Reasons to go to the Argentina Lake District
White Water Rafting
As a top destination for white water rafters from all over the world, Patagonia's lush, green Lake Districts on both the Chilean and Argentinian side provide fantastic rivers for this adventure sport. You don't have to be an expert to enjoy white water rafting in Patagonia. We work with a number of operators that provide easy, medium and difficult trips so that you won't feel out of your depth.
Road Trips
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the lake district on the open road, and discover the varied delights this region has to offer. Whether you choose the independence of self-driving, the comfort of having a private guide, or join a group tour, a road trip is an exciting way to experience the Argentinian lakes.
Places to go
Bariloche
Perched on the shores of the vast, blue Nahuel Huapi Lake, the alpine town of Bariloche is surrounded by stunning forests, mountains, and lakes as far as the eye can see in the …
San Martin de los Andes
This small, sleepy lakeside town is the quieter sister of Bariloche. San Martin (as it is known locally) is the jumping off point for hikes that summit the Lanin Volcano and …
Things to do
Hiking in the Argentine Lake District
From the ice capped peak of the staggering Lanin Volcano to the challenging slopes of the Cathedral mountain or the gentle trails around glistening lakes, the Argentinian Lake …
Mountain Biking in the Patagonian Lake District
Cycling offers an active way to explore the stunning lakes and mountains of the Patagonian Lake District. Immerse yourself in nature whilst covering a large distance in a …
Kayaking in the Patagonian Lake District
See the Lake District like you should - from the water! Paddle on the region's pristine, blue lakes and see waterfalls, mountain sides covered in lenga forests and snow capped …
Horse Riding in the Patagonian Lake District
Riding through the lush alerce forests, mountain sides and rivers of the Lake District is perhaps one of the most active and thrilling ways of seeing Patagonia whilst at the same …
How to get there
From Buenos Aires
A short 2.5 hour flight from Buenos Aires (AEP - the domestic airport) takes you to the city of Bariloche. During the summer months there are up to 10 flights a day. There is a smaller, less reliable airport (Chapelco) in the North, accessed from San Martin, but flights are regularly cancelled or delayed, so we would always advise using Bariloche airport.
For the more hardy travellers, there is also a 22 hour night bus, with 4 or 5 companies offering this service. The buses vary in standard, with some tickets getting you a standard coach seat and others a fully reclined comfy seat. Most tickets will include food, some drinks and sometimes even bingo!
From Southern Patagonia
If you are coming from El Calafate and El Chalten, the quickest and easiest way to access the Argentinian Lake District is to fly between El Calafate and Bariloche - during the summer there is just 1 flight per day. There is also the option to go by road on a long, bumpy night (and the following day) bus, which is not as fun as it sounds. If you've got the time, consider taking a road trip up the infamous Ruta 40, either guided or self-guided.
If you are coming from Torres del Paine, the Lake District can be accessed either by crossing the border into Argentina to fly from El Calafate, or by travelling south to the Chilean city of Punta Arenas and flying north to Puerto Montt. From Puerto Montt, Bariloche is just a short hop over the Andes, by lake, road, bike or on horseback.
Landmarks in the Argentine Lake District
Where to stay
Accommodation options in the Argentinian lakes range from luxury lodges and working estancias set in beautiful scenery, to hotels and hostels in the regions towns.
Our top trips in the Argentine Lake District
Classic Argentinian Lake District Trip
6 Days £808
Enjoy the glistening lakes, verdant green scenery and iconic towns of the Argentine Lake District with the flexibility of driving yourselves. Delve deeper into some of the area’s stunning National Parks , and marvel at the snow capped Lanin volcano.
This is the classic way to experience the Argentinian Lake District and is one of our most popular trips. You can combine this with ‘Classics’ in other parts of Chile and Argentina to tailor your 2-3 week holiday.
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Ready to plan your Patagonia adventure?
Whatever your budget, group size, length of stay, preferred activity or appetite for adventure, we can help.