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San Carlos de Bariloche
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Discover the alpine charm of San Carlos de Bariloche, a city nestled in the Andes, offering stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and a rich cultural experience.

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, San Carlos de Bariloche is a charming city that will captivate you with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its Swiss-like architecture and beautiful lakes, Bariloche offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cozy alpine ambiance.
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One of the city's main attractions is the Nahuel Huapi National Park, which surrounds Bariloche. This vast park offers numerous hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Whether you're an avid hiker, a passionate skier, or just someone who loves scenic views, you'll find plenty to enjoy here.
Bariloche is also famous for its chocolate. The city boasts numerous chocolate shops where you can sample and buy some of the finest chocolates in Argentina. Don't miss the chance to stroll down Mitre Street, the main shopping avenue, where you can indulge in a variety of sweet treats.
For those interested in history and culture, the Museum of Patagonia offers fascinating insights into the region's past, including its indigenous cultures and wildlife. Additionally, the city hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to cuisine. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or immerse yourself in local culture, San Carlos de Bariloche has something for everyone.

When is the best time to visit San Carlos de Bariloche?

Best: December–February · 23–24°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)2490
February (best)2380
March2180
April1770
May1360
June860
July860
August1060
September1570
October1880
November2190
December (best)2490

Getting to and around San Carlos de Bariloche

How to get there

San Carlos de Bariloche is accessible by air, road, and even rail. The San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) is the primary gateway for most international and domestic travelers, with regular flights from Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and other major cities. By road, you can take National Route 40, which runs parallel to the Andes and offers stunning views. Long-distance buses from Buenos Aires and other cities provide a more budget-friendly option. The scenic 'Tren Patagonico' railway offers a unique travel experience from Viedma to Bariloche.

Transportation

Once in Bariloche, the city has several transportation options. Local buses are a common and affordable way to get around, and the 'SUBE' card is required for payment. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. Renting a car can offer more flexibility, especially for exploring the surrounding natural parks and lakes. Cycling is a popular option in the summer months, with numerous bike rental shops throughout the city.

Best attractions in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche offers visitors a stunning combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From the picturesque Cerro Catedral mountain for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, to the pristine waters of Nahuel Huapi Lake for kayaking and fishing in the summer, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast. The charming Swiss-style architecture of the city center provides a unique backdrop for exploring local shops and restaurants, while the nearby Arrayanes Forest offers a magical hiking experience through a forest of rare arrayan trees. Don't forget to indulge in the famous chocolate shops and sample delicious local cuisine, making San Carlos de Bariloche a destination not to be missed.

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Best landmarks in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche offers visitors a stunning array of natural beauty and outdoor activities, with its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. The city is known for its iconic Cerro Catedral ski resort, which attracts winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors can also explore the charming Swiss-style architecture of the city center, sample delicious chocolate at local shops, and take a boat tour on the scenic Nahuel Huapi Lake. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and water sports opportunities to enjoy in this picturesque Argentine destination.

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Explore San Carlos de Bariloche on the map

Plan your San Carlos de Bariloche trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Neighbourhoods in San Carlos de Bariloche

Best restaurants in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche boasts a diverse dining scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Argentine steakhouses serving up sizzling cuts of meat to cozy cafes offering freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffees, visitors can indulge in a culinary adventure that showcases the region's rich gastronomic heritage. Don't miss out on sampling the famous chocolate shops scattered throughout the city, where you can satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent treats made from locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining with a view of the stunning Nahuel Huapi Lake or seeking out authentic Patagonian cuisine in a rustic setting, San Carlos de Bariloche has something to offer every palate.

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Best bars in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche's nightlife scene is vibrant and eclectic, offering a mix of traditional Argentine bars, trendy nightclubs, and cozy pubs. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, DJ sets, and themed parties throughout the week, with a lively atmosphere that extends well into the early hours of the morning. From lakeside venues with stunning views to historic buildings turned into hip bars, there is something for every taste in this bustling city after dark.

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Best nightclubs in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche's nightlife scene is vibrant and eclectic, offering a mix of traditional Argentine bars, trendy nightclubs, and cozy pubs. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, DJ sets, and themed parties throughout the week, with a lively atmosphere that extends well into the early hours of the morning. From lakeside venues with stunning views to historic buildings turned into hip bars, there is something for every taste in this bustling city after dark.

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Best shops in San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a mix of traditional craft markets, boutique shops, and luxury stores. Explore the bustling streets lined with local artisans selling handmade chocolates, knitted goods, and leather products. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the region's famous sweets and treats, such as dulce de leche and artisanal jams. For those looking for high-end fashion and designer labels, there are plenty of upscale boutiques to browse. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or splurging on luxury items, San Carlos de Bariloche has something for every shopper.

