Bariloche Multi-activity Tour

Arrive at Bariloche Airport/Pañuelo Port.

A representative/guide of Andean Trails meets you and transfers you to your hotel for check in.

Your English-speaking representative gives you an introduction to the region, the upcoming activities and final details of your tour programme for the next few days.

You have the rest of the day to relax / explore the town.

About Bariloche

The name Bariloche comes from the Mapudungun word Vuriloche – which translates as ‘people from behind the mountain’.

San Carlos de Bariloche is usually known as Bariloche.

The town is on the southern side of Nahuel Huapi Lake and part of  the Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Since the 1930s, it has become a popular ski resort (May-Sept) as well as a centre for adventure sports. In addition, it has numerous restaurants, cafés, and amazingly tempting chocolate shops.

The surrounding scenery is lovely: with snow-capped mountains, clear lakes and verdant forests around the city, which is home to some 100,000+ people.

It has some lovely chocolate factories and indeed has a very Swiss feel to it – chocolate box houses and pine trees.

Many of the hotels are out of the main town, on the lakeshore road, called Avenida Bustillo.

An action-packed day of multi-sport adventure in the Argentine Lake District, the Bariloche countryside and Llao Llao natural reserve.

First, we paddle the pristine waters of Nahuel Huapi & Moreno lake, enjoy a homemade tasty picnic lunch by the shore in a calm bay.

Then, we explore, on foot, the scenic “Miradores del Brazo Tristeza” scenic look outs, which offer stunning views of Mount Tronador, the lake & the Andean landscapes.

We pick you up from your hotel for a private transfer along Bustillo Avenue with spectacular vistas of Lake Nahuel Huapi and mountain landscapes. We pass in front of the Luxurious Llao Llao hotel and Pañuelo Port before reaching López Bay where our adventure tour begins.

The kayaks and guides will be ready and you’ll have an introduction to paddling skills, safety instruction and all the kayak gear and itinerary briefing in order to start paddling.

Soon you’ll be kayaking on lakes Nahuel Huapi and Moreno, exploring the coast lines and hidden bays where there is only access by water.

We paddle for about 1.5 hours, with some breaks for resting and enjoying the impressive landscapes. In one of the hidden bays we land for a picnic lunch by the lake.

After our lunch break, we’ll continue paddling a little bit more to reach our trailhead and begin the hiking stage up (1.5 hours) to the viewpoints of Tristeza Branch.

Tristeza Branch has panoramic views over most of lake Nahuel Huapi and its islands and the neighbouring hills. In the background is the magnificent Mount Tronador, with its glaciers and the endless snow capped peaks of the Andes.

We begin our descent and meet our vehicle from where we continue discovering the beauty of Bariloche and the lake district. We pause at the Panoramic Viewpoint “Punto Panorámico”, where Nahuel Huapi, Victoria Island and the mountain range dominate the view.

Arrive at the hotel late afternoon.

Kayaking: Paddling time = 1.5-2 hours, distance of 6-8 km (approx.)

Hiking time: = 1.5-2 hours, distance of 3km (approx.)

Elevation gain: +100m

Suitable for all levels of bikers.

This guided mountain bike tour combines scenic spots of Nahuel Huapi national park and the Bariloche Area. You bike along quiet roads overlooking Moreno Lake, with sparkling streams, evergreen forests and a lot of fun.

Local mountain bike guides and a van support guarantee a truly great experience for a bicycle adventure in Bariloche.

We pick you up in the hotel and we take a private transfer to the starting point of the biking tour and preparation of the equipment, as well as a brief description of the itinerary given by the mountain bike guides.

The first part of the tour is on single track by the shore with views of landscapes and Patagonian vegetation, then along non-paved roads with moderate slopes and some short descents.

We slowly cycle up to Moreno Lake, going along the side of Bella Vista and Goye hills along a ridge with the lake at our feet. We bike through some villages, by waterfalls and small streams until we reach the spot known as ‘Colonia Suiza’ at the base of Goye hill.

Here you see find old houses dating back to the first inhabitants of teh area, and there will be plenty of time to enjoy relaxing whilst wandering the quiet streets.

Once again we hop onto our mountain bikes and cycle along a gravel road to a point known as the ‘Panoramic Viewpoint’. It’s easy to see why. The extraordinary landscape can be seen from here – Lake Nahuel Huapi, Victoria island and the Llao Llao hotel makes it worth stopping and taking photos.

We bike past Lopez stream and its bay, then Angostura stream and finally Lake Escondido in Llao Llao park.

We arrive at the Llao Llao Hotel and Port Pañuelo, marking the end of you bike excursion, and transfer back to your hotel.

Distance: 15-20 km / 9-12 miles

Today we enjoy one of the most scenic hikes in the Bariloche area, with 360º breath taking vistas of Nahuel Huapi national park from the summit of Cerro Bella Vista.

For those who prefer off-the-beaten-path walks, we highly recommend this.

There are several options for all levels of hikers, and professional mountain guides will accompany you.

