Esquiar en Bariloche
25 Apr
Bariloche, Patagonia

The most complete guide to skiing in Bariloche

Skiing in Bariloche is one of the most exciting experiences to enjoy every winter. Putting on your gear and simply gliding over the snow without thinking about anything else. That’s why the city gets ready to welcome visitors, and the ski resorts open their doors. The most famous one is Cerro Catedral, the largest and best-equipped in South America.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed option, there’s Cerro Otto, with various family-friendly activities and beginner ski areas. Besides winter sports, you can combine your visit with scenic tours and breathtaking landscapes.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to ski in Bariloche: when to go, where to ski, how much it costs, and many more details. At Rentennials, we want you to enjoy the best experiences in Argentina from the very first moment.

Esquiar en el Cerro Catedral

When Is the best time to ski in Bariloche?

The best time to ski in Bariloche is during August and early September. By then, Argentina’s winter break is over, and the ski slopes are much less crowded than in July. Yes, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful environment and shorter lift lines.

Keep in mind that Bariloche’s ski resorts usually open from mid-June to early spring (September). Sometimes, weather conditions allow the season to extend into October.

Where to ski in Bariloche

In Bariloche, you have two main ski areas to choose from: Cerro Catedral and Cerro Otto. Cerro Catedral is the most well-known and visited ski resort in Argentina and across the region. Not far away, Cerro Otto offers alternative snow activities, perfect for those looking for a different pace.

Snowboard en el Cerro Catedral

Cerro Catedral Ski Resort

Cerro Catedral is the top choice for skiers in Bariloche, from beginners to experts. With over 1,200 hectares and the best services in South America, it features more than 30 lifts (chairlifts, gondolas, and drag lifts), capable of transporting around 28,000 people per hour.

The summit reaches 2,200 meters above sea level, while the base is at 1,030 meters. It has a skiable vertical drop of 1,150 meters, and the longest ski run stretches 9 km.

Ski slopes at Cerro Catedral

Cerro Catedral has more than 50 ski runs for all skill levels. Beginners, intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers and snowboarders can fully enjoy the snow. There are also dedicated areas for learning and improving your technique.

Slope gradients range from a minimum of 3º to a maximum of 60º, offering a wide variety of experiences depending on your ability, motivation, and fitness level.

Types of passes at Cerro Catedral

There are different types of lift passes. For a single day, you can purchase a Daily Pass:

  • Adults: around USD 100
  • Children (ages 5–11): around USD 90

For multi-day access, there’s the Flexi Pass, which varies in price depending on the number of days (from 2 to 30). A 7-day pass costs around USD 750 for adults and USD 550 for children.

If you want more comfort, the Exclusive Pass offers priority lift access. Like the Flexi Pass, its price depends on the duration.

Non-skiers can also take the lifts. A pedestrian ticket costs USD 30 for adults and USD 20 for children. 

Children under 5 years old ride for free.

You can buy tickets on the official website: Catedral Alta Patagonia.

How to get to Cerro Catedral

Cerro Catedral is located 20 km from downtown Bariloche. The best way to get there is by renting a car. The route typically follows Avenida Bustillo toward Cerro Campanario, then turns onto Provincial Route 82. Follow the signs to reach the resort.

During peak winter season, the trip from downtown can take 1 to 2 hours in the morning or late afternoon due to traffic.

Persona esquiando en Bariloche


Cerro Otto

Cerro Otto offers a more family-oriented atmosphere, with relaxing snow activities. It’s famous for its mountaintop café and cable car. In winter, you can also enjoy sledding, tubing, snow safaris, and ziplining.

While skiing is available, it’s a great spot for beginners or those looking for a gentler experience. It may be a good idea to visit Cerro Otto first before tackling Cerro Catedral.

There are two snow parks here: Piedras Blancas and the Nordic Ski Center, perfect for all ages.

Piedras Blancas

Piedras Blancas is perfect for families or anyone looking for non-ski snow activities. It’s known for sledding, snow safaris, ziplining, tubing, and more.

You can also learn to ski here. There are beginner slopes and a ski school for those starting out.

Prices are often more affordable than Cerro Catedral, ranging from USD 30 to USD 110, depending on the activity.

