Nature lovers cannot go wrong with an Argentina vacation in Bariloche. This Patagonian city is located in the western part of Argentina, at the foothills of the Andes on the border with Chile. Also known as the Lakes Districts, the region is dotted with gorgeous glacial lakes and surrounded by high mountains perpetually capped with snow. The city, famed for its Alpine-style architecture, is located on the shores of magnificent Lake Nahuel Huapi. For its scenic beauty, Bariloche is one of the best destinations for an Argentina vacation, offering a range of activities around the year and where nature pleases all the senses.
Best natural attractions in Bariloche
Mountains. The Andes Mountains mark the western edge of Bariloche and the surrounding towns and these offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor sports in all seasons. The area boasts an extensive set of hiking trails where it is possible to hike for hours or day; for the latter, small cabins have been installed in the mountains for this purpose. Popular places for mountain climbing include the Llao Llao Circuit around Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Moreno, Refugio Grey over Cerro Catedral, Mount Tronador for views of glaciers and waterfalls, and a multi-day trek from Refugio Grey to Lake Jakob. A day hike to a mountain hut on Cerro Lopez is another great option. Some of these are only available seasonally because of weather conditions.
Forests. Bariloche is located within the Nahuel Huapi National Park and its preserved areas are ideal for taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia. Other national forests are also accessible, including the neighboring Lanin National Park and Los Arrayanes National Park. The latter is filled with the tree species arrayan, famed for its purple flowers and said to have provided inspiration for the cartoon trees depicted in the animated film, Bambi. Within these national parks, travelers can explore trails, walk to waterfalls, picnic by the edge of various lakes and rivers.
Sail Lakes. There is no better way to take in the exquisite lake setting than to sail on the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi or one of the other nearby lakes. A tour to Puerto Blest is one of the most popular options for Bariloche tours and excursions to Isla Victoria departing from Puerto Pa?�uelo are ideal for travelers who want to encounter the unique flora and fauna in a pristine setting.
Other popular activities in Bariloche
Ski season is the high season for travel to Bariloche. The ski resort on Cerro Catedral is a huge draw for domestic and international tourists who want to ski, snowboard, cross-country ski, sled, etc from July to October.
Summer season is another popular time to visit, but for a quieter experience, avoid June and July which is when high school students flood Bariloche to celebrate graduations.
How to get to Bariloche. Daily flights depart from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities. Travel by bus is a second option, especially if using the cama class, with ample reclining seats and meal service.
