What to do in Bariloche in spring: the most complete guide
Will October and November be the most beautiful months to travel to Bariloche in spring? Maybe yes, and that’s why knowing what to do in this beautiful Patagonian city can change your vacation weeks. The snow recedes and the forest begins to bloom again. That’s why we love Bariloche so much at this time of year: nature’s colors return in all their splendor.
The temperatures become more pleasant (although nights are still very cold) and, still, there are places with snow. If you travel in this season, you may be able to combine hiking, biking, kayaking on the lake, and maybe even a snowy day if you’re lucky. In fact, depending on the year, the ski season can extend until October.
Since at Rentennials we encourage travelers to go beyond a classic tour, we provide the most complete information about everything there is to do in Bariloche in spring so you don’t miss anything.
Keep reading, Patagonia is waiting for you!
Why travel to Bariloche in spring?
Some seasons become magical in Patagonia, and one of them is spring. The blossoming forest, the receding snow, the streams that become more powerful, and the mountain colors mixing with the white of the recent snowfall. This new climate allows some trails to open and makes it much friendlier to be outdoors.
Traveling to Bariloche in spring is an excellent decision if you have enough time. It’s always good to take a break before the year ends. You only need to fly to the city, rent a car and start your journey.
What is spring like in Bariloche?
Spring days in Bariloche can vary from 7º to 20º. Some days may be cooler than others, while nights almost always get cold. Even in spring months, you might get a sporadic snowfall.
In any case, the best thing is to bring clothes for both cold and warm weather so you can enjoy each day.
Does it snow in Bariloche in spring?
It’s not frequent, but it can snow some days or at night. In November, the “last snowfall” is famous, but it’s usually not a problem for you to enjoy Bariloche in spring to the fullest.
How many days should you stay in Bariloche?
Bariloche is one of those destinations where you can stay for a week, 15 days, or, if you don’t have that much time, just four or five. Everything depends on how much time you have to rest, as well as your desire to stay only in the city of Bariloche to get to know it deeply.
What to do in Bariloche in spring?
Everything starts by organizing a good travel itinerary for the days you will spend in Bariloche. Depending on your interests, you’ll do what you enjoy most. From walking along trails, driving a beautiful road like the 7 Lakes, tasting Patagonian gastronomy, to enjoying Bariloche’s most hidden beaches.
Since there are so many plans for Bariloche in spring, here we’ve chosen the ones we like most and that are ideal for this season.
The 7 Lakes Route
From Bariloche you can drive one of the most famous stretches of National Route 40: the Seven Lakes Route. It’s 110 km through forests, mountains, and water mirrors. The lakes you’ll pass are Correntoso, Espejo, Escondido, Villarino, Falkner, Machónico, and Lácar. And if you dare, you can reach Villa Traful and Lake Meliquina. You’ll be able to do trekking, relax on a small beach, or spend the night camping or in a cabin.
You can tackle the route from Bariloche in one day, but the nicest way is to split it into several days. One option is to stay a few days in Villa La Angostura, which works as an ideal base to return to the lakes calmly, or even stay in San Martín de los Andes if you prefer to finish there.
Cerro Tronador
From Bariloche you can start your day taking National Route 40 southbound, passing Lakes Gutiérrez and Mascardi until you turn onto Provincial Route 82, and later the detour to Cerro Tronador. The whole road is pure nature, with viewpoints offering views of mountains like Bonete and Cresta de Gallo, and the Manso River that changes color along its way. Keep in mind there are several trails to hike.
As you climb along a winding road, you’ll reach Pampa Linda. Finally, the landscape ends with what everyone expects: the Ventisquero Negro, a glacier descending from Tronador, standing out for its dark color.
Something to keep in mind: the route is one-way in certain sections – you can enter from Los Rápidos to Pampa Linda between 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and return between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The rest of the day it’s two-way (7:30 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.). It’s very important to consider this so you don’t run into problems during your visit.
