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Located in the heart of the Patagonian Andes, Bariloche is a breathtaking destination that seamlessly blends adventure, nature, and culture. With its stunning glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, and charming alpine-style architecture, this picturesque town offers a taste of Europe in South America. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of skiing at Cerro Catedral, the serenity of hiking through Nahuel Huapi National Park, or the indulgence of its famous chocolate shops, the city has something for everyone. Recognised as Argentina’s National Capital of Adventure Tourism, it promises year-round excitement, from summer road trips to winter wonderlands.
Location
Photo: Kinkojim / Wikimedia Commons
Bariloche is located in the Río Negro province of Argentina, nestled within the Nahuel Huapi National Park. Positioned on the southern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, the majestic Andes Mountains surround this stunning destination. The city is approximately 1,600 kilometres (994 miles) southwest of Buenos Aires and near the Chilean border. Due to its strategic location in Argentine Patagonia, the city serves as a gateway to incredible outdoor adventures, including trekking, skiing, and scenic road trips.
How To Reach
Photo: Kinkojim / Wikimedia Commons
By Sea: Ferry services operate from Chile, offering a scenic journey through Andean lakes.
By Road: Well-connected highways make Bariloche accessible by bus or car from Buenos Aires, Mendoza, or Chile.
By Air: The San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) connects the city to Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, and international destinations.
Things To Do
Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, here are the must-try activities in Bariloche.
1. Stroll The Centro Histórico
Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons
Bariloche’s charming historic centre blends Bavarian-inspired architecture with a distinctly Patagonian vibe. Walk through Centro Cívico, the city’s cultural heart, and admire its log-and-stone buildings dating back to the 1940s. Visit the Francisco P. Moreno Museum of Patagonia to learn about the region’s history and indigenous heritage. Explore Plaza Expedicionarios del Desierto, where friendly St. Bernard dogs offer an adorable photo opportunity.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
2. Feast On Bariloche Chocolate
Photo: ValeriaLu / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bariloche is known as Argentina’s chocolate capital, thanks to European settlers who brought chocolate-making traditions. Walk down Mitre Street, where boutique chocolatiers like Rapa Nui, Mamuschka, and Havanna tempt visitors with artisanal treats. Don’t miss the Chocolate Museum, which showcases the journey of cacao from the Aztecs to modern-day Argentina. If visiting in Easter, witness the Bariloche Chocolate Festival, where chocolatiers create the world’s largest chocolate bar!
Best Time To Visit: Easter
3. Road Trip The Scenic Seven Lakes Route
Photo: Alan Lucero / Wikimedia Commons
The Seven Lakes Route (Ruta de los Siete Lagos) is one of Patagonia’s most scenic drives. Starting from Bariloche, this 107-km (66-mile) route winds through crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and ancient forests. Stop at the quaint villages of Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes and camp under the stars for a truly magical experience.
Best Time To Visit: December to March
4. Eat Steak, Drink Malbec
Photo: Yotam Nachum / Wikimedia Commons
Argentina is famous for its succulent steaks and fine wines, and Bariloche is no exception. Visit Alto El Fuego, a renowned parrilla (steakhouse), and savour Bife de Chorizo (sirloin steak) with a glass of Mendoza Malbec. For a cosy experience, wine bars like Patanuk offer curated selections of Argentina’s best vintages.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Places To Visit In & Around Bariloche
Among the nearby attractions, such sites visit the area even more worthwhile and enjoyable.
1. Flags Square (Plaza de las Banderas)
Photo: Loco085 / Wikimedia Commons
Flags Square, also called Plaza de las Banderas, is a beautiful park overlooking Lake Nahuel Huapi. The main attraction here is the Paseo de las Colectividades (Walk of Nations), a walkway displaying the flags of the many countries whose people immigrated to Bariloche. The park is particularly picturesque in the afternoon, offering a peaceful escape with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially during sunset when the sky turns golden over the lake.
Best Time To Visit: Evening
2. Bariloche Paleontological Museum
Photo: Jonathan Cooper / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A hidden gem for science and history lovers, the Bariloche Paleontological Museum houses a fascinating collection of dinosaur fossils, prehistoric marine creatures, and local archaeological finds from northwestern Patagonia. This small museum offers insight into the region’s prehistoric past with well-preserved fossils, educational exhibits, and informative guides. It’s an excellent stop for families and anyone interested in palaeontology.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
3. Calle Mitre
Photo: Felipe Restrepo Acosta / Wikimedia Commons
Bartolomé Mitre Street is the heart of Bariloche’s shopping and dining scene. This lively avenue is lined with boutiques, chocolatiers, restaurants, and souvenir shops offering everything from handmade crafts to high-end goods. It’s also home to libraries, art galleries, and tourist offices, making it a perfect place to explore the city’s vibrant culture. Calle Mitre was the first avenue to be paved in the city and remains one of the most traditional streets in town. Whether you’re shopping for local chocolates or simply soaking in the charming atmosphere, a stroll along this iconic street is a must.
Best Time To Visit: Afternoon and evening
4. Cerro Catedral (Mount Catedral)
Photo: Profesorfabiovirtual / Wikimedia Commons
Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in Latin America, offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking views. Located 20 minutes from Bariloche, it’s easily accessible by bus lines 55 or 50. While winter brings thrilling ski slopes, the resort is also a fantastic summer destination for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The network of refugios (mountain huts) allows visitors to stay overnight while exploring the trails.
Best Time To Visit: June to September and December to March
5. Cerro Otto (Mount Otto)
Photo: Stevage / Wikimedia Commons
Cerro Otto offers breathtaking hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities located on the south bank of Nahuel Huapi Lake. A cable car takes visitors to the top, where a 360-degree rotating café provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Even if you’re not an adventurer, the panoramic gondola ride is worth the visit. The summit is also home to an art gallery featuring replicas of Michelangelo’s sculptures, making it an unusual but memorable spot in Bariloche.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Where To Stay
Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bariloche offers accommodations ranging from budget hostels to luxury lakeside lodges. Backpackers can stay at Hostel Inn Bariloche, while couples will love Llao Llao Resort, offering breathtaking lake views. Eco-friendly cabins and lakefront hotels like Design Suites provide stunning settings for nature lovers.
Where To Eat
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
For authentic Patagonian cuisine, visit El Boliche de Alberto, which is famous for its grilled meats. Try Mitra, a fine-dining restaurant offering gourmet dishes with stunning lake views. For budget travellers, La Fonda del Tío serves delicious home-style meals at affordable prices.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Kinkojim / Wikimedia Commons
This city in Argentina is a year-round destination offering unique experiences in every season. Summer (December–March) is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with ideal conditions for hiking, road trips, and water activities on Nahuel Huapi Lake. Winter (June–September) transforms Bariloche into a snowy paradise, attracting skiers and snowboarders to Cerro Catedral, South America’s largest ski resort.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
- Pack for all seasons, Patagonia’s weather changes rapidly.
- Learn basic Spanish, English isn’t widely spoken.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Bariloche is an adventure lover’s dream, offering stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you’re trekking through Nahuel Huapi National Park, indulging in artisanal chocolate, or skiing in Cerro Catedral, this Patagonian gem has something for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience the magic of Bariloche firsthand!
Cover Photo: Aguila19 / Wikimedia Commons
