The 9 things to do in Bariloche

Visit Bariloche: what are the best things to do and to see in this city nicknamed "Switzerland Argentina" by Argentinians?

At the tip of the far south of the American continent, there is a 3,000 km long region, which covers one third of Argentina and almost as much of the Chile Patagonia. Literary myth and exceptional land, the last land inhabited by men offers breathtaking landscapes: mountains, glaciers, islands, archipelagos... Go to discover this region of the world still preserved and more precisely San Carlos de Bariloche (commonly called Bariloche).

This town of about 150,000 inhabitants is 1 650 km southwest of Buenos Aires , at the foot of the Andes, on the edge of Nahuel Huapi Lake, in the national park of the same name. Known for its landscapes of lakes and mountains and its Swiss architecture of Alpine style and chocolate (from which its nickname “Switzerland Argentina”), it is the ideal starting point for hiking and skiing enthusiasts. Are you wondering what to do in Bariloche? Discover the essential activities to your stay.

1. The city of Bariloche

If you are going to visit Bariloche, the first thing to do is of course explore the city. You will fall under the charm of this city at the edge of Switzerland and its small historic centre lined with old stone or wood houses.

Don't miss visiting the beautiful Cathedral Nuestra Señora de Nahuel Huapi , the civic centre with a museum and library or the San Eduardo chapel. Other sites like Patagonia Museum , the Mapuche Craft House, the Rosenda Pascual Geological Museum and the Cerro Otto Art Gallery are also worth a visit if you ask that you do in Bariloche!

2. The Seven Lakes circuit

This is the unmistakable altarpiece if you go to visit Bariloche! This 200 km path, crosses forests and rivers to take you along the coasts of the most beautiful lakes in Argentina. He starts in Bariloche to end San Martin des Andes and can be by bus, by car or by bike for the bravest! You will discover sublime views of these famous lakes Lago Espejo, Correntoso, Villarino, Falkner, Hermoso, Machonico and Lacar.

3. Cerro Catedral

Built on the slopes of the Cerro Catedral (2,405 m), it is one of the oldest and largest ski areas in South America and therefore an immanquable if you are looking for what to do in Bariloche. The estate includes more than 120 kilometers of ski slopes, 34 ski lifts and 14 restaurants. Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoes, sled, sled or snowmobile... You will have the choice!

4. The Frey shelter

What do you ask Bariloche? Walk to the Frey ( Refugio Frey ) is one of the must-see hikes! This refuge is located on the shore of the Lagoon Toncek , a lake at 1,700m above the sea level you will enjoy the incredibly transparent water.

5. Isla Victoria

Enjoy a breathtaking show from the boat on which you will cross the Lake Nahuel Huapi towards the Quetrihue Peninsula. From there, you will reach the arrayane forest, a very rare tree species that can be found only in Japan and Bariloche.

6. Local gastronomy

It is important to know if you will visit Bariloche, that the city is considered the "National Capital of Chocolate". Swiss immigration allowed the region to become the reference in this area. The city even has a chocolate museum, the " Havana Museo del Chocolate "

German immigration, for her part, made beer very popular too! So don’t hesitate to test a local beer in one of the many traditional beer bars in the city. Finally, remember to also taste the trout and lamb of Patagonia.

7. Nahuel Huapi National Park

What else to do in Bariloche during your stay? Discover its most beautiful national park of course! You will fall back in front of the extremely rich fauna and flora of Nahuel Huapi National Park , which is also the oldest Argentine national park!

8. The most beautiful views of Bariloche

What to do in Bariloche? Several tours from Bariloche or the surroundings will take you to breathtaking views! The Cerro Campanario will offer you an unforgettable view and is easy to access. Take the cable car and admire the view, well-installed to the top, or engage in a short 30-40-minute hike.

For the Cerro Otto , another cable car will take you in less than 15 minutes (or a hike from 1h30) to more than 1400 meters above sea level to admire the superb views of Lago Gutierrez and Cerro Catedral.

Much further (count about 2h30 by car from Bariloche), the Cerro Tronador really is worth the detour because it is a resting volcano that beats records with its 3478 meters and its breathtaking view. Experience a unique experience by attending the incredible show of ice blocks that detache from the seven suspended glaciers.

9. Hiking and trekking

You can't visit Bariloche without hiking! Due to its location between lakes and mountains, it is an exceptional setting for all walkers. In the circuits we have just mentioned above, know that many hikes are marked once on site, or along the road that will lead you to the points of view. The circuito Chico is a small path that starts from the south coast of Nahuel Huapi Lake, all along which you can stop on one of the many beaches and enjoy the view of the lakes, islands and mountains of the region.

How to get to Bariloche?

At the departure of France, there are several flights to Bariloche, but you should know that all of them, usually include two ports of call (see airport changes), especially in Buenos Aires. On average, you have about 20 hours of travel to Bariloche. To anticipate your trip and compare prices that fluctuate according to the seasons, visit our partner's website Ulysses which lists the flights at the best prices, and whatever the company (or period) of your choice.

Since Bariloche Airport is located about 15 kilometers from the city centre, you will have to opt for a shuttle transfer or - if you want to enjoy Bariloche and its surroundings in a greater autonomy- rent a car upon arrival at the airport.

Where to stay in Bariloche?

Accommodation in Bariloche is very simple since the city is tourist and offers many accommodations with prices adapted to all types of budget. So, whatever type of adventure you’re looking for, you can opt for an all-inclusive stay in a hotel, or go to meet local culture by choosing to sleep at home. From the platform Airbnb to this Compare hotels , favor research to find shoe at your foot. In fact, to get there, know that our article “ In which quarter house in Bariloche? "is also there to enlighten you.