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Trip ideas  /  South America  /  Argentina  /  Bariloche, Rio Negro  /  6-day itinerary
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Bariloche, Rio Negro: 6 days in Bariloche and the Lake DistrictPhoto: DaiMH21, CC BY-SA 4.0 on Wikimedia Commons
Rest & Recharge ExhaleNature & Wild BreatheTrip idea · Bariloche, Rio Negro

6 days in Bariloche and the Lake District

Six slow days on the shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi: the town and its lakefront, the scenic Circuito Chico loop, the hills of the national park, Villa La Angostura with the cinnamon-bark forest, and the Seven Lakes road. Three stops a day and open afternoons.

6 daysAnyoneEarly March19 places1 view
Copy this plan to your own trips, then change anything you like.
Bariloche
Photo: enzofloyd, CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
Bariloche
Photo: Carlos Berzzi, CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
How many days?Pick yours and the plan rearranges.

Best time to go

January to March and November to December are the most comfortable months for walking around.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Arrival day

Before Day 1. The town is small and sits right on the lake, so settle in and keep the first evening quiet.Details
From the airport
Bariloche has its own airport, a short drive from the town, with taxis and shuttles into the center. Many visitors fly in from Buenos Aires. Long distance buses also run from Buenos Aires, but the ride is very long, so check the schedule ahead if you plan to go that way.
Getting around
Local buses run along the lakeside road toward the Circuito Chico and the mountain lifts. A rental car makes the Villa La Angostura and Seven Lakes days easy. Mountain roads can be slow in poor weather, so leave extra time.
When to go
Early March brings warm days and thinner crowds. The summer holiday weeks and the winter ski season are busier and cost more, so check ahead for those. The lake water stays cold even in summer, and the weather in the mountains can change fast, so pack layers.
First evening
Day 1 begins at the Civic Center, a short walk from the lakefront, so you will already be close. Walk down to the water, watch the light on the lake and have an early supper.

Day 1. The town and the lakefront

3 stops · 0.5 km

A slow first day on foot. The Civic Center, the shore of the lake and a street of chocolate shops sit within an easy walk of one another, with plenty of time to sit and watch the water.

  1. 1
    MorningWorth a short visit

    Centro Civico

    The stone and timber buildings around a wide plaza, in the style of the Alpine towns that inspired the early settlers. A museum sits inside, and the lake and the mountains frame the square.

    Go when Morning, when the plaza is quiet and the light is clear.

    Local tip Stand in the middle of the plaza and turn slowly. The lake, the stone buildings and the peaks all fit in one view.

    About 3 min walk0.3 km
  2. 2
    MiddayWorth the time

    Lakefront on Lago Nahuel Huapi

    The long shore of the great glacial lake, with a walkway beside the water and the peaks across it. A good place to sit on the stones and take your time.

    Go when Around sunset (about 8:05 PM), when the peaks turn pink.

    Local tip Walk along the shore until the town noise fades, then sit on the stones. Keep a layer in your bag, because the wind off the water is cool.

    Lakefront on Lago Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche
    Photo: David, CC BY 2.0 on Wikimedia Commons
  3. Lunch

    Smoked trout and cheese

    Smoked fish, cheeses and cured meats are a specialty of the lake region. A plate to share with fresh bread makes an easy lunch beside the water.

    Local tip Ask for a mixed plate, so you can try a few things.

    About 3 min walk0.3 km
  4. 3
    AfternoonA place to wander

    Mitre Street

    The main shopping street of the town, lined with chocolate makers, ice cream shops and cafes. Wander it with no plan, then stop for something warm to drink.

    Go when Afternoon, when you want something warm.

    Local tip Walk the whole street first, then choose. A hot chocolate is thick and rich here, so share one and a plate of something small.

  5. Dinner

    Craft beer and a hearty dinner

    The town has a long tradition of craft beer. Pair a cold glass with a plate of smoked meat or a big sandwich in a warm, wood-paneled room.

    Local tip Ask for a small tasting of a few styles before you choose.

  6. Treat

    A cup of hot chocolate

    Bariloche is known for its chocolate, and a thick hot chocolate is the classic way to warm up. Ask for it with a small sweet on the side.

    Local tip Share one cup if you are going to have dinner soon.

If it rains. Keep the Civic Center and its museum, and go along Mitre Street for something warm to drink. Walk the lakefront only when the rain eases.

