Things To Do
in San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche, located in the Argentine Patagonia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the picturesque Nahuel Huapi Lake and the surrounding Andes mountains. This charming town, often referred to as Bariloche, is famous for its Swiss-style architecture and delicious chocolate shops. As a popular ski resort in winter, it transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts during the warmer months, offering hiking, biking, and water sports.
Visitors can enjoy a rich blend of Argentine culture and breathtaking nature in this enchanting destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Civic Center, a historic building that offers great views of the lake. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, trying the traditional medialunas (croissants).
Take a scenic drive along the Circuito Chico, stopping at various viewpoints, including the iconic Llao Llao Hotel. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local trout.
End your day with a stroll through the town, visiting chocolate shops, and dine at a traditional Argentine parrilla (steakhouse) for some delicious asado.
Embark on a hiking adventure to Cerro Campanario, where you can take a chairlift to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the region. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the top.
After descending, spend the afternoon at the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters. Have a casual lunch at a nearby food stall.
Conclude your visit with a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring local craft beers and artisanal pizzas, followed by a nightcap at a bar with live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a Restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚍Public Transport Ticket | $1 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $50-150 |
| 🍫Artisan Chocolate Bar | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes with lakes and mountains.
- A wide range of outdoor activities year-round.
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transportation options outside the city center.
- Higher costs for accommodation and dining compared to other Argentine destinations.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in San Carlos de Bariloche
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the lakes and mountains, perfect for breathtaking landscape photography.
A picturesque hotel surrounded by mountains and lakes, ideal for capturing classic Bariloche scenery.
A beautiful cathedral with striking architecture, great for capturing both interiors and exteriors.
Food in San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring various cuts of meat, often enjoyed with chimichurri sauce.
Must-Try!
Patagonian trout, typically grilled or baked, showcasing the fresh flavors of the region.
Bariloche is famous for its artisanal chocolate shops offering a variety of sweet treats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An artisan market where local vendors sell handmade crafts, foods, and street snacks.
Try empanadas and choripán from street vendors for a quick and delicious meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is standard, while friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek.
Wait for the host to start the meal before beginning to eat; it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.
Arriving on time is appreciated, but a 15-minute delay is often acceptable in social situations.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos de Bariloche
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; rounding up for small services is also appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blooming flowers and fewer crowds; great for hiking and outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures perfect for water sports, hiking, and enjoying the lakes; be prepared for peak tourist season.
Cooler temperatures with stunning fall colors; ideal for photography and enjoying local festivals.
Cold and snowy, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding; cozy up in cafes with hot chocolate.
San Carlos de Bariloche at Night
Hiking in San Carlos de Bariloche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike with spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, well-marked trails available.
A moderate hike leading to a beautiful mountain refuge, offering stunning views and a chance to explore alpine landscapes.
Airports
How to reach San Carlos de Bariloche by plane.
Located just 13 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it convenient for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population comprises tourists, particularly during the ski and summer seasons.
The local community is primarily composed of Argentine citizens, with a mix of indigenous Mapuche heritage influencing the culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Field hockey is popular in Bariloche, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Skiing and snowboarding are major winter sports in the region, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos de Bariloche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.
Some eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited; inquire before ordering.