Main Attractions

*Hike around scenic Nahuel Huapi National Park, with plenty of well-marked trails for all levels.

*Take off on a boat excursion over one of the park's many lakes, some of which have islands you can explore in the middle.

*For a birds-eye view of the gorgeous countyside, go parargliding. Tandem glides are available from a variety of operatore in the area.

*During the winter, head to the area's most famous resort, Cerro Concepcion, or one of several other mountains in the area boasting first-class slopes and conditions, including terrain parks.

*To relax after a long day of activity, check out Cerveceria Blest, the oldest microbrewery in Argentina.

When to go

The best time to go to Bariloche depends entirely on what you want to do when you get there. Summers are warm but never hot, averaging in the mid-70's F during the day and dropping at night. If you want to hike, bike, horseback ride, or do any water-related activities, January and February are the best times for you. If you want to ski or snowboard, however, definitely head down in the dead of winter, July and August, when the slopes are open, the snow is fresh, and the terrain is some of the best in the world.

How to get there

The most budget-friendly way to get to Bariloche from Buenos Aires is by bus. Unfortunately, it also takes 18 hours. Prices vary based on class. Classes correspond to the size of your seat, degree of reclinability, and services included, i.e. food, bar, and entertainment. You can also travel by plane from Buenos Aires and major cities in Argentina and surrounding countries to Bariloche. Flights are more expensive than going by land but mean you can spend all your time trekking the outdoors instead of sitting on a bus. Check LAN and Aerolineas Argentinas.

Visa information

Travelers from most countries including the US, UK, Australia, EU citizens, New Zealand, Canada, and Israel do not require a visa to enter Argentina. A 90 day tourist visa will be issued at the airport with a passport. Tourist visas can be renewed for those wishing to stay in Argentina with a quick trip to Uruguay from Buenos Aires. No tourist visa is required of visitors from Israel for stays up to 90 days.

Tipping

At restaurants it is normal to tip 10%. Taxi drivers do not receive tips but the fare may be rounded up to the nearest peso. Porters can receive a tip of a couple of pesos.