How to Make the Perfect 4-Day Itinerary in Bariloche, Argentina + Main Attractions

If you’re looking for an enchanting destination filled with natural beauty and exciting adventures, look no further: Bariloche is the perfect place to explore! Here you will find an itinerary and a detailed map of where to go, where to eat and other important tips on what you need to know before visiting Argentina!

Bariloche is a city located in the province of Río Negro, in Argentina, it is a charming city located on the banks of the majestic Lake Nahuel Huapi and surrounded by the imposing Andes Mountains.

Founded in 1902, this city began as a small village but over the years has become one of Argentina’s most popular tourist destinations, famous for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

 

 

Discover the 5 Main Attractions in Bariloche!

• Cerro Catedral: This mountain is an icon of Bariloche and there you can enjoy some of the best ski slopes in South America during the winter! If you go in the summer, it’s a great place for hiking and enjoying the nature-filled views.
• Circuito Chico: One of the most popular tours in Bariloche, Circuito Chico is a route of around 60 km that takes visitors to some of the most stunning tourist attractions in the region, including the Lago Moreno Viewpoint and the Hotel Llao Llao. You can take a guided tour on tourist buses, with your rental car, public transport to save money or even by bike for the more adventurous!
• Colonia Suiza: This is a small community on the outskirts of Bariloche, known for its craft fairs and regional cuisine. It’s the perfect place to try typical dishes!
• Cerro Campanario: Recognized as one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world, here you can have incredible panoramic views of the lakes and mountains in the region. You can reach the viewpoint via a cable car and the climb takes around 7 minutes!
• Circuito dos Lagos: Like the Circuito Chico, the Circuito dos Lagos can be done with a tour by tourist bus, rented car or bicycle! The tour is famous for its natural beauty. Here you can see crystal-clear lakes, rich forests with an immense diversity of fauna and flora, as well as snow-capped mountains of the Andes. Additionally, you may want to stop in charming villages for activities such as a lakeside picnic.

 

 

What I Need to Know Before Traveling to Bariloche:

When planning your trip, take some important details into account so you don’t get caught by surprise!

The official language in Argentina, and in Bariloche, is Spanish. So even if you don’t speak the language, it’s useful to learn some basic phrases before your trip, especially if you plan to explore less touristy areas.

Even though many locals can understand and speak some Portuguese and English, showing an interest in expressing yourself in Spanish – even simple words like “hola” and “gracias” – is appreciated and can make interacting with locals easier.

The official currency in Bariloche is the Argentine peso, as is the case throughout the country. To be on the safe side, it’s always a good idea to also have cash in hand, as not all establishments accept credit cards, especially in smaller neighborhoods, small establishments or at open-air markets. Therefore, I recommend having a variety of notes and coins of different denominations to facilitate payments.

In addition to visiting Bariloche’s main attractions, take the opportunity to try Argentine cuisine! One of the best sweets is Bariloche’s famous artisanal chocolate during your visit. There are several shops along Miter Street offering a wide selection of delicious chocolates, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

In addition to chocolate, also try other local culinary delights, such as roast Patagonian lamb, smoked sausages and Argentine wines.

 

 

When in Bariloche, always remember to respect local culture and customs. Wear appropriate clothing when visiting religious sites or more traditional areas, and be aware of local traditions when interacting with residents.

For example, in Argentine culture, it is common to greet people with a “kiss on the cheek” (actually an air kiss, without physical contact) when being introduced or when meeting friends.

Another tip is to be careful when taking photos in public places. Avoid photographing people without asking permission, not everyone feels comfortable being photographed, especially by strangers, and it is important to respect other people’s privacy.

Well, maintaining a respectful and open attitude will help you ensure a positive and enriching experience during your stay in Bariloche!

 

How to make a 4-Day Itinerary to Tour and Taste Argentine Cuisine

 

See the detailed map after the list of attractions!

 

How to Get to Bariloche?

If like most people, you are coming from Buenos Aires, one of the most common options is to fly into San Carlos de Bariloche International Airport.

There are direct flights available from the capital, which last approximately 2 and a half hours. Another option is to travel by bus, with companies that offer regular services between Buenos Aires and Bariloche.

The bus journey can take between 18 and 20 hours. It can be tiring, but it is an economical way to get to the city, as well as providing a beautiful view of the Argentine landscapes.

 

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City

– Morning: If you arrive at San Carlos de Bariloche International Airport, it is approximately 15 km from the city center. You can use taxi services, private transfers or rent a car to reach your hotel.

You can also use public transport, but be aware that public transport options may not have the same frequency and may even be unavailable if you arrive very late.

Generally, there are buses available at the airport that take you to the city center, but for this it is a good idea to check in advance the timetables and routes at the airport itself or through official public transport websites in the region.

– Afternoon: After check-in at the hotel or airbnb and a short rest, if you have energy, you can start exploring the city center. Stroll along the charming Miter Street, where you will find artisanal chocolate shops, souvenirs and welcoming restaurants. Be sure to visit the Catedral Nuestra Señora del Nahuel Huapi, an impressive architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city.

– Where to Eat: While exploring the main street, Miter, be sure to try delicious Argentine alfajores at one of the many local patisseries. Alfajores are cookies filled with the famous dulce de leche, covered with chocolate, a national delicacy loved by Argentines.

