Paddle Nahuel Huapi: Full-Day Kayak to Centinela Island & Tristeza Branch

San Carlos de Bariloche•challenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

6–7 hours (4–6 hours paddling)

Fitness Level

Good cardiovascular fitness and core strength recommended; participants should handle sustained paddling and occasional wind-driven chop.

Overview

Paddle away from Bariloche and into the rugged arms of Nahuel Huapi. This full-day guided kayak trip visits Centinela Island and the secluded Tristeza Branch, offering waterfalls, beaches and mountain views across four to six hours of active paddling.

Paddle Nahuel Huapi: Full-Day Kayak to Centinela Island & Tristeza Branch

Kayak

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

The day begins before most tour buses leave town: a short transfer from Bariloche drops paddlers at Lopez Bay where the lake opens like a cool, breathing lung. Guides fit neoprene socks and waterproof cagoules, hand out dry bags and double kayaks, and point toward a strip of water hemmed by vertical granite and lenga forest. As the group pushes off, Nahuel Huapi takes on character—sometimes a lazy, glacial mirror; at other times a nervy current that seems to urge paddlers toward the next cove.

Adventure Photos

Paddle Nahuel Huapi: Full-Day Kayak to Centinela Island & Tristeza Branch photo 1

Adventure Tips

Layer for variable weather

Wind off the lake can drop temperatures quickly—bring a lightweight insulating layer under the waterproof cag you’ll be given.

Protect your electronics

Use the provided dry bags and pack phones and cameras in separate waterproof cases or leave them ashore during exposed crossings.

Hydrate and fuel up

Paddling 4–6 hours requires steady calories and fluids—carry at least 1.5 liters of water and salty snacks.

Know your pickup

Hotel pickup is from centrally located lodgings only—confirm your pickup point and expect a 45-minute transfer to Lopez Bay.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Andean condor
Southern river otter (huillín)

History

Nahuel Huapi sits within Argentina’s oldest national park; the area holds Mapuche cultural ties and later European alpine settlement shaped Bariloche’s lakeshore character.