Bariloche looks like it was transplanted from the Alps to the end of the world. Wooden chalets and chocolate shops line the streets, the deep blue Nahuel Huapi lake stretches to the horizon, and snowy peaks rise on every side. It is the gateway to northern Patagonia’s Lake District, a region of forests, glacial lakes and volcanoes that straddles Argentina and Chile. North of Bariloche, the famous Seven Lakes Route (Ruta de los Siete Lagos) winds for roughly 110 kilometers through national parks to San Martín de los Andes, passing one postcard lake after another.
This guide covers everything you need for 2026: the best things to do in Bariloche, the top hikes, how to drive or bus the Seven Lakes Route, where to stay, when to go in summer or winter, and what it all costs. Whether you are road-tripping Patagonia or adding a few days of nature to a trip to Buenos Aires, Bariloche and the Seven Lakes are an unmissable part of Argentina. For the big picture, start with our Argentina travel guide.
Bariloche at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro province |
| Setting | South shore of Nahuel Huapi lake, inside Nahuel Huapi National Park |
| Getting there | About 2 h 20 min flight from Buenos Aires; 20+ h bus |
| Best time | December–March (summer hiking); July–September (skiing) |
| Recommended stay | 4–5 days in Bariloche + 2–3 days on the Seven Lakes Route |
| Famous for | Lakes, hiking, skiing, chocolate, craft beer, Patagonian lamb |
| Currency | Argentine peso; cards widely accepted |
Best Things to Do in Bariloche
1. Drive or cycle the Circuito Chico
The Circuito Chico is a scenic loop of about 60 kilometers west of town along the lakeshore, passing viewpoints, beaches, the famous Llao Llao hotel and the Colonia Suiza village. You can drive it in half a day, take a bus with stops, or do the most popular option: take a bus to kilometer 18, rent a bike and ride the 25-kilometer hilly loop at your own pace. Stop at Punto Panorámico, one of the best viewpoints in Patagonia, and at a lakeside brewery for lunch.
2. Ride the chairlift up Cerro Campanario
A short chairlift ride (or a steep 30-minute walk) takes you to the summit of Cerro Campanario, where a 360-degree view takes in Nahuel Huapi, Lake Perito Moreno, the Llao Llao peninsula and the surrounding peaks. It is often called one of the most beautiful views in the world. Go at sunset on a clear day.
3. Hike to Refugio Frey
The hike from Villa Catedral to Refugio Frey is Bariloche’s most famous day hike. The trail follows Lake Gutiérrez, climbs through lenga forest and ends at a stone mountain hut beside a small alpine lake surrounded by granite spires. It takes about four hours each way (around 12 km one way), and you can sleep at the refugio to make it a two-day trip. It is open in summer and early autumn.
4. Visit Isla Victoria and the Arrayanes Forest
Boat trips from Puerto Pañuelo cross Nahuel Huapi to Isla Victoria and the Bosque de Arrayanes on the Quetrihué peninsula, a magical forest of cinnamon-colored myrtle trees. You can also reach the Arrayanes forest by walking or cycling from Villa La Angostura.
5. Cerro Catedral
In winter, Cerro Catedral is one of the largest ski resorts in South America, with dozens of runs and spectacular lake views. In summer, the lifts carry hikers and mountain bikers towards the ridges.
6. Chocolate and craft beer
Calle Mitre, the main street, is lined with chocolate shops that are an attraction in their own right. Bariloche is also the craft beer capital of Argentina, with dozens of breweries around town and along the Circuito Chico.
7. Cerro Otto and Cerro López
El Cerro Otto, reached by cable car, has a revolving restaurant and great views over town. Cerro López offers a tougher hike to a refugio with views over the Circuito Chico lakes.
