Destination guide: Bariloche, Argentina

Bariloche - Things to do

Sights

Cavernas del Viejo Volcán

Cavernas del Viejo Volcán is a cave complex, 15km east of Bariloche, which was inhabited for nearly 8000 years by the Mapuche and other tribes. Parts of the cave feature reasonably well-preserved rock-art specimens. A guided tour is compulsory, and takes you 130m into Cerro Leones then out onto the summit where there is a lookout with majestic views of the surrounding countryside. It is possible (but not a whole lot cheaper) to make your own way there on public transport. Either way, reservations are essential – contact the Bariloche office for more information.

Monte Tronador

To the west, a ridge of high peaks separates Argentina from Chile; the tallest is 3554m (11,627ft) Monte Tronador, an extinct volcano that still lives up to its name (which means 'Thunderer') when blocks of ice tumble from its glaciers. During the summer months, wildflowers blanket the alpine meadows. Climbers intending to scale Tronador should anticipate a three- to four-day technical climb requiring experience on rock, snow and ice.

Museo de la Patagonia

The Museo de la Patagonia is filled with archaeological and ethnographic materials, lifelike stuffed animals and enlightening historical evaluations on such topics as Mapuche resistance to the Conquest of the Desert. .

Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

One of Argentina's most visited national parks, Nahuel Huapi occupies 750,000 hectares (1,853,290 acres) in the mountainous southwestern Neuquén and western Río Negro provinces. The park's centerpiece is Lago Nahuel Huapi, a glacial remnant over 100km (62mi) long that covers more than 500 sq km (193 sq mi). The lake is the source of the Río Limay, a major tributary of the Río Negro. Rafting and kayaking on the Río Limay has become increasingly popular in recent years. The best time to be on the rivers is November through February, though you can raft October through Easter.

Volcán Lanín

Dominating the view in all directions along the Chilean border, the snowcapped cone of 3776m (12,388ft) Volcán Lanín is the centerpiece of Parque Nacional Lanín, which extends 150km (93mi) from Parque Nacional Nahuel Haupi in the south to Lago Ñorquinco in the north. The northern approach to Volcán Lanín, which straddles the Argentine-Chilean border, is the shortest, and usually the earliest in the season to open for hikers and climbers. Before climbing Lanín, ask permission at the Lanín National Park office or, if necessary, from the Gendarmería (border guards) in Junín. It's obligatory to show equipment, including plastic tools, crampons, ice axe and clothing - including sunglasses, sunblock, gloves, hats and padded jackets. There's also trekking opportunities across the volcano such as the Huechulafquen trail.

Eat

Días de Zapata

A warm and inviting little Mexican restaurant. Dishes tend more toward the Tex Mex than you would think (the owners hail from Mexico City) but the flavors are good and the servings generous.

El Boliche de Alberto

It’s worth dining at this esteemed parrilla simply to see the astonished look on tourists’ faces when a slab of beef the size of a football lands on the table; it’s the AR$46 bife de chorizo (the AR$35 portion is plenty). If the place is full, check out the nearby sister restaurants at Elfein 49 and 158.

Helados Jauja

Ask anyone in town who serves the best ice cream in Bariloche and they’ll reply with one word: ‘Jauja.’ Many say it’s the best in the country.

Entertainment

Av Arístides Villanueva

For a great night on the town, walk down Av Arístides Villanueva, where it's bar after bar; in summer, entire blocks fill with tables and people enjoying the night.

Tio Lillo

A laid-back little corner bar serving a good range of local microbrewery beers at excellent prices. The music's cool, service, uh, laid-back, and the decor eclectic.

Cruz Bar

A laid-back little corner bar serving a good range of local microbrewery beers at excellent prices. The music’s cool and the decor eclectic. Live DJs play on weekends.

Events Overview

For 10 days in August, Bariloche holds its Fiesta Nacional de la Nieve (National Snow Festival). In January and February the Festival de Música de Verano (Summer Music Festival) puts on several different events, including the Festival de Música de Cámara (Chamber Music Festival), the Festival de Bronces (Brass Festival) and the Festival de Música Antigua (Ancient Music Festival). On May 3 is the Fiesta Nacional de la Rosa Mosqueta, celebrating the fruit of the wild shrub used in many regional delicacies.