Get to know the heart of the city of Bariloche from Plaza de los Pioneros. This square is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Secretary of Tourism, the Museum of Patagonia and the Sarmiento Library.

Be sure to take a picture of this classic postcard of Bariloche. I continued along Mitre Street to get to know the commercial center of the city . You will find souvenir stores, clothing and of course, the best chocolate shops in town.

📷 See here the  Bariloche city tour . Includes: Pick up at centrally located hotels and return transfer, transportation by car and English speaking guide.

🔎  Take a look at our articles to  visit the Civic Center of Bariloche and its surroundings .

2) Walk along the famous small circuit in Bariloche.

The Circuito Chico takes you through some of the most beautiful places in Bariloche, bordering Nahuel Huapi Lake, Campanario Hill and Lopez Hill. Ideal to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the lakes and mountains at the different viewpoints.

You can also visit the historic Llao Llao Llao hotel , hike through the Arrayanes Forest or stop at the beach of Moreno Lake. Enjoy a tour among the trees and discover the wonders that Bariloche has to offer.

📷 Book here the panoramic tour of Bariloche through Circuito Chico .

🔎  Take a look at our article to do the small circuit of Bariloche .

3) Enjoy Lopez Hill

Cerro Lopez is 2075 meters high and from its summit you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lakes and mountains of the region. It is also crossed by the  Lopez stream , which takes meltwater from the hill and flows down its northern slope. On the upper edge you can visit the  Refugio Lopez , a mountain refuge located at 1620 meters above sea level with a capacity for 100 people.

It is an ideal place for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, climbing and mountain biking. Also to make a 4×4 excursion to get to the top. At Cerro Lopez you can enjoy nature in its purest form and appreciate the flora and fauna of the region.

📷 Enjoy adventure activities in Cerro López

4) Visit the picturesque Colonia Suiza

This is a small colony that was founded in the 1800s, when Swiss immigrants settled in the area to produce timber. The mountain and the alpine style houses make this corner of Bariloche a unique place.

Colonia Suiza has two important craft fairs and is well known for its gastronomy, especially curanto . In this dish, meats and vegetables are cooked in a pit in the ground where hot stones are placed and the food is covered with blankets and earth so that it cooks with that heat. Try this delicacy on Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the year.

📷 Book here the private excursion to Colonia Suiza .

🔎 Learn how to Visit Colonia Suiza

5) Climb Campanario Hill

Do not miss in your list of things to do in Bariloche to visit the Campanario Hill. It ascends by its trekking path or with chairlift to the viewpoint at 1049 meters above sea level. At the top there is an incredible panoramic viewpoint where you can see Nahuel Huapi, Moreno and Gutiérrez lakes, El Trébol lagoon, Catedral, López and Capilla hills, just to mention a few. The Llao-Llao Hotel, the San Pedro peninsula and part of the National Park can also be seen.

6) Things to do in Bariloche Taste the best regional products: beer and chocolate.

Bariloche’s climate is excellent for the production of beer varieties , and very close by, in El Bolsón, very good quality hops are produced. You will find a great variety of brands and small enterprises that make their beer productions in this area with local products. We encourage you to approve the different varieties offered by the producers, you will not be disappointed.

If you are a chocolate lover , in Bariloche you will find several factories where you can enjoy chocolate bars, chocolates and truffles mixed with fruit, nuts, among many others. Some of the factories have production on view so that you can see how the different products are molded.

7) Take the Cerro Otto cable car ride.

Cerro Otto is a small hill 1405 meters high, named after Otto Meiling, a German climber and mountaineer who ascended it for the first time in 1934. You can take the Cerro Otto cable car , which takes you from the base of the hill to the top, to enjoy the panoramic views of the lakes and mountains. At the top is the revolving cafeteria , ideal for a meal or a drink while enjoying the views.

It is also an ideal place for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, climbing and mountain biking. There is also a zip line that allows you to fly over the forest and enjoy the adrenaline.

📷 Book here the hike up the Otto Hill to the Berghof hut .

8) Climb Cerro Catedral

Only 20 kilometers from Bariloche, you will find Catedral Hill with its 1,030 meters of altitude. Its name is due to its needle-shaped peaks that resemble the roofs of a church. Cerro Catedral has 39 means of elevation and its values change according to the sections to be climbed. These sections open and close according to the seasons and the weather.

Once you reach the first high altitude base you will enjoy an incredible landscape with an amazing panoramic view of the city. It also has a restaurant and shelters (open during the winter season).

During the winter months you can ski at Cerro Catedral. In case you only want to go up to see the panoramic view, there is the possibility of doing a single stretch, up to where the restaurant is and where the ski slopes begin.

📷 Don’t forget to book some of the treks around Cerro Catedral .

9) Dazzle yourself with the Nahuel Huapi Lake.

This incredible lake of glacial origin accompanies Bariloche along its coast. Its intense blue color is due to its almost 550 meters deep. One of the best ways to enjoy Nahuel Huapi Lake is aboard a boat or sailboat , to enjoy the surroundings of the lake and the mountains, while sailing through its crystal clear waters.

Lake Nahuel Huapi has a wide variety of beaches , some of the most popular are Bonita, Playa Serena and Villa Tacul.

📷 Book here a sailboat ride on the Nahuel Huapi Lake .

10) Excursion to the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island.

It is undoubtedly one of the  essential excursions to do in Bariloche . Leaving from Puerto Pañuelo , in front of the Llao Llao Llao hotel, you will travel by catamaran along part of the Nahuel Huapi Lake to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest.

The excursion lasts approximately three hours and the star of the show is the tour that takes you through the  Arrayanes forest , part of the National Park.  Myrtles are large shrubs , whose characteristic is the cinnamon color of the trunk and the green leaves, when touched they are very cold even in summer. The visit is guided by a park ranger and is done through wooden walkways.

📝 Travel tip : The walkways are not long and have no major difficulties, but there are several steps, which can be complex for people with reduced mobility or strollers.

🔎 Read our article on how to visit Arrayanes forest and Victoria Island .

📷 Check out this  excursion to visit Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest  from Bariloche with a local agency and make your reservation.

11) Sail to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Waterfall

One of the best excursions in Bariloche is to Puerto Blest and Cascada de los Cántaros. Leaving from Puerto Pañuelo, we travel along the Llao Llao peninsula to pass very close to Centinela Island, where the remains of the scientist Francisco Pascasio Moreno rest. After an hour of navigation, you will descend to the Cascada de los Cántaros trail , a waterfall located on the Los Cántaros River.

Then we continue our trip to Puerto Blest to visit Bles Bay and Lake Frias . Its green waters come from one of the glaciers of Mount Tronador, the natural boundary between Argentina and Chile.

📝 Travel tip : To reach the waterfall there is a path with many steps, do it at a slow pace.

📷 Book here the excursion to Puerto Blest and Cascada de los Cántaros .

12) Get to know Lake Gutierrez and the Duendes waterfall.

Lake Gutiérrez, 15 kilometers from downtown Bariloche, is a lake of glacial origin surrounded by the Otto, Ventana and Catedral mountains. It has a stone coastline ideal to enjoy a relaxing time or to do activities such as kayaking.

Very close to it is Villa Los Coihues , where the trail to the Cascada de los Duendes (Elves Waterfall) is located. A low difficulty trail that takes you to a beautiful waterfall in the forest. An ideal activity to do in Bariloche with children .

⛵ Book the kayak excursion to enjoy the Gutierrez Lake .

13) Be amazed by the Guillelmo and Mascardi lakes.

Lakes Guillelmo and Mascardi are part of Nahuel Huapi National Park. The  Guillelmo Lake runs along the shore of Route 40 and owes its name to one of the first Jesuits in the area, Juan José Guillelmo.

Mascardi is the gateway to Tronador Hill and Pampa Linda . It is a navigable lake 23 kilometers long and famous for trout, rainbow and brown trout fishing . Both are of glacial origin and have blue and green tones that is accompanied by the unique frame that gives the mountain and the lenga forest. It is a must if you are on your way to El Bolsón .

📷 Book here the excursion to Gutierrez, Guillelmo and Mascardi lakes .

14) Visit the imposing Tronador Mountain

Mount Tronador, with a height of 3491 meters, is one of the highest peaks in Patagonia . Its name is due to the sound it produces when glaciers and avalanches break off at its summit, which sounds like thunder. It is also surrounded by impressive glaciers and waterfalls, such as the Manso Glacier, the Frías Glacier and the Los Alerces Waterfall.

Besides its natural beauty, Mount Tronador is also an ideal place to visit if you are looking for outdoor things to do in Bariloche such as hiking, trekking, skiing and snowboarding, which makes it perfect if you are an adventure and adrenaline lover. There are also excursions to climb to the summit and spend the night in their shelters.

🗻 Visit Mount Tronador with this unmissable excursion .

15) Visit the Manso River

The Manso River is known for its crystal clear and cool waters , and for its rapids and waterfalls that make it ideal for water sports such as rafting and kayaking . Its waters are formed by the melting glaciers of Mount Tronador.

The river is approximately 120 kilometers long and is divided into two main sections: the Upper Manso River and the Lower Manso River. The Upper Manso River is the part dedicated to the practice of water sports , because it has exciting rapids and crystalline waters. The Lower Manso River, on the other hand, is quieter and more relaxed, ideal for enjoying a day of fishing or a picnic by the river .

📷 Things to do in Bariloche Experience the adrenaline of rafting on the Manso River.

16) Enjoy sport fishing

If you love sport fishing , this is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Bariloche that you cannot miss. The Limay River is one of the most important rivers in the region and offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for trout and salmon . Lake Nahuel Huapi is home to trout and salmon, among other fish.

It is possible to rent fishing equipment and hire a fishing guide for an unforgettable fishing experience. The Traful River is also another place to fish for brown and rainbow trout, among other fish. The Pichi Leufú River is another popular place for sport fishing in Bariloche. This river offers excellent opportunities for trout and salmon fishing, and is also an ideal place for trekking and hiking.

17) Snack at Llao Llao Hotel

In a privileged spot in Bariloche, in front of Nahue Huapi Lake, the Llao Llao Llao Hotel was born at the beginning of the 20th century, when the German businessman Frederick Fuchs purchased the land with the objective of building a luxury hotel that would become a first class tourist destination in Argentina.

Swiss architect Alejandro Bustillo designed a building that combined elements of Patagonian and Swiss architecture. The hotel was inaugurated in 1938, in a ceremony attended by the then president of Argentina, Roberto Ortiz.

Its opening was a success from the beginning and has welcomed many illustrious visitors in its history, such as Walt Disney, Hillary Clinton and King Juan Carlos of Spain, among many others. Throughout its history, the Llao Llao Llao Hotel has been remodeled and expanded several times, always maintaining its original style and reputation as one of the best luxury hotels in Argentina .

At the hotel, you can enjoy a first class snack in its lounges open to the general public, or if the season allows it, in its gardens. It is a unique experience to do in Bariloche and enjoy a first class gastronomy.

18) Excursion to the 7 lakes route

The Route of the 7 Lakes is a 100-kilometer route that connects the towns of Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes and crosses two national parks, the  Nahuel Huapi and Lanín . This is one of the most popular and impressive excursions in Bariloche.

Its name is due to the number of lakes that border the route, these are: Lácar, Machónico, Falkner, Villarino, Escondido, Correntoso and Espejo. It is a  scenic drive through the mountains and stops at the most important  panoramic viewpoints to enjoy destrong  , a beauty of each lake with its color mixture of turquoise and greenish, with the mountains in the background.

📷 Book today the excursion to San Martin de los Andes with the 7 Lakes Route .