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San Carlos de Bariloche essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Bariloche, but they may charge high withdrawal fees, so plan accordingly. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and some hotels.
Safety
Bariloche is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. High-crime areas specifically targeting tourists are rare, but neighborhoods like 'El Mallín' should be navigated with caution, especially after dark. Always use reputable transportation services and stay aware of your surroundings.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities, including the Hospital Zonal Ramón Carrillo, are available to help. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in the city can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do stand up for elderly passengers and don’t eat on buses. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, as is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Patagonian lamb and chocolates. Don’t rush meals; dining is a social activity here.
Local Tips
To experience Bariloche like a local, visit the Feria Artesanal market for handcrafted goods and local foods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share tips. Don't miss out on trying the local craft beers; Bariloche is known as the 'Beer Capital of Argentina.' For a unique experience, take a boat tour on Lake Nahuel Huapi or hike one of the many trails in the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[oh-lah]
GoodbyeAdiós[ah-dee-ohs]
YesSí[see]
NoNo[noh]
Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada[por fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
Thank youGracias[grah-see-ahs]
Excuse me/SorryPerdón[pehr-dohn]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[koh-moh ehs-tahs]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[bee-ehn. ee too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[ah-blahs een-glehs]
I don't understandNo entiendo[noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-bor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-lood]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-bor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-yoo-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![veh-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía![yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor![yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
That's too expensiveEsto es muy caro[ehs-toh ehs moo-ee kahr-oh]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[keh oh-rah ehs]
It's one o'clockEs la una[ehs lah oo-nah]
Half past (10)Las diez y media[lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
MorningMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
AfternoonTarde[tahr-deh]
EveningNoche[noh-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-yehr]
TodayHoy[oy]
TomorrowMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
1Uno[oo-noh]
2Dos[dohs]
3Tres[trehs]
4Cuatro[kwah-troh]
5Cinco[seen-koh]
6Seis[says]
7Siete[syeh-teh]
8Ocho[oh-choh]
9Nueve[nweh-veh]
10Diez[dyehs]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?[dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?[pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (colectivo)?[kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (koh-lehk-tee-voh)]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)[oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of San Carlos de Bariloche

The Founding of San Carlos de Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche was officially founded on May 3, 1902. The town was named after Carlos Wiederhold, a German-Chilean settler who established a successful trading post in the area. The name 'Bariloche' comes from the Mapudungun word 'Vuriloche,' meaning 'people from behind the mountain.'

The Arrival of the Railway

In 1934, the arrival of the railway marked a turning point in the development of Bariloche. The railway connected Bariloche to the rest of Argentina, facilitating the transport of goods and people. This development significantly boosted tourism and commerce in the region.

The Nahuel Huapi National Park

Nahuel Huapi National Park, established in 1934, is Argentina's oldest national park. It surrounds San Carlos de Bariloche and covers over 7,050 square kilometers. The park's creation was instrumental in preserving the area's natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a major attraction for nature enthusiasts.

Swiss and German Influence

In the early 20th century, Swiss and German immigrants began to settle in Bariloche, bringing with them their architectural styles, culinary traditions, and culture. This European influence is evident in the town's chalet-style buildings, chocolate shops, and breweries.

Winter Sports Hub

San Carlos de Bariloche is renowned as a premier destination for winter sports in South America. The establishment of the Cerro Catedral ski resort in 1936 played a pivotal role in this reputation. The resort attracts thousands of skiers and snowboarders from around the world every year.

Bariloche Atomic Center

In 1955, the Bariloche Atomic Center was inaugurated, making the town a significant player in Argentina's scientific community. The center focuses on nuclear research and technology, contributing to the country's advancements in these fields.

The Chocolate Capital of Argentina

Bariloche is often referred to as the 'Chocolate Capital of Argentina.' The town's chocolate industry began to flourish in the mid-20th century, thanks to the influence of European immigrants. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of artisanal chocolates and even participate in chocolate-making workshops.

The Civic Center

The Civic Center of Bariloche, inaugurated in 1940, is a landmark of the town. Designed by architect Ernesto de Estrada, the center features a unique blend of Patagonian and European architectural styles. It houses several important institutions, including the Patagonia Museum and the Francisco P. Moreno Library.

The Andean Club

Founded in 1931, the Andean Club of Bariloche (Club Andino Bariloche) played a crucial role in promoting mountaineering and outdoor activities in the region. The club organizes various events and expeditions, encouraging locals and tourists alike to explore the stunning Patagonian landscapes.

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San Carlos de Bariloche in Photos

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The closest cities to San Carlos de Bariloche, if you have time for more than one stop.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to San Carlos de Bariloche

Discover San Carlos de Bariloche like never before with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and much more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Plan your perfect trip to San Carlos de Bariloche with Evendo, the comprehensive and free travel guide app. Explore attractions, book experiences, and get local tips all in one place.

  • History and travel essentials for San Carlos de Bariloche
  • User-friendly navigation through the app and the city
  • 'Near me' feature to discover nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases
  • Global coverage with information on 7,000+ destinations

Imagine stepping into the breathtaking beauty of San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, with the confidence that you won't miss a single moment of its splendor. **Evendo** is here to be your ultimate travel companion, offering an immersive and comprehensive guide to this stunning destination. Whether you're exploring the iconic *Cerro Campanario* for panoramic views, trekking through the lush *Nahuel Huapi National Park*, or visiting the historic *Catedral de San Carlos de Bariloche*, Evendo has you covered.

Evendo provides detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. Imagine savoring a delicious meal at *El Boliche de Alberto*, enjoying the chocolate delights at *Mamuschka*, or relaxing at the luxurious *Llao Llao Hotel & Resort*. With rich descriptions, stunning images, local tips, and easy navigation, planning your trip becomes effortless.

Booking hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences is a breeze with Evendo. No more endless searches or confusion about how to get tickets or find your way. The app consolidates everything in one place, making your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. Learn about the history of San Carlos de Bariloche, get travel essentials, and benefit from tons of local advice to get the most out of your visit. The 'Near me' feature ensures that you're always aware of what's around you, no matter where you are.

And the best part? Evendo is 100% free, with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. Plus, it doesn't just cover San Carlos de Bariloche. With global coverage of over 7,000 destinations, Evendo puts the entire world in your pocket. Download Evendo today and transform your travel experiences!

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