Frey Mountain Hut Trek (Normal Trail)

Pick up at your hotel and private transfer to the Cerro Catedral ski resort base station (1,000m/3,281ft) above sea level) where our trek begins. We hike on a trail that goes around the mountain, slowly going higher, smooth slopes that cross some streams.

Gutiérrez Lake and Cerro Ventana will be part of the landscape from the beginning of the walk.

There is abundant bamboo like cane (caña colihue) that came to dominate this area after a fire that, some years ago, destroyed the native forest.

We continue hiking onto the Van Titter stream valley, cross it and find Lenga (nothofagus) forest plus some shrubby species dominating this area.

In autumn time, the reddish copper colours of this forest offer an amazing nature show. If we are lucky we may see a woodpecker pecking at a tree interrupting the deepest forest silence.

On the last part of the trek, the trail gets steep and with a constant ascent. We walk by Refugio (mountain hut – bivouac) and Piedritas (little rock), an unusual, bivouac built under a big rock. From there onwards we can see how the vegetation gets smaller and scarcer as we go higher.

After approx. 4 hours of hiking, we’ll have a great view. We’ll see the foot of Aguja (spire) Frey and –  Toncek lagoon – the Refugio (mountain hut) Emilio Frey (1,700m/5,577ft). This mountain hut is built in rock and wood surrounded by a circle of granite spires with stunning formations.

We have a picnic lunch by the lagoon, accompanied by these incredible views.

After lunch, we explore the area, finding the best photos and vistas before starting our descent to Catedral Ski Resort and transfer back to Bariloche / Hotel.

The normal path is recommended for beginners, enthusiast hikers & families.

Elevation gain: 750m/2,500ft (same down)

Distance: 20km /12.5 miles

Notes: Itineraries and routes can be changed partially or totally and/or cancelled for weather conditions or special circumstances.

Breakfast and free time to visit the town or go shopping

Transfer to Airport /Pañuelo Port at the time of your choosing.

For most people, Patagonia evokes a vast, windblown plateau, jagged mountains and the life of the gauchos.

The steppe that occupies much of southern South America is only one aspect of a magical region, jam-packed with amazing and contrasting landscapes.

Patagonia (latitudes 40°-55°, approximately) embraces a vast portion of southern Chile and Argentina, from the Rio Colorado in the north, to Tierra del Fuego in the south.

For convenience, we have divided the region into three zones: the Lakes District of northern Patagonian, central Patagonia and southern Patagonia.

Patagonia, the very southern tip of South America, has a four-seasons-in-one day climate.

Summer (Nov-March) see temperatures reach up to 20°C, when glorious light pours over the region for up to 18 hours. This is the best time to visit, nevertheless, spring and summer is also when the central and southern Patagonian regions sometimes get buffeted by strong, westerly winds.

Summer days in national parks can also bring sunny, windless conditions, and you may well find yourself hiking in shorts and t-shirt. Afternoons can be warm with lots of sunshine. (Note: Patagonian UV rays are very strong).

It is usually cool and windy all year round but seldom does the temperature fall below freezing point. Some days start with snow and end in balmy sunshine. It is always interesting, and can range from 10°C-20°C in the summer, although the wind can make it feel chilly.

Even in summer (Dec-Mar) you should come prepared to find cold, strong winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfalls. The summer’s average temperature is 11ºC/52ºF (24ºC max, 2ºC min). It has been known to snow in camps in summer!

In general, the further south you go, the cooler it gets and the further west you go – towards the Andes and Pacific coast – the wetter and less predictable the weather is. The further east – towards and across the Patagonian plateau – the drier and more stable.

Winter (May-Sept) visits to these southern areas are possible, but many hotels close and not all trips are possible. Daylight hours can be very short and temperatures typically range from -2°C in the winter.

The lack of visitors can greatly improve chances of seeing wildlife in parks such as Paine. Winds tend to die down.

On the South Patagonian Ice Field (average height, 1,500 metres), the appearance of lenticular clouds – signifying changing conditions – can translate into extreme winds (up to 150 kmh) and heavy snowfall. Here, summer pre-dawn temperatures commonly reach -20°C, with wind chill lowering temperatures even more. However, on sunny, windless summer days, you might get away with wearing just a couple of thin layers.

In Peninsula Valdes, it does not rain much in the region on an annual basis, summers are usually mild, and the temperature sometimes gets very hot (touching 30ºC) and then eases off in the evening. The area does get very windy at times, especially on the peninsula, and warm and water/windproof clothing is recommended.

If you head to Ushuaia, due to its extreme southern location, temperatures may remain chilly during summer (Oct-March) the use of plenty of warm layers of clothing. Winter and Antarctic visits will require extreme clothing.

Good kit is vital for every trip.

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Overview

When planning for the varied climatic conditions encountered in Patagonia, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.  It’s worth remembering that our clothing keeps us warm by retaining and isolating the heat we ourselves create.

