This Argentine Lake District hub delivers an impressive mix of history and outdoor adventures. The half-day Circuito Chico excursion stands out as the essential introduction, combining spectacular Andes views with photo stops at key landmarks. For a culture, the German heritage walking tour reveals fascinating architectural influences and local history. Nature lovers will appreciate the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island combo tour – the ancient myrtle forest is otherworldly, while the island offers peaceful hiking trails.
I’m particularly fond of the horseback riding experience that includes a traditional asado (barbecue) – it’s authentically Patagonian and perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. The Cerro Tronador glacier tour ranks high for its raw natural beauty and up-close encounter with the Black Glacier.
Let’s examine the best tours worth your time and money in Bariloche.
Key Points
- The Bariloche Classic Tour Package offers a diverse range of experiences, including visits to Victoria Island, San Martin de Los Andes, and Cerro Campanario, with a 4.4/5 rating.
- The Bariloche Horseback Riding & Argentine Barbecue Tour provides a personalized 2-hour trail ride, a three-course lunch, and an open bar, with a 4.7/5 rating.
- The Photo Discovering Condors & Birdwatching Tour is a full-day private tour focused on avifauna, including Andean condors, with technical photography equipment provided.
- The Welcome Tour & Hike features a private hike to Cerro Campanario and Cerro Llao Llao viewpoints, with customized itineraries and a 5.0 rating.
- The Half Day Small Circuit Tour is a 37-mile journey around Circuito Chico, showcasing mountains, lakes, and forests, with an optional chairlift ride to Mount Campanario.
German Footprint & Nazi Presence – Walking Tour in Bariloche
The German Footprint & Nazi Presence – Walking Tour in Bariloche offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the town’s German-speaking immigration history before and after World War II.
This 90-minute walking tour provides an in-depth look at three waves of German migration and their impact on the region’s culture and architecture.
Led by Diego, a certified expert with extensive knowledge of Barilocene history, the tour takes participants through the historic center, highlighting the town’s foundation and the influx of Nazis post-war.
Participants can expect to learn about theories surrounding Hitler’s alleged escape to Argentina, as well as the influence of German-speaking immigrants on Bariloche’s development.
With a small-group format, the tour allows for personalized attention from the guide, who blends interesting historical facts with engaging personal anecdotes.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and located near public transportation, making it accessible to a range of visitors.
At $39 per person, this tour provides an informative and immersive cultural experience in Bariloche.
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Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour
Nestled in the picturesque Patagonian landscape, the Bariloche Horseback Riding & Traditional Argentine Barbecue Tour offers visitors a captivating blend of outdoor adventure and culture.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 64 reviews, this 2-hour trail ride through the foothills of the Argentine Andes is suitable for all skill levels, including first-time riders.
Along the way, travelers can spot local wildlife with the help of an expert guide while enjoying a light breakfast of sweets, coffee, juice, and mate tea.
The tour culminates in a delicious three-course lunch featuring the renowned Argentine asado (barbecue), accompanied by an open bar with wine, sodas, and mineral water.
Conveniently located in Bariloche, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from most hotels and an air-conditioned vehicle.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per group, this highly recommended experience provides a relaxing and immersive way to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions.
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Bariloche: Half Day Small Circuit Tour – Mt Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula
This half-day small circuit tour in Bariloche, Argentina, offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
During a 37-mile (60-km) journey around the Circuito Chico, travelers will witness the area’s stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, including the breathtaking Lake Nahuel Huapi. Key attractions include the San Eduardo Chapel, Puerto Pañuelo, and the iconic Llao Llao Hotel.
The tour provides round-trip transfers from centrally located Bariloche hotels, with a Spanish-English speaking guide to enhance the experience.
Travelers can opt to ride the chairlift to the top of Mt Campanario, which rises 3,444 feet (1,050 meters), for panoramic views.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can accommodate infants on laps.
Travelers have reported positive experiences with the knowledgeable guides, though some have expressed concerns about the duration of bus trips and additional costs for activities.