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Best Hikes Around Bariloche
| Hike | Distance (round trip) | Time | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cerro Campanario | ~2 km | 1 h | Easy | Famous panoramic view |
| Cerro Llao Llao | ~4 km | 1.5–2 h | Easy | Forest and lake views |
| Refugio Frey | ~24 km | 7–8 h | Moderate | Granite towers, alpine lake |
| Cerro López | ~10 km | 5–6 h | Moderate–hard | Views over Circuito Chico |
| Refugio Otto Meiling (Tronador) | ~20 km | 2 days | Hard | Glaciers of Monte Tronador |
| Refugio Jakob / Frey traverse | Multi-day | 3–5 days | Hard | Classic Nahuel Huapi traverse |
Hikers heading to the mountain huts must register their route with the national park, which can usually be done online or at park offices. Weather in Patagonia changes fast; carry layers and a waterproof jacket even on sunny days. Check our guides to the best waterproof hiking boots for Patagonia and the best insulation jackets.
The Seven Lakes Route Explained
The Ruta de los Siete Lagos is a stretch of the legendary Ruta 40 between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes, through the Nahuel Huapi and Lanín national parks. The road is fully paved and about 110 kilometers long. You can drive it in three hours, but most people take a full day, or two, stopping at lakes, beaches, waterfalls and viewpoints.
The seven lakes most commonly listed along the route are Lácar, Machónico, Falkner, Villarino, Escondido, Correntoso and Espejo, and the road begins or ends on the shores of Nahuel Huapi. Each has its own color and character, from the deep turquoise of Escondido to the mirror-like water of Espejo.
| Lake / stop | What to do |
|---|---|
| Lago Espejo | Calm beaches, picnic spots, crystal-clear water |
| Lago Correntoso | Famous fishing spot, one of the world’s shortest rivers connecting to Nahuel Huapi |
| Lago Escondido | Small, hidden emerald lake below the road |
| Lago Villarino | Quiet viewpoint, campsites |
| Lago Falkner | Long sandy beaches, camping, swimming in summer |
| Cascada Vullignanco | Waterfall stop near Falkner |
| Lago Machónico | Forest-lined lake, short viewpoint walk |
| Lago Lácar | San Martín de los Andes’ lake, kayaking and beaches |
Villa La Angostura
About 80 kilometers from Bariloche, Villa La Angostura is a smaller, quieter and upscale version of Bariloche, full of wooden lodges and gardens. It is the starting point for the Arrayanes forest, the Cerro Bayo ski area and the Seven Lakes Route itself.
San Martín de los Andes
At the northern end of the route, San Martín de los Andes is a charming lakeside town on Lago Lácar, with good restaurants, beaches and the Chapelco ski resort nearby. It is also the base for visiting Lanín volcano and the Mapuche communities of the area.
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How to Travel the Seven Lakes Route
| Option | Pros | Cons | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental car | Total freedom, stop anywhere | One-way fees, winter conditions | US$50–100 per day + fuel |
| Organized day tour from Bariloche | Easy, guided | Long day, rushed stops | US$60–100 |
| Public bus | Cheap | Few stops, limited schedule | US$15–30 |
| Cycling | Unforgettable experience | Hills, traffic in summer | US$20–40 per day rental |
A rental car is the best way to enjoy the route. Pick up the car in Bariloche, drive to Villa La Angostura, take the Seven Lakes Route to San Martín de los Andes, and return via the faster route through La Rinconada and Confluencia, making a loop. If you return the car in Bariloche you avoid one-way fees.
Suggested 7-Day Bariloche and Seven Lakes Itinerary
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bariloche, walk the Civic Center and Calle Mitre, chocolate tasting |
| Day 2 | Circuito Chico by bike, Cerro Campanario at sunset |
| Day 3 | Hike to Refugio Frey (or overnight there) |
| Day 4 | Boat to Isla Victoria and Arrayanes, or Cerro Tronador day trip |
| Day 5 | Drive to Villa La Angostura, start the Seven Lakes Route, sleep near Lago Falkner or in San Martín |
| Day 6 | San Martín de los Andes: Lago Lácar, Mirador Bandurrias, kayaking |
| Day 7 | Return to Bariloche via the alternative route |
When to Visit Bariloche and the Seven Lakes
| Season | Months | Conditions | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | December – February | Warm, long days, busiest | Hiking, swimming, road trips |
| Autumn | March – May | Golden forests, cooler, quieter | Photography, road trips |
| Winter | June – August | Snow, ski season, short days | Skiing and snowboarding |
| Spring | September – November | Windy, flowers, variable weather | Fewer crowds, late skiing |
Many hiking trails and mountain huts are only open from December to April. In winter, chains may be required on the Seven Lakes Route after snowfall. July is very busy with Argentine school holidays and student trips.
