Cruce Andino: Puerto Varas to San Carlos de Bariloche

Route from Puerto Varas to San Carlos de Bariloche through the Andes

This scenic journey connects Puerto Varas, Chile, and San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, suited for travelers interested in lakes, mountains, and cross-border exploration in Patagonia.

Highlights

• Travel along the historic route linking Argentina and Chile
• Experience panoramic views of the Andes Mountains
• Explore natural landscapes including forests, lakes, and waterfalls

Description

This scenic tourist route crosses the Andes mountain range, linking Puerto Varas in Chile with San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina. It offers the opportunity to explore Patagonian lakes and mountains while crossing an international border.

The trip includes both boat navigation and bus rides:

• Boat Navigation: Cross three lakes—Nahuel Huapi Lake and Frias Lake in Argentina, and Todos los Santos Lake in Chile.
• Bus Rides: Four overland segments connect the lakes, passing through forests, waterfalls, and other natural attractions: Bariloche to Puerto Pañuelo, Puerto Blest to Puerto Alegre, Puerto Frías to Peulla, and Petrohué to Puerto Varas.

Travelers will enjoy panoramic views, rainforest landscapes, and opportunities to observe local wildlife, regional gastronomy, and culture on both sides of the border.

Itinerary

• 8:00 AM – Overland travel from Puerto Varas to Petrohué, Chile
• 10:30 AM – Sail from Petrohué to Peulla on Lake Todos los Santos, Chile
• 12:30 PM – Free time in Peulla for lunch, Chile
• 3:00 PM – Overland travel from Peulla to Frías Port, Chile/Argentina border
• 5:00 PM – Sail from Frías Port to Blest on Lake Frías
• 6:00 PM – Sail from Blest to Pañuelo Port on Lake Nahuel Huapi, Argentina
• 7:00 PM – Overland travel from Pañuelo Port to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
• 8:00 PM – Arrival in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

Includes

• All overland transportation and boat sailings during the journey
• Guided tours
• Baggage allowance: 1 suitcase up to 23 kg and 1 carry-on bag up to 10 kg per person

Excludes

• Lunch
• Food and drinks
• Lodging
• Optional or extra activities
• Park entrance fees
• Boarding taxes

Important Information

• The tour is not wheelchair accessible; passengers with reduced mobility must be accompanied as no assistance is provided.
• The itinerary may change slightly during the winter season (April to September).
• Luggage policy: one 23 kg suitcase and one 10 kg carry-on per passenger included. Extra suitcases incur a US$40 fee each.
• Luggage is handed in at the start of the trip and returned upon arrival; travel documents must be kept with you as hand luggage.

Cancellation Policy

Full refunds available for cancellations made up to 24 hours before departure.

For the best experience, bring suitable clothing for variable weather and cameras to capture the natural landscapes. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.