How to Enjoy Bariloche in Winter: Best Budget Activities & Local Tips

I spent three days in Bariloche, and it truly lives up to its reputation as the ‘Little Switzerland of South America’! The snow-capped mountains and glaciers are absolutely breathtaking. For first-time visitors who love outdoor adventures, I recommend setting aside 1-2 days for Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi.

Two trails stood out to me: Otto Meiling, which takes you directly to the base of a snowy peak (a one-way hike that takes about 5 hours), and Cerro Volcanico, where you can marvel at a volcano and a unique black glacier (the black glacier is truly a sight to behold!).

If you’re driving, make sure to venture an extra 7 kilometers to Ventisquero Negro. The glacial lake there is stunning, and you can even hear the mesmerizing sounds of the glacier cracking and falling into the water. It’s the perfect spot for some peaceful relaxation.

If you have more time, don’t miss the redwood forest in Lake Nahuel Huapi National Park. This enchanting place inspired the setting for Bambi, and in the summer, the interplay of sunlight and shadows creates a magical, picturesque scene.

Personally, I found the 7 Lagos self-drive route to be somewhat underwhelming. The scenery can be a bit monotonous, and the photo spots aren’t clearly marked, making it easy to miss them if you’re not paying close attention.

Finally, I highly recommend indulging in the local chocolate and roasted lamb. The lamb here, much like in Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang, has a very mild gamey flavor. When simply roasted with salt, it’s a simple yet incredibly delicious treat!