Kayak and Hike Lago Mascardi: Full-Day Private Tour from Bariloche
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to paddle continuously for 2 hours, walk uphill on uneven trail for ~1 hour, and handle full-day outdoor exposure.
Overview
Float between Andes-peaked coves and hike through evergreen forest to a quiet lagoon on this private full-day from Bariloche. Two hours of guided kayak, a one-hour hill walk, and a country lunch make this a compact Patagonia day-trip.
Kayak and Hike Lago Mascardi: Full-Day Private Tour from Bariloche
Select participants and date
You push off from a raked pebble beach and the lake answers with a clear, cold pulse under your blade. Andes peaks line the horizon like a high rim; the water pulls your kayak into long blue lanes between forested coves. Wind teases your jacket. Overhead a big macá ducks and reappears; the forest at the shore watches as you pass.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive layered
Temperatures change quickly on the water—wear a wicking base, insulating mid-layer and a windproof shell you can shed or add.
Protect electronics
Use a small dry bag or waterproof case for phones and cameras—spray and splashes are constant during paddling.
Footwear for transitions
Bring shoes that can get wet yet support you on roots and rocks for the hike; neoprene booties or trail shoes work best.
Hydrate and pace
Two hours of paddling plus hiking means steady hydration and snacks—bring a refillable bottle and eat before the hike.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- big macá (cormorant)
- austral bandurria (black-faced ibis)
History
Mascardi sits within Nahuel Huapi National Park, established in 1934 to conserve the unique Andean-Patagonian ecosystems; Mapuche and early settlers shaped local place names and routes.
Conservation
The area is managed to limit visitor impact—stick to trails, use refillable bottles, and avoid disturbing birds and shoreline vegetation to protect nesting habitat.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in San Carlos de Bariloche
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof shell
Blocks lake wind on the water and cool mountain breezes during the hike.
Trail shoes or neoprene booties
Secure footing on wet beaches and rooty forest trails.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)
Stay hydrated on the paddle and hike; refillable to reduce plastic use.
Dry bag (small)
Protects electronics and spare layers from splashes and rain.