San Carlos de Bariloche

This year-round destination is located on sparkling Lago Nahuel Haupi. The central Andes lakes district unreservedly showcases the most magnificent outdoor beauty in all of South America. Dominated by huge indigenous forests, crystal clear rivers and glacier-fed lakes within Argentina's largest national park, there are multiple reasons visitors come to this stunning region. Easy to moderate walks on the many forest trails, or serious trail hikes, such as up Cerro Lopez; mountain biking, excellent trout and landlocked salmon fishing, lake boating, kayaking, guided white-water rafting on the famed Rio Manso, guided horse-back riding, photography and pure relaxation, in clear mountain fresh air. Winter months July to end September offer world class snow riding - Cerro Catedral ski area is 15km from Bariloche on a sealed highway; Cerro Chapelco ski area is 19km from San Martin de Los Andes.

Highlights

Half / full day lake cruise - cruise to Los Arrayanes National Park and Isla Victoria in Lago Nahuel Huapi, a full day lake cruise to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Waterfall; a full day guided excursion to towering 3941m Cerro Tronador,

The Artisan Markets of El Balson - two days of the week, bustling local artisan markets are fantastic for people watching and picking up some beautiful local offerings.  

Paleontological Museum at Villa El Chacon - an amazing museum located close to where excavations in 1993 uncovered our planets largest carnivorous dinosaur - Giganotosaurus carolinii. After here you can head along the glorious 7 Lakes scenic highway.

The lakeside villages of Villa La Angostura, Villa Traful and San Martin de las Andes – these beautiful villages are in high demand in summer (December - January and early February) however are blissfully quiet most of the rest of the year.

Junin de Los Andes - this is an excellent spot for exploring nearby volcanoes, azure lagoons, sulphur hot springs, or for the ardent angler, world renowned trout fishing.

Golf - play golf at some of the countries most scenic courses. Green fees, buggies and clubs can all be hired locally.