San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina: travel guide
Lakeside Patagonia with chocolate shops, alpine peaks and ski runs
Switzerland of South America — chocolate shops, ski slopes on Cerro Catedral, turquoise Nahuel Huapi lake, and Patagonian lamb.
About San Carlos de Bariloche
Bariloche sits on the southern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, with forested mountains rising behind its Alpine-style streets. The setting is the main draw: turquoise water, steep ridgelines and viewpoints such as Cerro Campanario, which gives a wide panorama of the lake and surrounding peaks.
In winter the town becomes a base for skiing at Cerro Catedral, while summer opens up lake cruises, hiking and cycling loops through the Lake District. Chocolate shops line the centre, and Patagonian lamb and smoked trout feature on local menus.
Bariloche suits families, couples and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit between December and March for hiking and warm days, or from July to August for snow.
- Country
- Argentina
- Currency
- ARS
- Time zone
- America/Argentina/Salta
- Nearest airport
- BRC
Last updated
Plan a San Carlos de Bariloche trip
Top places to visit in San Carlos de Bariloche
Cerro Campanario Viewpoint
Viewpoint · 4.8 rating · about 1.5 h · entry $6,000 (≈ ₹380)
National Geographic ranked this one of the world's best viewpoints — chairlift to 1,049 m with panoramic vistas of Nahuel Huapi lake, Andean peaks, and Patagonian forests.
Nahuel Huapi Lake
Nature · 4.8 rating · about 4 h · check the fee at the gate
Patagonia's largest lake — turquoise Andean waters for boat trips to Isla Victoria, kayaking, fly-fishing for brown trout, and summer swimming with mountain backdrops.
Cerro Catedral Ski Resort
Activity · 4.7 rating · about 8 h · check the fee at the gate
South America's largest ski resort — 120+ runs over 1,200 ha, 37 lifts, reliable powder June–October, and a lively village base with chocolate shops and Patagonian cuisine.
Things to do
- Cerro Catedral Ski Lesson Adventure · 4 h · from ARS 32,000 per person
- Nahuel Huapi Lake Kayaking Adventure · 4 h · from ARS 14,000 per person
Day trips and tours
- Bariloche Circuito Chico Kayak & Hike 7 h · from 42,000
Where to stay in San Carlos de Bariloche
- Centro Cívico about ARS 15,000 per night
Heart of Bariloche on the lake shore. Chocolate shops, restaurants, and lake views. Walking distance to everything.
- Llao Llao Peninsula about ARS 55,000 per night
Serene lakeside area 25 km west. Home to the iconic Llao Llao Resort; ideal for luxury and nature immersion.
Hotels
- Llao Llao Hotel & Resort 5-star · ARS 75,000 to ARS 280,000 per night
- Edelweiss Hotel Bariloche 4-star · ARS 18,000 to ARS 48,000 per night
Where to eat
- Kandahar argentinian, patagonian, alpine · about ARS 5,500 per person
- Llao Llao Hotel Restaurant argentinian, patagonian, hotel · about ARS 12,000 per person
Getting to San Carlos de Bariloche
Airport: Bariloche (BRC)
Getting around
- Bus
- Car Rental Self
- Taxi
- Walking
More in Argentina
Frequently asked questions about San Carlos de Bariloche
- What are the top-rated places to visit in San Carlos de Bariloche?
- The highest-rated places in our San Carlos de Bariloche guide are Cerro Campanario Viewpoint, Nahuel Huapi Lake, Cerro Catedral Ski Resort.
- Where should I stay in San Carlos de Bariloche?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in San Carlos de Bariloche: Centro Cívico, Llao Llao Peninsula.
- How do I get around San Carlos de Bariloche?
- Ways to get around San Carlos de Bariloche covered in our guide: City bus, Self-drive car, Taxi, Walking.
- Which airport is nearest to San Carlos de Bariloche?
- The nearest airport to San Carlos de Bariloche has the code BRC.