Nordic Ski Center

Ever imagined walking with skis? That’s Nordic skiing. Just put on the gear and start sliding. No previous experience needed.

You’ll also find other activities here like snowmobile rides, snowshoeing, and tracked ATVs. Afterward, enjoy hot chocolate at the café or stay for dinner with stunning mountain views.

Esquí nórdico en Bariloche

How to get to Cerro Otto

To get to Cerro Otto from downtown Bariloche, it’s a short 10 km drive. Take Avenida Belgrano, then Videla Street, and continue on Avenida de los Pioneros to the entrance.

Travel time increases during the high season, but don’t worry—you’ll get there.

How much does it cost to Ski in Bariloche?

The cost depends on how many days you plan to ski and the time of winter you go. A full week of skiing or snowboarding, including equipment rental and lodging, can cost around USD 1,500 per person.

Prices vary based on hotel quality, meals, and extra expenses. To save money, we recommend traveling in late August or early September, when accommodation prices drop compared to July.

Where to stay in Bariloche for skiing

At the base of Cerro Catedral, you’ll find cabins, hotels, inns, and apartments. Staying here helps you avoid the commute from downtown.

In downtown Bariloche and nearby areas, you’ll find many lodging options to fit your budget and preferences.

Click here to learn more about where to stay in Bariloche.

Tips for Skiing in Bariloche

  • Book in advance. July and early August are high season. Secure your gear, lodging, and passes early.
  • Wear thermal clothing, waterproof layers, gloves, a hat, and goggles. The less contact with snow, the more comfortable you’ll be.
  • If you don’t own ski gear, rent it in the city or at the base. Make sure it fits well and is in good condition.
  • For first-timers, take a lesson on the first day. By day two, you can try beginner slopes.
  • Check the weather before heading to the resort.

Rent a Car and enjoy skiing in Bariloche

The best way to reach Bariloche’s ski resorts is by renting a car. It gives you freedom, speed, and safety while traveling. All you have to do is enjoy the snow.

Renting a car with Rentennials is easy, simple, and affordable.
 Experience Bariloche and its winter magic!

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Route of the 7 Lakes from Bariloche
19 Dec
Bariloche

Top tips for doing the 7 Lakes Route by car

The 7 Lakes Route is magical all year round. Dare to connect Bariloche with San Martín de los Andes through one of the most beautiful roads in Argentina.

Sometimes, driving along the roads of Argentina becomes an unforgettable experience. You never know when you’ll come across dazzling scenery. In Patagonia there is a road that only seems to connect two cities, but it turns out to be much more. You’ll get in the car and drive through mountains, lakes and forests. The Route of the 7 Lakes awaits you, a section of the mythical National Route 40.

The best way to do the Seven Lakes is leaving from Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. In both cities you can rent a car with Rentennials and begin your journey along this beautiful road. With your time, in your own way and without rushing.

In this article we leave you the best tips to explore at your own pace and embark on the adventure.

Panoramic of the Route of the 7 Lakes

Panoramic of the Route of the 7 Lakes

What is the Route of the 7 Lakes

The cities of Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes are connected by the mythical National Route 40. It is 190 kms, but it is only in Villa La Angostura where the Route of the Seven Lakes begins, the famous 110 km section that passes through places that will remain engraved in your memory.

The tour can be done in one day, but it is best to stop little by little, contemplating and enjoying the landscape. There are seven lakes: Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico and Lácar. In addition, there are some alternative paths that go to other places.

There are trails to walk, campsites to get in touch with nature and wake up on the shores of a lake, treks to climb a hill, beaches to rest, and much more.


How to do the Route of the 7 Lakes

The first thing is to rent a car in Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. If it is in the city of Rio Negro, you can spend a few days to see the must-see places near Bariloche and then begin the adventure.

There are several ways to explore this section of Route 40 in depth:

1- Go and return in the day from Bariloche or San Martín de los Andes. Although sometimes there is no time, we recommend that you take this route calmly and slowly. Each place is incredible and it is worth going slowly.

2- Drive to Villa la Angostura and stay a few days. There, you can make a base to go and return to the lakes. This way, you will spend more time in each place.

3- Make a base in San Martín de los Andes, and get to know each point from this city.

