Bariloche & the Lakes: Essence of Northern Patagonia

At any time of the year, heading west along Bustillo Avenue, you can begin one of the most beautiful and complete excursions offered by Nahuel Huapi National Park: the famous Circuito Chico.

This half-day tour covers a 65-kilometer route along the southern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, combining stunning landscapes with cultural and historic landmarks.

Along the way, we’ll pass by scenic beaches like Playa Bonita and Bahía Serena, and stop at natural viewpoints such as Bahía López and Punto Panorámico, ideal spots to take in the magnificent Patagonian scenery.

One of the highlights of the day is the ascent to Cerro Campanario aboard a chairlift. Once at the summit, we’re rewarded with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the region: a 360° vista of lakes Nahuel Huapi, Perito Moreno, and El Trébol, as well as San Pedro Peninsula, Victoria Island, and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains. It’s a must-see viewpoint and a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Later in the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a sweet experience at La Chocolaterie, a charming artisanal chocolate shop nestled in a beautiful alpine-style house. Here, we’ll learn about the chocolate-making process, the use of local ingredients, and Bariloche’s deep-rooted tradition as Argentina’s chocolate capital.

To top it off, we’ll indulge in a guided chocolate tasting, sampling a selection of handcrafted chocolates with unique flavors—an unforgettable treat for the senses.

After the visit, we return to our hotel.

Lodging in San Carlos de Bariloche - Double or Single Base 

Included Meals: Breakfast, Chocolate Tasting Experience 

We begin our one-hour navigation from Puerto Pañuelo, located on the impressive Llao Llao Peninsula, sailing across the majestic waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Our first stop is the Quetrihué Peninsula, home to the Arrayanes Forest—a unique natural wonder in the northeast corner of the lake.

The arrayán (myrtle), known as quetrihue in the Mapuche language, is a shrub with smooth, cinnamon-colored bark and delicate white flowers. In this magical forest—the only one of its kind in the world—these shrubs grow into tall, tree-like formations, creating an enchanted landscape that feels straight out of a fairytale.

We continue sailing to Puerto Anchorena, on Isla Victoria, a place of lush native and exotic vegetation that offers sweeping views of the surrounding lake and mountains. Following well-marked forest trails, we arrive at Playa del Toro, a volcanic sand beach framed by ancient trees and lake views. Here, we’ll find prehistoric cave paintings left by the native peoples who once inhabited the area—a powerful and moving connection to Patagonia’s ancestral past.

This journey through pristine landscapes, rich history, and rare ecosystems is truly an unforgettable and magical experience.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to continue visiting Bariloche on our own. 

Lodging in San Carlos de Bariloche - Double or Single Base 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Excursion Recommended: Authentic Culinary Experience with Local Chef Lucas Mallmann

Far from the city buzz, Chef Lucas Mallmann welcomes us to his family farm, tucked away in the remote San Pedro Peninsula, for an unforgettable experience: his signature "Cocina de Fuegos" (Fire Cooking).

In this peaceful natural setting, and paired with a good glass of wine, we’ll enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients—like the classic Patagonian trout, seasonal vegetables, and premium Argentine meats.

Everything is prepared in his simple and rustic open-fire style, where flames and hot iron infuse each ingredient with their unique flavor. Even dessert takes part in this fire-and-flavor ritual.

The result is a truly authentic Patagonian culinary experience, where nature, tradition, and good food come together in perfect harmony.

After breakfast the rest of the day is at leisure to visit Bariloche on our own.

Lodging in San Carlos de Bariloche - Double or Single Base 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Excursion Recommended: Full Day San Martin de los Andes by 7 Lakes 

In addition to traveling along the famous road of the 7 lakes, we will visit the picturesque cities of Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes.

The Walk from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes is one of the most important excursions that tourists can take when they come to see the region. It is a full day that covers the Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks. It starts from Bariloche, along RN 40 towards the north.

After passing Puerto Manzano, you cross Villa La Angostura, a true mountain village. A few kilometers later, the Path of the 7 Lakes begins, which runs through lakes Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Hermoso and Machónico.

Once in San Martín de los Andes, on the shore of Lake Lacar, passengers will have time for lunch and will be able to tour the city center. You return along the same path.

At the scheduled time, we transfer to Bariloche Airport, where our services come to an end.

We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of your journey through Patagonia!

Included Meals: Breakfast