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Well written article. Travel to this area sounds appealing.

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Bariloche, the easiest way to visit Argentinian Patagonia

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

This resort town stretched out along the bay of the huge Rio Negro is a must-do for tourists in Argentina. Bariloche (full name San Carlos de Bariloche) is one of the most northern stops in Patagonia – Patagonia for beginners, if you will – and meant we got to experience the region without travelling too far or getting too cold. That being said, the area does experience a lot of snow in the winter, though thanks to its ski resorts and scenic roads there are always things to do in Bariloche, whatever the season.

What’s really lovely about Bariloche is its Swiss-style architecture in the centre, very reminiscent of the ski resorts you might find in the Alps. If that’s not your vibe, just outside the town centre things get back to normal Argentinian-style very quickly.

After this post on the things to do in Bariloche, Argentina, you might also want to have a skim of:

• Mendoza, Argentina’s haven for wine-enthusiasts
• Tips before you travel to Argentina
• Chiloé, Chile’s Patagonian penguin island

Keeping with the Swiss theme, Bariloche is a fantastic place for chocolate-lovers, with chocolaterías to be found on every street in Centro Cívico, i.e. the town centre. When it’s cold, sitting in an alpine stone house with a cup of hot chocolate is the stuff of dreams!

Because of Bariloche’s reputation as a tourism destination (it was actually purpose-built in the 1940s as a holiday resort town), expect prices to hike, especially during peak times (summer + winter ski season).

We managed to keep our spending down by cooking meals in the hostel and doing our own self-guided hikes.

If you’re not sure whether or not to go for a deeper delve into this region, check out what Traveling Summer got up to during her time in Patagonia .

How to get to Bariloche

Luckily, Bariloche is very well connected by bus routes, though its position in Patagonia still means that it’s a fair way away from any other major towns in Argentina. A direct bus from Mendoza leaves daily at 1:30pm with Cata, but be warned that it will take 18+ hours, so check that you’ve revised our pointers on how to stay safe and comfortable on night buses in South America first.

You can also get a 15+ hour bus from Puerto Madryn, or if you’re feeling particularly crazy a 21 hour bus from Buenos Aires .

Luckily, to save you from this torture, Bariloche does have an airport, with domestic flights from Bariloche to El Calafate, Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Córdoba and others.

Bariloche is also right on the border with Chile, so we had the smart idea to go from Mendoza, Argentina > Santiago, Chile > Osorno, Chile > Bariloche, Argentina > Puerto Montt, Chile . Silly idea . Chile-Argentina border controls are pretty intense, with all the bags being hauled out from buses and scanned than dog-sniffed after the passengers have gotten through long passport stamp queues, so the kerfuffle this causes means a great line of buses and cars waiting in either direction.

If you have to go from Chile to Argentina or vice versa by bus, do make sure you get the earliest bus you can find to avoid the backlog of vehicles at the border.

If we had our time in Chile and Argentina again, we would make sure we went directly from Mendoza to Bariloche, then across the border to central Chile and making our way up to Santiago in good time.

7 things to do in Bariloche, Argentina

1. wander through the centro cívico.

Now, this may sound like a cop-out for the first in a list of things to do in Bariloche, but really, it’s not to be missed.

Walking through the town centre, known as the Centro Cívico, is a step back in time, and especially wonderful when the it’s snowing or the decorations have been put up for Christmas (confusingly for those who grew up in the Northern Hemisphere, December is one of Argentina’s hottest months!).

2. Hit the slopes with a Bariloche ski pass

Bariloche is famous across Argentina as one of the best places to ski in the winter. When the mountains are thick with snow, expect this place to be bustling with skiing families and school trips. Cerro Otto and Cerro Catedral (from which you’ll have views of Lago Nahuel Huapi on a clear day) are some of the most popular ski slopes in Bariloche.

Argentina is a relatively inexpensive place to ski; the cost of Bariloche ski lift passes were between $43 and $63 USD depending on whether used for low or high season.

Even when it’s not ski-season, you can still take the cable car up Cerro Otto to see views of Bariloche and the landscape beyond it, but we decided not to as it was a pretty expensive ride. The Cerro Otto cable car costs 650 pesos which at the time of writing is roughly £9/$12 each, though inflation has not been kind to Argentina recently so that rate could change in a heartbeat.

3. Drive the Ruta de los Siete Lagos

La Ruta De Los Siete Lagos, or the Route of the 7 Lakes, does just what it says on the tin. Hire a car and drive the Ruta 40, taking you through 2 national parks – Nahual Huapi and Lanín – to see some of the most epic landscapes Northern Patagonia has to offer. The drive will take you through some of the quaint villages that surround Bariloche, such as Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes.

It will take at least a day to complete the Ruta de los Siete Lagos, but best if you can allow yourself 2 days so that you can enjoy your stops without worrying about the time.

During winter, always check beforehand that the roads are safe for driving, and that you have all the equipment you need to tackle iciness.

You can let someone else take on the hard work of the prep and route by opting for a 7 lakes guided roadtrip .

4. Sail to Isla Victoria

This is a tiny island just a half-hour boat ride from Puerto Pañuelo, on the Llao Llao peninsula. There are tours that leave everyday, and give you time to stroll around the centre of Victora island (the terrain on the rest of the island is too difficult to walk over), taking in the beautiful scenery and finding cave paintings left by ancient inhabitant.

The tours then take you to the Bosque de Arrayanes, or myrtle tree forest, further down the peninsula.

5. Tour a chocolate factory

The Havanna Museo del Chocolate tour was short but pretty interesting, taking you from the Incas’ obsession with the earliest forms of chocolate to its role in colonialism and the chocolate brands of the present day.

After a short video, you are given hot chocolate to drink as you go round, and are led in groups led by a tour guide, but be warned that the tour and all printed info are only in Spanish. At the end of the tour, there’s a café from which to buy more choc or have a drink.

6. Hike Bariloche’s forest trails

We hugely recommend visiting Llao Llao, a teeny settlement on the edge of the national park, which is mostly known for it’s ginormous castle-like hotel and luxury golf course. It’s from here that we did our second ever (but first favourite) hike.

Llao Llao offers a number of different circuits that you can add or subtract from your hiking trail, and all trails except climbing the Cerro Llao Llao peak are pretty easy. For us, Llao Llao was a perfect introduction to forest hiking.

How to start your Llao Llao hike

To hike the Llao Llao trail, take bus 20 from Bariloche town, which you can flag down from anywhere along the main road on the waterfront.

Note: to get the bus you will need a top-up bus card, which is the same one used in Buenos Aires but you can also get them from convenience stores and some hostels. It costs 35 pesos each per ride, no matter the distance.

Get off at the Llao Llao Hotel roundabout, which is bus 20’s final stop, head up the road to the right of the hotel (don’t bother going into the tourist info centre unless you need expensive snacks or a wee). Follow the road uphill for 5-10 minutes until you reach a small info hut on the left.

From here, we recommend you ask for a hiking map from the very helpful rangers; they should be able to show you all your options for the different Llao Llao circuits.

Llao Llao circuits

We originally set out to do the shortest hike up Cerro Llao Llao, but once we got up there decided to keep going, reaching the beach at Villa Tacul, a series of miradores (‘viewpoints’) and a hidden lake (or ‘lago escondido’, where Andy was brave enough to have a swim despite forgetting to bring swimwear).

All in all, the hike took us 5 hours with rest/swim stops, plus 30 mins each way for the bus.

As beginner hikers, the only part we struggled with was the steepness of the initial Cerro Llao Llao and the fact that the soil was sometimes slippery, but the views at the top were certainly worth it. After that, the hike is relatively easy and at times flat.

7. Kayak on Lago Nahuel Huapi

Lago Nahuel Huapi is a glacial lake in the Nahuel Huapi national park, which sits just next to Bariloche. Though you can just please yourself by driving through the park, it’s certainly worth getting out on the water.

You can take gentle tandem kayak tours on Lago Nahuel Huapi for an hour or two, or all-day organised tours for the more adventurous – and even multi-day activity and camping tours in the national park for those that really love getting into the great outdoors.

You can also arrange to kayak on Lake Gutierrez, which sits closer to the Cerro Catedral ski resort.

Where to eat in Bariloche

As we said, we tended to cook a lot in our accommodation kitchen in order to save money. But when we did go out for eats, we found a gastropub called Manush on the riverfront which provides all sorts of delights, from elaborate burgers to cazuelas (though this turned out more like an English stew if you’re craving home), each paired with a craft beer.

It’s not the cheapest, but this is Bariloche.

Where to stay in Bariloche

Now, as you can imagine from a ski resort town in Argentinian Patagonia, accommodation in Bariloche is not cheap. Due to the touristic nature of the town, things tend to get booked up very far ahead for high seasons (the summer months of December to February + whenever there’s powdered snow on the mountains). If you want a highly-rated, inexpensive choice of accommodation, best to book well in advance.

In terms of where to stay in Bariloche, we recommend trying to get near the centre, as the things to do in Bariloche and places to eat & drink tend to fizzle out quickly as you head out of town. Getting somewhere near the waterfront both gives you the tranquility of looking out onto Rio Negro, and also helps you to avoid the hills that span south of it. You’ll also want accommodation with its own kitchen to be able to save on food costs in Bariloche.

With this in mind, try to grab yourself a bunk at the well-located, superbly-rated Vintage Bariloche Hostel Boutique , or the HOPA-Home Patagonia Hostel & Bar just on the other side of the Centro Cívico.

You’ll have to get buses or walk if you want to get into the centre of town, but the buses are frequent and easy to catch from the one main road. You’ll need to get a top-up card to use the buses, like an Oyster card.

How long to stay in Bariloche if you’re not too big on hiking: 4-5 days

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Last Updated on 29 March 2022 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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The holiday capital of the Argentine South, Bariloche (also referred to as San Carlos de Bariloche) is one of those places that Argentines always tell you not to miss, the kind of hype that can easily lead to disappointment. Europeans familiar with the Alps – or North Americans or New Zealanders used to similar scenery – are unlikely to travel thousands of kilometres to see a simulacrum of Switzerland. The city is undeniably worth the trip, though – not because of the alpine style, but because it is the main base for visiting the stunningly pristine landscapes of the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi which surround it.

Brief history of Bariloche

Accommodation in bariloche, eating in bariloche, drinking and nightlife in bariloche, activities and tours around bariloche, centro cívico, catedral nuestra señora del nahuel huapi.

Bariloche rests up against the slopes of Cerro Otto, behind which rear the spire- tipped crests of the Cerro Catedral massif. Everything in Bariloche faces the mesmerizing Lago Nahuel Huapi, one of the scores of lakes that give the region its name, but something went massively wrong with the urban planning – the main road artery was built along the shore, severing the centre from the town’s best feature. The beach is narrow but pleasant enough and the views are predictably spectacular, but the water is cold even in summer.

The town’s lifeblood is tourism, with around a million visitors arriving annually. This is a place of secular pilgrimage for the nation’s teenage students, who – following a modern Argentine tradition – take a boozy trip down south in their final year of high school, along with coachloads of young Israelis and Brazilians. None of these necessarily comes in search of the true mountain experience, but with so many accessible hikes nearby, they often end up having one. In winter, it’s specifically the nearby ski resort of Cerro Catedral that draws the crowds. At peak times, the excesses of commercialization and crowds of tourists may spoil your visit. Nevertheless, the place does offer remarkably painless access to many beautiful and genuinely wild sections of the Andean cordillera, and out of season (March–mid June, excluding Easter, and Sept–Nov) the town is still big enough to retain a life of its own.

