Bariloche Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Cruise on Nahuel Huapi
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Casual fitness is sufficient—able to walk 2–6 km over mixed, mostly gentle terrain with short climbs
Overview
Cross Nahuel Huapi to Victoria Island and the Quetrihué Peninsula to walk the cinnamon-barked Arrayán forest and explore gentle island trails. This boat-based day trip pairs scenic navigation with short interpretive hikes and local history.
Bariloche Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Cruise on Nahuel Huapi
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You push away from Puerto Pañuelo and the city sound falls behind you—the lake opens like a cold glass bowl, wind sketching white lines across Nahuel Huapi. The bow of the boat noses toward Victoria Island and, farther on, the Quetrihué Peninsula where the Arrayán trees keep their cinnamon-barked silence. For seven hours you travel across a landscape shaped by glaciers and time: islands and inlets, forested slopes, and a shoreline that insists you slow down and look.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for wind and sun
Lake conditions change quickly—bring a windproof layer and hat for sun protection on the deck and exposed viewpoints.
Stick to the boardwalk
The Arrayán bark is fragile; stay on the raised walkways to avoid damaging roots and soil crusts.
Bring water and snacks
There are limited services on the island; pack water and a small lunch unless you booked the VIP option with onboard lunch.
Plan for uneven terrain
Trails are mostly easy but can be muddy or rocky after rain—sturdy shoes with tread make short hikes more comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Southern river otter (huillín)
History
The Arrayán stands are a rare remnant of a once more extensive forest; the Quetrihué Peninsula was set aside to protect these unusually concentrated specimens of Luma apiculata.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to remain on boardwalks, avoid touching bark and carry out all waste—these measures protect sensitive soil and the forest’s limited regenerative ability.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Carlos de Bariloche
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof shell
Protects against sudden lake winds and keeps you comfortable on the boat deck.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good tread helps on muddy boardwalks and island trails.
Reusable water bottle
Bring enough water—services on the island are limited unless you have the VIP lunch.
Camera with tele and wide lenses
Wide lens for landscapes from the boat, tele for birdlife and bark details in the Arrayanes.