Bariloche, nestled on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi and framed by the Andes, stands as one of Patagonia’s most beloved destinations. Famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, with crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped peaks, Bariloche attracts nature lovers from around the world. Here, you can hike through the lush forests of Nahuel Huapi National Park, enjoy panoramic views from the Andean peaks, and indulge in Argentina’s finest chocolate.
In this article, explore the best things to do in Bariloche, complete with practical tips. Prepare to fall in love with this unique gem in Argentina.
Where is Bariloche in Argentina?
Bariloche, officially known as San Carlos de Bariloche, is located in the Río Negro province of Argentina. This picturesque city is nestled at the foot of the Andes and along the southern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, within the larger Nahuel Huapi National Park, one of Argentina’s oldest national parks. Consequently, Bariloche is surrounded by stunning landscapes featuring mountains, lakes, and forests.
The area around Bariloche is rich in natural beauty and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking. Nearby, you’ll find the popular ski destination Cerro Catedral and the renowned Llao Llao Resort, situated between Moreno and Nahuel Huapi lakes.
Bariloche is located along the famous Ruta 40, one of the longest highways in the world, stretching from north to south across Argentina. From Bariloche, you can travel south to places like El Bolsón and Esquel, both known for their beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. To the north, you reach Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes, popular stops along the Ruta de los Siete Lagos, a scenic route showcasing numerous stunning lakes.
Including Bariloche in your travel itinerary is easy. The city is well-connected by air, with regular flights from Buenos Aires taking about two hours. For those traveling by bus, long-distance buses link Bariloche with other major cities in Argentina and even with neighboring Chile.
What is Bariloche Known For?
Bariloche is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes, delectable chocolate, and extensive outdoor activities. The city’s European chalet-style architecture adds to its unique charm.
The breathtaking nature surrounding Bariloche is a highlight. Located in Nahuel Huapi National Park, it offers a variety of lakes, mountains, and forests. Lake Nahuel Huapi, with its crystal-clear waters, is one of the main attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sailing, fishing, and kayaking on the lake. Popular hiking trails also meander along the riverbanks.
In the winter months, Bariloche transforms into a popular ski destination. Cerro Catedral, one of the largest ski resorts in South America, offers extensive opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. This ski area, just twenty kilometers from the city, attracts winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
Additionally, Bariloche is known as the chocolate capital of Argentina. The city boasts numerous chocolate shops and factories where visitors can savor artisanal chocolate products. The Rapanui chocolate factory is one of the most famous, offering a chance to see the production process and taste a variety of chocolates.
The city itself features charming architecture with strong European influences. The Catedral Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi, built in the 1940s, is a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture. The wooden chalet-style houses give the feeling of walking through a European ski village.
How Long Do You Need in Bariloche?
The ideal duration for a visit to Bariloche is between three to five days. In three days, you can see the main attractions. Start with a day in the city center, including the Civic Centre, the Catedral Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi, and the famous chocolate shops. Spend the second and third days hiking, engaging in outdoor activities, and visiting scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
It’s important to note that many activities take a full day, such as a boat tour on the lake, a day of skiing, or a day hike. With five days, you can undertake more activities and explore more of the impressive natural surroundings.
Where to Stay in Bariloche
When planning a stay in Bariloche, you have several neighborhoods to choose from, each offering a unique experience based on your interests and preferences. Do you prefer to stay in the vibrant heart of Bariloche, or would you rather immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature just outside the city?
Bariloche Center
The center of Bariloche is perfect for first-time visitors. Here, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations. Located on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, the center offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and the famous chocolate shops of Bariloche. The unique alpine architecture is especially prominent in the historic heart, Centro Cívico.
#1 Hotel Tres Reyes is a popular three-star hotel just 200 meters from Centro Cívico in Bariloche. Offering great value, it features rooms with views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and the snow-capped Andes.
#2 Vintage Bariloche Hostel Boutique is One of the most popular hostels in Bariloche. It boasts a prime location just an eight-minute walk from Centro Cívico. The hostel receives high reviews for its beautiful lake views, cozy atmosphere, and friendly, welcoming staff.
Playa Bonita
For a peaceful, family-friendly environment, Playa Bonita is an ideal choice. This neighborhood is located on the shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, about eight kilometers west of the center. Playa Bonita has a lovely pebble beach and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking and snorkeling.
#3 Bonita Lake House is known for its beautiful chalet style with lots of wood. This hostel and bungalow complex is located right on the beach, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hostel features a well-equipped kitchen where guests can enjoy homemade bread for breakfast.
