Cerro Cristal: A Hiker's Paradise in Bariloche
Hike to Cerro Cristal in Bariloche for breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and the majestic Andes Mountains.
Cerro Cristal, located near San Carlos de Bariloche, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Patagonian landscape. The trail is steep in places, but the vistas of glaciers, lakes, and even Torres del Paine on a clear day make it well worth the effort.
A brief summary to Cerro Cristal
- San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro Province, AR
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers, as it can be windy and cold at the summit.
- Start early to allow ample time for the hike and to enjoy the views.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic scenery.
Getting There
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Walking
From the parking area at the base of Cerro Cristal, the trail begins its ascent. Follow the marked path, which gradually steepens as you climb. The trail is well-defined, but sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the rocky and sometimes sandy terrain. Allow ample time for the ascent, taking breaks as needed to enjoy the views. There are no fees associated with hiking Cerro Cristal.
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Public Transport
To reach the trailhead of Cerro Cristal from Bariloche, take a bus towards the southern end of Lago Gutierrez. Check with the local tourist information for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to the trail. From there, it's a walk of approximately 1-2km to the base of the mountain where the hiking trail begins. Bus fare is approximately 1500-6000 ARS, and a SUBE card is required.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from Bariloche city center to the base of Cerro Cristal is a convenient but more expensive option. The ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand or use a ride-sharing app to get an estimate. The approximate cost is 25000-31000 ARS. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the trailhead.
Discover more about Cerro Cristal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel Tronador
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Refugio Otto Meiling
13.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Refugio Otto Meiling in Río Negro Province, a mountain cabin that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Refugio Frey
14.8 km
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Cerveza Patagonia - Cerveceria Bariloche
16.5 km
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Parador de los Arrayanes ok
16.6 km
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Estancia Peuma Hue
17.8 km
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Refugio Viejo Tronador
17.8 km
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Villa Tacul Dormis y Rodantes proveeduría
18.0 km
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Inicio de sendero a Llao Llao y Villa Tacul
18.1 km
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Llao Llao Hotel
18.1 km
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Llao Llao Abuela Goye
18.1 km
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Catedral Alta Patagonia
18.4 km
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La cueva Catedral
18.5 km
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Base del Cerro Catedral
18.5 km
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Puerto Pañuelo
18.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mallín- Mate dulce
1.9 km
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Mirador del Correntino
3.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Bariloche's stunning landscapes from this easily accessible Patagonian viewpoint. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Cascada Frey
5.8 km
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Mirada del Doctor
6.4 km
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Cascada Los Césares
10.2 km
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Pampa Linda
10.4 km
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Mirador del Valle de Pampa Linda
11.0 km
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Glaciar Alerce
11.9 km
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Ventisquero Negro
14.0 km
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Cerro Catedral Sur
14.1 km
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Laguna Toncek
14.6 km
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Inicio Sendero Brazo Tristeza
14.8 km
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Cascada Garganta del Diablo
14.8 km
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Bahia López
14.9 km
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Muelle Bahía López
14.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Albergue Pampa Linda
10.5 km
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Restaurante Los Ventisqueros
14.2 km
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Compañía General de Panchos del Arroyo López
14.9 km
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Refugio Lynch
15.4 km
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Refugio Punta Nevada
15.8 km
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MONTANA Grill House
16.5 km
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Restaurant Punto Panorámico
17.0 km
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Restaurante Peuma Hue
17.9 km
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Restaurante Patagonia (Hotel Llao Llao)
18.1 km
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Winter Garden
18.1 km
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Confitería El Tronador
18.7 km
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Tearoom Hotel Amancay
18.9 km
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Restaurante Del Bosque
19.1 km
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Il Gabbiano
19.4 km
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Ãnima
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cerro Tronador
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Restaurante y Minimercado Shirdi
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La Tienda de los Kilómetros
18.9 km
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Bellevue
19.1 km
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Morena Llao Llao
19.3 km
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Handicrafts The Coihue
20.3 km
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Ranchito Patagonia
20.3 km
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Pandora
20.5 km
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HM Patagonia - Cuchillos Hechos a Mano / HandMade Knives
20.8 km
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Petit Travel Market
20.9 km
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Ahumadero Weiss
21.4 km
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Paila Co Salón de Tè
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Las Carpitas
22.5 km
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Sol del Nahuel
25.5 km
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Gift Box Bariloche
25.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cervecería y Restaurante Gilbert
16.7 km
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Espacio Lago Moreno
18.0 km
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Bechamel Club House
18.5 km
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Cervecería Wesley
20.1 km
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Oveja Negra KM13
20.5 km
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India Taproom
20.5 km
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Cava Clandestina
20.6 km
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Berlina Km12
21.0 km
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Taruka Beer & Burger
21.1 km
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Aldebarán Hotel & Spa
21.2 km
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El Buho Blanco
21.8 km
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Cervecería Mandela
22.8 km
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Dahna Beer House
23.0 km
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Bacanal Lake & Wine Bar
23.5 km
Experience the charm of Bacanal Lake & Wine Bar, where exquisite wines, tapas, and stunning lakeside views create unforgettable moments.
Luna Bar
23.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Carlos de Bariloche at Luna Bar, where creative cocktails meet stunning views in a lively atmosphere.
