Bariloche in Three Days: Circuito Chico, Victoria Island & the Seven Lakes Drive
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (full-day excursions)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable walking ability with standing periods and short uphill segments
Overview
Spend three full days exploring Bariloche’s signature sights: the panoramic miradors of Circuito Chico, the rare Arrayanes forest on Victoria Island, and the storied Seven Lakes drive to San Martín de los Andes. This packaged itinerary pairs guided insight with seamless transfers for busy travelers.
Bariloche in Three Days: Circuito Chico, Victoria Island & the Seven Lakes Drive
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The bus eases out of Bariloche as morning light bleeds across the dark skin of Nahuel Huapi. Wind lifts off the lake and pushes the pine-scented air into the cabin; guides point to ridgelines and islands like hand signals from a map. Over three full days, this packaged route stitches together the best short encounters with northern Patagonia: the cliff-topped viewpoints of Circuito Chico, the odd orange trunks of the Arrayanes on Victoria Island, and the slow ribbon of water and road known as the Seven Lakes route to San Martín de los Andes.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for quick weather shifts
Temperatures change rapidly near the lakes; bring a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer you can remove as the sun comes out.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Lake crossings and winding mountain roads can unsettle sensitive passengers — take precautions before you board the ferry or bus.
Carry small cash for markets
Colonia Suiza and local craft stalls often prefer cash for snacks and souvenirs, especially in low-season.
Start early for the best light
Morning visits to Cerro Campanario and Victoria Island have fewer crowds and softer light for photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Patagonian fox
History
The region combines Mapuche toponyms and a later wave of European settlers; Villa La Angostura and Bariloche grew as summer resorts in the early 20th century.
Conservation
The Arrayanes forest and parts of Nahuel Huapi are protected national park zones; follow marked trails and avoid taking wood or plant material to limit impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Carlos de Bariloche
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof wind shell
Protects against lake-driven wind and sudden rain showers on exposed viewpoints.
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and grip for forest paths and short rocky sections on trails and viewpoints.
Daypack with 1–2L water
Keeps snacks, water, sunscreen, and spare layers handy during long days.
Polarizing filter or sunglasses
Helps reduce glare on reflective lake surfaces and improves color saturation in photos.