Andean Lakes Crossing Journey From Bariloche to Puerto Varas

Traversing the Andean lakes between Bariloche and Puerto Varas is a breathtaking experience. Travelers embark on a scenic journey, crossing three pristine glacial-fed lakes by bus and catamaran. Along the way, they’ll witness stunning mountain vistas, ancient glaciers, and lush Patagonian forests. With live commentary providing insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage, this unforgettable crossing leaves a lasting impression. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the charming town of Puerto Varas, with its views of Osorno Volcano, awaits.

Key Points

1. The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey is a multimodal trip connecting Bariloche, Argentina, and Puerto Varas, Chile, through bus and catamaran rides across three alpine lakes.

2. The journey showcases the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, including mountains, glaciers, and forests, with live commentary providing insights into the region’s natural and cultural history.

3. Travelers must have a passport and adhere to luggage restrictions, and should pack comfortable, layered clothing, necessary medications, sunscreen, and a camera.

4. The trip involves a scenic bus drive, cruises on Nahuel Huapi, Frias, and Todos Los Santos lakes, and a lunch stop in Peulla before arriving in the "City of Roses," Puerto Varas.

5. The journey offers a unique and memorable experience, with opportunities to explore the picturesque streets, local shops, and restaurants of Puerto Varas, as well as nearby attractions like the Petrohue Waterfalls.

Overview of the Scenic Route

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey offers travelers a scenic day trip from Bariloche, Argentina, to Puerto Varas, Chile.

The adventure involves a combination of bus and catamaran rides, crossing the Argentinian border along the way. Cruising across three alpine lakes, passengers can take in breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and forests as live commentary provides insights into the natural and cultural history of the region.

This unique experience allows visitors to witness the stunning landscapes of Patagonia while conveniently traveling between the two South American cities.

Preparing for the Day Trip

Preparing for the day trip on the Andean Lakes Crossing Journey involves a few key considerations.

First, ensure you have your passport ready, as you’ll be crossing the Argentinian border into Chile.

Be sure to have your passport ready as you’ll be crossing the Argentinian border into Chile on this day trip.

Pack light, as you’re limited to 2 suitcases (20kg each) per passenger.

Wear comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as you’ll be spending time outdoors on buses and boats.

Bring any necessary medications, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning alpine scenery.

Though lunch isn’t included, you’ll have a chance to dine in Peulla during the trip.

Lastly, double-check your meeting time and location in Bariloche.

Embarking on the Bariloche to Puerto Varas Journey

As travelers embark on the Bariloche to Puerto Varas journey, they’ll be greeted by a climate-controlled bus that whisks them away from their Bariloche hotel.

The scenic drive along Nahuel Huapi Lake leads to Puerto Pañuelo, where they’ll board a catamaran for a 1-hour cruise across the lake.

After reaching Puerto Blest, a bus takes them to Puerto Alegre for a 20-minute cruise on Frias Lake.

Crossing the Argentinian border into Chile, they’ll enjoy views of Pérez Rosales National Park before stopping for lunch in Peulla.

The final leg features a 1-hour cruise on Todos Los Santos Lake, with stunning vistas of the Andes.

Cruising Across the Andean Lakes

Towering peaks and glacial-fed lakes dominate the landscape as travelers embark on the lake crossing portion of their Andean adventure.

Cruising across Nahuel Huapi, Frias, and Todos Los Santos lakes, passengers witness the region’s natural beauty. On the 1-hour Nahuel Huapi crossing, they admire the surrounding mountains and forests.

After a bus ride to Puerto Alegre, a 20-minute cruise on Frias Lake ushers them into Chile, with Pérez Rosales National Park as the backdrop.

The final lake crossing on Todos Los Santos showcases Puntiagudo Hill and the iconic Osorno Volcano before reaching the destination of Puerto Varas.

Crossing the Argentinian-Chilean Border

The journey takes a turn as travelers cross the border between Argentina and Chile.

Leaving Argentina, the bus makes its way to the border crossing, where passports are checked and customs procedures are completed.

With the border formalities handled, the bus then enters Chile, offering new vistas of Pérez Rosales National Park.

The transition across the international boundary is seamless, and the change in scenery is marked by the appearance of the distinctive Osorno Volcano in the distance.

After passing through immigration, the final leg of the journey continues towards the lakeside town of Puerto Varas, the destination for the day.

Exploring Peulla and Petrohue Waterfalls

After crossing the border into Chile, travelers enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at the town of Peulla.

This peaceful gateway to Todos Los Santos Lake offers a chance to sample local cuisine and explore the surrounding forest trails.

Following the lunch stop, the journey continues to the Petrohue Waterfalls, located within Puella Nacional Park.

These impressive falls cascade over volcanic rock formations, creating a dramatic display of nature’s power.

Visitors can walk along the boardwalk trails to admire the falls from various vantage points and snap photos of the stunning scenery before reaching the final destination of Puerto Varas.

Arrival in Puerto Varas and Reflections

Reaching the lakeside town of Puerto Varas, the Andean Lakes Crossing journey comes to a close.

Weary travelers disembark the final catamaran, eager to explore the charming city. Known as the "City of Roses," Puerto Varas boasts stunning views of the Osorno Volcano and Llanquihue Lake.

Weary travelers disembark the final catamaran, eager to explore the charming "City of Roses" with its stunning Osorno Volcano and Llanquihue Lake views.

Visitors can stroll the picturesque streets, discover local shops and restaurants, or venture to nearby Petrohue Waterfalls.

Though the day-long excursion across the Andes may have been tiring, the breathtaking scenery and unique experiences make the journey well worth it.

Travelers depart with lasting memories of this unforgettable Patagonian adventure.

Sum Up

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is a truly unforgettable experience. Travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas of mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes, all while learning about the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage. This captivating voyage culminates in the charming town of Puerto Varas, leaving visitors with lasting memories of Patagonia’s exquisite beauty.