#4 Nido del Cóndor Hotel & Spa combines the coziness of a lodge with the luxury of a five-star hotel. Nido del Cóndor is just 300 meters from Playa Bonita. The hotel offers indoor and outdoor pools for both children and adults, as well as extensive spa facilities including a sauna, Scottish showers, and Finnish baths.
Circuito Chico
For a quiet and secluded stay, consider the Circuito Chico area. This scenic 60-kilometer route is one of the best things to do around Bariloche, offering direct access to the beautiful nature of Nahuel Huapi National Park.
#5 Llao Llao Resort is an iconic accommodation in Bariloche, this luxury hotel is a destination in itself, beautifully situated between Moreno and Nahuel Huapi lakes. The resort boasts numerous facilities: terraces, saunas, hot tubs, indoor and outdoor pools, a golf course, a luxury spa, a kids’ club, restaurants, a playground, and sports facilities.
#6 Los Juncos Patagonian Lake House is a small-scale accommodation with five unique rooms in a charming alpine-style house on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. It features a large garden and an organic orchard. Each room is decorated in a rustic style with attention to detail.
Cerro Catedral
Cerro Catedral is the perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts. This mountain area, about twenty kilometers from Bariloche, is the largest ski resort in South America. In winter, you can ski and snowboard here, while in summer, it’s ideal for activities like hiking and mountain biking.
#7 Refugio Knapp is located just 50 meters from the ski lifts of Cerro Catedral. The hotel is the perfect base for ski lovers in Bariloche. It offers modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms, ski-in/ski-out access, and ski and snowboard lessons.
#8 Hosteria Sudbruck is a beautifully decorated inn with a cozy cabin atmosphere, just 200 meters from the ski lifts of Cerro Catedral. It features a seasonal restaurant and a hot tub with panoramic mountain views. Guests can rent ski equipment and arrange lessons.
Bariloche Tourist Map
Top Things To Do in Bariloche
#1 Nahuel Huapi National Park
Nahuel Huapi National Park is the oldest national park in Argentina, covering an area of 7,050 square kilometers in the northern part of Patagonia. Established in 1903 to protect the region’s flora and fauna, the park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts, featuring snow-capped peaks, vast forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Lake Nahuel Huapi, the largest lake in the park, spans over 400 square kilometers and is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
The park is easily accessible from San Carlos de Bariloche, which lies at its edge. From Bariloche, multiple entrances lead into the park, with various hiking trails of differing difficulties. Popular hikes include the treks to Refugio Frey and the Cerro Catedral ski area, both offering breathtaking views over the park.
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer, from November to April, when the weather is mild and most trails are accessible. In the winter months, from June to September, the park transforms into a winter sports haven. An entrance ticket is required for Nahuel Huapi National Park and can be purchased at the park entrance or online.
#2 Circuito Chico
Circuito Chico
Circuito Chico is a popular scenic route approximately sixty kilometers long that runs along the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The route offers stunning views of the Bariloche area and Nahuel Huapi National Park.
The circuit begins just past Cerro Campanario, about 23 kilometers outside Bariloche. You can explore Circuito Chico by bike, car, or organized tour. Bikes are available for rent in Bariloche, with various rental companies offering bikes suited for the hilly terrain. For those who prefer to drive, there are plenty of car rental agencies in the city.
While the route can be completed in a day, it’s recommended to take your time and stop at the many viewpoints, beaches, and eateries along the way. Near the starting point is Cerro Campanario, with a spectacular 360-degree view of the lakes and mountains. You can reach the summit with a short, steep hike or by taking the chairlift. The iconic Llao Llao Resort, designed by architect Alejandro Bustillo in 1938, is a beautiful historic hotel where you can book a lunch or spa visit. Next to the hotel is the San Eduardo Chapel, a charming wooden building that perfectly complements the picturesque landscape.
Other notable stops include Puerto Pañuelo, from where you can take boat trips to Bosque de los Arrayanes and Isla Victoria, and Llao Llao Municipal Park, where you can hike the Sendero de los Arrayanes and Cerro Llao Llao trails. At kilometer marker 29, you can turn off to Villa Tacul, an area with beautiful beaches and ruins of an old hotel. Laguna Lago Escondido, a small lake accessible via a short forest trail, features a picturesque wooden pier and tranquil views.
Colonia Suiza, a historic Swiss colony, offers the traditional Curanto meal on Wednesdays and Sundays. Other interesting stops include Playa Sin Viento, a sheltered beach, and the dinosaur-themed Parque Nahuelito, ideal for families with young children.
#3 Cable Car to Cerro Campanario
The cable car to Cerro Campanario is one of the most popular attractions in Bariloche. From the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It was the first sight we visited in Bariloche, and the stunning panorama instantly made us fall in love with the region.
