From my first days of living in South America I was listening to stories from other travelers about how beautiful Bariloche is. They admired the landscapes, food, people, and most surprisingly: chocolate. Since my curiosity would never be satisfied if I didn’t go there and see (and taste) it all with my own eyes, we planned a perfect Bariloche trip, a road adventure from Chile to Argentina to explore this stunning region.

All of what I was told turned out to be true. I must make a little confession to you: I ate way too much chocolate there… for breakfast, dinner, and any available occasion possible. And I don’t even feel sorry about it! Maybe only some of my clothes shrank a little. I can safely say that I had the best chocolate of my life in the region of Bariloche.

How to plan a perfect Bariloche trip (especially if you love chocolate)

If Patagonia had a postcard, it would probably be Bariloche. Picture snow-dusted peaks reflecting in deep blue lakes, the scent of chocolate wafting through the streets, and that crisp mountain air that makes you want to stay just a little longer. My love affair with Bariloche started somewhere between a hike through the Nahuel Huapi National Park and a lazy afternoon sipping hot chocolate with lake views that felt straight out of a fairytale.

Bariloche isn’t just a destination,it’s an experience of contrasts: adventure and calm, rugged wilderness and cozy alpine charm. Whether you’re here to ski in winter, hike through flower-covered trails in summer, or simply eat your body weight in chocolate (highly recommended), this guide will help you plan the perfect Bariloche trip, complete with the best things to do, when to visit, and insider tips that make all the difference.

 

top things to do in bariloche to have a perfect trip

Bariloche is a playground for anyone who loves nature, food, and mountain views that make you pause mid-breath. Whether you’re into hiking, eating chocolate by the lake (guilty!), or discovering tiny artisan villages, this Patagonian gem will spoil you for choice.

One of the most breathtaking trips you can take from Bariloche is the road trip to San Martín de los Andes, following the famous Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route). The drive winds through valleys, forests, and mirror-like lakes that seem to change color with every bend in the road. It’s only about 190 km (roughly four hours without stops), but trust me, you’ll want to stop a lot. We drove through Patagonia a lot, actually multiple times since we lived for a few years in Chile. And I must admit, that this route was one of the most memorable ones.

Halfway through, make sure to pause in Villa La Angostura, a storybook village surrounded by pine forests and wooden chalets that feels like it belongs in the Alps. Have a coffee by the lake, browse the artisan shops, or visit the nearby Arrayanes Forest, where the trees glow with cinnamon-colored bark. The final stretch toward San Martín de los Andes opens up into sweeping views of Lácar Lake, the perfect welcome after a day of scenic driving. Whether you rent a car or join a guided tour, this road trip is pure Patagonia magic—the kind of journey where the drive itself becomes the destination.

Ride the Cable Car to Cerro Otto

Let’s start with the views — because Bariloche knows how to impress from above. Take the cable car to Cerro Otto, one of the easiest ways to get a panoramic look over Lake Nahuel Huapi and the snow-capped Andes. At the top, there’s even a revolving café, where you can sip hot chocolate (yes, more chocolate!) as the scenery slowly turns before your eyes. It’s touristy, yes — but completely worth it.

Tip: Go early in the morning or just before sunset for soft light and fewer crowds.

Explore the Trails of Nahuel Huapi National Park

Bariloche sits right on the edge of Nahuel Huapi National Park, one of Argentina’s most stunning protected areas. The park is full of crystal-clear lakes, rugged peaks, and trails for every level.

If you have limited time, hike the Cerro Campanario Trail — it’s short but rewards you with some of the best views in Patagonia. For something more challenging, try Refugio Frey, a full-day hike that takes you to a mountain hut beside a glacial lake surrounded by jagged spires.

And if hiking isn’t your thing, no worries — you can drive the scenic Circuito Chico route to experience many of these views without breaking a sweat.

Drive (or Cycle) the Famous Circuito Chico

Circuito Chico is Bariloche’s signature scenic drive — a 65 km loop that takes you past lakes, viewpoints, forests, and adorable little villages. The drive itself is the attraction, with endless opportunities to stop for photos, short hikes, or a lazy lakeside picnic.

Don’t miss the Punto Panorámico viewpoint and the Llao Llao Hotel, which looks like something straight out of a storybook. You can rent a car for a day, join a guided tour, or even rent a bike if you’re feeling adventurous.

Gardens of Llao Llao Hotel:

Relax by the Lakes: Nahuel Huapi & Moreno

The lakes around Bariloche are breathtaking, and each one has its own character. Lake Nahuel Huapi is the most famous — vast, blue, and framed by snow-capped mountains — but Lake Moreno is calmer and ideal for swimming or kayaking on warm days.

If you’re visiting in summer (December to March), you can rent a kayak, paddleboard, or even take a short boat trip to explore hidden coves. Locals often head to Playa Bonita for picnics and afternoon swims.

Visit Cerro Catedral – Argentina’s Ski Paradise

If you’re visiting between June and September, Bariloche transforms into one of South America’s best ski destinations. Cerro Catedral offers dozens of slopes for all levels and a lively après-ski scene.