Trails return (though they never left)
Bariloche has treks for all tastes, from short family walks to challenges for those looking for more adventure. The trail to Cascada de los Duendes is a classic: in less than an hour you reach a waterfall from Lake Gutiérrez surrounded by Andean forest. It’s ideal for going with kids or just stretching your legs without steep climbs.
On the other extreme, the trail to Lake Los Césares is pure adventure: about 4 to 6 hours of hiking with intense climbs ending in a hidden lake among mountains, reached only by those willing to sweat a good while. A similar proposal is Refugio Frey, which you can reach through different routes all leading to Lake Toncek. Here you can camp or spend the night in the refuge.
Keep in mind that for some refuges you need to register in advance at this link.
A boat trip on Lake Nahuel Huapi
One of the must-dos (all year round) in Bariloche are the boat trips on Lake Nahuel Huapi departing from Puerto Pañuelo, in the Llao Llao peninsula. From there you can choose between several excursions: the classic combining Victoria Island with the Arrayanes Forest, the one that takes you to the impressive Cántaros Waterfall in Puerto Blest, or a deeper adventure to the Tristeza Arm and Frey Creek Waterfall.
The key is to take the excursions early to make the most of the day.
Villa La Angostura and Los Arrayanes National Park
Villa La Angostura, just 80 km from Bariloche, is one of the most beautiful Patagonian towns you can visit. If possible, it’s ideal to stay a few days because it’s a different experience from Bariloche. A little quieter and without so many crowds.
There are several circuits to explore, but the best is entering Los Arrayanes National Park through the walking trail. It’s 12 km leading you to the south of the Park, full of arrayanes trees. You can walk or rent a bike if you want a bit more adventure.
The classics of Bariloche
If it’s your first time in Bariloche, don’t miss the most classic tours. The Circuito Chico is one of the musts. It’s a 60 km drive along Lake Nahuel Huapi, through forests, mountains, and landscapes.
On the way, you can go up to Cerro Campanario to enjoy an incredible panoramic view, visit the San Eduardo Chapel next to Hotel Llao Llao, and pass by Puerto Pañuelo.
Also, don’t miss Cerro Otto and Cerro Catedral. And of course, relax on the beautiful beaches of Lake Nahuel Huapi or Lake Gutiérrez.
Where to eat in Bariloche
No trip is complete without experiencing the regional flavors. Bariloche is no exception, that’s why we want you to try the local dishes made with Patagonian ingredients.
Here are five restaurants worth visiting:
- El Boliche de Alberto. A Bariloche classic, famous for its grill.
- La Fonda del Tío. Large portions, traditional Argentine dishes, and good prices.
- Familia Weiss. When it comes to regional dishes, this restaurant never fails. From the famous Patagonian lamb to recipes with European influence.
- Las Morillas. Located across from Playa Bonita on Bustillo Avenue, offering a variety of dishes with Patagonian touches.
- Ánima. On Circuito Chico, this restaurant is all about the complete experience. Four courses for another culinary perspective.
Bariloche’s chocolate shops
If this article didn’t have a section dedicated especially to Bariloche’s chocolate shops, it would be incomplete. After excursions, nothing is better than having an afternoon snack (that sometimes becomes dinner) in one of the city’s most famous chocolaterías.
Which ones?
How is it best to explore Bariloche in spring?
We always recommend doing it at your own pace with a rental car. Why? This way you’ll discover what you want, get away from the classic routes, and avoid plans you don’t feel like doing. Nothing like a trip where you choose your own path.
Rent a car in Bariloche and discover your way
Exploring Bariloche by car is the best way to experience one of the most beautiful places in the country. At your own pace, without rushing, and without overpaying for excursions that often don’t deliver much. You just need to step away from the traditional and go beyond the known routes.
At Rentennials we make the whole process of renting a car in Bariloche easier, and you’ll also connect with local hosts. Discover a new way to rent a car – simpler, more sustainable, and with positive effects on the local economy.
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