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Before the incursions of the Mapuche and Spanish, the area was the domain of indigenous tribes, whose livelihood largely depended on the lake and trade with their western, Mapuche, counterparts. The discovery of their mountain passes (the name Bariloche is derived from a native word meaning “people from beyond the mountains”) became an obsession of early Spanish explorers in Chile, many of whom were desperate to hunt down the wealth of the mythical City of the Caesars. Knowledge of the passes’ whereabouts was a closely guarded secret until the 1670s. The history of the non-autochthonous presence in the region really began when the Jesuit Nicolás Mascardi was dispatched by the Viceroy to found a mission around that time. The natives put paid to Mascardi and his successors and, in 1717, the mission was abandoned. The local indigenous groups took one Jesuit introduction more to their hearts than Christianity: the apple ( manzana ). Used for cider, wild apples became so popular that the region’s Mapuche tribes became known as Manzaneros.

Modern Bariloche has its roots in the arrival of German settlers from southern Chile in the early twentieth century, but was tiny until the creation of the national park in 1937. In recent decades, the population has skyrocketed, and the town is now a major urban centre, though the homogeneity of its original alpine-style architecture has sadly been swamped by a messy conglomerate of high-rise apartment blocks. In 2011, the eruption of volcano Pueyehue in Chile, just over 90km from Bariloche, carpeted the surrounding area in ash. There were severe disruptions to flights as far as Buenos Aires for some months and the mess took time to clear up, with some people shutting up shop altogether and leaving town. By 2013, however, the volcano was slumbering again and life had largely returned to normal.

Accommodation in Bariloche is plentiful but pricey (it can be as much as forty percent cheaper in low season), and you should reserve in advance throughout the year for the cheaper options, which fill rapidly – and in high season for all accommodation.

Bariloche has a large and some excellent places to eat, most within walking distance of the centre. Calle Mitre is also lined with stores selling local specialities such as chocolate, smoked trout, jams and ice cream. Catering for large numbers of tourists, restaurants tend to have extended opening hours (but vary depending on the season). Some stay open between lunch and dinner in high season.

With the constant influx of Argentine students mixing with an onslaught of thirsty backpackers and locals, Bariloche has a lively movida and some excellent microbreweries. Bars are scattered around town, while the majority of the pub action is along Elflein and on Juramento. However, drinking can be expensive – plan on spending about a third more than elsewhere in Argentina in the trendiest bars.

The numerous excursions available from Bariloche can be roughly divided into two categories – land and water – with the city’s tour agencies offering more or less identical packages and prices. Exploring the rivers and lakes via raft and boat is popular. Rafting can be arranged at Aguas Blancas , and tours around the Circuito Chico and Grande at Adventure Center . For trips to Isla Victoria and Bosque de Arrayanes, contact Turisur . If you prefer to take to the water in a kayak, try Senzalimit . On Av los Pioneros 4116 you can rent mountain bikes at Patagonia Inhóspita . Bikes for doing the Circuito Chico are best rented at Bike Cordillera .

Bariloche’s focal point is the centro cívico, a set of buildings constructed out of timber and the local greenish-grey stone, resolutely facing the lake. Dating from 1939, it’s a noble architectural statement by Ernesto de Estrada, who collaborated with Argentina’s most famous architect, Alejandro Bustillo (after whom the main lakeside avenue is named), in the development of an alpine-style that has come to represent the region. In the centre of the main plaza, around which these buildings are grouped, stands a graffiti-strewn equestrian statue of General Roca, whose horse looks suitably hangdog after the Conquest of the Desert. Locals bring Saint Bernards along, often with the famous cask around their necks, in readiness for photo opportunities at a small price. The pavement is adorned with painted white scarves, symbols of the Madres de Plaza de Mayo, and the names of local desaparecidos .

Museo de la Patagonia

Of the plaza’s attractions, the most interesting is the Museo de la Patagonia , which also rates as one of the very best museums on things Patagonian, from wildlife to modern history. Look out for the caricature of Perito Moreno as a wet nurse guiding the infant Theodore Roosevelt on his trip through the Lake District in 1913. Superb, too, are the engraved Tehuelche tablet stones that experts speculate may have been protective amulets, Aónik’enk painted horse-hides and playing cards made of guanaco skin, one of the Mapuches’ famous lances and Roca’s own uniform.

On the lake shore to the east of the Museo de la Patagonia is the Bustillo-designed Catedral Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi , whose attractive stained-glass windows illustrate Patagonian themes such as the first Mass held by Magellan.

Top image: Punto panoramico, Bariloche, Argentina © sunsinger/Shutterstock

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The Most Beautiful Beaches in Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche is a city in Argentina’s Patagonia region that’s surrounded by some of the most incredible lakes and pebble beaches in the world. Though the area’s lake waters are glacial and it’s rare to see people actually swimming in them, we’ve got a list of the best beaches in Bariloche where you can take a quick dip if you’re feeling adventurous.

1. playa bonita, lago nahuel huapi.

This beach is located on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi , the area’s biggest and most well known lake. Situated along Bustillo Avenue, it’s not far from several shops and restaurants and only 8 kilometres (5 miles) from the city itself, making it a great choice for anyone who doesn’t have a car and wants to stay close to the town and its amenities.

Playa Bonita, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

Beach in Bariloche | © Luchiano Prata/Flickr

2. Villa Los Cohiues, Lago Gutiérrez

On the northern end of Lago Gutéirrez, which has the warmest waters in the region and is therefore the best for swimming, lies Villa Los Cohiues, a small settlement with a campground and a pretty beach that affords visitors great views of the mountains that line the lake’s perimeter. Anyone visiting the lake will have to drive on the impressive Route 40 , one of Argentina’s major touristic routes known for its incredible Patagonian beauty.

Los Cohiues, Río Negro, Argentina

3. West Shore, Lago Gutiérrez

Another great place to lay out and bathe on Lago Gutiérrez is on its west shore, close to the Gutiérrez campsite. If you fancy stretching your legs a bit and checking out some of the trails that lead from the lake into the surrounding woods, take a short hike towards the Cascada de los Duendes, a pretty waterfall popular with families, and continue on to the Mirador Lago Gutiérrez, a lookout point that affords incredible views over the lake.

Cascada de los Duendes, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

Beach with a view | © Adrian Lasso/Flickr

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5. Villa Tacul, Lago Nahuel Huapi

This beach doesn’t benefit from the tepid waters of Lago Gutiérrez but it does have some of the most breathtaking scenery in the area. Located further out of town on Kilometre 29, Villa Tacul is a secluded beach situated on an inlet of the lake past the famous Llao Llao Hotel . The shallow waters at the edge of the lake start to turn a deep turquoise further out and the beach is an idyllic spot to soak up the best that Bariloche’s lake district has to offer.

Villa Tacul, Río Negro, Argentina

Villa Tacul, Bariloche | © Telping/Flickr

6. Playa Centenario

This beach is located at Bariloche’s entrance and is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Unlike some of the other smaller, more narrow beaches, Playa Centenario is spacious and a favourite with locals who like to come and take advantage of all the outdoor and extreme sports activities that can be done on the beach, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Playa Centenario, Río Negro, Argentina

7. Playa Serena

This small beach is located at Kilometre 12 of Bustillo Avenue and though it’s quieter than some of the other beaches, it’s no less pretty. Playa Serena has the luxury of being covered in fine sand instead of the pebbles you will find on other beaches and its waters are slightly warmer, making it popular with families and kids.

Bahía Serena, Avenida Exequiel Bustillo, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

A quiet beach in Bariloche | © Chris Feser/Flickr

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21 Best Things to Do in Bariloche, Argentina, an Expert Guide

By Author Becky Wandell

Posted on Last updated: 4th January 2024

Nicknamed “Little Switzerland”, Bariloche ( Bar-ee-lo-chay ) in Argentina is a feast for the eyes and soul of the adventurer! This city, which is home to about 130,000 people, features German and Swiss mountain architecture, and a passion for chocolate. But the real charm of Bariloche lies in the natural beauty of its location.

Situated at 900 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level in the transition zone between the snowy Andes mountains and the arid steppe grasslands, Bariloche has a picturesque location, made even more so by the ancient forests of Nahuel Huapi National Park and the blue glacial lakes that surround the city. 

Just a stone’s throw from Bariloche you’ll find almost endless opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, skiing, fishing, sailing, horseback riding, and golfing in this Argentine “Adventure Capital”.

So here are my recommendations for the best things to do in and around Bariloche.

Click to navigate this article:

1. Visit the Centro Civico

The touristy part of Bariloche is centered around the Centro Civico, the city’s main square, which has a stunning panoramic view of the deep blue lake, Nahuel Huapi, and the rugged mountains on the opposite shore.

Surrounded by grand stone and wood buildings, this is truly the central heartbeat of the city. Take a look at the cobblestones, which are covered with the iconic kerchief designs paying tribute to the desaparecidos , or citizens who disappeared during Argentina’s last dictatorship.

On one side of the plaza, the knowledgeable staff at Bariloche’s Tourist Center will help you with maps, bus schedules, and recommended outings. They can also help you complete your online registration for trekking or camping in Nahuel Huapi National Park . For more specific park information, visit the Nahuel Huapi National Park Visitor Center just one block up the hill from the Centro Civico.

2. Wander the shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi

Down the steps from the Civic Center, you’ll find Lago Nahuel Huapi, the lake upon which Bariloche is situated as well as a beach and boardwalk. Pronounced Nah-well Wha-pee , this 550 square kilometer (210 square mile) lake is the largest of many lakes protected within the boundaries of Nahuel Huapi National Park. 

Take your perfect family photo in front of the Bariloche letters, with the lake and mountains as a spectacular backdrop. A few minutes’ walk to your right, you’ll find a free cultural arts center and a skatepark where the local talent will give you a show.

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3. Stroll, shop, and eat along Mitre Street

Are you looking for some classic Patagonian leather goods or woolen sweaters? How about a mouth-watering Argentine steak or regional specialties? Maybe you need to rent ski and sledding clothes for winter snow play? Or perhaps, you plan to sample all the chocolate shops lining the street? Mitre Street has it all!

For many, Bariloche is synonymous with chocolate and you will avoid long lines by visiting the many small independent chocolatiers. However, the large chain chocolate stores are famous for a reason. 

Argentina economy update

The Argentine economy is a huge mess at the moment, with inflation expected to hit 200% this year. Using Argentine pesos can therefore be a nightmare – and mean you lose a lot of money. The blue dollar (an unofficial exchange rate that gives you a better conversion than the official rate) is around, but if you want to avoid carrying lots of cash, you can now pay using your credit card and get an exchange rate similar to the blue dollar rate. You must choose to pay in Argentine pesos (not USD!) to secure this rate.

Both Mastercard and Visa give you what is called the MEP rate, which is almost as good as the blue dollar rate. Mastercard will charge you the official rate but refund you the money a few days later; Visa will charge you the MEP rate from the beginning.

If you do want to have some Argentine pesos for paying in cash (which I highly recommend as you will need them for some restaurants and attractions), it’s best to use Western Union, whereby you send cash to yourself using the Western Union app and then withdraw it in Argentine pesos from one of their branches in Argentina. Bear in mind, those in El Calafate and Ushuaia can run dry of notes, so it can be easiest to do this in Buenos Aires.

Additionally, you can bring USD (unmarked and untorn hundred dollar bills), which you can exchange at “cuevas” (unofficial exchange houses). These will be able to give you the blue dollar rate and any hotel owner will be able to tell you where your nearest one is. Souvenir shops in most parts of the country will be able to give you pesos in exchange for dollar bills – although they might not give you the best rate.