4- The best option is to leave from Villa La Angostura and stop at some strategic points. If you are one of those who like camping, there are several options to put up the tent. In addition, along the way there are cabins and inns.

Here is the map with the route of the Route of the Seven Lakes

MAPA EMBEBIDO


Places to visit on the Route of the 7 Lakes

There are many places to stop and enjoy along the way. Below we leave you all the information with the best stops on the Route of the Seven Lakes leaving from Bariloche.


Villa La Angostura

This town in Patagonia is one of the favorite places to base yourself and tour the 7 Lakes circuit. It is worth staying a few days because it is a place that is full of beauty and tranquility. In addition, it has a great offer of cabins, hotels and restaurants.

The Villa is on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, between the Inacayal, Bayo and Belvedere hills, which makes its surroundings beautiful. In the winter, the Bayo hill has a ski slope for snow sports. During the summer, there are some circuits to tour, such as the Bayo hill circuit and the Bonito River waterfall.

In Villa La Angosturra is the pedestrian entrance to the Los Arrayanes National Park. It is a 12 km trail that takes you to the southern end of the Park where the arrayanes forest is present everywhere. The trail is done on foot or by bike previously rented in the town. To get your ticket to the Park, go to this link.

Villa La Angostura

Villa La Angostura

Correntoso Lake and River

Coming from the south, this is the first lake on the circuit. It is one of the largest lakes, with beaches and bays. There is an old wooden bridge where you can see the Correntoso River, one of the shortest in the world. There are campsites in the area to spend the night.


Espejo Lake

Continuing a few kilometers along RN 40, a gravel road leads to this lake. It is an ideal place to spend time, with a picnic area and beautiful beaches.

Further on, you will find Bahía del Guardaparque. This is a bay with cauquenes, teros and a different landscape.

From here, a small path leads to one of the beaches of Lake Correntoso.

Lago espejo

Mirror Lake

Lago Espejo Chico

Although it is not part of the Seven Lakes Route, it is easily accessed. Once you have passed Lake Correntoso, there is a 2 km gravel road to get there. There is a campsite to spend the night.

Villa Traful and its lake

By detouring a few kilometers along Provincial Route 65, you will reach this mountain village located within the Nahuel Huapi National Park. On the shores of Lake Traful, the town transmits peace and nature. If you want to rest, or choose a place to base yourself, this is your place. To find accommodation, go to this link.

There are trails of different levels of difficulty to reach waterfalls, hills and virgin forests. The recommended ones are the trail to the Coa Co and Arroyo Blanco waterfalls, and the trail to Cerro Negro. It is important that you register with the Park Ranger before setting off on the hike. In general, these are self-guided trails, although there are some where you need to be accompanied by a guide.

In addition, horseback riding and water sports are offered in the area on the lake, including the incredible diving in the submerged forest.

Lago Traful

Lake Traful

Lago Escondido and Cascada Ñivinco

Continuing north on RN 40, you will find this lake. There is a viewing point to contemplate this beautiful body of water. A little further on, you will reach Pichi Traful, one of the arms of Lake Traful. Taking a small detour, there is a campsite without services.

A little further north, you will find one of the must-sees on the Seven Lakes Route: the Ñivinco waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Patagonia. You have to walk along a short trail of medium difficulty to reach the waterfall.


Villarino Lake and Falkner Lake

These two lakes are located just one kilometer from each other. Villarino Lake has a free camping area and the Villarina Inn.

At Falkner Lake, the beaches are ideal for resting and enjoying the water. There is a campsite with services for spending a few nights in nature. In addition, from here there is a difficult trail to Falkner Hill. It takes between 4 and 5 hours, so you have to be well equipped. Before going up, you must register for the trek.


Hermoso Lake and Machónico Lake

Huapi National Park and the beginning of Lanín National Park. Hermoso Lake is accessed by a small gravel road. It is ideal for spending the night. There is a campsite and, further on, the Hermoso Eco Lodge.

Continuing along Route 40, there is Machónico Lake, which can only be enjoyed from the viewpoint. Further on, at the crossroads with the Hermoso River, there is a wide range of accommodation.


