San Carlos de Bariloche is situated between glacier-fed lakes and the Andes Mountains, with the international ski center of Cerro Catedral just 20 minutes away. The city is a bubble of civilization in the sparsely populated foothills bordering Chile in what is called the Lake District of Patagonia. Founded over 100 years ago, Bariloche has become a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts all year round. Located within the Nahuel Huapi National Park, the surroundings are green and lush with vegetation. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, and numerous other activities within the park.

Downtown Bariloche is a mix of quaint shops, restaurants, pubs, and friendly people. Views of the mountains surround the visitor from every direction, and a walk along the lakefront is a popular excursion for both tourists and locals. With Swiss influence in both architecture and cuisine, some of the country's best chocolates are produced locally. Other regional delights include trout, salmon, deer, wild boar, lamb, and of course the world famous Argentine beef. Don't expect to eat beans and rice here, but prepare yourself for some of the tastiest food on the continent!

For many years Bariloche was considered an expensive resort for wealthy national tourists and groups of high school
graduates on their class trip. Since the devaluation of the peso, the area has become a moderately priced tourist hub, complete with an excellent infrastructure and year-round opportunities for all ages. Hotel prices have dropped about 60% from four years ago, and the cost of dinner in a nice restaurant is now less than $10 US Dollars. Argentina is a safe and secure tourist destination, and in the last few years has transformed into South America's playland. The low cost, quality, and the wide variety of activities makes the area an interesting alternative for anybody's vacation all year round.

With an international airport just outside the city, visitors often use Bariloche as a springboard to other Patagonian destinations like Calafate or Torres del Paine in Chile. With all of its tourists services, it is a welcome site after some of the long excursions through the wide expanses of Patagonia. Contact us for information on other destinations in the region.

Nightlife is abundandant, with live music, dancing, and a casino complement a thriving local arts community. Craftsmen can be seen selling their goods in the local market, and theater, cinema, and live performances are held in several cultural centers throughout the city. All season long Bariloche hosts festivals such at the International Festival of Tango, Festival of Snow, triatholons, rally, golf tournaments, and a Multicultural Festival to show the city's diverse heritage.

From the budget backpacker to the sophisticated traveler, Bariloche has plenty to offer for all ages and interests.