Cerro Campanario is located about seventeen kilometers west of downtown Bariloche along Avenida Ezequiel Bustillo. The cable car whisks visitors to the top of the 1,049-meter hill in just seven minutes. Once at the top, you can marvel at panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Lake Perito Moreno, Lake El Trébol, Victoria Island, Mount Otto, Cerro López, Cerro Goye, and Cerro Catedral.
At the summit, there’s a cozy café where you can relax with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate while soaking in the spectacular scenery. Several lookout platforms and walking paths allow you to explore and admire the views at your leisure. The cable car to Cerro Campanario is open daily, and tickets can be purchased on-site. For more active travelers, there’s also a steep hiking trail to the top.
#4 Centro Civico, the Historical Center
Centro Civico is the historical and cultural heart of Bariloche, located on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The central square, Plaza Expedicionarios del Desierto, is surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Francisco P. Moreno Museum of Patagonia, the municipal library, and the town hall.
Notable for its distinctive alpine style with wood and stone, designed by Argentine architect Ezequiel Bustillo, the architecture is heavily influenced by the European immigrants who settled here in the early twentieth century. Large stone arches and wooden balconies give it a European charm, earning Bariloche the nickname “Little Switzerland” of Argentina.
The Francisco P. Moreno Museum of Patagonia, also known as Museo de la Patagonia, offers insights into the natural history and indigenous cultures of the region. Visitors can admire fossils, prehistoric finds, stuffed animals, and historical artifacts.
Another interesting museum nearby is the Bariloche Paleontological Museum, which showcases fossils and skeletons of extinct animals found in Patagonia. This small museum provides a unique glimpse into the prehistoric world of the region.
Centro Civico is easily accessible on foot from downtown Bariloche. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, admiring the historical architecture, and learning about the region’s history and culture. Additionally, there are plenty of cafés and shops nearby, making it a perfect spot to spend the day.
#5 Hiking in Bariloche
Hiking in Bariloche is one of the best ways to explore the stunning nature of Patagonia. A popular hike is the climb to the top of Cerro Campanario, an easy 1-kilometer trek that takes about 30-40 minutes. You reach the summit via a steep path, but the 360-degree views over Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Perito Moreno are well worth the effort. Bus number 20 takes you from the center to the trailhead in about 30 minutes. Not in the mood for a climb? There’s also a chairlift to the top.
Cerro Llao Llao offers a longer and fairly easy hike of 7-8 kilometers, including a visit to the Mirador Llao Llao viewpoint. The round trip takes 4-5 hours and provides scenic views of lakes and mountains. Take bus 20 to Puerto Pañuelo and walk 30 minutes to the trailhead.
For a challenging hike, head to Refugio Frey. This 10-kilometer trek starts at the Cerro Catedral ski center, reachable by bus 55. The hike takes about 4 hours and passes through forests with spectacular views of mountains and lakes. The route to Laguna Schmoll adds another 2 kilometers and is recommended for experienced hikers.
Lago Gutiérrez is a gentle 3-kilometer hike, ideal for families. This trail starts at the end of bus line 50 and follows a gravel path along the lake. Along the way, you can visit the Cascada de Los Duendes, a beautiful waterfall in an enchanting forest. The hike takes about an hour and offers lovely views of the lake’s emerald waters.
Cerro La Buitrera is a unique and lesser-known destination about 20 kilometers south of Bariloche. The landscape features surreal rock formations that resemble an alien landscape. The path to the top is an easy three-hour round trip. You reach the access point via the estancia “La Lucha,” owned by the Crespo family, where you must register and pay a small entrance fee. The rock formations were created by millions of years of wind and water erosion.
Read more: the best hikes in Patagonia
#6 Seven Lakes Route
The Seven Lakes Route, or Ruta de los Siete Lagos, is one of the most spectacular road trips in Argentina, winding through the stunning landscape of Northern Patagonia. This route connects Bariloche with San Martín de los Andes via a scenic road that passes seven lakes: Nahuel Huapi, Espejo, Correntoso, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, and Machónico.
Part of the famous Ruta Nacional 40, the route offers breathtaking views of the Andes, vast forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The best time to drive this route is in summer or spring, when the weather is mild, and nature is at its best. You can explore the Seven Lakes Route by rental car, which offers the most flexibility, or join an organized tour for convenience. For active travelers, cycling the route is also a fantastic option.
The route covers 185 kilometers and passes through three national parks: Nahuel Huapi, Lanín, and Arrayanes, and two provinces: Río Negro and Neuquén. While you can complete the route in a day, a two-day trip with an overnight stay in Villa La Angostura or San Martín de los Andes allows more time to enjoy the surroundings.