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Where to Stay
In Bariloche, choose between staying in town (walkable, close to restaurants and bus connections) or along the Avenida Bustillo towards the Llao Llao peninsula (lake views, quieter, better for those with a car). In Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes you will find cabins, boutique lodges and hostels.
| Type | Bariloche price per night | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | US$15–30 | Social, central |
| Mid-range hotel or cabin | US$60–130 | Lake views on Av. Bustillo |
| Luxury lodge | US$250+ | Llao Llao and boutique lodges |
Bariloche Budget
| Expense (per person, per day) | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | US$20 | US$60 |
| Food and drinks | US$20 | US$45 |
| Transport and car rental share | US$8 | US$35 |
| Activities and lifts | US$10 | US$30 |
| Total per day | ~US$58 | ~US$170 |
Prices in Argentina change quickly with inflation and the exchange rate, so treat these as approximations. Paying by foreign card is now often competitive with cash exchange; compare both when you arrive.
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Getting to Bariloche
Bariloche’s airport has frequent flights from Buenos Aires (around 2 h 20 min) and seasonal connections with other Argentine cities and São Paulo. Long-distance buses connect Bariloche with Buenos Aires (20+ hours), Mendoza, El Bolsón and, across the border, Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas in Chile. The scenic Cruce Andino combines boats and buses across the lakes to Puerto Varas in Chile, a spectacular way to continue your journey. Plan your Buenos Aires days with our Buenos Aires travel guide.
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Continuing Through Patagonia
Bariloche is the northern gateway to Patagonia. From here, travelers usually head south to El Calafate for the Perito Moreno glacier, to El Chaltén for Fitz Roy, and across the border to Torres del Paine in Chile. Read our El Calafate and Perito Moreno glacier guide, our Torres del Paine W Trek guide and our Chile Patagonia travel guide. Distances are huge, so many travelers fly between Bariloche and El Calafate.
Driving in Patagonia: Practical Road Trip Tips
Renting a car is the best way to explore the Lake District, and driving in this part of Argentina is generally easy. Roads are paved, traffic is light outside the summer peak and the scenery is extraordinary. Still, Patagonia has its own rules, and a little preparation goes a long way.
- Fuel up whenever you can. Gas stations are spaced out; fill the tank in Bariloche, Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes. There are no stations along the central part of the Seven Lakes Route.
- Drive in daylight. Animals, cyclists and sharp curves make night driving risky. In summer, daylight lasts until around 9:30 pm.
- Watch the speed limits. Police checkpoints are common, and limits drop in national parks and near towns.
- Carry the car documents. You need the rental contract, your license and your passport. An International Driving Permit is recommended alongside your home license.
- Ask about border crossings. If you plan to drive into Chile, the rental company must issue special permission and insurance in advance, usually for an extra fee.
- Prepare for winter. From June to September, carry chains (rental companies provide them) and check road conditions with the national road authority before setting off.
- Download offline maps. Mobile coverage disappears for long stretches along the route.
Bariloche with Kids and Families
Bariloche is one of the most family-friendly destinations in South America. Children love the chairlift up Cerro Campanario, the boat ride to Isla Victoria, the chocolate factories with tasting tours, and the beaches of Playa Bonita and Villa Tacul in summer. In winter, Cerro Catedral has ski schools and snow parks for beginners. Along the Seven Lakes Route, Lago Falkner and Lago Espejo have shallow, calm beaches perfect for families, and many campsites offer cabins with kitchens.
Distances on the route are manageable for children if you break the drive into short stages. Plan a stop every hour at a lake or waterfall and pack a picnic, since restaurants along the central stretch are few.
