Day trip to El Bolsón & Lago Puelo from Bariloche — markets, hops and Andean lakes
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — minimal walking on gentle trails with plenty of stops during the drive
Overview
A long day that pairs Bariloche’s lake-side drive with El Bolsón’s artisan markets and the forested shores of Lago Puelo. Taste local jams and beers, walk an easy trail in Lago Puelo National Park, and learn why this valley became a hub for small-scale farming and craft production.
Day trip to El Bolsón & Lago Puelo from Bariloche — markets, hops and Andean lakes
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The bus pulls away from Bariloche before the day has fully opened and the lakes begin to show their true colors: steely at first, then a brighter blue as the mountains throw sunlight across water. Window by window, the drive becomes the point of the day — Lake Gutiérrez, Mascardi and Guillermo slide past like postcards until the Andes open into the farming basin of El Bolsón. The town greets visitors with low wooden houses, hop fields and the faint tang of berry jam in the air.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring cash for the market
Many artisan stalls and small breweries accept only pesos — carry small bills for jars, crafts and street food.
Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes quickly; a light waterproof layer and sun protection will cover most conditions.
Pace your day
The tour is about nine hours with long transfers — plan for a relaxed lunch and protest any mobility concerns to the guide.
Preserve the park
Stay on marked paths in Lago Puelo and pack out any waste to protect fragile understory and endangered species.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Pudú (small native deer)
History
El Bolsón’s identity was shaped by 1960s counterculture migrants who promoted small-scale farming, organic produce and craft trades, creating a local artisan economy still visible today.
Conservation
Lago Puelo National Park protects native Andean-Patagonian forest and several endangered species; visitors are encouraged to follow trails and avoid disturbing wildlife to reduce human impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Carlos de Bariloche
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary for uneven park trails and cobbled market streets.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the day and reduces single-use plastic.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Quick showers and mountain winds make a compact waterproof useful.
spring specific
Cash (Argentine pesos)
Small vendors and some breweries prefer cash payments.