Avoid cash machines. Currently, the maximum withdrawal is the equivalent of $15 USD in Argentine pesos and it will cost you $10 USD in fees.

Hardly anyone leaves Bariloche without a signature bag of treats from Mamushka – considered by many as the very best in Bariloche. However, my personal favorite is the delectable chocolate, ice cream, and hot chocolate from RapaNui . If you come in the winter, you can even take a turn on the skating rink in the back of their store.

4. Appreciate the interior of the pretty Catedral Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi 

From many viewpoints around the lake, the iconic tower of Bariloche’s 1946 Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi cathedral is a beacon to all. 

For a small entrance fee, you can appreciate its interior of beautiful stonework and bright stained glass windows. Then, join the locals sprawled out in the park, enjoying the big trees and the lakeside view.

5. Take an historical walking tour

To understand more about Bariloche, Historias de Bariloche Walking Tours offers several different English tours. These focus on the settlement history and heritage of Bariloche including the Indigenous people of the area, the influx of European immigrants, and how Bariloche became a de facto hideaway for Nazi’s after World War II. 

West of Bariloche

Heading west out of the city center, you enter the area known as “the Kilometers”. Two roads run parallel to the lake and stretch out along the KM’s. The upper road is named Avenida de Los Pioneros, and the lower lake-shore road is called Avenida Exequiel Bustillo. Bariloche’s outdoor activities and bus routes are oriented around these two roads.  

6. Head to the heights at Cerro Otto

Named after a locally famous German mountaineer, Cerro Otto is a 1400-meter (4,500-foot) high panoramic viewpoint featuring hiking trails, zip-lines, and, in winter, sledding tracks. The real draw, however, is the chance to have lunch in its slow-spinning cafeteria which offers a 360-degree spectacular mountain and lake view.

A popular way to reach the top of Cerro Otto is to take the teleférico (cable car) located at KM 5 along Avenida Los Pioneros . City bus #50 will transport you there for free from the city center, or you can book tickets and free transportation from the Cerro Otto Kiosk downtown on the corner of Villegas and Mitre Streets. 

Finally, there is a five-kilometer (three-mile) Cerro Otto access road and hiking trail to the top if you’d rather get there yourself from the city center.  

7. Explore Lago Gutiérrez

Just over the mountains from Bariloche’s center lies the hidden gem of Lago Gutiérrez. Take the road to Villa Los Coihues (Bus #50) to find a lovely shoreline and beach, often out of the strong winds that plague Bariloche. 

From the beach, it is easy to walk or drive the one kilometer to the entrance of Nahuel Huapi National Park to visit the Cascada de los Duendes (Dwarves Waterfall). 

If you’d like to get your heart pumping, follow the path from the parking lot for a three-kilometer (1.9 mile) round-trip forested climb to Mirador Lago Gutiérrez. Your efforts will be rewarded with a sweeping and dramatic view of this long, narrow lake channeled between steep mountains.

8. Ski or hike at Cerro Catedral 

Cerro Catedral , the largest ski resort in South America, is revered across Argentina. As a result, it’s the place for winter fun including alpine skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing. 

However, more importantly, it’s a year-round adventure center. In the summer months, lifts will take you up to the 2000-meter (6,500-foot) ridgeline to enjoy ridgeline hikes, mountain biking, ATV rides, and fantastic restaurants with endless views. Bus #55 will take you to the base of the ski resort from the city center.

The most popular day hike from Cerro Catedral is to Refugio Frey : This trail starts from the base of the ski resort and climbs up 9.5 kms (5.9 miles) one-way to Refugio Frey, a typical mountain hut beside a beautiful lake. Camping space and dormitories are available to spend the night with a reservation . Registering your hike with the national park is always a good idea and you can do so at the Nahuel Huapi National Park office in town or online . 

If you’re looking for a multiple-day excursion, a challenging 8 km (5 mile) mountain trail continues from Refugio Frey to Laguna Jakob (Refugio San Martín) where camping space and dormitories are available with a reservation . To complete the entire 4-day Nahuel Huapi Traverse, the trail does continue to Laguna Negra and Cerro Lopez, but hikers must hire a guide for this rugged section. Another option is to make a loop on the historic 12.7 km (7.9 mile) Huella Andina Trail and return to civilization using the trailhead at Tambo de Baez. 

9. Take in the astounding views of Lago Nahuel Huapi at Cerro Campanario

Along Avenida Bustillo at KM 17, a very popular chairlift will take you up Cerro Campanario (Bell Tower Mountain) to reach a viewing deck. Situated at 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level, it guarantees an astonishing view of all the mountains surrounding Lago Nahuel Huapi. If you only have time on your trip for one mountain summit, this is the place to go.

For some exercise, hike the 2.3-kilometer (1.4-mile) round-trip trail from the base of the mountain to the viewpoint. However you get to the top, the cafeteria located there will reward you with a sweet treat and a killer view from your table. 

Catch Bus #20 to Campanario’s base from the city center.

10. Drive, bike, or tour the Circuito Chico

At the far end of Avenida Bustillo (25 km or 16 miles from the city center), the road continues as RP77 and makes a grand loop around Lago Perito Moreno. This 27-km (17 mile) loop is known locally as Circuito Chico (the Little Circle), with several great stopping points along the route. 

There is no public bus service that travels the full length of the circuit, however, you can rent a car to drive yourself, rent bicycles near the base of Cerro Campanario, or book a day tour from various travel agencies in town. Here are the not-to-miss sights going anti-clockwise around the loop:

• Puerto Pañuelo at the start of the loop is the boat dock where many day trips around the lake begin. There is a small lake viewing platform on the hill behind the ticket office.
• Sendero de los Arrayanes Less than one kilometer (half a mile) around the loop, you’ll find the parking lot for the Los Arrayanes hiking trail. This two-hour round-trip mostly flat trail will take you through a small forest of uniquely curvy Arrayanes trees and offer some lovely viewpoints along Lago Perito Moreno. From the end of this trail, you can connect to other trails along the Circuito Chico. Refer to maps at the trailhead or use the app Maps.Me for a quick reference of your options.
• A stones throw from the Los Arrayanes parking lot you’ll see the entrance to the Cerro Llao llao Trail (Llao LLao Summit). This is a steep but very worthy 5.5 kilometers (3.5 miles) round-trip trail up to a rocky viewpoint overlooking the most scenic and remote parts of Lago Nahuel Huapi, and the national park.
• Trails to Lago Escondido (3.3 kilometers or 2 miles further along the loop), Playa Los Troncos (.5 kilometers or .3 miles further) and Playa Bahia López (1.7 kilometers or 1 mile further along the loop) are short flat trails through the forest to a selection of stunning little beaches with crystal clear water and mountain views.
• Starting from Playa Bahia López, the trail to both Mirador Bahia López and Mirador Brazo Tristeza is a short, easy 2.9 kilometers (1.8 miles) round-trip trail with stunning views over a remote section of Lago Nahuel Huapi and a chance to see the massive Mount Tronador in the distance.
• Patagonia Brewery (4.5 kilometers or 2.8 miles further around the loop) has a great restaurant and a beautiful lake view from their flagship microbrewery.
• Punto Panorámico (1.8 kilometers or 1.1 miles further) offers the perfect place to take your best photos of the lakes and mountains of the Llao Llao area.
• By continuing 5.1 kilometers (3.2 miles) further around the loop, you’ll pass the beaches at Lago Perito Moreno and complete the Circuito Chico loop where it meets Avenida Bustillo. Turn right to return to Bariloche. 

11. Stay overnight at the luxurious Llao Llao Resort

On the northern edge of Lago Perito Moreno (and at the beginning of the Circuito Chico), Llao Llao Resort is a five-star hotel with a picturesque location. 

This pretty hotel has unfettered views directly across the lakes towards the mountains from many of the communal areas as well as from south-facing bedrooms. There’s also a gorgeous infinity pool, a spa, a golf course, and a clutch of nearby hiking trails. 

What’s more, it’s easy to reach, even without a rental car, as it’s the last stop on the Bus #20 route from the center.

12. Taste unique local specialties in Colonia Suiza 

Colonia Suiza, a tiny Bavarian village on Lago Perito Moreno, some 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from Bariloche, is famous for their gastronomic specialty – a meaty curanto stew cooked in the ground – and its variety of shops selling souvenirs and crafts. 

Best visited on market days (Wednesday and Sunday), Colonial Suiza can be an interesting side trip if you have an extra day in Bariloche, or if you have a car and are driving around the Circuito Chico. That said, the village is small and its enormous popularity makes traffic conditions and parking a little difficult. Bus #10 will take you to Colonia Suiza from the city center, but service is infrequent throughout the day.

13. Hike up into Barciloche’s snowy peaks

Bariloche and its surroundings are overflowing with opportunities to climb into the high country for impressive views of the surrounding mountains and lakes of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Easy and short day hikes can be found from Villa Los Coihues, Cerro Catedral, Cerro Otto, Cerro Campanario, and along the Circuito Chico.

If you are up for a full-day challenge, consider the hike up Cerro López . Starting from the Circuito Chico, it’s a steep 10-kilometer (6.3-mile) round-trip scramble that first reaches Refugio Roca Negra and then Refugio López where space for camping and dormitory accommodations are available. Inquire with the refugio about availability. 

Another great option is the Cerro Goye trek, a 12.6 kilometer (7.8 mile) steep trail starting from Colonia Suiza. It can be turned into a loop, but I suggest doing this loop clockwise to go up the steep ascent, or do the hike as an up and back as suggested in the link. To add to your challenge, a side route to a neighboring peak, Cerro Bellavista , can be taken from near the top of Cerro Goye. 

It’s always a good idea to register your hikes in person at the office of Nahuel Huapi National Park or online here . 

14. Get some sun at a Patagonian playa  

Playa Bonita on Lago Nahuel Huapi is a lovely cove eight kilometers (five miles) from the city center and Playa del Moreno has beaches along both sides of the Circuito Chico road crossing the stunning Lago Perito Moreno (about 25 km from the city center). 

All of these beaches offer a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters with the added bonus of snow-capped mountain views. Kayaks can be rented at Lago Perito Moreno if you fancy a paddle out. Bus #10 will take you there from the city center.

15. Take a boat trip out onto Lago Nahuel Huapi

Bariloche is the largest city within the Lakes Region and taking a boat tour on one of the local lakes is a wonderful way to explore the surrounding area.

One of the best is a half-day boat excursion across Lago Nahuel Huapi, which first visits Isla Victoria (Victoria Island), where you’ll have time to explore the rugged coastline and pine forests backdropped by the snow-capped mountains across the water. The boat continues to Los Arrayanes National Park , which is home to a unique forest of ancient and orange arrayanes, or myrtle, trees. The Cau Cau Catamarán departs for this boat trip from Puerto Pañuelo, but the company running the trip can provide transportation from Bariloche.

Another option is a boat ride along the spectacular Blest Arm of Lago Nahuel Huapi, an expanse of water that reaches west towards the border with Chile. You’ll visit scenic Puerto Blest, before hiking through temperate rainforest to reach the pretty Los Cantaros Waterfal l. You can add on a bus tour to the emerald-colored Lago Frías, too. 

Plenty of companies in Bariloche offer this tour. If you want an even greater adventure, consider using this route to cross into Chile (see #21 below). 

16. Take a truck ride up to Cerro Tronador

Sitting just outside Bariloche is an exceptionally beautiful 3,500-meter (11,500-foot) volcano, Cerro Tronador, which straddles the border between Argentina and Chile. It is one of the largest peaks in the Andes Mountains. 

With a guided tour organized from any agency in the city center, you can take a jeep up to the base of Cerro Tronodor to view Lago Ventisquero , a cobalt lake, and Ventisquero Negro , the glacier with the same name. 

