Bariloche to Villa La Angostura — Full-Day Circuito Grande: 7 Lakes, Traful & the Limay River
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average fitness; requires short, gentle walks from vehicle to viewpoints.
Overview
Follow National Route 40 on a full-day circuit from Bariloche to Villa La Angostura, passing mirror lakes, coihue forests and vantage points over the Limay and Traful rivers. This 10-hour loop blends short walks, photo stops and village time into one compact Patagonian sampler.
Bariloche to Villa La Angostura — Full-Day Circuito Grande: 7 Lakes, Traful & the Limay River
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Dawn breaks over San Carlos de Bariloche and the bus eases onto National Route 40, tires whispering over a ribbon of asphalt that unspools through mountains and rainforest. The first panes of glass catch a cold, silver Nahuel Huapi; soon the Limay River lines the road, its current daring you to follow the bend where provinces change and the landscape grows wilder. The day is a series of natural rooms—river valleys, coihue groves, mirror-still lakes—each offering a short invitation to step down, breathe, and look back.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly—bring a warm mid-layer and a waterproof shell even on sunny mornings.
Pack water and snacks
Stops include viewpoints and short walks with limited facilities; carry at least 1–2 liters of water and energy snacks.
Bring cash for lunch and crafts
Villa La Angostura shops and some food stalls prefer cash; small purchases and tips are easier with pesos.
Keep your camera ready
Reflections and wildlife appear suddenly—park-side photo stops are short, so be prepared to shoot quickly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Huemul (South Andean deer)
History
The corridor links Mapuche place names and 20th-century settler villages; Route 40 became a critical transport axis shaping modern access to these valleys.
Conservation
Coihue forests and shoreline habitats are sensitive—stick to marked paths, avoid feeding wildlife and buy from local artisans to support community-based stewardship.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Carlos de Bariloche
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Staying hydrated is important during long drives and short walks between viewpoints.
Waterproof shell
Wind and sudden showers are common; a lightweight rain jacket keeps you comfortable.
all specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Trails to viewpoints are short but can be uneven and muddy after rain.
Camera with polarizing filter
A polarizer reduces glare on lake surfaces and enhances mountain reflections.