OneWay Journey: Puerto Varas, Chile to Bariloche, Argentina

Puerto Varas , Chile

OneWay Journey: Puerto Varas, Chile to Bariloche, Argentina

Active

(34 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

It is a scenic and tourist route that connects the cities of Puerto Varas in Chile and San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina through the Andes, a mountain range that runs through South America. This trip allows travelers to explore the lakes and mountains of Patagonia while crossing the border between Chile and Argentina.
Highlights:
1- Navigation by boat: Travelers cross 3 lakes; 2 Argentinean lakes and 1 Chilean lake.
Nahuel Huapi Lake, Frias Lake and Todos los Santos Lake.
2- Bus ride: Each lake is connected by 4 overland routes, scenic routes that pass through places of natural interest such as forests and waterfalls. The following points are connected by bus: Bariloche-Puerto Pañuelo, Puerto Blest-Puerto Alegre, Puerto Frías-Peulla and Petrohué-Puerto Varas.
Throughout the trip you will enjoy panoramic views, rainforest and the chance to explore the wildlife, gastronomy and local culture on both sides of the border.
Come and live the experience, we are waiting for you!

Available options

OneWay Journey: Puerto Varas, Chile to Bariloche, Argentina

What's included

1 suitcase up to 23kg

All land and lake transfers

Driver/guide

Detailed itinerary

It is the touristic capital of southern Chile. This city holds an unmistakable German influence, with its maximum exponent in the traditional architecture of wooden houses built with larch tiles.
It is located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, the second largest lake in the country.

Stop 2

The Petrohué Waterfalls are a series of waterfalls and rapids located in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, in the Los Lagos region of Chile. They are one of the most popular natural attractions in the area and offer a visually stunning experience surrounded by lush nature.

Stop 3

The large hills with their evergreen forests surround the landscape for about two hours of sailing in beautiful emerald waters.
From the deck of the catamaran, travelers can see some waterfalls and three snowy peaks: Mount Tronador and the volcanoes Osorno and Puntiagudo.

In Peulla is a place for lunch, during the trip, the price is not included (US$25 per person.)
Villa Peulla, It is a small ecological village, which was recognized as the most sustainable location in Chile.

Stop 5

Lago Frias, the smallest of the three lakes on the route.
Procedures for crossing the border Chile-Argentina are made at this point.
Of glacial origin, bringing meltwater that gives it its green-turquoise tones.

Stop 6 Pass by

This landscape is a magnificent mixture of native forests and Patagonian canals. At this point, the green waters of the Frías River join the blue waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Travellers may see a dense forest, the Valdivian Forest (few locations holding a cold forest worldwide).

The area around the lake is home to a variety of landscapes, sunsets, birds and wildlife, including condors, eagles, deer and more. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the natural beauty.

It is a lakeside port for passengers, located in the middle of the route between Puerto Blest and the city of Bariloche. It is exactly 25 kilometers far from Bariloche.
This port is part of the tourist infrastructure of Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Stop 9

The final destination is the beautiful city of the Andean Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche. This is a touristic City of Swiss architecture and exquisite cuisine. Land of barbeques, chocolates, museums and warm people, all framed in a scenery of beautiful nature. The surroundings of the city: the Short Circuit, The Seven Lakes, Pampa Linda and Monte Tronador. Visit the various museums of the area, which will undoubtedly offer stories for all tastes and interests.
In winter, many visitors come to take advantage of the snowy season for snowboarding, skiing, polo and other snow activities.
In the summer there are fishing, trekking, horseback riding, rafting and mountain climbing.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Tours in Peulla

The rate does not include port, migratory and/or National Parks fees

Admission to the Falls of Petrohué USD$9

These values can be modified upon determination of each country's authorities

Everything not mentioned in this program

Stay in Bariloche, Argentina

Stay in Puerto Varas, Chile

Falls of Petrohué

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Audio guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.1

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Meeting point

09:30 AM - Puerto Petrohué

Important notes

REQUIREMENTS BEFORE TRAVELLING CHECK-IN AND TICKETING FOR CRUCE ANDINO

• Check-in must be done in person. The passenger shall bring all the travel documents required to enter the country.
• The check-in can be done from 48 hours before the date of travel at 09:00 hrs. up to the day before the trip at 17:00 hrs in the local offices. The information requested by Migrations of each country will be then confirmed and the Andean Crossing ticket will be delivered.

• Office of Puerto Varas: Del Salvador 72

• If the passenger cannot attend in person, he must send a scanned copy of the passport or travel document to the local Andean Crossing Office according to his/her travel origin:

• For trips beginning in Puerto Varas: checkinchile@cruceandino.com

Passengers who have not checked in in person or emailed a scanned copy of the travel document will not be allowed to travel.

About Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is a picturesque city in southern Chile, known for its stunning views of the Osorno Volcano and the tranquil Llanquihue Lake. Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, it offers a blend of German-influenced architecture, outdoor adventures, and local culture.

Top Attractions

Osorno Volcano

The iconic Osorno Volcano is a stunning stratovolcano with a perfectly symmetrical cone. It offers incredible views and various adventure activities.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to expensive, depending on the activity

Llanquihue Lake

Llanquihue Lake is the second-largest lake in Chile and offers beautiful views, water sports, and relaxing activities.

Nature/Relaxation A few hours to a full day Free to moderate

Puerto Varas German Museum

This museum showcases the German heritage of Puerto Varas, with exhibits on immigration, traditions, and local history.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Curd de Queso

A traditional Chilean dessert made with fresh cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, often served with meringue or whipped cream

Dessert Contains dairy, can be made gluten-free

Chorrillana

A hearty dish consisting of thick-cut fries topped with onions, ground beef, and sometimes hot dogs and eggs

Dinner Contains beef and pork, can be made vegetarian

Kuttrigen

A traditional German-Chilean dish made with a mix of meats (pork, beef, and chicken) cooked in a rich sauce with potatoes and onions

Dinner Contains pork, beef, and chicken, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Skiing Paragliding Boat tours Spa treatments Lakefront walks

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

12°C to 25°C 54°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: German, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

GMT-4 (Chile Standard Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere

Puerto Varas is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and accommodations

Getting there

By air

El Tepual International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from Puerto Varas

By bus

Puerto Varas Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro (City Center) Puerto Chacao Ensenada

Day trips

Petrohué Waterfalls

30 km (19 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day to full day

The Petrohué Waterfalls are a stunning series of cascades and rapids on the Petrohué River, offering breathtaking views and various adventure activities.

Frutillar

20 km (12 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day to full day

Frutillar is a charming town known for its German heritage, beautiful architecture, and cultural festivals.

Puerto Octay

15 km (9 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day

Puerto Octay is a historic town with a rich German heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Festivals

German Festival (Fiesta Alemana) • January Puerto Varas Rose Festival (Fiesta de la Rosa) • October Patagonian International Film Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Osorno Volcano for stunning views and adventure activities, such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding
Explore the Petrohué Waterfalls and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park for breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures
Experience the region's German heritage by visiting historic towns like Frutillar and Puerto Octay, and attending cultural festivals and events
Enjoy the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, hearty meats, and traditional German-Chilean dishes like Kuttrigen and Curanto
Take a boat tour of Llanquihue Lake to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife, and visit nearby islands and attractions