7 Days in Bariloche: Patagonian Lakes & Alpine Peaks
Bariloche is the gateway to Nahuel Huapi National Park, where Swiss-style chalets meet pristine mountain wilderness. This trip combines high-altitude day hikes, glacier-fed lake kayaking, and the dramatic scenery that made Patagonia famous—with far fewer crowds than El Chaltén.
What to expect
- Hike Cerro Campanario for panoramic lake and peak views, 2 hours from town
- Kayak across turquoise Lago Nahuel Huapi to remote Isla Huemul
- Trek to Refugio López through southern beech forest and alpine meadows
- Explore Circuito Chico loop road with stops at mirador viewpoints and hidden beaches
- Climb Cerro Otto for 360° views and optional cable-car descent
Day by day
Fly into Bariloche. Pick up rental car and check into lodge near Centro Cívico.
Ride Cerro Campanario cable car for sunset views over Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding peaks.
Dinner at local parrilla on Mitre Avenue; stroll the waterfront promenade.
Drive the Circuito Chico; stop at Playa Bonita for lake views and short forest walk.
Visit Punto Panorámico and Bahía López; hike 1 hour to viewpoint above Colonia Suiza.
Return to Bariloche; dinner at Cassis, a local restaurant in quieter neighbourhood.
Drive 10 km to Cerro Otto trailhead; begin steady 4-hour climb through lenga forest.
Summit at 1,405 m; panoramic views of Bariloche, Isla Huemul, and distant volcanoes.
Descend via cable car (or on foot); early dinner and rest.
Drive to Lago Mascardi; begin hike to Refugio López (5 hours, moderate). Forest and alpine sections.
Reach refugio on the shore; rest and enjoy empanadas with mountain views.
Hike back to trailhead in late afternoon light; return to Bariloche by dusk.
Meet kayak guide at Puerto de Angostura; paddle across Nahuel Huapi toward Isla Huemul.
Land on remote island; hike to secluded beaches and old Chilean fort ruins (1902).
Paddle back at sunset; dinner at waterfront café in Puerto de Angostura.
Guided hike to Refugio Frey (3 hours); pass through pristine beech forest and alpine lakes.
Explore Lago Negra and Laguna de los Tres Picos; wildlife spotting (coipu, upland geese).
Return to Bariloche; spa treatment or craft beer tasting at local brewery.
If time allows, short walk in Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi near the town.
Lunch on Mitre Avenue; drive to airport or continue to next destination.
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