Bariloche’s Circuito Chico is one of the most scenic drives in Patagonia’s Lake District, and the best part is that you don’t need a car to enjoy it!
This 65-kilometre scenic loop literally translates to ‘Short Circuit’, and it’s a route that winds through forests, lakes, and mountains in Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi.
We’ve travelled this loop multiple times and we love checking out the scenic lookout points, craft breweries, hiking trails and hidden beaches along the way. We do this by hopping on the local bus and also walking some of the shorter segments, but you can just as easily explore by bike, tour, remis, or even by renting a car.
If you only have a couple of days in Bariloche and are pressed for time, you can see the highlights in half a day, and if you have a bit more time, you can linger along the circuit and turn it into a full-day activity.
In this guide, I’ll share how to experience Circuito Chico no matter your budget or travel style, highlight the best attractions, and give you practical tips so you can plan the perfect day tour from Bariloche.
5 Ways to Visit Circuito Chico, Bariloche
There are a few different ways to explore Bariloche’s Circuito Chico, depending on how active and adventurous you are feeling. I’m going to outline all possible options so that you can choose what works best for you!
Car rental – This is the most flexible way to explore the circuit because you can stop at every viewpoint, relax at hidden beaches, and detour onto hiking trails. The downside is that not everyone feels comfortable driving in a foreign country and most cars in Argentina are manual.
Public bus – This is a budget-friendly option and it’s how we travelled around Circuito Chico. However, I have to warn you that the buses get packed during high season and rush hour. Buses 20, 13 and 10 cover different parts of the Circuito Chico and some lines bypass certain stops, so have a look at the bus schedule here and plan accordingly. If you’re taking the bus, I would suggest starting early and don’t count on taking the last bus back into town in case it is full.
Bike rental – For active travellers, cycling the Circuito Chico is a full-day adventure. Expect some steep hills, but if you go clockwise, the climbs are more manageable. Rentals (with helmets and maps) are easy to find near Km 18 at the roundabout. You can even rent electric bikes to make the journey easier! The downside is that this isn’t the most enticing option if there’s bad weather.
Taxi or remis – This is a very comfortable option if you want to see the highlights without driving yourself. You can hire a driver by the hour or agree on a flat rate for the loop. This option works best if you speak some Spanish and are able to negotiate a fair price with your driver. The trip usually takes 3–4 hours with photo stops.
Guided tour – The easiest, most hassle-free way to explore. Tours usually last half a day and come with commentary about history, culture, and the landscapes you’re seeing. It’s a stress-free option, and great for first-time visitors or travellers short on time. The cons are that you’re on a fixed schedule with less personal freedom.
TIP: Another popular scenic route in Patagonia is the drive from Villa La Angostura to San Martín de los Andes, locally known as Siete Lagos. The name translates to ‘Seven Lakes’ and it’s a 107-kilometre drive through the lake district that can be done as a day trip, either by renting a car or joining a guided tour.
Attractions along Bariloche’s Circuito Chico
Now let’s cover what there is to see and do along the circuit. I did the Circuito Chico counterclockwise, so I’ve listed the attractions in that order. However, if you notice there’s too much traffic in that direction, you can do the same loop clockwise.
Cerro Campanario Chair Lift
The first attraction as you approach Bariloche’s Circuito Chico is Cerro Campanario. Located around kilometre 17.5 on Avenida Bustillo, this small forested hill offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Patagonia. In fact, National Geographic once ranked this view among the ten best in the world!
Getting to the top is half the fun. You can ride the chairlift, Aerosilla Cerro Campanario, for a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling Lago Nahuel Huapi below, or you can hike the steep but short trail (about 30–45 minutes) if you’re feeling energetic.
We decided to hike, however, we’d take the chairlift if we had to do it over. There are far more beautiful day hikes in Bariloche, and we frankly found the trail a bit dusty and underwhelming. Not the views though, those were impressive!
When we reached the summit of Cerro Campanario, we went over to the viewing platform where you can really appreciate the beauty of the Lake District, including the mirror-like waters of Lago Moreno, the rugged peaks of Cerro López and Cerro Catedral, and the snow-capped ridges of the Andes stretching to the horizon.
The cost to ride the chair lift is 25,000 (roughly $25 USD). You can check current rates here.
Parroquia San Eduardo
Also known as Capilla San Eduardo, this tiny wooden chapel is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it! It sits just off the main road and it’s a short little climb to the top.
The chapel was built by Alejandro Bustillo, the same architect who designed the Llao Llao Hotel, and it was completed in 1938, just one year before the hotel was finished.
It overlooks Puerto Pañuelo, which is the departure point for lake excursions to Puerto Blest, Isla Victoria or the Andean Crossing.
Hotel Llao Llao
The Llao Llao is the most iconic hotel in Bariloche, and you’re going to see it from a few different angles over the course of your day exploring Circuito Chico!
We spent two nights at the Llao Llao during a recent trip and loved it! It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. We strolled their sprawling grounds, enjoyed their heated pool, and tried a few of their restaurants.