Day 2. The Circuito Chico loop

4 stops · 31.6 km

The classic scenic drive west of town, with a viewpoint, a peninsula and a mountain valley. It is a short loop, so you can stop as often as you like and finish by early evening.

  1. Travel from Mitre StreetAbout 31 min by car or transit15.0 km
    Where Day 1 ended.
  2. 1
    MorningWorth the time

    Cerro Campanario

    A small hill beside the lake road with a chairlift to the top. From the summit you look over the lakes, islands and peaks all around. Check ahead on the lift.

    Go when Morning, when the air is clear and the light is soft.

    Local tip Take the lift up if it is running, then walk a little around the top. The view takes in lakes and islands in every direction.

    Cerro Campanario, Bariloche
    Photo: Msadp06, CC BY-SA 4.0 on Wikimedia Commons
    About 17 min by car or transit6.7 km
  3. 2
    MiddayWorth a short stop

    Punto Panoramico

    A lookout over the lakes and the mountains behind the Llao Llao peninsula, a classic picture stop on the loop.

    Go when Late morning, when the lakes are bright.

    Local tip Stay a few minutes and let the view settle. It is a good place to take a photograph of the whole loop.

    About 15 min walk1.2 km
  4. 3
    AfternoonWorth the time

    Llao Llao Peninsula

    A green point of land between two arms of the lake, with forest paths and quiet shores. Walk a short trail and look back at the mountains.

    Go when Afternoon, when the forest is quiet.

    Local tip Choose one short walk through the trees rather than trying them all. The paths are gentle, and the shore is never far.

  5. Lunch

    A picnic by the lake

    Pick up bread, cheese, fruit and something smoked in town, then eat on a quiet shore of the lake with the mountains in front of you.

    Local tip Bring a layer, since the wind comes off the water.

    About 16 min by car8.7 km
  6. 4
    AfternoonA sweet stop

    Colonia Suiza

    A small settlement in a green valley, settled by Swiss and other European families. Known for its relaxed pace and sweet treats. Check ahead on hours before you go.

    Go when Afternoon, for something to eat and a slow look around.

    Local tip Look for a local sweet made with wild berries, and ask about hours before you drive over, because small places here keep their own schedules.

  7. Treat

    Wild berry jam and a sweet

    The region is known for wild berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, in jams and tarts. Ask for a slice of berry tart with a cup of tea.

    Local tip Buy a small jar to take home.

If it rains. Views are best on a clear day. Keep the lakes and the peninsula for a dry spell, and take a covered stop in Colonia Suiza instead. Skip the chairlift in low cloud.

Day 3. Hills and lakes of the national park

3 stops · 53.3 km

A day in the wider park around Bariloche: a hill with a view, a quiet lake and a mountain village. Each stop is short, and the afternoon is yours.

  1. Drive from Colonia SuizaAbout 47 min by car29.1 km
    Where Day 2 ended.
  2. 1
    MorningA view from above

    Cerro Otto

    A forested hill west of town with a wide view over the lake. Reach the top by lift or by road, and check ahead on how it is running.

    Go when Morning, on a clear day.

    Local tip Check ahead on how to get up and on the weather, because cloud can cover the top. Pack a warm layer, since it is cooler up there.

    Cerro Otto, Bariloche
    Photo: Dario Alpern, CC BY-SA 4.0 on Wikimedia Commons
    About 44 min by car21.4 km
  3. 2
    MiddayWorth the time

    Lago Gutierrez

    A calm lake on the road toward the mountains, ringed by forest. Walk a short shore path under the trees, or sit by the water with a picnic.

    Go when Midday, when the forest is warm.

    Local tip Walk a short stretch of the shore under the trees, then sit by the water. The lake is cold, so a quick paddle is plenty.

    Lago Gutierrez, Bariloche
    Photo: Alexrebolledo, CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
  4. Lunch

    Grilled trout

    Trout from the cold lakes and rivers of the region, grilled simply with lemon and served with potatoes or a salad.

    Local tip Ask whether it is local, and order it with a simple side.

    About 10 min by car or transit2.8 km
  5. 3
    AfternoonWorth a short look

    Cerro Catedral

    The big mountain of the area, known for skiing in winter. In warm months, the base area is a pleasant place to see the peaks, and the lifts may run, so check ahead.

    Go when Afternoon, after lunch by the lake.