Stops are made at various overlooks and the high-elevation community of Pampa Linda . 

17. Road trip along Ruta 40 and the Ruta de los Siete Lagos  

The legendary Route 40 travels from the northern tip of Argentina to almost its southernmost tip and has long been a prime road-tripping destination for visitors. 

However, the stretch north from Bariloche to the equally picturesque village of San Martín de los Andes , known as the Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes), is a manageable slice of this epic road trip. 

This must-see route starts at Bariloche and heads north for 157 kilometers (98 miles). While tours and public buses can take you along the route from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes (as of October 2023 buses are using an alternative route due to a mudslide), renting a car for a day or two gives you the flexibility to stop and enjoy the different lakeside viewpoints and beaches along the way.

If you use a maps app or iOverlander App , you’ll find plenty of side roads that will actually take you to eleven different lakes and hidden beaches to round-out your adventure. 

This route can be done in a long, one-day road trip, but charming San Martín de los Andes is also worthy of your time. Spend a night there and return the next day for the perfect two-day excursion from Bariloche. 

18. Explore the beautiful lakeside town of Villa la Angostura

Located on Lago Nahuel Huapi 82 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Bariloche along Ruta 40, Villa la Angostura is considered by many as the most beautiful town in all of Argentina. Set between two lakes (Nahuel Huapi and Correntoso), it offers visitors several beaches, hiking trails, and a sweet mountain-themed town oozing with great restaurants, breweries, boutique souvenir shops, and dramatic mountain views!

On the far south of the town, you’ll find the port, Puerto Angostura (Angostura Port) , with two serene beaches, Playa Mansa and Playa Brava. You’ll also find the entrance to Los Arrayanes National Park where a steep, 20-minute trail up to two different viewpoints will keep your camera clicking. 

From the port, you can also book a short boat excursion to the famous Bosque de Arrayanes (Los Arrayanes Forest), a destination offered as part of the Victoria Island day trip from Bariloche, but cheaper- and quicker – to visit from Villa La Angostura.  

19. Drive the spectacular Circuito Grande

If the entire 314 km (195 miles) round-trip to San Martín de los Andes and back along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos doesn’t appeal to you, then opt for the shorter Circuito Grande. This 248-kilometer (154-mile) loop can easily be done in a day and includes a handful of the lakes, as well as the lovely Valle Encantado.

From Bariloche, drive north along Ruta 40 for 20 kilometers (12 miles) and then take Ruta 237, which will take you northeast through the dramatically different scenery of the rocky, arid steppe that follows the Río Limay. 

Just after you reach the cliffs and emerald pools within Valle Encantado, head 34 kilometers (20 miles) northwest along the gravel Ruta 65 to reach Villa Traful, a charming little lakeside town set between the mountains. Finally, continue west until you join Ruta 40 (the Ruta de los Siete Lagos) and turn south toward Villa la Angostura, passing the beautiful Espejo and Correntoso lakes on the way.

20. Hit up the artisanal fair or the hiking trails in El Bolsón

To really appreciate the expansive beauty of the Lakes Region, take a day – or spend the night – in another nearby community. One of the best is El Bolsón, an historically hippy village located in a steep valley 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Bariloche along Ruta 40. 

With its laid-back vibe, great breweries, and large artisanal fair on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, it’s a popular spot for day-trippers. 

You’ll also find a variety of hiking trails, including the 17.4 km (10.8 mile) round-trip route to El Cajón del Azul , which features a crystal clear swimming beach along an icy blue river, and the impressively steep 9.3 km trail (5.8 mile) up and down Cerro Piltriquitrón , where you’ll feel like you have reached the top of the world from its 2,380-meter (7,800-foot) peak.

21. Cross into Chile along the Cruce Andino

Bariloche is just across the border from the equally popular town of Puerto Varas , so if you’re planning on heading into Chile, it makes sense to travel via one of the most beautiful routes. 

The Cruce Andino is a full-day journey of three bus rides and three different boat rides that offers rarely-seen views along an original trade route through the Andes Mountains and dense Valdivian rainforest while crossing the border from Bariloche, Argentina to Puerto Varas, Chile. 

The tour is operated by Turisur which has offices on Mitre Street. If needed, they can help you navigate a method of return to Bariloche in the following days.

Accommodation in Bariloche

Budget accommodation in bariloche.

The Kospi Boutique Guesthouse ($53 double) is a real home-from-home. With 11 rooms available, and communal areas to meet other travelers, breakfast included and free Wi-Fi, it’s an obvious choice for those on a budget, or those looking for a more homely of stays.

Hosteria Las Amapolas ($60 double) can be found 300 meters from the city center, and includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast. With lake and mountain views, it’s certainly a tranquil base to explore from, with all rooms including private bathrooms and cable TV.

Mid-range accommodation in Bariloche

They don’t come much more central than Hotel Concorde ($158 economy double), located a mere 100m from the Civic Center. With private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site bar, it’s a great option for those looking to stay in the heart of the action.

The Huinid Pioneros Hotel ($95 double with garden view) makes a great option for those who don’t mind being a little further afield (2.5km outside of the city center). With an on-site swimming pool, games room, spa facilities, and gym, you won’t have a chance to be bored – and some rooms even benefit from views over the Nahuel Huapi Lake.

Boutique accommodation in Bariloche

Located right on the water’s edge of Nahuel Huapi Lake, the highly-rated Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa ($215 classic suite) is a great option for those looking to escape the city and relax in nature. 

With stunning mountain and lake views, all suites include their own jacuzzis (with some even having their own saunas!), while cozy fireplaces and wood stoves are included in Deluxe and Charming Suites, Apartments, and Residences. 

FAQs about Bariloche

Where is bariloche, argentina and how can i get there.

San Carlos de Bariloche is located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains along Argentina’s famous Ruta 40 and near the border with Chile. It is the largest city in the Lakes Region and is considered to be in the northern part of Patagonia (although where Patagonia actually is is strongly contested). 

Bariloche has an airport with connecting flights to all parts of Argentina, and is an easy two-hour flight from Buenos Aires.

When should I go to Bariloche and the Lakes Region?

Bariloche is a popular destination all year round and when you choose to travel will depend upon what you want to see. If you want to access the mountains and have dry weather and clear skies, it’s best to visit this region between November and April. That said, December through February is summer vacation, or high season, for Argentinians and international travelers, so accommodations and restaurants fill up fast.   Winter brings significant rainfall in the town of Bariloche, but this means snow in the mountains; many come for the ski season during July through September. 

Just know that because of its location between large lakes and mountains, the climate of Bariloche is considered cool and windy all year round.

How do I travel around Bariloche and the region?

Bariloche is sprawled out along the edge of Lake Nahuel Huapi, which means that in the busy summer and winter tourist seasons, traffic can be frustratingly slow out in the “kilometers” west of town and in the town center.   City buses are available and you can research the routes with the somewhat reliable app, Moovit . In order to take the city buses, you will need a Sube card , which you can pick up before 3pm weekdays at the Sube office next to the visitor center in the Civic Center. 

Once you have the card, vendors everywhere in “kiosks” will sell rides to add to your card. But never fear, if you can’t find a card in town, simply board the bus with some cash to offer and ask if someone would scan their card for you. Most riders are happy to help.   For destinations further afield, long-distance buses do leave frequently from the Terminal de Omnibuses in Bariloche . Renting a car is by far the most flexible option to get yourself to all the viewpoints, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Check out Rental Cars for the best prices.

Where should I stay in Bariloche?

Bariloche is packed to the rim with hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. If you have your own vehicle, it’s easy to stay anywhere in the city center or out in the “kilometers”. 

If you are going to be dependent upon the city buses, you should definitely stay in the city center as buses outside of the center are less frequent and sometimes get so full they won’t stop for more passengers.

Is Bariloche safe?

Bariloche is considered very safe, but in any tourist city, you should take precautions with your phone and belongings. I have heard that rental cars do get broken into around Bariloche, so it may be best to find accommodations with private parking. This is especially common during the summer tourist season.

Is Bariloche worth visiting?

Yes! If you want to experience the rugged outdoors of Argentina and the Andes Mountains, this is a great destination for you.

How long do I need in Bariloche?

Although you could easily spend a week or more exploring the wide variety of destinations in the region, you can get a good feel for this corner of Patagonia in three to four days, with a day or two visiting some of the towns in the surrounding area. Then, I promise you, you’ll want to return for more!

Are you ready for a trip to Argentina? Find out the best time to visit the country according to an expert , check out the best places to visit in Argentina whatever your travel style, and discover the coolest Argentinian national parks (and how to visit them) here .

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Backpacker’s Guide to Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche, located at the northern edge of Patagonia, is one of Argentina and South America’s top travel destinations. This beautiful town is situated on the shores of several different lakes and surrounded by mountains. It is a nature-lover’s dream. The area feels like a mirage, a lush oasis in the otherwise desolate Patagonian steppe. With its stunning mountains and serene lakes, Bariloche is a perfect destination for both adventure-lovers and those looking for something a little more peaceful.

And hey, if this post helps you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows me to keep providing free travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world.

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Table of Contents

How to get to bariloche, where to stay in bariloche.

• How To Get Around Bariloche

The Best Things To Do in Bariloche

• How To Visit Bariloche on a Budget

Nightlife in Bariloche

Where to go after bariloche.

Although Bariloche serves as one of the main hubs of central Argentina and Northern Patagonia, it is quite distant from other parts of the country. When I was planning my southerly route down to Ushuaia, Bariloche seemed like the ideal spot to start my Patagonian adventures. Little did I know that once I got to northern Argentina, the northernmost point of Patagonia was still a hell of a way south.

Running low on time, I flew to Bariloche from Buenos Aires to avoid what would have been an expensive and lengthy bus ride. For those taking the bus down to Bariloche, the most sensible stop before would be either Mendoza or Buenos Aires. However, those buses are pricy and will cost you nearly an entire day. I actually found the flight (including luggage) to be cheaper than taking the bus. Normally, I wouldn’t even check flights but with buses being as expensive as they are in Argentina, it is worth double-checking to see if you can save some time and money.

Once you touchdown in Bariloche, you will either find yourself at the airport or at the bus terminal.

Note: I originally had these prices written in pesos, and were accurate as of 2020 when 70 pesos = $1 USD. Inflation in Argentina is very volatile, currently at 350 pesos to $1 USD, so I’ve updated the original pricing in pesos to around what they would have been in USD.

From Bariloche airport, you can take the bus into town for about $1 USD if you already have the Sube card. If you don’t, you can take a shuttle to the town center or to the bus terminal for $3.50. A private taxi will cost about $10, depending on where you are going. If you don’t have a Sube card, I recommend going to the bus terminal and getting one there. It will save you a ton of money in the long run.

From the bus terminal, it is really easy to get into town. If you have the Sube card, then just hop on one of the buses headed towards the center. The ride will cost $.50. If you don’t have the Sube card, the kiosco inside the terminal sells them for $5 pesos. It costs $3 for the card itself and then it comes already loaded with about $2. These cards can be used throughout all of Argentina, so get one as soon as possible.

Oh, and before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy whenever you’re out adventuring. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $45 a month.

Bariloche has no shortage of incredible hostels to choose from . However, it is worth noting that there are several different regions to Bariloche. The city center is where most of the happenings are and you shouldn’t have any problem finding hostels there. The thing with Bariloche is that it is quite spread out. If you stay in the downtown area, you will be about 45 minutes from some of the best attractions. If you stay closer to those attractions, then you might not experience the small but bustling city of Bariloche to its fullest.