Read our full review: Bariloche: Half Day Small Circuit Tour – Mt Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula Review
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Half-Day Tour to Circuito Chico and Cerro Catedral With Transportation
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Bariloche’s scenic highlights, the Half-Day Tour to Circuito Chico and Cerro Catedral provides travelers with a well-rounded experience.
Priced from $110 per person, this tour accommodates up to 30 guests and earns a 90% traveler recommendation. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Bariloche hotels, an expert guide, and tips. Food and drinks aren’t included.
Participants can choose between a combined Small Circuit and Cerro Catedral tour or just the Small Circuit. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions.
Booking requires essential information like passport details and accommodation specifics. Payment can be made in pesos or foreign currency. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Positive reviews highlight the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides, though some issues with unclear information have been raised. Operators address both positive and negative feedback to improve the tour experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Tour to Circuito Chico and Cerro Catedral With Transportation Review
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The Tour with Navigation to the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Bariloche. This tour includes round-trip transfers, a guide, and entrance fees to the National Park and boarding tax.
Travelers should note that food and drinks aren’t included. Transportation is provided from centrally located hotels, and those staying outside the radius will be given the nearest meeting point. The pickup time is 1:00 PM, and passengers at Llao Llao can walk to the pier, which is 300 meters away.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions. While the boat ride offers fantastic views, some travelers found the Arrayanes Forest underwhelming.
Confusion regarding boarding instructions, especially for English speakers, has been noted in the reviews. Travelers may consider booking directly with boat companies for better coordination.
Read our full review: Tour With Navigation to the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island Review
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Classic Bariloche: Half-Day Sightseeing Excursion
For travelers short on time but eager to experience the highlights of Bariloche, the Classic Bariloche: Half-Day Sightseeing Excursion provides a rundown of the region’s natural beauty and architectural sites.
This 4.3-rated tour covers around 37 miles through the Lakes District, offering glimpses of Nahuel Huapi Lake, Cerro Campanario, Llao Llao Peninsula, and Alejandro Bustillo’s renowned buildings.
The itinerary includes scenic drives, photo stops, and visits to key attractions like Puerto Panuelo and the San Eduardo Chapel. Travelers can also opt for a chairlift ride to the top of Cerro Campanario for panoramic vistas.
With a local guide providing insightful commentary, the tour delivers an efficient and informative introduction to Bariloche’s highlights.
Though gratuities, food, and chairlift fees aren’t included, the starting price of $25 per person makes this sightseeing excursion an accessible option.
While some travelers have noted communication and cost issues, the tour’s overall positive reviews suggest it’s well-suited for those seeking a brief yet memorable exploration of Bariloche.
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President Peron in Bariloche – Historic Tour
This 5.0-rated historic tour offers travelers a unique glimpse into Bariloche’s past, exploring the town’s connections to former Argentine President Juan Perón.
Operated by Historias de Bariloche Walking Tours, the President Perón in Bariloche tour costs $90 per person and accommodates up to 10 travelers. The tour departs from the Bariloche Tourist Information Office at 9:00 am and ends at the Bariloche Atomic Centre.
During the tour, you will use public transportation and receive private transportation. While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems, the tour does require a moderate fitness level.
Travelers should note the non-refundable cancellation policy. This highly-rated historic excursion provides an engaging way to learn about Bariloche’s ties to the former Argentine leader and its postwar development.
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Bariloche 3 Tours Classic Package the Most Requested Tours in 1 Booking
Bariloche 3 Tours Classic Package provides travelers an opportunity to experience the most popular tours in the area through a single booking.
The package includes three tours: Victoria Island and Bosque de Arrayanes, San Martin de Los Andes and 7 Lakes, and Circuito Chico and Cerro Campanario. With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 5 reviews, this package offers a mix of experiences, including natural viewpoints, national parks, and scenic lakes.
The tours are full-day experiences, and the package includes pickup from downtown hotels, as well as a transfer from the Bariloche airport to the hotel.