    Local tip In the warm months you can enjoy the base and the views at your own pace. The lifts may run for walkers, so check ahead before you plan around them.

  6. Dinner

    Venison or ciervo

    Venison, called ciervo here, is a classic of the Patagonian table. It is usually served sliced, with a berry sauce or roasted vegetables.

    Local tip A glass of local red wine goes well with it.

If it rains. Cloud can hide the tops. Skip the lifts, keep the forest walk at the lake and have a slow, warm lunch indoors.

Day 4. Villa La Angostura and the Arrayanes forest

3 stops · 107.0 km

A longer day by car along the lake to the village of Villa La Angostura. A quiet shore, a small village and a rare forest of cinnamon-bark trees, with no need to hurry back.

  1. Drive from Cerro CatedralAbout 1 h 25 min by car102.4 km
    Where Day 3 ended.
  2. 1
    MorningWorth the time

    Villa La Angostura

    A small mountain village of timber houses and flowers on the north shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi. A relaxed place to walk, sit and have a slow lunch.

    Go when Morning, when the village is quiet.

    Local tip Walk the main street for the timber houses and the smell of the forest, then go down toward the lake for a slow lunch.

    Villa La Angostura, Bariloche
    Photo: Azahel, CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
    About 5 min walk0.4 km
  3. 2
    MiddayWorth a short stop

    Bahia Mansa

    A small, calm bay on the lake, with a pier and a beach of smooth stones. Sit by the water here, or start your walk toward the forest.

    Go when Midday, before you set out for the forest.

    Local tip Sit by the water for a few minutes first. The pier is where the boat to the forest leaves, so check ahead on its schedule.

  4. Lunch

    A slow lunch in the village

    A small restaurant with a view of the water, a warm bowl of something simple and a long table is all you need here.

    Local tip Order trout or a stew and take your time.

    About 13 min by car or transit4.2 km
  5. 3
    AfternoonWorth the time

    Los Arrayanes National Park

    A protected forest of arrayan trees, with smooth cinnamon-colored bark, at the end of a peninsula. Reach it on foot or by boat from the bay, and check ahead on the boat and on the path.

    Go when Afternoon, with plenty of daylight left.

    Local tip The trees are small and smooth, with cinnamon-colored bark and cool, quiet shade. Check ahead on the boat, on the path and on any park closure before you set out.

    Los Arrayanes National Park, Bariloche
    Photo: user:Alfonso", CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
  6. Dinner

    Roast lamb

    Slow-cooked lamb is a staple of Patagonia, tender and served with roasted potatoes. A satisfying meal after a day in the forest.

    Local tip Ask for a half portion if you are not very hungry.

If it rains. The forest is lovely in a light rain, but the boat and path can close in bad weather. Check ahead, and spend the day in the village if needed.

Day 5. The Seven Lakes road

3 stops · 115.6 km

A scenic road north from Villa La Angostura toward San Martin de los Andes, passing a string of lakes. It is a long drive, so turn around at any lake you like and call it a day.

  1. Travel from Los Arrayanes National ParkAbout 33 min by car or transit17.6 km
    Where Day 4 ended.
  2. 1
    MorningWorth a short stop

    Lago Espejo

    A small, clear lake on the Seven Lakes road, with a calm shore and a view of the mountains. A good first stop of the day.

    Go when Morning, when the water is still.

    Local tip Park, walk to the edge and wait a moment. On a calm morning the lake mirrors the forest.

    About 22 min by car or transit9.0 km
  3. 2
    MiddayWorth the time

    Lago Falkner

    A long blue lake right beside the road, with pull-offs and a rocky shore. A good place for a picnic.

    Go when Midday, with a picnic.

    Local tip Pull off at a spot with a view and eat by the water. Stop at the pull-offs rather than the road itself, and take a layer for the wind.

  4. Lunch

    A roadside picnic

    Buy bread, cheese, fruit and smoked meat in town before you set out, then stop at a lake with a view and eat by the water.

    Local tip Carry water, and pack out everything you bring.

    About 1 h 32 min by car89.0 km
  5. 3
    AfternoonA place to rest

    San Martin de los Andes

    A tidy mountain town at the far end of the road, on Lago Lacar. Walk down to the lakeside and rest before you decide whether to drive back or stay.

    Go when Late afternoon, before you decide how to go back.