If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, you can always book afternoon tea in the Winter Garden (like we did the first time!) or make a dinner reservation at one of their restaurants (I would recommend Restaurante Patagonia for regional Patagonian cuisine). That’s one way to see the interior of the hotel and enjoy the grounds.
Puerto Pañuelo
Just downhill from the hotel, Puerto Pañuelo is the departure point for boat excursions on Lago Nahuel Huapi. From here, you can take day trips to Isla Victoria and Bosque de Arrayanes, both of which are part of Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi.
Even if you’re not hopping on a boat, the dock is worth a quick wander. The views across the lake to the distant snow-capped Andes are spectacular, and it’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs.
Boat trips run half-day and it’s better to book in advance if you’re visiting during high season (December to February).
Llao Llao Municipal Park
If you enjoy hiking like we do, you’ll be happy to hear that there are quite a few hiking options along Bariloche’s Circuito Chico. Just past Puerto Pañuelo, you’ll find Parque Municipal Llao Llao, which offers lots of short and easy trails.
- Sendero Cerro Llao Llao – This 5.6-kilometre hike takes you to a lookout point atop Cerro Llao Llao. It offers the best panoramic views of Lake Moreno and Lake Nahuel Huapi, so it’s a popular option.
- Sendero Villa Tacul – This 6-kilometre hike follows the same trail to Cerro Llao Llao, however, instead of taking the detour, you continue towards a pebbly, lakeside beach.
- Sendero Arrayanes – This is a 2.8-kilometre trail if you’re planning to do it one-way (the trail starts and ends at two different points on the Circuito Chico), and it winds through an Arrayanes Forest, with the option of detouring to a couple of lakeside beaches.
I’m highlighting the main hikes, however, there are 16 different trails to choose from, and many of them can be combined. You can find a list of the hikes in Llao Llao Municipal Park here and plan accordingly.
Muelle Lago Escondido
Hidden just off the main road, this tiny wooden dock on Lago Escondido is one of the most peaceful spots on the Circuito Chico.
The name translates to ‘Hidden Lake’ and it has a secluded feel, especially on calm mornings when the water mirrors the surrounding trees. There’s a wooden boardwalk that leads down to the water.
Puente Arroyo La Angostura
This bridge spans the narrow channel that connects Bahía López with Lago Moreno, and it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.
The water here is incredibly clear, and you can often spot trout gliding beneath the surface from the bridge.
This is also a great swimming spot during the summer months, when the pebbly shores and emerald waters look extra inviting. Pack a picnic and a mate to spend the day.
Canopy Bariloche
Then, there’s Canopy Bariloche, a zipline park near Bahía López in case you’re needing some adrenaline. Here you soar through the treetops while getting little glimpses of Lago Moreno and the surrounding mountain peaks.
This is a fun activity for families if your kid are a bit older. Guides handle all the safety equipment and instruction, and you’ll need about 1.5–2 hours for the full experience.
Remember to wear closed-toe shoes and bring cash for the entry fee. Also, book ahead if you’re visiting during the summer in Bariloche, because spots fill up quickly.
Colonia Suiza
Another spot we visited while touring Circuito Chico is Colonia Suiza, a little village settled by Swiss immigrants in the late 1800s. We found it a little quirky and kitsch. Yes, it has Swiss influences, but with a heavy dose of fantasy and magical forest creatures.
This is a short detour off the main loop, so we spent a few hours walking around and eating. There are lots of wooden chalets, craft breweries, artisanal chocolate shops, and even an elf forest where we did a guided tour.
The village is best known for its Sunday artisan market and for its traditional curanto, a Patagonian dish cooked in a pit oven lined with hot stones and covered with leaves and earth. Sadly, we did not visit on a curanto day, so we enjoyed Swiss/German food instead!
And then we ended our visit relaxing at a pebbly beach on the shores of Lago Moreno.
TIP: Sundays and Wednesdays are best for a visit to Colonia Suiza if you want to try curanto.
Cervecería Patagonia
There are loads of craft breweries in Bariloche, however, the most famous of them all is Cervecería Patagonia.
This brewery sits on a hill with sweeping views of Lago Moreno, so it’s a really nice place to enjoy the scenery over a cold pint. We were blown away by the views the first time we visited, and we like to swing by every time we’re back in Bariloche, even if it’s a little crowded.
We sampled their rotating lineup of IPAs, amber ales, and seasonal brews by ordering a tasting flight.
The onsite restaurant also serves Patagonian-inspired dishes, so it’s a nice spot for a leisurely lunch before continuing your drive along the circuit.
They also offer guided beer tours; there’s a 1.5-hour tasting where you can sample four of their beers, and a 3-course meal option with beer pairings. Both of these beer tours can be booked here.
TIP: If Patagonia Brewery is too busy or you want something quieter, I would detour to Cervecería Gilbert, just a short walk over. This is one of our favourite breweries in Bariloche. It has a rustic, log cabin feel, and they serve hearty Patagonian food.