I stayed at Gravity Eco Hostel for the majority of my stay in Bariloche, before moving to a more central location for one night to be closer to the bus terminal. Gravity Eco Hostel was a perfect location because it was only about 10-15 minutes by bus to most of the incredible hikes in Bariloche, like Cerro Campanario, Cerro Otto, and Cerro Llao Llao. It was also close to two supermarkets and two different bus stops, as well as a laundromat, restaurants, and kioscos so that you could have everything you need. There is even a Western Union inside the La Anonima supermarket about 3 minutes walking distance away.

Having all of those at my disposal while never having to venture too far for an adventure made Gravity an absolutely perfect location. Its location further out of town also makes it a much more tranquil and peaceful area. The hostel also had the best common kitchen I have encountered throughout my travels. I ended up saving a ton of money on food by cooking for myself as opposed to eating out which I definitely would have been more tempted to do in the city center.

View All Hostels in Bariloche

Getting Around in Bariloche

Even without a car, you should have no problem getting around in Bariloche. The main road is serviced by the local buses all day until midnight. For the flat rate of 35 pesos per ride, you can get anywhere along the main road, including all the way to the airport and the bus station. The buses also go to the destinations that are further out from town, like Villa Llao Llao and Colonia Suiza. For a more complete guide on the routes, lines, and timetables of the buses, check out the official site of Bariloche Tourism .

Another common way to get around that I’ve seen among travelers and locals alike is by hitchhiking. You just pop onto the side of the road, stick your finger out, and hope for the best. If you have the patience, this can be a great and cheap way to get around Bariloche. If you have the money but not the patience, you can also book taxis, known as  remises around these parts. They aren’t always driving around like you’d see in a big city, so if you want a guaranteed ride, you will have to go to a Remises Agency and book one. Most of them will have their number posted outside so you can just jot it down and save it for when you need a taxi.

Where do I even begin? There is so much to do in Bariloche. The city has so many outdoor activities that cater to all types of people, so it would be silly for me to try and list everything that you can do here. Honestly, the ideas are infinite. You can go kayaking, golfing, hiking, sailing, cycling, or whatever your heart desires. There are so many different trails and lakes and beaches that again, it would be silly to list them all. I only spent one week in Bariloche and I guarantee that people who have lived their lifetimes in Bariloche are still finding new things to do each week.

Here are my highlights from my time in Bariloche, but in no way is this even close to an all-inclusive list.

Cerro Campanario

Arguably the best thing to do in Bariloche is to hike up to Cerro Campanario. This is one of the most incredible views you will get in Argentina. The hike only takes about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace but the payoff is absolutely incredible. From Cerro Campanario, you can see the whole of Bariloche and the surrounding region. The pristine lakes, dense forests, and in the wintertime, snow-capped peaks in every direction make for an unbeatable view.

Playa Serena

One of the only beaches that I actually went to on purpose, Playa Serena was my first taste of what life was going to be like in Bariloche. A lot of soaking in the sun and living the lake life. With this beach being a bit further out of town than the other beaches, it definitely lives up to its name. It is much more peaceful and much less crowded than those closer to town.

Lago Moreno

My favorite hike that I did in Bariloche took me to beautiful, crystal clear waters of Lago Moreno. I took the bus towards Llao Llao and followed the Sendero De Los Arrayanes just past the start of the Circuito Chico. This trail ran alongside Lago Moreno, but make sure to stray off the trail to check out the lake itself. The waters are absolutely stunning and the views of the mountains in the background are remarkable. Lago Moreno is quite big, and you can access it from a number of different places, but this view was my favorite. From Gravity Eco Hostel, it was about a 15 minute walk to the other side of Lago Moreno where there was a lengthy beach and a beautiful view of the setting sun.

Lago Nahuel Huapi

This is the main lake that Bariloche is basically centered around. Most of the city is just a few blocks at most from the shores of this beautiful lake. With the mountains in the background and fiery sunsets to be had every night, I made sure to be here for almost every sundowner. You can do a lot of stuff on this lake, from chilling at the beaches to kayaking and sailing.

Cerro Llao Llao

In a close race for best view in Bariloche with Cerro Campanario is Cerro Llao Llao. After hiking about 12 kilometers already that day, I was pretty sure Cerro Llao Llao wouldn’t give me anything new. I was wrong. This view is one of the best panoramic views in all of Bariloche, if not the best. You get an incredible view of the mountains, the lakes, the dense forests, and the setting sun.

The hike itself doesn’t take too long but with so much to do in the area, one could easily make a day-long adventure surrounding Cerro Llao Llao. I followed this Cerro Llao Llao circuit that starts with the Sendero de los Arrayanes and then passes through Lago Escondido, Villa Tacul, and a few other cool spots before capping off the day at Cerro Llao Llao.

Museo de Patagonia

This museum smack dab in the center of Bariloche’s Civic Center is actually quite intriguing. For the small entrance fee of 150 pesos, you can learn a lot about the history behind Bariloche, Patagonia, and Argentina. The rooms and exhibits range from the native tribes of the area, the geology of Patagonia, and dozens of unsettling taxidermy fauna. I actually was very intrigued by this museum and highly recommend it on a lazy day that isn’t spent out adventuring.

Villa Tacul

One of the spots that I visited on my Cerro Llao Llao circuit that I mentioned above is Villa Tacul. There is a stunning viewpoint that was one of my favorites in all of Bariloche. After completing the 30-45 minute trail, you end up along a beach with another beautiful view. I chilled here for a while before continuing on with my lengthy trek. It is a perfect spot to rest your feet or even ice them down in the glacial lake on a hot day.

Lago Escondido

Once you finish the Sendero de los Arrayanes and Lago Moreno, you can continue along the Circuito Chico about half a kilometer to end up at Lago Escondido. It is a beautiful viewpoint, although there isn’t much else to do here. It can be a nice swimming spot, but doesn’t have a beach to chill out on. However, there is a beach a bit further down the trail that you can visit after stopping by Lago Escondido.

Centro Civico

The main historic square of Bariloche is where all the action happens. Every time I stopped by here, there was something going on. A band playing, a motorcycle show, an outdoors fair, or whatever Bariloche feels like giving you that day. When nothing is going on, the locals will take it upon themselves to put on a show, whether it’s a jazz saxophonist or a family band with drums on their back. Yeah, it gets weird. It’s also beautiful and right along the lake, making it an ideal and scenic spot to chill.

Below are things that I didn’t actually get a chance to go and do but that I’ve heard good things about.

• Refugio Frey
• Mount Tronador
• Cycle the Circuito Chico
• Visit Colonia Suiza
• Isla Victoria
• Lago Gutierrez
• Playa Bonita

How To Visit Bariloche On A Budget

Bariloche is quite pricy, as far as South America goes. I ate out one time. That isn’t including my several trips to McDonald’s, though. Although I definitely had the treat yo’self attitude while ordering that one meal, I still regret spending $25 on a single meal, no matter how good it was. In Cordoba, I was paying less than 30 pesos per empanada. In the center of Bariloche, I couldn’t find any quality empanadas for less than 80 pesos. I was paying double the price for cold, flaky, underwhelming empanadas. Everything is more expensive in Bariloche, except for the McDonald’s which was basically the only constant. That goes for the hostels, restaurants, bars, taxis, and so on.

However, Bariloche doesn’t have to be expensive. Save for the $25 meal, I reckon I spent only $20 on food total during my week in Bariloche. When you can buy a kilo of steak for $3 and stretch it out comfortably over three days, you can still be living large on a budget. You can even treat yourself to one of the $.75 bottles of red wine to go with your fancy $1 meal.

Cooking Your Own Food

This is the best way to save money in Bariloche. On average, dining out in Bariloche will cost you at least $10. I used to buy $1.50 sandwiches from a bakery to save money back in Buenos Aires. Bariloche forced me to start cooking my own food to save money, and I quickly found out that I could make at least 4 of those cheap sandwiches for the same price as buying one. Meat is also extremely cheap in Argentina, so coupled with some cheap and heavy carbs like rice or potatoes, you can fill yourself up on less than $2 a day.

Make sure to book a hostel with a kitchen. Gravity Eco Hostel had one of the best kitchens I have ever encountered in my travels. It was spacious, new, and well-equipped with everything, down to teflon non-stick pots and pans. I never realized how much of a game changer having a great kitchen was until I was actually forced to use one.

Volunteering At A Hostel

With the abundance of hostels in Bariloche , it is surprisingly easy to find one to volunteer at. Contact hostels ahead of time just to assure they have availability for you, or keep an eye out on sites like WorkAway for volunteer opportunities. If it comes down to it, you can just hostel hop once you arrive in Bariloche and ask around. In the center of Bariloche, the hostels are very concentrated so you’ll have stretches where there are 3 or 4 hostels on the same street.

Hitchhiking

Before I got to Patagonia, I heard several tales from fellow travelers about how Patagonia is a hitchhikers’ paradise. I saw plenty of people doing this in Bariloche. There are plenty of cars going back and forth between the center and further out, so one of them is bound to pick you up if you have the patience.

If you aren’t about that hitchhiker life, then the Sube card is the way to go. If you don’t already have one, you can get one at Bariloche’s bus terminal or elsewhere in town. I recommend getting it in Buenos Aires though, if possible. It costs 90 pesos there and in Bariloche, it cost me 200 pesos. Each ride in Bariloche costs 35 pesos as of March 2020. Considering that some rides last about an hour, it definitely is worth getting one to save you the money of a taxi or gas.

You can’t spell Bariloche without “bar” or “boliche”.

Despite how small Bariloche feels, the city does add up to over 100,000 people. That means that you won’t struggle to find any of that spicy Argentine nightlife. It definitely won’t have as much of a nightlife scene as Buenos Aires, Cordoba, or any of Argentina’s other nightlife hubs but it is very easy to have fun in Bariloche.

Although you will be able to find nightclubs and boliches, Bariloche is more known for its cervecerias and beerhouses. You will have no shortage of craft beers to choose from when you decide to plop on the beach to catch the sunset or reward yourself after a lengthy hike. If you want a nice bar or craft beer house for a chill night out, then Bariloche is seriously the spot for you. Although my tight budget didn’t allow me to frequent too many, I passed at least a dozen that I would have loved to sit down at.

I was on a sort of cleanse after going out for six straight nights in Cordoba and Buenos Aires, so I didn’t do too much drinking in Bariloche. I know, I know. I’m not living up to my travel blog name. Here’s a good list of bars in Bariloche written by someone more knowledgeable than me on the topic, though.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

Bariloche is the gateway to the rest of Patagonia. Unfortunately, Patagonia is still pretty massive. However, with Bariloche being one of the biggest cities in Patagonia, it is best to start here. You can go south towards El Bolson just a few hours away, or knock out the journey to El Calafate or El Chalten right away.

From Bariloche, you can even take a boat from Puerto Pañuela and go to Chile to start your adventures on that side of Patagonia. Most of the cool stuff between Bariloche and El Chalten is all on the Chilean side. The world is yours. I can’t tell you what to do because honestly, I still have no idea what I’m even going to do. There are a few smaller villages near Bariloche where I will plop down for a bit until inspiration hits me. Villa La Angostura and Villa Traful are supposed to be fantastic, as is San Martin de los Andes.

• Villa La Angostura
• Villa Traful
• Puerto Montt
• San Martin de los Andes

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10 thoughts on “ the backpacker’s guide to bariloche, argentina ”.

Bariloche looks like an amazing place to visit and I would for sure love a trip here 🙂 The buildings look so quaint and the surroundings are breathtaking. I could use some serious hiking there and will have to add it too my ever growing bucket list!

oh Argentina is definitely on my to do list and soonnnnn…I can’t wait, it is such a beautiful country.