    Local tip Walk down to the lake and sit. If you are tired, you can turn around at any lake on the way instead. Check ahead on road conditions.

    San Martin de los Andes, Bariloche
    Photo: Aleposta, CC BY-SA 4.0 on Wikimedia Commons
  6. Dinner

    A trout dinner by the lake

    In this small mountain town, trout is a favorite, simply grilled or baked. Eat near the water if you can.

    Local tip If you plan to drive back after dinner, leave early while there is still some light.

If it rains. Roads can be slippery in heavy rain, and the lakes look gray in cloud. Swap this for a slow day in town and try the road on a clear day.

Day 6. A slow last day

3 stops · 171.9 km

Nothing to rush and nothing to cross off. A quiet morning in town, a swim or a seat by the lake in the afternoon and a long, warm dinner to finish.

  1. Drive from San Martin de los AndesAbout 2 h 38 min by car160.6 km
    Where Day 5 ended.
  2. 1
    MiddayWorth a short visit

    Museo de la Patagonia

    A small museum at the Civic Center about the nature, the first peoples and the settlers of the region. A calm way to start the last day.

    Go when Morning, at a slow pace.

    Local tip Choose a room or two and leave the rest. It is a gentle way to learn about the land around you.

    Museo de la Patagonia, Bariloche
    Photo: Alexrebolledo, CC BY-SA 3.0 on Wikimedia Commons
    About 7 min walk0.6 km
  3. 2
    MiddayWorth a short look

    Bariloche Cathedral

    A stone church close to the lake, with the water and mountains behind it. Step in for a quiet minute.

    Go when Midday, then walk to the water.

    Local tip Stop for a minute on the lakeside path beside it. The light on the lake is clear and bright here.

  4. Lunch

    A late lunch with hot chocolate

    A slow lunch of soup or a sandwich, and one last cup of thick hot chocolate beside the lake.

    Local tip Sit at a window if you can and watch the water.

    About 13 min by car10.8 km
  5. 3
    AfternoonA place to sit

    Playa Bonita

    A small beach on the lake, a short ride from the town. Wade in if you dare, because the water is cold, or sit on the stones with a book.

    Go when Afternoon, on a warm day.

    Local tip The water is cold even when the day is warm. A paddle is plenty, and the stones are good for a long, easy rest.

  6. Dinner

    A last fondue

    Cheese fondue is a favorite in this Alpine style town. Dip bread and vegetables into warm melted cheese, and share it over a long, slow supper.

    Local tip Order a plate of cured meats on the side and a pot of tea after.

If it rains. A good rainy day: stay at the museum and the cathedral, then have a long, warm lunch and a hot chocolate. Skip the beach.

Departure day

After the last day. A calm morning and an early start for the airport keep the last hours easy.Details
Last morning
Leave the last morning free for a slow breakfast and one more look at the lake. Hot chocolate is a good way to say goodbye to town.
To the airport
The airport is a short drive from the town, but allow extra time in the busy holiday weeks. Ask your hotel for a taxi or shuttle the evening before.
Before you drive off
If you rented a car, return it a day early when you can, and fill the tank first. Check ahead on any road or park closure if you plan one last drive.

Questions people ask

When is the best time to visit Bariloche?

By average weather from 2021 to 2025, January to March and November to December are the most comfortable months for walking around Bariloche. This plan is built for early March, which is one of the best months. Crowds and prices change through the year, so check them before you book.

How many days does this plan cover?

It covers 6 days in Bariloche, planned for early March. Each day is built around a small number of stops, with room to rest.

Who is this plan for?

It was planned for most travelers. The pace and the places reflect that, so check it fits how you travel.

Is anything on this plan booked?

No. Places marked "book ahead" need a reservation. Hours, prices and availability change, so confirm before you go.

Can I plan my own days like this?

Yes. Archie drafts a day by day plan for your dates and takes your pace, the weather and who is travelling into account. You can start one from the Archie app.

Can I change this plan?

Yes. It is a starting point you can change to fit your own trip: swap a place, add a day or move the pace.

How much walking is there?

Each day has about 0.5 to 98.0 kilometers between its stops, and 155.3 kilometers in all across 6 days. A short hop is a walk and a longer one a ride. Distances are straight-line estimates, so allow extra for the streets.

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Photo: David, CC BY 2.0 on Wikimedia Commons

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A trip idea · Updated October 2026

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