Even outside of ski season, it’s worth a visit — take the chairlift up for panoramic views or do a little hiking around the base. And if you’re lucky, you might catch the last traces of snow in early spring.

Seven Lakes Tour

If you really want to experience the magic of Patagonia, the Seven Lakes Tour is an absolute must on your Bariloche itinerary. This scenic drive winds through the Andes, connecting seven sparkling glacial lakes, each framed by pine forests, jagged mountains, and reflections so perfect you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Along the way, you can stop for short hikes, picnic by the turquoise waters, or snap photos of hidden waterfalls and quiet coves. Some of the highlights include Lago Correntoso, perfect for a serene moment by the shore, and Lago Escondido, a gem tucked away like a secret. The full loop can take a full day, so start early, bring snacks, and let the rhythm of the road and the crisp mountain air guide you — it’s one of those drives that will stay with you long after you leave Patagonia.

Take a Boat Trip to Isla Victoria and the Arrayanes Forest

One of the most enchanting experiences in Bariloche is a boat tour on Lake Nahuel Huapi to Isla Victoria and the Arrayanes Forest. The forest is home to rare cinnamon-colored trees that look like something from a fairytale — smooth, twisted, and glowing in the sunlight.

You can walk the trails on Isla Victoria, explore old ruins, or just sit quietly by the shore. The combination of blue water, deep green forest, and soft orange bark is unforgettable.

Discover Colonia Suiza – A Swiss Touch in Patagonia

Yes, you read that right — there’s a Swiss village just outside Bariloche! Colonia Suiza was founded by Swiss settlers in the 19th century and still retains that alpine charm with log houses, fondue, and craft markets.

If you’re here on a weekend, don’t miss the feria artesanal (artisan fair) where you can try local jams, cheese, and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect little cultural detour between lakes and hikes.

Hike or Picnic at Cerro Campanario

Even if you only do one hike in Bariloche, make it Cerro Campanario. The trail is short (around 30 minutes) but steep, or you can take a quick chairlift to the top. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with a 360° view of the surrounding lakes and mountains that National Geographic once called “one of the most beautiful views in the world.”

Bring a picnic, your camera, and maybe a little patience — you won’t want to leave in a hurry.

Bonus: Enjoy Local Beer and Patagonian Food

After a day of exploring, reward yourself with a cold craft beer. Bariloche has a booming cerveza artesanal scene, with breweries like Manush, Patagonia, and Blest offering lake views and hearty food.

Don’t miss the trout, Patagonian lamb, or smoked cheese dishes — they’re local specialties. Pair them with a local red wine or a golden ale, and you’ll understand why Bariloche feels so comforting after a long day outdoors.

Order hot chocolate in a coffee shop

What is a better place to enjoy a huge mug of hot chocolate than mountains? Bariloche has some of the biggest ski centers in South America, so surely it snows a lot and it is cold there. Summers however can also be chilly at times. I went there just before Christmas and got spoiled by a few hot and sunny moments, but also harshly treated by rain and wind. As you can guess, there is no bad moment to take delight from hot chocolate, especially as good as the one that is served in the region of Bariloche.

If you love chocolate, Bariloche is a perfect place for a chocolate tasting tour. Confession: I may or may not have eaten chocolate for breakfast more than once during my stay. It’s basically part of the culture.

Buy hand-made chocolates and eat too many

Bariloche is known as Argentina’s chocolate capital, and it’s impossible not to indulge. The main street, Mitre Avenue, is lined with artisan chocolate shops where the scent alone might make you dizzy.

Some local favorites include Rapa Nui, Mamuschka (6 thousand positive reviews speak for itself), and Abuela Goye, each with its own personality and loyal fans. Try the chocolate caliente (hot chocolate so thick it’s almost a dessert), or pick up a few truffles for later.

Since Bariloche is known for making a wonderful chocolate, there are many shops that offer a countless number of flavours and shapes of chocolate that you can by per weigh. I tried so many! I never stopped eating chocolate there, which I should probably keep a secret to avoid too much judgment from my family. But honestly I was quite impossible to strangle the temptation. With the first bite of dark chocolate with a rum-bathed raisins I knew that I am in big trouble. If you are a chocolate lover, you just have to try the chocolate from Bariloche. In my humble opinion the best chocolates are sold in a shop called Benroth in Villa La Angostura. Be prepared though and well informed about the risks you are taking when you take the first bite.

Eat chocolate fondue for dinner

This is a treat that I will not forget any time soon. Chocolate fondue for lunch is not something that is served daily. A tray full of fruit pieces and a brass pot with a little flame arrived to the table. The chocolate smell from far away was making me salivate.

Don’t mind the quality of the photo. I don’t think I really cared that time- all I wanted is dig into the pot.

Go to a chocolate museum

In town of Bariloche there is a chocolate museum with guided visits organized by Havana, probably the most famous and loved chocolate brand in Argentina (at least that’s what Argentinians say). I am sure that some of information given by a guide is biased in favour of the brand, but it is still a nice thing to do. Through a glass window you can peak into the chocolate factory and observe how tons of chocolate are produced, learn a little bit about the process of producing chocolate and see the chocolate sculptures.