Parque Nahuelito
Tucked into the forest near km 24.5 of Avenida Bustillo, Parque Nahuelito is a quirky little dinosaur park that’s perfect if you’re visiting Bariloche with kids.
The outdoor trail winds through native Patagonian forest and features more than 30 life-sized dinosaur replicas, including some that move and roar! Depending on your kids’ ages, that’s either terrifying or thrilling.
Plus, there’s a fossil museum showcasing real prehistoric remains found in the region.
Guided tours are included in the entry ticket and run every 20 minutes, explaining the history of dinosaurs in Patagonia and how fossils are discovered.
Circuito Chico Panoramic Point
There are loads of scenic stops along the Circuito Chico, but if you’re looking for that classic postcard view, you’ll want to stop at Punto Panorámico Circuito Chico.
There’s a designated pullout with space for several cars, plus a large wooden platform where you can snap all your photos.
From this point, you can see the blue arms of Lago Moreno curling below the forested Llao Llao Peninsula, with the jagged silhouette of Cerro López towering in the background.
Of course, we had to get off here! It was quite busy when we stopped, so we took turns taking photos for people and then having them take photos for us.
Playa Sin Viento
Another beach I like to recommend along Bariloche’s Circuito Chico is Playa Sin Viento. The name says it all; this is the ‘beach with no wind’. It’s a small sheltered beach on the shores of Lago Moreno, and it is best known for its calm waters.
I’m not going to tell you it’s always calm, because when the Patagonian winds blow, even the calmest of beaches will get choppy waters. However, on a good day, it’s glassy like a mirror.
This beach is also a local favourite for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are three different spots where you can rent kayaks and SUPs. Bring some cash with you for the rental.
FAQ: Circuito Chico, Bariloche
About 3–6 hours, depending on how many stops you make. Allow a full day if you want to hike, picnic, or swim.
Yes. You can use public bus Line 20 to reach Llao Llao and walk segments, rent a bike, or hire a remis/taxi by the hour.
The best direction to travel the Circuito Chico is counterclockwise. This will make it easier to pull over at many of the viewpoints.
Yes, there’s no entrance fee. The only paid attractions are the Cerro Campanario chairlift and food stops.
Yes. The entire circuit is paved, well-maintained, and safe to drive year-round (just go slower in winter).
Late spring and early autumn offer warm weather and clear roads. Summer is the busiest season and you can encounter traffic.
There are a few breweries, restaurants and food trucks along Circuito Chico. You’ll find even more options along Avenida Exequiel Bustillo returning to Bariloche.
Yes, you can stop at Puerto Pañuelo to join cruises to Isla Victoria and Bosque de Arrayanes.
Absolutely! It’s the perfect introduction to Bariloche’s landscapes; you’ll see lakes, forests, mountains, and villages all in one scenic loop.
Absolutely. It’s a popular route for cyclists, though there are some steep hills. It’s better to go clockwise on a bike to make the climbs easier.
Staying on the Circuito Chico, Bariloche
Whenever we visit Bariloche, we like to try staying in different places. So far, we’ve stayed on the Circuito Chico twice, and while it does require a bit of effort getting there (if you don’t rent a car!), we do appreciate the quiet and relaxed feel it offers in comparison to the city centre.
- Posada Los Juncos – This boutique-style guesthouse is set in a restored alpine house, and it’s right across from the lake. The staff are incredibly kind and attentive, and they serve home-cooked meals. This is where we stayed on our very first trip to Bariloche.
- Peninsula Petit Hotel – A cozy and secluded property with views of Lago Nahuel Huapi. The vibe is your home away from home.
- Llao Llao Hotel – For a touch of luxury, you cannot go wrong with this iconic property. This is a resort, golf and spa property with multiple restaurants and a heated indoor-outdoor pool. We splurged and stayed two nights during our recent visit to Bariloche and would recommend doing so!
- Gran Hotel Panamericano – We stayed here and had a relaxed stay. This hotel also works well for families needing space and kid-friendly amenities – we made use of the Kids’ Room and liked the big fenced-in garden. You can read my review of our stay at Gran Hotel Panamericano here.
If you need a bit more inspiration, here’s a list of luxury hotels in Bariloche, most of them lakeside properties! Perfect for rest and relaxation.
GROUP TOURS – If you’d rather join a group tour to travel in Argentina, check out Gadventures.
CAR RENTAL – To explore Argentina beyond the cities, the best way to do so is by renting a car. Discover Cars offers rentals across the country.
BUS TICKETS – Bus travel is a great way to see Argentina. BusBud offers numerous routes.
TRAVEL INSURANCE – Don’t leave on your trip without booking travel insurance. You can get a quote on SafetyWing.
HOTELS – Booking.com offers accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles.
TOURS – For a variety of tours and activities, have a look at Viator.
Hola, estoy buscando un recorrido privado a traves del Circuito Chico incluyendo el Cerro Campanario y almuerzo en Cerveceria Patagonia para un grupo de 8 personas. Me enviaria una cotizacvion?