Travelers can enjoy the tours with a guide available in both Spanish and English, and the package includes entrance fees and boarding for Isla Victoria.
While the package is non-refundable, it’s a convenient way for visitors to explore Bariloche’s top attractions.
The package requires a minimum of three full days in Bariloche, and transportation and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.
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Welcome Tour & Hike to Bariloche
If you’re seeking a personalized introduction to the natural wonders of Bariloche, the Welcome Tour & Hike to Bariloche offers an engaging experience. This private tour takes you on a journey through the region, featuring a hike to the Cerro Campanario and Cerro Llao Llao viewpoints.
With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, the tour promises stunning scenery and a customized itinerary to accommodate your group’s needs.
The tour includes private transportation, a picnic-style lunch, and a lift ticket to the Hill Campanario. Guides Martin and Augustine receive praise for their ability to tailor the experience to families and children.
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Excursion to El Bolsón and Lago Puelo, From Bariloche
Travelers seeking to explore the charming town of El Bolsón and the scenic Lago Puelo can embark on an excursion from Bariloche. The tour offers an immersive experience in the region’s authentic culture and natural beauty.
Visitors will travel through scenic routes to El Foyel, where they can enjoy coffee and local cuisine from roadside kiosks.
In El Bolsón, the tour includes a visit to Pagano Square to watch craftsmen and shop for handmade products like metalwork, jewelry, knitted items, wood, and pottery.
The excursion is priced from $169 per person, with transfers, gratuities, and port taxes included. The tour can accommodate up to 25 travelers and is operated by RipioTurismo.
Despite generally positive reviews, some travelers have suggested improvements, such as better communication about optional activities and updates on the availability of excursions like the train ride, which is currently unavailable due to a derailment.
Read our full review: Excursion to El Bolsón and Lago Puelo, From Bariloche Review
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Half Day Small Circuit Tour in San Carlos De Bariloche
This half-day small circuit tour in San Carlos de Bariloche offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s scenic highlights. Operated by Luna Roja, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, and entrance to the Cerro Campanario. Priced at $44.57 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and includes gratuities.
Recent reviews from travelers Ruben_M and Patrice_M indicate mixed experiences. While Patrice_M enjoyed the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guide, Ruben_M reported the tour exceeded half a day and encountered language barriers at Cerro Catedral. The operator has acknowledged these issues and is working to improve communication.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Day Tour to Cerro Tronador From Bariloche
The Day Tour to Cerro Tronador from Bariloche offers visitors a chance to explore one of the region’s most captivating natural landmarks. Operated by Luna Roja, this day tour takes travelers on a journey to the majestic Cerro Tronador, located just outside Bariloche.
Priced from $105.47 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickups available within an 8 km radius.
The tour includes a knowledgeable Spanish/Portuguese-speaking guide, entrance fees to the National Parks, and all necessary insurance and medical coverage. Meals and drinks are also provided, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Participants can expect a start time of 9:00 am, with the tour not being wheelchair accessible and infants required to sit on laps.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, the Day Tour to Cerro Tronador is highly recommended for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Bariloche region.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
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Hiking in Cerro Catedral Ridge – Full Day Tour in Private Service
Offering a more immersive experience, the Hiking in Cerro Catedral Ridge – Full Day Tour in Private Service takes visitors on a guided trek through the stunning landscapes surrounding Bariloche. Priced from $473.00 per person, the private tour provides transportation, a bilingual guide, a box lunch, and cable car tickets.
Pickup is around 9 AM from hotels within the city. The hike isn’t wheelchair-accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions. Strong physical fitness is required for the challenging terrain, suitable for those 15 and up.
Participants should wear proper hiking attire and bring a water bottle. An alternative hike is available if weather conditions are poor. Along with English, the tour can accommodate other language preferences, subject to availability.
With a 5-star review rating, this full-day excursion offers an intimate hiking experience in the beautiful Cerro Catedral Ridge area.