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Where to stay in Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche is an amazing place in Argentina for relaxing holidays, but at the same time full of adventures. One of the most popular hotels (mainly because is extremely picturesque and Istagrammable) is Llao Llao Spa & Golf Hotel. It’s truly beautiful, but for me the rooms that were available were kind of small. Estancia Peuma Hue gives a real Patagonian vibe with horse riding options and lake view. If you fancy a little bit of luxury in the middle of Patagonia, have a look at Charming Luxury Lodge and Private Spa hotel with over 2k of 5-star reviews.

How to get to Bariloche

• Fly to Bariloche: The most convenient way to reach Bariloche is by flying into San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), also known as Teniente Luis Candelaria International Airport. The airport is well-connected to major cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires, as well as other South American destinations. Several airlines offer regular flights to Bariloche, making it easily accessible for travelers from around the world. Look for best flights to Bariloche through SkyScanner
• By Bus: For those seeking a scenic journey through Argentina’s picturesque landscapes, traveling to Bariloche by bus is a popular option. Long-distance buses operate regularly from major cities like Buenos Aires, Neuquén, and El Calafate, offering comfortable and affordable transportation to Bariloche. The journey by bus allows travelers to enjoy panoramic views of the Andes mountains, lakes, and forests along the way. Book the bus here
• By Car: Driving yourself gives you so much flexibility. That’s what we did. In fact, we drive around most of Argentina and Chile. The distances are huge, you need to consider that, but driving though this part of Argentina is very easy.  The journey by car offers stunning views of Patagonia’s rugged terrain, with the iconic Route 40 being a scenic way from north to south through the heart of Argentina. Rental car options are available at major airports and cities, allowing travelers to embark on a road trip to Bariloche.
• By Train:  While train travel to Bariloche is not as common as air or bus transportation, the historic Tren Patagónico offers a unique and leisurely way to experience the region’s landscapes. The Tren Patagónico operates a scenic railway journey known as La Trochita, which runs from Esquel to El Maitén and offers breathtaking views of the Andes mountains, valleys, and forests along the way. Travelers can then continue their journey to Bariloche by connecting bus or private transportation.

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top Tips for for perfect Bariloche trip

A few tips can turn a great trip to Bariloche into a perfect Bariloche trip.

• First, bring layers. Patagonian weather has a sense of humor. You can start the day in a T-shirt, end it wrapped in three sweaters, and possibly experience four seasons in between. Pack appropriately for the weather, as temperatures in Bariloche can vary throughout the year, with mild summers and cold winters. As you can see in my photos, some days we had the most beautiful blue sky and pleasant temperatures (it’s when I only wore a shirt or a cardigan) and some days, it was ocercast and wet.
• If you’re planning to explore beyond the city (and you should!), rent a car, it gives you the freedom to stop at every irresistible lake and viewpoint along the way.
• Book your transportation tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred travel dates and avoid last-minute hassles.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected circumstances such as flight delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies.
• Don’t skip cash, as smaller cafés and local chocolate shops sometimes prefer pesos over cards.
• Speaking of which: leave extra space in your luggage for chocolate… you’ll need it.
• For hiking, carry sun protection even on cloudy days, and if you’re visiting in summer, book tours and accommodation early—it’s peak season.
• Most importantly, slow down. Bariloche is not a place to rush. Linger by the lake, take that extra photo, and let Patagonia work its quiet magic.

Best time to visit Bariloche

If you want a perfect Bariloche trip, timing is everything , and luckily, this Patagonian gem has something to offer nearly year-round. Summer (December to March) is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and lake adventures, with long sunny days, warm temperatures, and vibrant wildflowers painting the mountains.

If snow-dusted peaks and skiing are your dream, then winter (June to September) transforms Bariloche into a frosty playground with powdery slopes at Cerro Catedral and cozy evenings by the fire.

Spring and autumn, while quieter, offer crisp air, golden landscapes, and fewer crowds, perfect if you’re looking to escape tourist hustle. Personally, I recommend late summer or early autumn, when you can combine lakes, mountains, chocolate tasting, and scenic drives for a perfectly balanced trip.

See also: 

• Wine, sun and art. Visiting Mendoza, Argentina.
• Salta la Linda. A city in the north of Argentina you should visit.
• Charming excursion from Buenos Aires to Lujan. Argentina off the beaten path.
• Best tango shows in Buenos Aires: My Favorite experiences
• Ultimate Guide to Iguazú Falls: Best Time to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Tips
• First Time in Buenos Aires? Avoid These 12 Common Mistakes
• How to Spend 3 Days in Buenos Aires: Food, Culture & Hidden Gems

Thank you for visiting. Tell me, what are your weaknesses or interests during your travels? My attention usually goes to local food, cute doors and balconies and animals.

P.S. I am salivating while writing this post. I will say that again: I ate the best chocolate in my life!

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Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

• Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
• AirHelp helps to get compensation for cancelled or delayed flights.
• Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
• Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
• Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
• World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
• WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
• Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
• Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
• Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
• Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.