I’ve never been to Argentina but it’s on my list. This looks like such a fun trip!

Wow! Bariloche sounds like a gorgeous place to visit. I love the photos you’ve taken and I can’t wait to explore Bariloche someday!

This sounds like an amazing place to visit, the scenery is stunning and so beautiful I would love to visit Argentina some day.

Bariloche looks absolutely incredible! I don’t know which of these places I want to see first. Lago Moreno is stunning! Argentina is high on my list of countries to visit, and reading this makes me want to go even more.

I was just talking to someone who was telling me how amazing Argentina is. I am going to have to go out there at some point. It looks so beautiful with so many lovely spots to see backpacking.

Have been to Argentina twice and everytime we could make it to Bariloche because of time. It looks lovely we surely will be planning better our next visit. Its good to know that flight are cheaper than the bus.

Bariloche looks like a place I want to take my family for vacation, wow so beautiful, I need to start looking into flights to get to Argentina

Amazing photographs.

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A pretty town with an Alpine feel and a thriving chocolate industry, Bariloche (San Carlos de Bariloche) is a good base for explorations around the Argentinian Lake District.

Set on the shores of the Lago Nahuel Huapi and backed up against Cerro Otto (Otto Hill), this town thrives all year round as visitors flock to the region for sightseeing and sports (including skiing).

Bariloche's history

In the 1930s, with the creation of a southern railway link and the bestowing of a National Park title on the region, Bariloche grew. Initially growth was in an ordered Western European style, but more modern times have seen a somewhat haphazard development.

Nevertheless, Bariloche is an interesting town and ideally placed and geared for trips around the region.

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February 11, 2020 · Nature , Travel

10 Things to do in Bariloche

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What to do in Bariloche

Thinking about escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a while? Look no further than a trip to San Carlos de Bariloche or simply “ Bariloche ,” as known by many. Located in the South of Argentina or “ Patagonia ,” Bariloche is a small Swiss inspired town nestled in the foothills of the Andes along the coast of the Nahuel Huapi Lake.

Mostly known for exceptional skiing in the winter, Bariloche also offers plenty of activities in the summer including sightseeing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and much more. My wife and I recently had the opportunity to travel here for summer vacations and enjoyed many of the activities and beautiful scenery. After visiting, I have some useful tips and information on things to do and see in Bariloche. (Note: winter is the high season and summer is the low season).

During the summer the temperature averages around 23 degrees in the day and around 10 degrees at night. Don’t expect air conditioning in your room, only heat. The temperature can sometimes be unpredictable throughout the day, so I recommend dressing like an “onion,” able to remove layers. Daylight can also extend until 10pm at night in the summer.

The city offers many different restaurants and cervecerías (brewpubs). Some of the local delicacies included local trucha (trout) which can be fresh or smoked, along with smoked ciervo (deer) and javalí (wild boar). The city is also host to many chocolaterías ( chocolate shops in Bariloche ) with delicious Swiss inspired chocolates and many great heladerias ( ice cream shops). Two of my favorite chocolate shops are Rapanui and Frantom, I recommend trying both.

Navigating around the city can be accomplished on foot. However, for traveling outside the city I recommend using the colectivo (bus) which utilizes the sube card or hiring a remís (private taxi). Many tour guide services also include transportation to and from various tourist attractions around Bariloche.

After visiting Bariloche for a month, I have put together a list of activities we enjoyed along with a description of each. Note: there are lots of activities we missed out on because of time constraints, the following are “just the tip of the iceberg.”

Cerro Catedral (Cathedral Hill)

One of the most famous ski resorts in Bariloche and all of Latin America, Cerro Catedral also offers activities such as climbing and trekking during the warmer months. The mountain is named for the towers at the peak that resemble a gothic cathedral. The peak offers majestic views along with a ski inspired restaurant.

No tour guide agency needed here. The ski resort is about 19 km from the center of Bariloche and is easily accessible by colectivo . There are two options to choose from when visiting the mountain: trekking up the backside of the mountain or taking a chairlift to the top. My wife and I chose to take the lift to the top which is over 2,000 meters. The peak of the mountain was quite windy with a little bit of snow left. I recommend wearing sunscreen because I got very sunburned.

Cerro Tronador and Garganta del Diablo

Cerro Tronador (Mount Thunderer) is actually a geologically active volcano which is estimated to have last erupted over 10,000 years ago. It is located in the south of the Andes Range on frontier between Chile and Argentina. The mountain is named for the thundering sound produced by the frequent falling of large blocks of ice from the glaciers at its top. The mountain is over 3,400 meters tall and has 8 glaciers, however the glaciers are receding due to the warming of the climate.

I recommend hiring a tour guide service for this trip with transportation because the drive was a little off the beaten path. The guided tour included a few stops at various scenic points and ended at the base of Tronador and then Garganta del Diablo . At the base there is the glacier known as Ventisquero Negro (black snowdrift). This glacier’s dark brown color comes from the dirt and sediment picked up as it accumulated. Our tour guide told us that the glacier was once accessible and able to be touched. The glacier is fed by the Río Manso Glacier several hundred meters higher up the mountain. Our guide concluded at a small restaurant where from there we walked about 20 minutes to a beautiful waterfall called Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat).

Isla de Victoria and Bosque de Arrayanes

We set off by boat from Pañuelo Port which is easily accessible by colectivo from the center of the city. After sailing on Nahuel Huapi Lake for about an hour we reached the Quetrihué Peninsula which is home to the Los Arrayánes National Park. The park is host to over a 300 year old forest of rare cinnamon-colored trees known as Arrayánes (Myrtles) The Arryánes are actually a type of bush that grow the size of a tree and fall over and die every 100 years. The forest is rumored to be Walt Disney’s inspiration for the forest in the movie “Bambi.”

After leaving the forest we sailed for 40 minutes to Isla de Victoria (Victoria Island) and disembarked at Puerto Anchorena. Here we walked along trails and enjoyed beautiful viewpoints around the island. One trail led to a nursery of conifers and other species such as the famous Redwood and Cypress trees found in California. Another trail led us to Playa del Toro (Bull Beach) where we saw cave paintings and relaxed at a beach of volcanic sand.

7 Lagos and San Martin de Los Andes

No tour guide is needed here if you have your own source of transportation. The road of Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes) is about a 108 km drive with beautiful scenic stops. Leaving Bariloche by tour guide we started our trip towards the mountain town of San Martin De Los Andes. First we briefly stopped in Villa La Angostura a small town nestled in the northern part of the Nahuel Huapi National Park surrounded by lakes, forests and mountains. Villa La Angostura is considered to be one of most beautiful locations in Patagonia; earning it the nickname “ Jardín de la Patagonia ” (Garden of Patagonia). We then continued on a tour of the 7 lakes towards the town of San Martin De Los Andes. Each crystal-clear lake has unique shades of green and blue and different water temperatures.

Finally, we arrived at San Martin de los Andes , a typical mountain town with breathtaking views. Here we walked around the town and enjoyed a delicious lunch and a cerveza . San Martin de los Andes is along the shore of the Lake Lácar where you can take a swim if you can brave the cold water or rent a kayak. Here we concluded our tour and returned along route 234 to Bariloche.

Puerto Blest y Cascada de los Cántaros

We again set off by boat from Pañuelo Port for about an hour to the western end of Nahuel Huapi Lake . The lake is divided into different sections, and the western arm of the lake is the Blest section. On the way to Puerto Blest we passed Centinela Island where Perito Moreno, father of the national parks, remains rest in peace. After arriving in Puerto Blest we visited the bay and Frías River whose waters have a unique emerald color coming from the glaciers of Mt. Tronador . From the port of Puerto Blest we hiked about 4 km to the top of a waterfall known as Cascada de los Cántaros which is fed from Lake Los Cántaros. Note: there was an optional tour of the Lake Frías extension which we did not participate in. This extension includes a 20 minute ride to Puerto Frías right on the frontier of Chile.

Playa Bahía Serena

We spent the last day of our vacation at Playa Bahía Serena (Serene Bay Beach). A beautiful beach on the coast of the Nahuel Huapi Lake about 12 km from the center of town. I recommend visiting this beach because it is one of the few with actual sand and not a mixture with rocks. Here we enjoyed renting kayaks and taking in the sun. It was a perfect ending to our week in Bariloche.

Take In the View

Bariloche is located right on the short of Lake Nahuel Huapi, an impressive glacial lake whose size and deep blue color would be enough on their own; coupled with the surrounding peaks and cerros , it’s enough to take your breath away. Bariloche has various lookout points from which to survey the stunning landscape. Some popular ones are Cerro Campanario , Cerro Otto , and Cerro Llao Llao , all of which are located on the Circuito Chico route. If you’re feeling lazy, or have had too much chocolate–which we’ll get to next–to think about trekking up to the top, many of the look outs have cable cars to take you up. But there are some wonderful hiking paths all around Bariloche that are definitely worth the effort. Mirador Gutiérrez is an easy-moderate hike that takes you past waterfalls and a up to a vista of another lake to enjoy.

Eat Chocolate

Beyond the scenery, Bariloche boasts a reputation for some of the best chocolate in Argentina. Staples of the sweets scene in town are Rapanui and Mamuschka, which are always crowded but worth the chaos! Sit down and enjoy a treat, or bring some back as gifts for friends and family. And during the colder months, nothing warms the body and soul like a chocolate caliente .

Hit the Slopes

In the winter, Bariloche definitely has the air of ski town. Everyone’s decked out in their ropa abrigada, and your hostel roomates will be up at dawn to head over to Cerro Catedral , one of the more popular places to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. In Argentina, but didn’t bring your gear with you? No worries! In town you’ll find dozens of shops that rent out cold weather clothing.

After a day of skiing, hiking, or even just taking in the sights, nothing hits the spot like a cold one. Bariloche has no shortage of craft beer taps and breweries, so if cerveza is your thing, you can visit as many as your vacation time allows. If you only have time for one, enjoy a pinta at Cervecería Patagonia . Not only is the beer (and food) great, but the view is arguably the most attractive aspect of this microbrewery, so be sure to get there during the day; it’s a great lunch spot!

Mountains, lakes, chocolate, beer…what’s not to love about this Patagonian town? Maybe the Hitler conspiracy theories, but that’s beside the point. Bariloche should be high up on your list of places to visit in Argentina, which is saying quite a lot considering how much there is to see in this massive and beautiful country.

Now that you have read about some of the best places to visit and are ready to plan your trip to Bariloche, I recommend checking out Bariloche.org for a list of good travel agencies. Another great resource is the office of tourism located in the civic center. Here they can provide you with recommendations on things to do and tour guide agencies. We did not book our excursions in advance, but were still able to find many spots available.

Tip: If you’re staying in a homestay or a student residence in Buenos Aires and use a Sube card, bring it with you to Bariloche! They work with the colectivos there, too. The colectivos are an extremely easy and economical way to get around in town.

¡Buen viaje!

By Vamos Spanish Academy @ Viamonte 1516, C1055ABD, C1055 ABD, Buenos Aires, Argentina +54-11-5984-2201 – Study Spanish in Argentina Tango School Buenos Aires https://g.page/VamosSpanish

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Tren Patagónico: Riding the Train Across Patagonia from Bariloche to Viedma!

The Tren Patagónico is an epic, overnight, cross-country train journey that crosses Argentina from west to east.

This passenger train travels over 800 kilometres from the city of Bariloche at the foot of the Andes Mountains to the city of Viedma which sits near the Atlantic Ocean.

It takes 18+ hours to complete the full journey which coincidentally also crosses the Province of Río Negro.

