Set out on a captivating 7-hour journey through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Bariloche region in Argentina. This tour offers a chance to witness breathtaking views, explore iconic landmarks, and take in the charming Colonia Suiza. With knowledgeable guides fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, travelers can savor the flavors of traditional cuisine and browse local crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover the treasures that await along the Chico Circuit and Colonia Suiza.
Key Points
- This 7-hour excursion takes visitors on a scenic drive along Nahuel Huapi Lake, showcasing Bariloche’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Key stops include Playa Bonita, Cerro Campanario, Llao Llao Hotel, and the historic Colonia Suiza village.
- Visitors can indulge in traditional cuisine, browse the craft market, and enjoy the unique Swiss-inspired atmosphere of Colonia Suiza.
- The tour is led by Spanish and Portuguese-speaking guides, enhancing the culture experience.
- The tour receives high ratings for its value, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides.
Overview of the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour
The Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage around Bariloche, Argentina.
Explore the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage around Bariloche, Argentina on the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour.
During this 7-hour excursion, visitors will traverse the traditional Chico circuit, admiring the views of Nahuel Huapi Lake and making key stops like Playa Bonita, Cerro Campanario, and the iconic Llao Llao Hotel.
The tour also includes a visit to Colonia Suiza, the first European settlement in the region, where participants can indulge in traditional cuisine, wander the charming village, and browse the craft market.
With Spanish and Portuguese-speaking guides, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for travelers.
Looking for more options in San Carlos De Bariloche? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Scenic Route Along Nahuel Huapi Lake
The tour begins with a scenic drive along the traditional Chico circuit, which spans approximately 60 kilometers along the picturesque Nahuel Huapi Lake.
Passengers can take in the stunning vistas of the lake and the surrounding Patagonian landscape. The route offers several photo opportunities, including a stop at Playa Bonita, where guests can admire the views of Huemul Island.
The drive continues through the Llao Llao Municipal Park, showcasing the iconic Llao Llao Hotel and the charming San Eduardo Chapel.
This scenic journey sets the stage for the next part of the tour in Colonia Suiza.
Key Stops: Playa Bonita and Cerro Campanario
After departing the Llao Llao Municipal Park, the tour makes its first stop at Playa Bonita, offering breathtaking views of Huemul Island across the serene Nahuel Huapi Lake.
Guests can snap photos of the pristine scenery and learn about the island’s history and ecology.
Next, the tour travels to Cerro Campanario, where a chairlift (ticket not included) takes visitors up the mountain for panoramic vistas of the lakes, forests, and distant peaks.
On a clear day, the views are simply stunning, allowing guests to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Bariloche’s surroundings.
These key stops provide ample opportunities for photos and sightseeing.
Iconic Landmarks: Llao Llao Hotel and San Eduardo Chapel
Continuing along the tour, visitors encounter two iconic landmarks of Bariloche – the Llao Llao Hotel and the San Eduardo Chapel.
The Llao Llao Hotel is a grand, Swiss-style resort with stunning lake and mountain views. Nearby, the San Eduardo Chapel stands as a picturesque wooden structure, showcasing the region’s strong European architectural influences.
Visitors can:
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Admire the Llao Llao Hotel’s elegant facade and manicured grounds.
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Explore the San Eduardo Chapel’s intricate wooden carvings and stained-glass windows.
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Take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding these historic landmarks.
These iconic sights provide a glimpse into Bariloche’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Colonia Suiza, the First European Settlement
What awaits visitors at the historic Colonia Suiza, the first European settlement in the region? Nestled amidst the stunning Patagonian landscape, Colonia Suiza offers a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can indulge in traditional culinary delights, such as the savory curanto meal, while exploring the quaint tea houses and local restaurants. With two hours of free time, guests can wander the charming streets, browse the craft market, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this Swiss-inspired enclave.
| Activity | Duration | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Culinary Exploration | Throughout Visit | Traditional curanto meal, tea houses, local restaurants |
| Craft Market Visit | 30-60 minutes | Locally-made artisanal products |
| Village Stroll | 60-90 minutes | Charming streets, Swiss-inspired architecture |
| Free Time | 2 hours | Flexible exploration of Colonia Suiza |
Culinary Highlights of Colonia Suiza
Visitors to Colonia Suiza can savor a range of traditional culinary delights that showcase the region’s cultural heritage.
The village offers:
The village offers a range of traditional culinary delights showcasing the region’s cultural heritage.
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The iconic curanto, a hearty meal cooked in an underground pit, featuring a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetables.
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Charming tea houses serving a variety of local teas, often accompanied by homemade pastries and biscuits.
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Inviting restaurants that feature regional dishes, such as the renowned Patagonian lamb and an array of locally sourced ingredients.
These culinary experiences not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a deeper connection to the history and traditions of Colonia Suiza.
Important Booking and Preparation Details
Before booking the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour, travelers must provide their full name, DNI or passport details, and date of birth for all participants within 12 hours of the reservation.
Preparation is key, as the tour involves changing weather conditions. Guests should dress in comfortable, warm layers and bring a windbreaker.
Plus, they’ll need to bring their passport or ID for the tour.
With these simple preparations, travelers can fully enjoy the scenic route, traditional activities, and culinary delights of the Chico Circuit and Colonia Suiza experience.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have generally shared positive experiences with the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour, awarding it an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 33 reviews.
The tour’s highlights include:
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A 4.2/5 rating for the knowledgeable and engaging guide.
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A 4.8/5 rating for the comfortable and reliable transportation.
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A 4.5/5 rating for the overall value for money.
While most reviews praised the tour, some guests expressed disappointment with the limited food options in Colonia Suiza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in This Tour?
Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is open to all ages, and there are no age restrictions mentioned in the tour overview. Families with children are welcome to join the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour.
Is There Any Discount for Senior Citizens?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any senior citizen discounts. However, it’s worth contacting the tour operator to inquire if they offer any special rates or accommodations for older travelers.
How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule?
The tour schedule is flexible, allowing guests to spend more time at locations that interest them. While the overall itinerary is set, the guide is accommodating and can adjust the pace to suit participants’ preferences.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes a traditional curanto meal and opportunities to sample local cuisine, so it’s recommended to try the included culinary experiences.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility options. Guests with mobility challenges should contact the tour operator to inquire about accommodations, as the tour may involve some walking and uneven terrain at certain stops.
The Sum Up
The Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Bariloche’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Travelers can expect breathtaking vistas, iconic landmarks, and a delightful immersion in the region’s Swiss-influenced heritage. With knowledgeable guides and a well-curated itinerary, this tour provides an enriching and memorable experience for visitors seeking to discover the charm of Bariloche.
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