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San Carlos de Bariloche

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San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche, or Bariloche for short, is a popular holiday destination in Argentina. Nestled within Nahuel Huapi National Park, it offers breathtaking natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor adventures.

One of Bariloche's main attractions is Nahuel Huapi Lake, the largest lake in the national park. Beyond the lake, the park features diverse landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and mountains. For panoramic views of the national park from above, hike or ride a chairlift to the top of Cerro Campanario.

Bariloche is also one of Argentina’s premier ski destinations. Cerro Catedral offers 120 km of ski slopes catering to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. If you’re a nature and adventure lover, make sure to put Bariloche on your bucket list!

Travel Tips for San Carlos de Bariloche

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around San Carlos de Bariloche

A guide to San Carlos de Bariloche's local transportation

Walking
Bus
Car Rental

Walking is a great way for you to get around Bariloche. Many of the city's attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. It allows you to explore at your own pace while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of this town.

Practical Tips for San Carlos de Bariloche

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top attractions in San Carlos de Bariloche?

Some of the must-see attractions in Bariloche include Nahuel Huapi National Park, renowned for its vast glacial lake. Another popular spot is Cerro Campanario, where you can take a chairlift to the mountaintop and enjoy breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. In addition to these natural wonders, don’t miss the charming Swiss-style architecture that gives the city its unique character.

What outdoor activities can I do in San Carlos de Bariloche?

In the winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Cerro Catedral. During the warmer months, spend your day hiking and trekking in the surrounding mountains, such as Cerro Otto. If you’re interested in kayaking or fishing, Nahuel Huapi Lake is a great place to go. Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to cycle along the scenic Circuito Chico.

When is the best time to visit San Carlos de Bariloche?

The best time to visit Bariloche depends on your interests. For skiing and winter sports, travel between June and September. If you’re planning to go trekking, December to March is the right time. During this period, you will likely experience pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.

What are some must-try foods in San Carlos de Bariloche?

Don’t miss out on trouts sourced from local lakes, as well as cordero al palo, a traditional roast lamb. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be happy to hear that Bariloche is the chocolate capital of Argentina. Visit the Museo del Chocolate Havanna to learn about the history of chocolate and purchase some delicious chocolate. Finally, the city is also known for its craft beers, so make time to visit one of the local breweries.

How do I get to San Carlos de Bariloche from Buenos Aires?

The most common way to travel from Buenos Aires to Bariloche is by air. Direct flights from both Ezeiza and Aeroparque airports in Buenos Aires to Bariloche Airport take about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus, which takes over 20 hours but offers a scenic journey through the Argentine countryside.

In This Guide

Travel Tips for San Carlos de Bariloche