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Excursion to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Waterfall
Exploring the serene landscapes beyond Bariloche, the Excursion to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Waterfall whisks visitors on a captivating journey.
Operated by Luna Roja, this tour takes travellers to the beautiful Puerto Blest and the cascading Los Cantaros Waterfall, all for a price of $169.25 per person. The experience includes hotel transfers within an 8km radius, a Spanish/Portuguese-speaking guide, and entrance fees to the national parks.
Pickup is available at various points, with the tour starting at 8:00 am. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can be accommodated. Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour.
However, with only a single 1-star review, potential travellers should consider this option carefully. The Excursion to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Waterfall offers a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Bariloche.
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4-Hour Guided Tour of the Small Circuit
Although the 4-Hour Guided Tour of the Small Circuit in Bariloche promises an immersive exploration of the area’s natural wonders, reviews suggest a mixed experience.
The tour includes transportation, an ascent to Cerro Campanario, a bilingual guide, and lunch. However, with a maximum capacity of 24 travelers, the experience may feel crowded.
Starting at 8:30 am, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
Unfortunately, the tour has garnered an overall rating of 2.0/5 based on a single review, which cites poor coordination, limited English communication, and low perceived value.
One reviewer described the experience as “a waste of money.”
Given the lukewarm feedback, travelers may want to consider alternative tour options in Bariloche that provide a more consistently positive experience.
The choice ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Guided Tour of the Small Circuit Review
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Blest Port and Cantaros Waterfalls With Frias Lake Tour
The Blest Port and Cantaros Waterfalls with Frias Lake tour allows travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of Bariloche’s Lake District. Operated by Gray Line Argentina, this tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the stunning Blest Port and the captivating Cantaros Waterfalls, culminating with a visit to the serene Frias Lake.
At a price of $291 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transfers from selected downtown Bariloche hotels, an English-speaking guide, navigation, lunch, and entrance fees to the National Park.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides a more intimate experience. Pickup is available from specified downtown hotels or a meeting point in San Carlos de Bariloche.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are provided for cancellations.
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Mountain Bike Adventure in Bariloche – Half Day Tour in Private Service
This private half-day mountain biking tour in Bariloche, Argentina, allows participants to cycle scenic back roads, pass through the charming Colonia Suiza, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.
The guided tour ensures guests don’t get lost, making it suitable for physically fit individuals aged 10 and up. The tour includes private transportation, mountain biking equipment, a box lunch, and specialized bilingual guide assistance.
Pickup is available from Bariloche hotels at 9:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., though hotels on the city outskirts aren’t eligible. The excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
Dietary requirements and allergies must be noted when booking. Guests can request Italian, German, Russian, or French-speaking guides.
This tour starts at $365.00 per person, with the price varying by group size.
Read our full review: Mountain Bike Adventure in Bariloche – Half Day Tour in Private Service Review
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Photo Discovering Condors & Birdwatching – Full Day Tour in Private Service
Designed for nature enthusiasts and avid photographers, this full-day private tour in Bariloche, Argentina, provides an immersive experience discovering the region’s diverse avifauna, including the majestic Andean condor.
Priced from $510 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a boxed lunch, and specialized bilingual guide assistance. You’ll visit a private Estancia, where you’ll have the opportunity to use technical equipment for birdwatching and photography.
The tour starts around 6 a.m. and lasts the full day. Pickup and drop-off at Bariloche hotels are included, though an additional fee applies for hotels outside the city limits.
Participants should be prepared with comfortable, warm clothing, trekking shoes, and a rechargeable water bottle. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available upon request.
Passport details are required, and dietary requirements should be communicated at booking.
Read our full review: Photo Discovering Condors & Birdwatching – Full Day Tour in Private Service Review
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Sum Up
Bariloche offers a diverse range of tours that cater to various interests. From exploring the town’s German heritage and Nazi presence to experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and lakes, visitors can choose from a variety of activities. These tours provide an opportunity to take in the local culture, appreciate the stunning landscapes, and create lasting memories.