Things To Do
in San Carlos de Bariloche

Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, often prepared on a spit or in a closed oven over wood; available at parrillas and traditional restaurants outside and inside town.

Must-Try!

Fresh trout from Nahuel Huapi prepared grilled, smoked, or in local house sauces; commonly found in waterfront restaurants and parrillas.

Swiss-inspired melted-cheese dishes popular in colder months — common in alpine-style restaurants and mountain refuges.

Handmade chocolates and dulce de leche–filled confections from many shops on Mitre Avenue; tasting shops like Rapa Nui and Mamuschka are local favorites.

Small municipal markets and artisan fairs where you can try smoked trout, empanadas, local preserves, and regional jams; great for buying chocolates and souvenirs.

Scattered street stalls and food stands sell hot empanadas and churros — quick and tasty for colder days or a lakeside snack.

People typically greet with a single cheek kiss (right cheek) or a firm handshake; starting with 'Hola' or 'Buenas' is polite.

Many Argentines use 'vos' instead of 'tú' in informal speech; address people politely and mirror the level of formality you are offered.

Friendly conversation is common; avoid making strong assumptions about politics — discussing football (soccer) or food is safer and often welcomed.

When visiting national parks and trails, follow Leave No Trace principles, stick to marked paths and respect private property and indigenous sites.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; in restaurants 10% is common if service charge isn't included. Taxi drivers are typically rounded up or given a small tip; porters and hotel staff are given modest tips for help.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops; smaller vendors, markets and some mountain services prefer cash (Argentine pesos). ATMs are available in town but can run low on cash in peak seasons — carry a mix of cash and cards and inform your bank before travel.

December–February: warm days (15–25°C / 59–77°F), long daylight hours, ideal for hiking, biking, boating and fishing; expect peak tourism, especially around holidays — book accommodations early.

March–May: crisp air and brilliant fall foliage in April; cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it a great shoulder season for photography and drives.

June–August: cold with frequent snow at higher elevations, excellent skiing at Cerro Catedral; bring layered clothing and be prepared for shorter daylight and occasional road closures due to snow.

September–November: melting snow, blooming wildflowers and variable weather — good for quieter trails and emerging green landscapes, though conditions can change quickly.

Long-term residents include families tied to tourism, hospitality and local services with European-descended Argentines prominent in the region.

Large seasonal workforce that supports ski resorts, hotels and restaurants during peak winter and summer months.

Mapuche and other indigenous peoples are present in the region; some cultural heritage and community-led tourism initiatives exist — respect and support for local communities is encouraged.

A mix of Argentine and foreign visitors drawn to outdoor sports, nature and regional gastronomy throughout the year.

Top winter sport at Cerro Catedral with domestic and international visitors enjoying downhill skiing, snow parks and alpine schools.

Argentina’s national passion — local amateur and youth matches are common and football is widely followed.

Popular during warmer months on the many trails and service roads surrounding the lake and nearby mountains.

Recreational fishing for trout is a well-established activity with guided trips and seasonal tournaments.