Things To Do
in San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche is a picturesque city located in the northern Patagonia region of Argentina. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the city is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. Bariloche is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, and boating.
The city also boasts a charming alpine-style town center with Swiss-inspired architecture and a variety of shops, restaurants, and chocolate shops.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Carlos de Bariloche and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around the main square to get a feel for the town.
Visit the Civic Centre and the nearby Museo de la Patagonia. Enjoy a traditional Argentinian lunch at a local café.
Dine at a restaurant offering Patagonian cuisine. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset over Lake Nahuel Huapi.
Embark on the Circuito Chico tour, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. Stop at the Llao Llao Hotel for photo opportunities.
Visit the Colonia Suiza and taste some local cheeses and artisanal products. Hike the short trails nearby to enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
Return to Bariloche and savor dinner at a local gourmet restaurant. Wind down with a nightcap at a bar in the city.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and lakes
- Rich cultural history and heritage, with a strong Swiss influence
- Wide range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing
- Vibrant culinary scene, known for chocolate and craft beer
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- High tourist season can lead to overcrowding and increased prices
- Limited public transportation options, making it necessary to rent a car
- Cold winters may not be suitable for all visitors
- Remote location may require significant travel time from major cities
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
Best Activities in San Carlos de Bariloche
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nahuel Huapi National Park by embarking on one of its many hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Andes Mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at Cerro Catedral, one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in South America. The resort offers a wide range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, as well as stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
San Carlos de Bariloche is home to numerous mountain biking trails that cater to both beginners and experienced riders. Cyclists can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery while exploring the area's diverse terrain.
The region around San Carlos de Bariloche is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous lakes and rivers offering abundant populations of trout and salmon. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a peaceful day by the water while taking in the stunning surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Carlos de Bariloche with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Carlos de Bariloche
Visit one of these nice places.
Cerro Campanario offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests. It's considered one of the best viewpoints in the region.
Cerro Otto provides breathtaking views of Nahuel Huapi Lake and the Andes mountains. It's accessible by a cable car and features a rotating restaurant with 360-degree views.
The Civic Center area in Bariloche offers picturesque views of the city's architecture, the Nahuel Huapi Lake, and the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular spot for photography.
Food in San Carlos de Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring an assortment of meats, such as chorizo, morcilla, and succulent beef ribs. Don't miss it at El Boliche de Alberto for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout prepared with Patagonian herbs and served with regional potatoes. Sample this dish at Butterfly, overlooking the serene Nahuel Huapi Lake.
Indulge in a comforting treat of hot chocolate paired with crispy churros at Mamuschka, a renowned chocolate emporium in the heart of Bariloche.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Carlos de Bariloche better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Peruse the Feria Regional de Alimentos in the town center for an array of locally produced cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal preserves. You'll also find delectable street food options ranging from empanadas to grilled choripan.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Carlos de Bariloche, it is important to be punctual for social and business engagements as it shows respect for others' time.
When meeting someone in San Carlos de Bariloche, it is customary to greet them with a handshake, and for closer acquaintances, a kiss on the cheek may be exchanged.
When dining in San Carlos de Bariloche, it is polite to keep your hands on the table and to wait until the host begins eating before you start.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Carlos de Bariloche with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos de Bariloche
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina. However, in some tourist-oriented establishments, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill. It is always courteous to leave a small tip if the service has been exceptional.
Cash is widely used in San Carlos de Bariloche, especially in smaller establishments, markets, and for taxi rides. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case of any issues with card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Carlos de Bariloche.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. The weather is warm and perfect for exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Bariloche.
Bariloche showcases beautiful fall foliage during this season. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the changing colors of the trees.
Ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. The town transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of winter sports and activities.
A wonderful time to witness the region come alive with blossoming flowers and trees. It's also a good time for outdoor adventures as the weather starts to warm up.
San Carlos de Bariloche at Night
Hiking in San Carlos de Bariloche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The hike is moderate and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.
An iconic mountain known for its ski resort, but also offers various hiking trails. The trails vary in difficulty and provide opportunities for both casual walks and more challenging hikes.
A picturesque trek leading to a mountain hut located amidst beautiful rock formations and lakes. The hike is approximately 5-6 hours one way, making it suitable for those looking for an adventurous day trip.
A scenic trail around Lake Perito Moreno that offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's generally an easy hike, making it perfect for families.
An easy to moderate loop trail that showcases the natural beauty of the area, providing breathtaking vistas of the lakes and the Andes. The entire circuit takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Carlos de Bariloche through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Carlos de Bariloche by plane.
The main airport serving San Carlos de Bariloche, located just 13 km from the city center.
Located approximately 180 km southeast of Bariloche, it serves the town of Esquel and surrounding areas.
This airport is around 20 km from Bariloche, primarily serving the tourism sector and smaller aircraft.
Located about 13 km from Bariloche, it is the main commercial airport in the region.
About 400 km north of Bariloche, it is one of the larger airports providing service to the Patagonia region.
Located approximately 900 km northwest of Bariloche, it serves the Mendoza region and provides international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, consisting of individuals who are citizens or residents of Argentina.
Includes indigenous groups such as the Mapuche, who have historical ties to the region.
A growing number of expatriates and foreigners from various countries, attracted by the region's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
A significant portion of the population during peak seasons, consisting of domestic and international travelers visiting for recreation.
The Soul of San Carlos de Bariloche
Discover the essence of San Carlos de Bariloche through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
San Carlos de Bariloche is well-known for its skiing opportunities, particularly at the Cerro Catedral ski resort, attracting many enthusiasts during the winter season.
The region offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
With its diverse terrain, Bariloche is a sought-after destination for mountain biking, offering trails for various skill levels.
The area's lakes and rivers provide great opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, especially during the summer months.
Fishing is a popular pastime in Bariloche, especially fly fishing in the lakes and rivers rich with trout.
The region's mountains and rock formations offer great options for rock climbing, attracting climbers of all skill levels.
Adventurous visitors can partake in paragliding, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the picturesque landscape.
Soccer remains a popular cultural sport in Argentina, and local clubs and communities often participate in matches and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos de Bariloche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Argentina is known for its meat-heavy dishes, several restaurants in Bariloche cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. Visit Pura Vida for plant-based delights and inventive vegan versions of Argentine classics.
For gluten-free options, La Marca and Verbena Resto offer dedicated menus featuring a variety of dishes, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for those with gluten sensitivity.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Carlos de Bariloche with these cultural adventures.