Travelling aboard the Tren Patagónico is a great way to experience the magic of the Patagonian steppe and see a side of northern Patagonia beyond lakes and snowcapped mountains.

Plus, it’s an opportunity to see local wildlife; namely, hares, guanacos and lots of sheep!

In this blog post, we’re going to share how you too can travel aboard the Tren Patagónico and what to expect from the train journey.

FAQ’s about the Tren Patagónico

Is there a train through Patagonia?

The Tren Patagónico crosses northern Patagonia from east to west, connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Andes Mountains.

There is currently no train that travels the length of Patagonia from north to south , though there are short tourist train segments for sightseeing purposes.

How much does the Tren Patagónico cost?

At the time of publication, the cost to travel from Bariloche to Viedma is $4,800 ARS. (So $23 USD at the official rate or $12 USD at the Blue Rate).

Where does the Tren Patagónico go?

The Tren Patagónico is a passenger train that travels from the city of Bariloche at the foot of the Andes to the city of Viedma on the Atlantic Ocean.

The Tren Patagónico makes stops in Bariloche, Pilcaniyeu, Comallo, Clemente Onelli, Ingeniero Jacobacci, Maquinchao, Los Menucos, Sierra Colorada, Ministro Ramos Mexia, Nahuel Niyeu, Valcheta, San Antonio Oeste, Winter, Palacios, and Viedma.

How long is the Tren Patagónico train journey?

The Tren Patagónico is an 18+ hour overnight train journey. You board the train in the late afternoon/early evening and arrive the following day around noon.

If you’re looking for a fun way to get to Bariloche or Viedma (depending on the direction you’re travelling), this train is it!

What days does the Tren Patagónico travel?

The Tren Patagónico typically travels from Viedma to Bariloche on Fridays, departing Viedma at 18:00 and arriving in Bariloche at 12:28 the following day.

It then runs from Bariloche to Viedma on Sundays, departing Bariloche at 17:00 and arriving in Viedma at 11:34 the following day.

That being said, it is always best to check the official website for an updated schedule before you plan your trip, and know that train delays are quite possible.

Is the Tren Patagónico the same as the Old Patagonian Express? 

No, the Tren Patagónico and the Old Patagonian Express , also known as La Trochita, are not the same train.

The name Tren Patagónico translates to ‘Patagonian Train’ but is not to be confused with the Old Patagonian Express – these are two very different journeys in different provinces!

The Old Patagonian Express is a tourist train in the Province of Chubut that you can ride as a half-day excursion.

Meanwhile, the Tren Patagónico is an overnight journey that crosses the whole Province of Río Negro from the mountains to the sea.

How to book the Tren Patagónico

There are a few different ways to book a journey aboard this train.

The first option is to try booking your train tickets online on the Tren Patagonico official website.

The only thing is that the website is entirely in Spanish, so you’ll need some language skills.

The other issue is that sometimes the website doesn’t show availability even though there are tickets available!

It’s not the most straightforward option, but if you want to try it, click the ‘Venta de Pasajes Online’ button on their website and go from there.

At the train station

The other option is to go in person to the train station. The Tren Patagónico website shows you can book tickets at the train stations in Viedma, San Antonio Oeste, Ingeniero Jacobacci, and San Carlos de Bariloche .

The hours of operation for the train stations differ and some only open on certain days or for a few hours a day, so check the schedule on the official website before you make the trek over.

Via a tour operator

The best option, I would say, is to book your tickets via a tour operator. You can do so in a few select cities:

In Bariloche: Bioceánica Turismo, Mooving Travel, Gerardo de los Cerros, Surface Travel, Huiliches Turismo, Natural Travel, and Vivir Viajes

In El Bolsón: Grado 42

In Las Grutas: Ocasión Turismo

In Viedma:  Monatour, Araucarias, Kosten, and Free Time

This is probably the easiest and most stress-free option. Let someone else take care of the details and just hand you tickets!

Travelling Aboard the Tren Patagónico

Since we travelled from Bariloche to Viedma, our train departed at 17:00 and we were asked to be at the station one hour prior at 16:00.

There were 3 classes to choose from when booking our train tickets: First, Pullman and Camarote.

First is actually the cheapest class, Pullman is the in between option, and Camarote is the one with private cabins.

We travelled in the Pullman carriage which featured reclining seats, a fair bit of legroom, and heat or AC (depending on the time of year).

Another thing to note about this train is that it has a movie carriage that’s available to passengers in Pullman and Camarote, and it also has a disco carriage for those who want to dance the night away as the train chugs across the Patagonian steppe.

I have to say, I loved the scenery on this train journey! We got to witness a magical sunset over the Patagonian steppe paired with ever-changing views. The fields were washed in gold with the last rays of day, and it was spectacular.

Shortly after departing the station in Bariloche, an attendant went across the carriage asking each passenger their final destination – that way they know where to stop and potentially wake you up if you’re getting off in the middle of the night.

Then another attendant came by selling snacks, so we got some milanesa sandwiches, and we also confirmed our reservation in the dining carriage.

The earliest time they had available was 21:00, which is a typical dinner time in Argentina. We ended up sharing a table with an Argentine couple and stayed up until 02:00!

We snoozed for four hours and then it was time to get off at our stop. We sleepily disembarked in San Antonio Oeste so that we could continue onwards to the seaside resort of Las Grutas.

And that was our experience travelling aboard the Tren Patagónico from the mountains to the sea!

I’ll leave you with a video below to give you a better idea of what to expect from this train journey.

GROUP TOURS – If you’d rather join a group tour to travel in Argentina, check out Gadventures .

CAR RENTAL – To explore Argentina beyond the cities, the best way to do so is by renting a car. Discover Cars offers rentals across the country.

BUS TICKETS – Bus travel is a great way to see Argentina. BusBud offers numerous routes.

TRAVEL INSURANCE – Don’t leave on your trip without booking travel insurance. You can get a quote on SafetyWing .

HOTELS – Booking.com offers accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles.

TOURS – For a variety of tours and activities, have a look at Viator .

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Ud. está saliendo del sitio oficial de Bariloche Turismo e ingresando a un motor de reservas donde encontrará prestadores habilitados de la ciudad.

Previo a ingresar por favor lea los términos legales .

Acepto los términos legales para ingresar en el motor de reservas

Lakes and Beaches

Legendary scenery.

Do you want to discover incredible lakes? Get inspired by these suggestions. The immensity of Bariloche's lakes and beaches is a must-see that hide away secrets worth discovering.

Lake Guillelmo

This lake has blue and emerald green waters. Its surrounding environment provides natural shelter from the wind.

Lake Gutiérrez

Know by the native Mapuche people as "green lake", its stunning waters lap the shores of several beaches and amazing waterfalls that are easy to get to.

Lake Mascardi

Sitting on the side of Route 40, it is the best lake to take a break and enjoy a peaceful environment.

Lake Nahuel Huapi

You can visit the beaches of the city or others located far away to enjoy the sun, the amazing view, and maybe have a picnic with your family and friends.

Moreno Lake

These beautiful lakes, the constant scenery throughout the Short Circuit, have great beaches for rowing, windsurfing and stand up paddling.

Steffen Lake

With a surface of 590 hectares, it is the favorite destination to have a picnic, go camping, and perform a lot of activities.

Climate - Bariloche (Argentina)

Bariloche - Climate data

Bariloche - weather by month.

Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it means for travel

Travel is being impacted by Tuesday’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city, following the early morning incident. What’s less clear is what the bridge collapse may mean for upcoming cruises in and out of Baltimore.

“Vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice,” the Port of Baltimore posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Live Updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship hits it; construction crew missing

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., whose district includes the bridge and the port, called the collapse an “unthinkable horror” and said he had spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the White House. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“They are responding with all of the assets at their disposal,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers right now are for the missing individuals and victims of this tragedy. We thank God for the effective service of our first responders.”

Here’s what we know.

Which cruises go to Baltimore?

Several major cruise lines serve Baltimore. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” CLIA spokesperson Anne Madison said in an emailed statement. “We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind—to save lives. We are closely following this situation.”

Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas has a roundtrip itinerary scheduled to depart Baltimore on April 12, according to the cruise line’s website. “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” a spokesperson for the line said in an email. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings.”

Carnival’s website shows Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend also have sailings into or out of Baltimore set for April. 

Carnival Legend will temporarily move operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore. The vessel's next cruise will sail round-trip from Norfolk later that day.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Carnival president Christine Duffy said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride.

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

American Cruise Lines has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at the present time our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t appear to have any Baltimore sailings until September on Norwegian Sky . The line will stay in contact with the port and share any changes with passengers and travel partners, according to a spokesperson.

"In the meantime, we wish the city of Baltimore strength during this very unfortunate event," they said in an email.

Alternate routes for the Baltimore bridge

Most drivers can take Interstate 95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or Interstate 895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

Watch CBS News

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: March 26, 2024 / 10:36 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

A bridge column was hit by a large container ship around 1:30 a.m., sending bridge workers and vehicles into the Patapsco River. A water search for six missing workers turned to a recovery effort Tuesday night.

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure has shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.   

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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Ocean City's Baltimore Avenue project gets big boost with federal grant. What's ahead.

Ocean City's Baltimore Avenue project will soon be back underway.

The town of Ocean City was recently given a $20 million federal grant to revamp Baltimore Avenue. This comes after the resort town received revised cost estimates for the project during fall of 2022. The estimates were double what was originally projected.

As a result, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and Town Council members voted to suspend work on the project in March 2023. This, in turn, gave the town more time to explore alternative funding sources, including federal and state grant opportunities.

The suspension of the project proved to be fruitful, as funding is now in reserve.

OCEAN CITY TRANSPORTATION: Ocean City launches new transportation app. All to know before you hop on for a ride.

Renovations, once they commence, will span from North Division Street to 15th Street.

City Manager Terry McGean presented an update on the Baltimore Avenue project at the March 18 Mayor and Town Council meeting . He noted that, although funding is now available, the design phase may delay the project even further.

“The federal money always comes with strings attached, so there's going to be a lot of additional work we're probably going to have to do design-wise. It's going to, probably, delay us. We don't just get the money and then get to spend it," McGean told councilmembers. "So, we're going to have to do some additional work on that."

McGean plans to meet with Public Works Director Hal Adkins soon to discuss the project before work begins. The four-year project, which includes undergrounding utilities and streetscaping, is said to begin in the fall of 2025.

"Even though it's dedicated to Baltimore Avenue, the funding goes through State Highway. So there’s going to be a lot of hoops to jump through. We are just starting to work our way through it," he added.

GUIDE TO OC'S SPRINGFEST: Ocean City's 2024 Springfest: From live music to transportation, all to know about event

Popular destinations on Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City

McGean said he plans to bring forth a full update in the next two or so months.

The heavily-trafficked corridor that is Baltimore Avenue is home to many popular destinations.

Beginning at North Division Street is the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk Arch.

Then, traveling up through Baltimore Avenue, pedestrians and motorists will pass Southpole Ice Cream Roll, Sharky's Grill, the Ocean City Mayor's Office, Papi's Tacos, the soon-to-be second location of Cheese Wheel Pasta, and an array of hotels, inns, churches and additional businesses.

The intent of Ocean City's Baltimore Avenue project is to improve pedestrian safety and the overall appearance of the heavily-trafficked downtown corridor.

2024 COUNTRY CALLING LINEUP: Ocean City's 2024 Country Calling to host Eric Church, Tyler Childers: Here's the lineup

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at  [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Ocean City's Baltimore Avenue project gets big boost with federal grant. What's ahead.