Bariloche Nature & Adventure

Rafting, horse riding, birdwatching, hiking, climbing and skiing can all be arranged through tour operators. There are many along Mitre, but best to use one that’s recommended to you, or those below.

Tours include: San Martín de los Andes, (360 km) US$28, via the Seven Lakes Drive and returning via Paso de Córdoba and the Valle Encantado, 12-hr minibus excursions. There are also tours around the Circuito Chico (60 km), US$10, ½-day. ‘Cerro Tronador’ (they mean a view of Tronador, not climbing it) and Cascada los Alerces, full-day (255 km), U$23; El Bolsón full-day (300 km, including Lago Puelo), US$24. Whole-day excursions to Lagos Gutiérrez, Mascardi, Hess, the Cascada Los Alerces, Cerro Tronador and the Ventisquero Negro, leaving at 0800, US$35, lots of time spent on the bus. Useful as a way to get to walks at Pampa Linda if the bus from CAB isn’t running.

This is a great area for mountain biking, with some fabulously challenging descents from the peaks around Bariloche, also easily reached by bus. Even the basic tourist information map shows the main routes, but Club Andino has more detailed maps and advice.

Fishing

Excellent trout fishing Nov-Apr; arrange boat hire with tackle shops (permits required). Many Argentines enjoy seeing their scenery from a bus with commentary and you may find that too much time is spent sitting, check the itinerary before you book. For information, see http://www.interpatagonia.com/ pesca (in English).

Trekking and climbing

There are fabulous peaks around Bariloche, allowing you to walk for an afternoon, or several days, staying at mountain refugios which provide beds and food, but cannot be booked. These are run by Club Andino Bariloche. The season runs from Dec-Apr, and note that winter storms can begin as early as Apr at higher levels, making climbing dangerous. It’s advisable to go with a guide. You should always check with guardaparques that paths are open where you’re intending to walk. Horseflies (tábanos) frequent the lake shores and lower areas in summer: bring insect repellent....read more