Reasons to go to the Argentinian Lake District

  • The best place in Argentina for outdoor activities, from the two hub towns of Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes.
  • Hiking in Nahuel Huapi and Lanín National Parks, from the rocky peaks and valleys around Cerro Tronador to the epic slopes of Lanín Volcano.
  • Kayaking on the best of the region's lakes, from mighty Nahuel Huapi to pocket-sized Machonico.
  • Mountain biking through forests to the Cordoba Pass, or simply between pretty alpine towns on a microbrewery trail.
  • Whitewater rafting the Manso and Chimehuin rivers on rapids high with glacial meltwater.
  • Easy to reach from Buenos Aires, with high season connections to Los Glaciares National Park.

Highlights of the Argentine Lake District

Illustrated Guide

Places to go in the Argentinian Lake District

Bariloche

Bariloche

On the shores of the vast, blue Lake Nahuel Huapi, the alpine town of Bariloche is surrounded by forests, mountains, and lakes in the heart of the Argentine Lake District.

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Lanín National Park

Lanín National Park

Wild and rugged and overlooked by the snowy peak of a dormant volcano, Lanín National Park offers some of the best hiking in the Argentine Lake District. 

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Things to do in the Argentinian Lake District

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David says

Nowhere else in South America can boast the variety of sports and outdoor activities than the Argentinian Lake district. When you combine this with the range of hotels available and some of the best restaurants in Argentina, why look any further for your next holiday?

David Hilton Patagonia Product & Partnership Manager

How to get to the Argentinian Lake District

The Argentinian Lake District is well connected to the rest of the region, with up to 15 daily flights from Buenos Aires to Bariloche, the main gateway town to the lakes. The flight time is around two hours. There are also a smaller number of flights between Buenos Aires and San Martín de los Andes.

From December to February, there are direct flights between Bariloche and El Calafate, allowing you to easily travel between the Lake District and Los Glaciares National Park.

It is also possible to connect the Argentinian Lake District with its neighbour across the border in Chile. There are several ways to cross the border, not least the spectacular Cruce Andino combined ferry and bus route across the Andes between Bariloche and Puerto Varas, the gateway to the Chilean Lake District.

Where to stay in the Argentinian Lake District

Accommodation options in the Argentine Lake District range from luxury lodges and working estancias set in beautiful scenery, to hotels and hostels in the region's towns.

The main hubs to base yourself are Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes, alongside Villa la Angostura situated roughly halfway between the two. Whichever part of the Lake District that you're travelling to we have access to a wide variety of hotels, guesthouses and lodges across the Lakes to suit your budget and interests – talk to us about your requirements.

Argentinian Lake District

When to go to the Argentinian Lake District

The Argentinian Lake District is a year-round destination but being aware of the seasonal variations will help you get the most from your trip.

The driest and warmest months of the year are from December to March, with temperatures up to around 24℃ (75℉). It's worth noting that December can be a particularly busy period in Bariloche as it is a popular holiday destination for newly graduated students.

June to August are the wettest and coolest months, with temperatures averaging around 9°C (50°F). Hiking is more restricted at this time at higher altitudes with below freezing temperatures, but the slopes are packed with skiers and snowboarders. July is the peak ski season in the Lake District. 

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What our customers think of Argentinian Lake District

Argentinian Lake District trips scored 4.5/5 from 27 reviews

It doesn't matter how many photographs you see of these, it can never get close to experience of seeing them live. They are stunning, and the drive along RN40 is one of the best routes we have ever done. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Chris Gibbs - UK

A gentle pace with gravel biking, trekking and kayaking - great location staying at the Hotel Hermoso which was very comfortable and a perfect balance after the adrenalin of the El Chalten two weeks. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Sean Whittaker - UK

Villa La Angostura had a beautiful view. Wish we stayed an extra day. Lake Nahuel Huapi is amazingly beautiful. So is the Seven Lakes road. Los Arrayanes park was a highlight. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Anna Bainton - USA

It was a full day of beautiful views from the boat tours across the many lakes. It should definitely be part of the trip for anyone planning a Patagonian adventure. Read the full review

Travelled: October 2022

Ralph Turkel - USA

Review:

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