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Bariloche

Bariloche travel guide

City and municipality in Río Negro, Argentina

Things to do32 experiences
Best time to visitDecember to February
Nearest airportBRC · 7 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−3
Population112,887

About Bariloche

San Carlos de Bariloche, commonly known simply as Bariloche, is the largest city in the Argentine province of Río Negro and the seat of the department of the same name. It is located in the foothills of the Patagonian Andes on the southern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake, near the border with Chile. With a population of 135,755 according to the 2022 census, Bariloche is a mid-sized city by national standards but holds significant regional importance. It is not only the most populous city in its province but also the largest in the Patagonian Andes, and the third largest in the entire Argentine Patagonia, following Neuquén and Comodoro Rivadavia. Its urban zone is characterized by its low density and has an area of more than 220 square kilometres (85 sq mi), extending longitudinally from east to west for about 50 kilometres (31 mi).

Things to do in Bariloche by type

32 tours, tickets and experiences across 4 categories. Pick a type to see what is available for your dates.

How long
  • Over 6 hours 8
  • 3-6 hours 5
  • Flexible 1
Good for
  • Families 8
  • Youth 8
  • Couples 8
  • Senior 8
Browse all things to do in Bariloche

Top experiences in Bariloche

Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 32 available.

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Where to stay in Bariloche

Popular hotels in Bariloche, out of 161 properties you can book.

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Best time to visit Bariloche

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bariloche is December to February, when average daytime highs are around 69–77°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 53° – 77° 2
Feb 52° – 74° 3
Mar 48° – 64° 7
Apr 43° – 55° 14
May 36° – 45° 15
Jun 35° – 43° 17
Jul 31° – 44° 11
Aug 35° – 47° 13
Sep 36° – 48° 14
Oct 39° – 58° 7
Nov 45° – 63° 8
Dec 49° – 69° 6

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Know before you go

Currency
Argentine peso (ARS)1 US dollar ≈ $1,523
Languages
Spanish, Guaraní
Calling code
+54
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/Argentina/SaltaUTC−3
Capital
Buenos Aires

Upcoming public holidays in Argentina

  • National Sovereignty DayDía de la Soberanía Nacional
  • Immaculate Conception DayDía de la Inmaculada Concepción de María
  • Christmas DayNavidad
  • New Year's DayAño Nuevo
  • CarnivalCarnaval
  • CarnivalCarnaval

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Bariloche

These are the airports closest to central Bariloche. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • BRC San Carlos de Bariloche Airport7 mi (12 km) from the city centre
  • EHL El Bolsón Airport56 mi (90 km) from the city centre
  • CPC Aviador Carlos Campos Airport75 mi (120 km) from the city centre
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Getting around Bariloche

Excellent public bus service, served by just one company (since 2017): My Bus. The only exception is if you want to visit Dinahuapi, then you should catch a bus of "Las grutas". The bus uses the same "Sube" system used in Buenos Aires so your can pay with any contactless debit or credit card or with an official "Sube" card if you already have one. The bus ride from the airport on line 72 costs AR$5800 (Dec 2025) while other local routes cost AR$1895 (Dec 2025).

Bariloche travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Bariloche?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bariloche is December to February, when average daytime highs are around 69–77°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.

What is the weather like in Bariloche?

January is usually the warmest month in Bariloche, with average highs of 77°F (25°C). June is the coolest, with average lows of 35°F (2°C). The wettest month is typically June, with about 154 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Bariloche?

San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) is the closest airport, about 7 miles (12 km) from the centre of Bariloche. Other nearby airports include El Bolsón Airport (EHL, 56 mi) and Aviador Carlos Campos Airport (CPC, 75 mi).

What currency is used in Bariloche?

Bariloche uses the Argentine peso (ARS). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $1,523.

What time zone is Bariloche in?

Bariloche uses the America/Argentina/Salta time zone (currently UTC−3). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Bariloche?

Excellent public bus service, served by just one company (since 2017): My Bus. The only exception is if you want to visit Dinahuapi, then you should catch a bus of "Las grutas".

What are the top things to do in Bariloche?

Popular experiences you can book in Bariloche include Cerro Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula, Horse Riding Excursion with Lunch - Half-Day Tour and Circuito Chico Tour. Destina Holidays offers 32 tours and activities here.

What kinds of tours and activities can I book in Bariloche?

The most popular types of experiences in Bariloche are day trips & excursions (13), outdoor activities & adventure (10), gastronomy & nightlife (6) and zoo, aquarium & nature (6). Filter by type when you search to compare prices and availability for your dates.

Where should I stay in Bariloche?

Popular areas for hotels in Bariloche include Bariloche. Well-reviewed options include NH Bariloche Edelweiss and RH Rochester Bariloche.

How many hotels can I book in Bariloche?

Destina Holidays currently lists 161 properties in and around Bariloche, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.