To best maintain body heat, several layers of lightweight, warm and quick-drying clothing are far more efficient than one or two thick layers. Layers should have the following qualities:

1. Breathability (able to wick away the humidity produced by sweat):
2. Isolation (able to keep in the warm air our body produces); and
3. Impermeability (able to impede the passing of wind and water).

First (base) layer: This layer wicks the sweat away from our skin, thus helping keep the body dry and warm. To this end, synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene should be used.

Mid layers: These isolating layers should also be synthetic (e.g. the known polar linings such as polartec or windblock, which are light and insulate twice as well as wool). Very important layers for retaining body heat.

Outer layer / shell: Finally, the vital layer which protects us from climatic adversities. A breathable, wind-proof and waterproof anorak, such as Goretex.

Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.

We also carry an extensive first aid kit & oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only.

Below is a more detailed kit list.

Detailed kit list

• Sleeping bag liner (if staying in refugios), for hygiene purposes.
• Sandals
• Swimming costume
• 2 pairs synthetic inner socks (e.g. polypropylene, thermastat, coolmax) and 2 pairs thick loop-stitch/wool socks for cold.
• Trekking boots – should be well broken-in, waterproof and provide good ankle support.
• Trainers/sandals for city-wear, evenings at lower camps & river crossings.
• Base layer leggings (1 pair).
• Thick fleece leggings (or salopettes) (1 pair).
• Goretex-type over-trousers (or salopettes) (1 pair).
• Gaiters (optional).
• Trekking trousers (2 pairs).
• Shorts – wear sparingly in early stages, as sun burns, and flies bite! (2)
• Thermal base layer shirts (2).
• Microfleece mid-layer shirt (1).
• Shirt/t-shirt for lower altitudes. Long-sleeved, collared shirt protects against sun and insect bites (2).
• Fleece jacket or similar (1).
• Warm jacket (down or synthetic). For camp and upper slopes.
• Waterproof Goretex-type jacket.
• Broad-brimmed sunhat, essential.
• Warm hat, fleece or wool. (N.B. Up to 30% of body heat can be lost through the head).
• Sunglasses with UV filter.
• Scarf for cold.
• Bandanna – to protect neck from strong sun.
• Light inner gloves
• Warm gloves, e.g. fleece, and outer waterproof gloves or mittens (1 pair)
• Mittens allow you to keep the fingers together, and better conserve heat (though they also make it difficult to perform certain tasks).
• Daypack (at least 30 litres). Comfortable and with waterproof lining or cover.
• Large rucksack or suitcase.
• Pair of telescopic trekking poles (optional).
• Water bottle (2 litres approx.) & purification tablets.
• Personal first-aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general antibiotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
• Insect repellent.
• Towel & wash-kit.
• Wet Wipes/antiseptic hand-wash cream.
• Toilet paper (1)
• Sunscreen (factor 30+) and lip salve.
• Head-lamp (plus spare bulb and batteries).
• Penknife.
• Travel alarm clock.
• Plastic bags – ‘Zip-loc’ & tough bin liners.
• Camera and film / memory cards (take at least twice the amount you think you will need!).
• Book, e-book, mp3 player/ipod or other for free time.
• Binoculars.
• Spanish/English phrasebook.
• Extra snacks i.e. cereal bars or favourite chocolate bars.

Miscellaneous others

• Money belt.
• Passport.
• U.S. dollars cash, mixed-denomination notes, undamaged and unmarked.
• ATM cash/credit card.
• Any inoculation certificates.
• Personal & medical insurance certificates.
• Presents e.g. Postcards from home.
• Comfortable clothes for travel, smart clothes for night life.

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

We pay a fee to the CAA for every licensable passenger we book since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

We also offer ATOL (Civil Aviation Authority) protected holidays to give our customers peace of mind when booking and travelling.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from Andean Trails Ltd you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6275.

You can read more about ATOL, who is covered and what protections you have if not ATOL-covered, on our ATOL page.

What is ATOL?

The CAA’s ATOL scheme offers protection to your money and your holiday if you book with us. Not everybody is covered (see ‘Who is covered?’ for more), as you must purchase an ‘air package holiday’ with Andean Trails to be protected.

And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

Who is covered?

To be covered by ATOL, you must book a flight and some ground services with us and be from the UK. If you are from the UK and only book ground services and no flights, you are not covered by ATOL (see below for more on how non-ATOL clients are covered).

If you are outside the UK and buy flights with us, you will be ATOL protected IF any of the flights booked with Andean Trails touches/stops in the UK at any point during your holiday package booked with us.

If you buy your flights elsewhere, please check with that agent if you are ATOL protected. Be careful with online flight purchases and make sure you know what protection you have, if any, before paying for flights.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.

For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

If you are not ATOL covered, any payments you make to us go to a Trust account.

We can only access this money once your tour has been completed, meaning that if anything happens to Andean Trails Limited while you are on holiday, then your money is secure and you can either complete the trip or be able to make it home.

If you pay for your holiday with a credit card, some offer payment protection – please check with your cardholder.

You also should have cancellation protection written into your insurance (which we recommend you have at the time of booking) in case you need to cancel.