Camping on the Seven Lakes Route
Camping is one of the best ways to experience the Lake District. Organized campsites with bathrooms, hot showers and small stores are found at Lago Falkner, Lago Villarino, Lago Espejo and Lago Lácar, as well as in Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes. Free (agreste) camping is permitted only in designated areas inside the national parks. Fires are often prohibited because of wildfire risk, so check the current rules and use a camping stove. In January and February, popular campsites fill up quickly, so arrive early in the day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Trying to do the Seven Lakes Route as a rushed day trip. It is a long day from Bariloche; overnighting in San Martín de los Andes is far more enjoyable.
- Underestimating the weather. Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply and storms arrive fast in the mountains.
- Not booking ahead in peak season. January and July are extremely busy, with prices to match.
- Skipping the trails. Many visitors only drive and shop; the hikes are where Bariloche really shines.
- Forgetting insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers hiking and winter sports if you plan to ski.
Day Trips from Bariloche
El Bolsón
About two hours south of Bariloche, El Bolsón is a relaxed, alternative town famous for its artisan market (held several days a week, biggest on Saturdays), berry farms, craft breweries and hiking trails up Cerro Piltriquitrón and to the refugios of the Cajón del Azul. It makes a great day trip or a stop on the way south.
Cerro Tronador and the Black Glacier
Monte Tronador, an extinct volcano on the Chilean border, rises to 3,478 meters and is covered in glaciers. A long day trip from Bariloche takes you to Pampa Linda and the Ventisquero Negro (Black Glacier), whose ice is darkened by rock debris, and to the foot of the Garganta del Diablo waterfalls. Access to the road is time-restricted in each direction, so join a tour or plan your timing carefully.
Valle Encantado and the Limay River
East of Bariloche, the landscape shifts dramatically to the steppe. The Valle Encantado has strange rock formations along the Limay River, where you can also go fly fishing or rafting in summer.
Each of these trips shows a different side of northern Patagonia, from dense temperate rainforest to wide-open steppe, all within a few hours of town.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Bariloche?
Plan at least four days in Bariloche to see the Circuito Chico, Cerro Campanario, a big hike like Refugio Frey and a boat trip, plus two or three days for the Seven Lakes Route.
How long is the Seven Lakes Route?
The Seven Lakes Route between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes is about 110 km on Ruta 40. It can be driven in about three hours, but most travelers take a full day or two.
Is the Seven Lakes Route paved?
Yes, the route is fully paved. In winter, snow and ice may require chains and occasionally close sections temporarily.
When is the best time to visit Bariloche?
December to March is best for hiking and lakes, and July to September for skiing. Autumn (March to May) offers beautiful colors and fewer crowds.
Can I do the Seven Lakes Route without a car?
Yes, by public bus or an organized day tour from Bariloche, but a car gives you much more freedom to stop at lakes and viewpoints.
What is the best hike in Bariloche?
The hike to Refugio Frey is the most popular, with granite spires and an alpine lake. Cerro Campanario is the best short walk for views.
Is Bariloche expensive?
Bariloche is one of Argentina’s more expensive destinations, especially in July and January. Budget travelers can manage on around US$55–60 per day; mid-range travelers spend around US$150–180.
How do I get from Bariloche to Chile?
Buses connect Bariloche with Osorno, Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas via the Cardenal Samoré pass. The Cruce Andino boat-and-bus journey is a more scenic option.
Is Bariloche good for skiing?
Yes. Cerro Catedral is one of the largest ski resorts in South America, with a season usually running from late June to September.
What food should I try in Bariloche?
Try Patagonian lamb, trout, smoked meats and cheeses, local craft beer, and of course chocolate from the shops on Calle Mitre.
Conclusion: Patagonia’s Lake District at Its Best
Bariloche and the Seven Lakes Route offer some of the most beautiful scenery in South America in an easy, accessible package: paved roads, comfortable lodges, great food and a huge range of hikes for every level. Spend a few days exploring Bariloche, then take the Seven Lakes Route slowly, stopping at every beach and viewpoint. Whether you come for summer hiking or winter skiing, it is the perfect introduction to Patagonia.
Continue planning with our Argentina travel guide and our list of the most beautiful places in South America.
