Things To Do
in Catriel
Catriel is a small city in Río Negro Province, Argentina, known for its oil industry and wide Patagonian plains. The town combines industrial activity with a friendly, close-knit community and a rural backdrop. It serves as a practical base for exploring the high-desert landscape and nearby lakes.
Visitors will find approachable dining, a relaxed pace, and opportunities to experience Patagonian town life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Catriel and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to get familiar with the surroundings, soaking in the local ambiance and charm. Visit a café to taste freshly brewed Argentine coffee and pastries.
Explore the local market, where you can find handmade crafts and regional products. Engage with vendors to learn about their artistry and the culture of Catriel. Take the afternoon to relax and enjoy a traditional Argentine lunch at a local restaurant.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Rio Colorado. Find a nice spot to observe the sunset before heading to a local parrilla for an authentic Argentine barbecue dinner. End your evening with a glass of Malbec while enjoying live music.
Embark on a guided trip to the Valle de las Leñas, a stunning natural reserve nearby. Start with hiking trails that show off the beautiful landscapes and local wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera to capture extraordinary views of the mountains.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature, enjoying local delicacies. After lunch, consider a horseback riding tour through the valley to gain a different perspective of the breathtaking scenery. The horseback ride will offer a chance to connect deeply with the tranquil environment.
Return to Catriel and unwind at your accommodation. Visit a local bar to engage with residents and learn about their stories and culture. Share your day’s experiences over a delicious empanada paired with a refreshing drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-7 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, friendly town with a strong sense of local community
- Relatively affordable food and lodging compared to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Public transportation is sparse outside the town center
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Catriel
Visit one of these nice places.
Central plaza with mature trees, a fountain, and everyday town life—ideal for candid street photography.
Green space with winding paths and seasonal blooms; perfect for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Open plains and distant hills provide expansive landscape opportunities.
Historic church with simple architecture and a tranquil exterior for composition studies.
Food in Catriel
Catriel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional grilled meats served with chimichurri; a social centerpiece at parrillas and gatherings.
Must-Try!
Baked pastries filled with beef, onions, and spices; a common street and market snack.
Breaded fried beef or chicken cutlet, typically served with fries or salad.
Grilled provolone cheese with herbs, often enjoyed as an appetizer near the grill.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Street vendors selling empanadas, choripán, and sweets during evenings and weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple handshake is common; use polite forms like Señor/Señora in formal settings.
Engage in light, friendly small talk about family and work; avoid sensitive topics early in introductions.
Respect personal space; avoid raising voices in public or quiet places.
Safety
Tipping in Catriel
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping around 10% is common if service is good; taxis are often rounded up and cash is appreciated for smaller establishments.
Cards are widely accepted in larger venues; carry cash for markets, street vendors, and rural areas; mobile payments are increasingly common in urban spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with low rainfall; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be prepared for windy afternoons.
Mild days with cooler mornings; landscapes begin to warm with fall colors.
Cool to cold temperatures and shorter days; layer up and plan for indoor activities during peak chill.
Pleasant temperatures with occasional rain; great for outdoor walks and photography.
Catriel at Night
Hiking in Catriel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short ascent with rewarding views of the plains and distant hills; suitable for a half-day hike.
A flat-to-rolling trail along the prairie with wide open skies and few shade spots.
Airports
How to reach Catriel by plane.
Nearest major airport to the region, about 240-300 km away by road; multiple daily flights and easy road connections.
Smaller regional airports in the broader Neuquén and Río Negro region, typically used for charter flights or connections to larger hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Numerous workers and families connected to local energy projects; diverse backgrounds.
People involved in farming and cattle ranching around the outskirts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and informal games are common on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Catriel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at larger places; look for grilled vegetables, salads, and cheese-filled empanadas; many venues can adapt dishes upon request.