 

Day 2: Cerro Catedral and Circuito Chico

– Morning: Have a hearty breakfast and get ready for a day of adventure at Cerro Catedral. If it’s winter, enjoy skiing on one of the best ski slopes in South America! If you’re arriving during the summer but still want adventure, take a breather and take a hike through the mountains, enjoying the stunning views of the region.

– Afternoon: After lunch and a short rest, embark on a tour of Circuito Chico. Explore the region’s most stunning tourist attractions, such as the Lago Moreno Viewpoint and Hotel Llao Llao. I’m sure you will be impressed by the natural beauty around you.

– Where to Eat: At Cerro Catedral, take the opportunity to try an authentic Argentine barbecue in one of the restaurants at the base of the mountain. Argentine barbecue is a true gastronomic experience and is known for its succulent and flavorful meats!

 

 

Day 3: Colonia Suiza and Cerro Campanario

– Morning: Set aside a few hours to visit the charming Colonia Suiza. Explore the craft fairs – don’t forget to bring cash – where you can find a variety of local products, from fabrics to ceramics and food products. Be sure to have lunch at one of the local restaurants!

– Afternoon: After lunch, head to Cerro Campanario. Take the cable car and enjoy a 7-minute climb to the viewpoint. From the top, you will have an incredible panoramic view of the lakes and mountains in the region, perfect for taking photos and recording this truly memorable experience!

– Where to Eat: Take the opportunity to try the famous roasted Patagonian lamb. Patagonian lamb is a typical dish of the region, prepared slowly on a skewer and served with potatoes and fresh vegetables… delicious!

 

Day 4: Circuit of the Lakes

– Full Day: Take the day to leisurely explore the Circuito dos Lagos, known there as “Ruta de Los Siete Lagos”. Choose your preferred transport option – tourist bus, car or bicycle that you can easily rent in the region – and enjoy the beautiful views of crystal-clear lakes, forests and villages.

Make stops along the way to enjoy the scenery or have a picnic by the lake. Don’t forget to take lots of photos!

– Where to Eat: During the tour you can try fresh seafood in one of the lakeside restaurants. Seafood is a popular delicacy in the region, especially Patagonian trout and salmon.

 

Check out the detailed map of the 4-day itinerary in Bariloche here!

 

In addition to this itinerary, if that’s your style, Bariloche’s nightlife is also lively and has options for all tastes and styles. Despite not being as busy as big cities, the city also has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for socializing, relaxing and having fun.

 

If you also want to enjoy the nights in Bariloche, I have 5 tips:

   1. Bars and Pubs: Bariloche has a variety of bars and pubs spread across the city, especially along Miter Street and in areas close to the coast of Lake Nahuel Huapi. They are ideal places to drink a local craft beer, try unique cocktails or simply relax with friends.

   2. Nightclubs: For those who like to dance and enjoy music until the early hours of the morning, Bariloche also has some nightclubs with various musical styles, from electronic to Latin and pop music.

   3. Live Shows: Many bars and restaurants in Bariloche offer live music throughout the night, featuring local artists and bands from various musical genres, such as rock, jazz, blues and Argentine folklore.

 

   4. Craft Breweries: Bariloche is known for its local craft breweries, and visiting one of these breweries is a great way to sample some of the region’s best beers while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

   5. Cafés and Restaurants: If you prefer a quieter evening, Bariloche’s cafés and restaurants offer the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in a warm and cozy atmosphere together with your partner or friends.

 

6 Main Safety Precautions to Consider in Bariloche

Traveling is always a discovery, not only of the tourist attractions, but also of the local lifestyle and perrengues. Therefore, pay attention to these points:

   1. Altitude and Hydration:
Be aware of the altitude in Bariloche, especially when engaging in physical activities. The city is located in a mountainous region, which can affect your breathing and oxygen levels, leaving you short of breath. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and to allow your body to better adapt to the altitude.

   2. Variable Weather:
The weather in Bariloche can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature throughout the day. So prepare yourself by bringing appropriate clothing for different weather conditions, including light layers and waterproof pieces. Always check the weather forecast before heading out to plan your activities and bring an extra layer just in case.

   3. Security in the City:
Although Bariloche is considered a safe city, it is always good to be aware of your belongings, especially busier areas like the ones we saw in the itinerary. Keep your valuables safe and avoid displaying large amounts of money or valuables in public. Use bags or backpacks with zippers and always keep them in sight.

   4. Road Safety:
If you are driving, be aware of road conditions and local traffic rules. Bariloche has mountainous and winding roads, so it is important to drive carefully, especially in adverse weather conditions. Be prepared for narrow, steep roads, and always wear a seat belt.

   5. Sun Protection:
Due to the altitude and proximity to the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen regularly to avoid sunburn, even if the day is cloudy. Use a good sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF) and reapply frequently, especially if you are participating in outdoor activities.

   6. Travel Insurance:
Last but definitely not least: don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for Bariloche before your trip! This will guarantee assistance in case of medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation or other unforeseen events. Make sure your insurance includes coverage for adventure activities, such as skiing or mountain hiking!

 

 

Conclusion…

Bariloche is a stunning destination that offers diverse activities for all tastes and ages. With its impressive natural beauty, the city attracts the attention of visitors throughout the year.

By following these tips, you will be well prepared to enjoy your trip safely and peacefully. Make the most of all the adventures and experiences this experience has to offer!