Hiking Bariloche

Arrive in Bariloche and transfer to the hotel.

Today's experience will provide a glimpse of the natural beauties around Bariloche and includes an easy to intermediate hike, perfect for people who enjoy long walks but do not necessarily need to challenge themselves up a big mountain. The bilingual guide and a vehicle will pick you up at the centrally located hotel for a drive in an excursion to the starting point of the hike. Some stops are planned along the Circuito Chico at Angostura, Bahía Lopez and the panoramic stop of the Llao Llao. The richness of the North-Patagonian forest and its views will be shown along the approximately 4-hour hike in the natural reserve and the highest point of the Llao Llao peninsula, at the Nahuel Huapi lakeshore. Lunch will be on a hidden beach at the Nahuel Huapi lake.

Some useful items to pack: Trekking shoes or boots, water bottle, sun protection (hat, glasses & sunblock), wind/waterproof jacket, fleece, gloves, & day backpack.
 

The guide will pick you up at the hotel with a private vehicle at 9AM. This hike is perfect for those who like gaining elevation quickly and are not afraid of a steady 2-hour uphill trek. The day begins at “Refugio Jacob” Trailhead, also called “El Tambo” here the trail slowly climbs the Southeast ridge of Bella Vista Mount. The hike begins on an old grown “Colihue” tree forest with a dense undergrowth which offers plenty of flowers and bird watching opportunities. The ascend reaches easily a couple of beautiful viewpoints in between the deciduous “Lenga” tree forest and even before the trees turn into shrubs. The climax will be appreciating the immensity of the Andes, the complex lake systems of Nahuel Huapi and Bariloche itself. Weather and physical conditions subject an hour hike to the top will allow you a fascinating 360º view before descending the same way back. Once at the base of the mountain, the bus will drive you back to the hotel.

Level of Challenge: Medium
Recommended Season: Spring – Summer – Autumn
Considerations: During the Spring, expect to find snow at the upper part of the mountain. Good hiking boots and gaiters recommended.
Duration of the activity: 6-8 hours
Length of the Trek:  7.6 km
Starting Altitude: 860 meters above sea level
Max Altitude Climbed:  1770 meters above sea level
Elevation gained: 750m till the skyline (at 1610 meters above sea level) and 890m if you make the summit (at 1770 meters above sea level)
Service includes:
Bilingual Certified Mountain Guide (additional Assistant Guide during Spring season for groups larger than 7 hikers)
Box Lunch + water + tea + snacks
First Aid Kit + VHF Radio + GPS
Insurance

After breakfast, your private guide meets you for a transfer to Cerro Catedral, the gateway to one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in Argentina's Lake District. From the mountain village, you begin your ascent along the scenic Catedral Ridgeline, following a challenging trail that combines steep climbs, rocky terrain, and short sections of scrambling. As you gain elevation, sweeping views of the surrounding Patagonian Andes unfold, showcasing Bariloche's dramatic alpine landscapes.

After approximately two hours, you reach a mountain saddle before descending past the crystal-clear Schmoll Lagoon and Toncek Lagoon to the iconic Frey Mountain Hut, perched at 1,700 metres above sea level beneath towering granite spires. Enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch while taking in the spectacular scenery and learning about the region's rich mountaineering heritage from your guide. In the afternoon, descend via the traditional trail back to Villa Catedral, where your private transfer returns you to your hotel in San Carlos de Bariloche. This classic Patagonia hiking adventure offers a memorable combination of challenging trekking, breathtaking alpine scenery, and an authentic introduction to Bariloche's renowned mountain culture.

Level of Challenge: Medium
Recommended Season: Spring – Summer – Autumn
Duration of the activity: 7-9 hours
Length of the Trek: 15 km
Starting Altitude: 1070 meters above sea level
Max Altitude Climbed:  2080 meters above sea level
Elevation gained: 150 m; it's almost downhill
Service includes:
Certified Mountain Guide (added Assistant Guide during Spring season for groups larger than 7 hikers)
Box Lunch + water + tea + snacks
First Aid Kit + Vhf Radio + Gps Insurance + Permits
Cerro Catedral chairlift tkt

Transfer to the airport.