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Ventisquero Negro: Patagonia's Unusual Black Glacier

Discover the stunning Ventisquero Negro glacier in Bariloche: a unique Patagonian landscape where a black glacier meets dramatic mountain scenery.

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Ventisquero Negro, or Black Glacier, is a striking natural wonder nestled at the foot of Mount Tronador in Argentina's Nahuel Huapi National Park. Its dark color, caused by volcanic ash and sediment, creates a unique and captivating spectacle against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes.

A brief summary to Ventisquero Negro

  • Tronador, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro Province, AR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available.
  • Arrive early to enjoy the best light for photography and to avoid crowds.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Consider a guided tour for insights into the area's history and ecology.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From San Carlos de Bariloche, take Route 40 south for approximately 35 kilometers until you reach the intersection with Provincial Route 81. Turn onto Route 81, where the gravel road begins. After driving a few kilometers, the road splits. Take the right fork to reach the base of Mount Tronador after about 40 kilometers of gravel road. Be aware of the traffic restrictions: typically, entrance to the hill is only allowed from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and exit from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Check current restrictions before you go. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough road conditions. The Nahuel Huapi National Park charges an entry fee of AR$20,000 for general/international public. Parking is available near the Ventisquero Negro lookout.

  • Bus and Hiking

    From the main bus terminal in San Carlos de Bariloche, take a bus towards Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi. Look for buses that specifically mention 'Tronador' or 'Ventisquero Negro' in their route. The bus will take you to Pampa Linda. From Pampa Linda, it's approximately a 6km drive (or over an hour's walk) along a severely potholed dirt road to the Ventisquero Negro lookout. Alternatively, hike approximately 5-7 kilometers along a marked trail from the trailhead to reach Ventisquero Negro. Ensure you have proper hiking gear, water, and snacks. The Nahuel Huapi National Park charges an entry fee of AR$20,000 for general/international public. Bus fares from Bariloche to Pampa Linda can range from AR$3,000 to AR$5,000.

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Discover more about Ventisquero Negro

Ventisquero Negro presents a dramatically different glacial experience. Unlike the pristine white and blue hues typically associated with glaciers, Ventisquero Negro is a dark, almost black mass of ice, a result of centuries of accumulated volcanic ash, sediment, and debris. This unusual coloration makes it a rare and fascinating sight, drawing visitors into its stark and captivating beauty. The glacier sits at the base of Mount Tronador, the highest peak in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, within the Andes range, on the border between Argentina and Chile. The mountain, whose name translates to 'Thunderer' in Spanish, earns its name from the frequent cracking and booming sounds of ice calving off its glaciers. Ventisquero Negro is fed by the Río Manso Glacier, located a few hundred meters higher up the mountain. Visitors can reach Ventisquero Negro via a scenic, though sometimes bumpy, drive or a challenging hike through the Nahuel Huapi National Park. The surrounding area offers diverse hiking trails that cater to various experience levels, providing breathtaking views of the glacier, Mount Tronador, and the surrounding alpine scenery. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the weather is mild and hiking conditions are optimal. However, the glacier is typically only accessible during specific hours, usually from 8 AM to 3 PM. The glacier's dark color is due to the accumulation of volcanic ash and sediment over time. This debris originates from the surrounding mountains and is deposited onto the glacier's surface through avalanches and landslides. Over the years, the ice compacts, creating the striking black appearance that distinguishes Ventisquero Negro from other glaciers in the region. While at Ventisquero Negro, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment. The crystal-clear glacial waters reflect the vibrant colors of the sky, creating a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation and contemplation.

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