Villa and Maliquina Lake

Towards the end of the route there is a small detour of about 15 kilometers along RP 63. It leads to a small town on the shore of the lake with great beauty where tranquility has completely taken over the surroundings.

There are many activities to do, such as going to the Caleufó pools or continuing along RP 63 to Filo Hua Hum Lake. If you would like to spend a few days in the middle of a beautiful landscape, book a few nights in one of the cabins. In this link you can see some accommodation options.


Lácar Lake and San Martín de los Andes

At the end (or beginning) of the route is this lake that bathes the shores of one of the most beautiful cities in Patagonia. There are many activities, from trails, horseback riding, water sports and, if you go in winter, skiing.

Smaller than Bariloche and with its essence intact, San Martín de los Andes is an excellent place to stay for a few days and begin the tour of the Route of the 7 Lakes.

Lago Lácar

Lake Lacar

Places to camp on the Route of the 7 Lakes

Here are some campsites on the Route of the 7 Lakes. Keep in mind that in many places there is no cell phone signal or Wi-Fi.

In the summer it is best to arrive early or after noon to get a place.


How many days are needed to travel the Seven Lakes Route

On a quick trip, you can cover the best of the Seven Lakes Route in one or two days. However, it is worth taking at least a week to enjoy each lake, waterfall or trail. You can sleep along the way in a cabin, inn or campsite.


The best time to travel to Patagonia

During the winter you may not be able to do many trails. In addition, snow can become a problem when driving.

The best time of year to do this tour is from October to April. In January, you’re sure to find yourself with a lot of people, so you need to book your accommodation in advance (or arrive early at the campsite).


Rent your car with Rentennials

Traveling around Patagonia by car is a different experience. Few roads will surprise you like this one. That’s why renting a car with Rentennials will make your trip much easier: fast, economical and safe. Enjoy every kilometer on one of the most beautiful routes in the country.

Go ahead and discover Patagonia your way!

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We are Rentennials

Rentennials is the new way to rent cars from local hosts in your city, quickly, easily, and affordably. It's also your new path to starting your own car rental business and making money every month.
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19 Oct
Bariloche

5 activities you must do in Bariloche Argentina

Bariloche, located in the Patagonia region of Argentina, is one of the most popular destinations for Argentines and foreigners alike, whether in summer for its incredible lakes, beaches, and nature or in winter for its one of the best ski resorts in Latin America. That’s why we recommend 5 places to visit:

Visit Nahuel Huapi National Park

 Are you looking for outdoor activities? This park is perfect for you, where you can do a variety of outdoor activities. You can choose from swimming, kayaking, cycling through its mountain trails, fishing, etc. And if you’re not looking to do activities of this level, you can go to visit its incredible landscapes, which will still be a great experience.

Take the Circuito Chico

 This is a scenic tour, where you will get to know one of the most beautiful places in Bariloche. You can do it by bicycle or car. The most outstanding features of the Circuito Chico are the most famous hotel in the city “Hotel Llao Llao”, the Moreno Lake bridge, the Swiss Colony, Campanario Hill, and San Pedro Peninsula.

Visit chocolate factories

 Did you know that Bariloche is the chocolate capital? That’s why if you’re a fan of chocolate in all its forms, you have to visit its famous factories, including the Mamuschka and Rapa Nui chocolateries located in its center.

Skiing and snowboarding at Cerro Catedral

 For the adventurous, with 103 km of slopes and a vertical drop of 1073 meters, the ski resort at Cerro Catedral becomes one of the main attractions in winter. From approximately June to September, you can enjoy its incredible slopes.

Navigate to Isla Victoria

 This excursion is done by catamaran, arriving at Puerto Anchorena. The most outstanding features are its flora (coihues, cypresses, and exotic species such as pines) and its fauna (seagulls, hummingbirds, and a little more difficult to see red deer and huemuls).

Bariloche is one of those cities that offers activities for all tastes, from simply enjoying its nature to extreme sports, and why not for chocolate lovers. If you thought there was nothing to do in this city, you’re wrong! Don’t hesitate and start planning your trip with Rentennials.

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We are Rentennials

Rentennials is the new way to rent cars from local hosts in your city, quickly, easily, and affordably. It's also your new path to starting your own car rental business and making money every month.
Discover more.

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