Cruce Andino: San Carlos de Bariloche to Puerto Varas
Peulla, Argentina
Discover the beautiful landscapes of the colorful region of Patagonia on this one-way transfer from Bariloche, Argentina to Puerto Varas, Chile.
Patagonia Scenic Route from San Carlos de Bariloche to Puerto Varas
This full-day tour connects Argentina and Chile through the Andes, suited for travelers interested in lakes, mountains, and cross-border exploration.
Highlights
- Follow the historic route linking Argentina and Chile across the Andes
- Experience navigation across three lakes: Nahuel Huapi, Frías, and Todos los Santos
- Travel through natural landscapes including forests, waterfalls, and Patagonian wildlife
- Enjoy panoramic views and local culture on both sides of the border
Description
This scenic route connects Puerto Varas in Chile and San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina by boat and bus through the Andes mountain range. The journey crosses three lakes and four overland sections linked by comfortable bus rides. It offers the chance to see untouched Patagonian lakes and mountains while exploring local gastronomy, wildlife, and cultural highlights.
Itinerary
- 8:00 AM – Overland travel from Bariloche to Pañuelo Port, Argentina
- 10:00 AM – Boat sailing from Pañuelo Port to Blest on Lake Nahuel Huapi, Argentina
- 11:00 AM – Boat sailing from Blest to Frías Port on Lake Frías, Argentina
- 12:00 PM – Overland travel from Frías Port to Peulla, crossing Argentina and Chile
- 2:00 PM – Free time for lunch in Peulla, Chile
- 3:30 PM – Boat sailing from Peulla to Petrohué on Lake Todos los Santos, Chile
- 5:30 PM – Overland travel from Petrohué to Puerto Varas, Chile
- 8:00 PM – Arrival in Puerto Varas, Chile
Includes
- Pick-up from selected addresses in San Carlos de Bariloche
- All overland transportation and boat sailings during the trip
- Professional guides
- Drop-off in Puerto Varas
- Baggage allowance: 1 suitcase up to 23 kg and 1 carry-on bag up to 10 kg
Excludes
- Lunch
- Food and drinks
- Lodging
- Optional or extra activities
- Entrance fees to parks
- Boarding taxes
Important Information
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with reduced mobility must be accompanied as no assistance is offered.
- Itinerary may slightly change during the winter season (April to September).
- Luggage allowance: one 23 kg suitcase and one 10 kg carry-on per passenger. Additional suitcases incur a US$40 fee each.
- Luggage is collected at the start and delivered at the end of the trip; keep all travel documents with you as hand luggage.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable clothing, a camera, and valid travel documents. Book in advance, especially during high season to secure your seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Cruce Andino is a scenic journey crossing the Andes Mountains from San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina to Puerto Varas in Chile, combining bus and boat travel through Patagonian lakes and landscapes.
The full Cruce Andino route typically takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on weather conditions and border crossing times.
Yes, the Cruce Andino includes an official border crossing between Argentina and Chile within the Andes mountain range.
Travelers can see the Andes Mountains, several Patagonian lakes such as Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Todos los Santos, and pristine forests along the route.
Yes, the Cruce Andino is suitable for families and offers comfortable transport options with scenic views that appeal to travelers of all ages.
The boat segment crosses crystal-clear Patagonian lakes including Lake Nahuel Huapi and Lake Todos los Santos between Argentina and Chile.
The best time to travel the Cruce Andino is during the southern hemisphere summer months from December to March when weather conditions are most favorable.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; travelers should check entry regulations for Argentina and Chile before booking the Cruce Andino.
The Cruce Andino can be booked through authorized tour operators online or in San Carlos de Bariloche; check official providers for current schedules.
Meals are generally not included on the Cruce Andino, so it is recommended to bring snacks or plan stops accordingly.