Start in Bariloche and follow Ruta Nacional 40 towards Villa La Angostura, along Lake Nahuel Huapi with beautiful views of the lake and mountains. Villa La Angostura is a charming town perfect for a coffee break and exploring local chocolate shops. After Villa La Angostura, the actual Seven Lakes Route begins, with signs directing you to the various lakes and stopping at viewpoints along the way. The route ends in San Martín de los Andes, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Lácar, offering various dining and accommodation options.
There are several options for the return trip to Bariloche. You can take the same route back or choose an alternative route via Paso Córdoba or Junín de los Andes. The Paso Córdoba route offers spectacular rock formations and the beautiful Valle Encantado, while the Junín de los Andes route takes you along the Aluminé and Collón Curá rivers.
#7 The Chocolate of Bariloche
Bariloche is known as the chocolate capital of Argentina, a reputation rooted in the European immigrants who arrived after World War II. Swiss and German immigrants brought their chocolate traditions and craftsmanship, leading to the establishment of numerous chocolate shops and factories in the city. The unique combination of high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques has made Bariloche’s chocolate famous.
The most popular street for chocolate lovers is Calle Mitre, home to many chocolatiers like Mamuschka, Rapa Nui en Chocolates del Turista. These shops offer a wide range of chocolates, bonbons, and other sweets, all made with traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can often sample before buying and even watch the chocolate-making process in some of the factories.
#8 Colonia Suiza
While Bariloche itself is often seen as a little piece of Switzerland in Argentina, this is especially true for Colonia Suiza. About 25 kilometers from Bariloche, along the famous Circuito Chico route, lies this charming village founded by Swiss immigrants in the late nineteenth century. These settlers brought their culture, traditions, and architectural styles, creating a unique slice of Switzerland in a stunning natural setting.
The Sunday and Wednesday market is a highlight, offering local crafts, freshly baked bread, and other delicacies. A unique attraction at the market is the traditional Curanto, an Araucanian meal brought to Argentina by Swiss families via Chile. During the market, you can witness the ceremonial preparation of Curanto, where meat and vegetables are cooked in a pit filled with hot stones.
Visitors can also enjoy walks in the surrounding area, visit the Museum Los Viejos Colonos to learn about the history of the first settlers, and relax at the beaches on Lake Moreno. Colonia Suiza is easily accessible by car or bus from Bariloche.
Reizigers kunnen ook genieten van wandelingen door de omgeving, een bezoek brengen aan het Museum Los Viejos Colonos voor een kijkje in de geschiedenis van de eerste kolonisten, en ontspannen bij de strandjes aan het Moreno-meer. Colonia Suiza is eenvoudig te bereiken met de auto of bus vanuit Bariloche.
#9 Cerro Catedral
Cerro Catedral is a mountain peak 20 kilometers from downtown Bariloche. The name “Cerro Catedral” comes from the cathedral-like granite spires that resemble the towers of a Gothic cathedral. It is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in South America.
At an altitude of 2,388 meters, the mountain offers an impressive network of over 120 kilometers of ski runs, divided into 53 separate routes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The ski resort features modern facilities, including 34 ski lifts capable of transporting up to 35,000 skiers per hour, minimizing wait times.
Cerro Catedral attracts thousands of visitors annually, both from Argentina and internationally, and is especially popular during the high season from June to September when snow conditions are optimal for winter sports. The low season runs from December to March when the mountain is primarily visited by hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers who enjoy the beautiful summer landscapes and outdoor activities.
#9 Villa Traful & Circuito Grande
Villa Traful is an idyllic village on the southern shore of Lake Traful in Patagonia. Founded in the twentieth century, it is a hidden gem not yet on many tourists’ radars. Here, you can enjoy the tranquility and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and horseback riding. A unique attraction is the underwater forest, created by a landslide that submerged a cypress forest. This natural phenomenon has become a popular diving spot, offering a unique underwater experience.
The drive to Villa Traful is an adventure in itself. The often unpaved and bumpy road takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes, with mountains on either side and spectacular views of the lake. The route is part of the Circuito Grande, a scenic 240-kilometer loop from Bariloche. Follow National Route 237 and Provincial Route 65 along the Limay and Traful rivers. Along the way, you can stop at Villa Llanquin, the Limay River Amphitheater, and Valle Encantado. The unpaved road along Route 65 takes you through the Traful River Valley, with stops at Puerto Arrayán and Paso Portezuelo.
In Villa Traful, you can visit the main pier, colorful streets, and waterfalls of the Coacó and Blanco streams. Climb to the Mirador del Viento for a stunning view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Follow the lake shore west for more sights, such as the Catarata Waterfall.
Check weather conditions before you go. You’ll want to avoid driving on Route 65’s unpaved roads in bad weather.
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