Experience the best of Bariloche in a single day with the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour. For around $66, you’ll spend about 7 hours discovering lakes, mountain vistas, and a historic Swiss settlement. Led by a bilingual guide, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural beauty and cultural roots.

What we love most are the spectacular panoramic views from Campanario Hill, where you can take a lift (ticket not included) to see the surrounding lakes and mountains from above. We also appreciated the authentic charm of Colonia Suiza, a place where history meets local crafts and tasty regional foods.

A possible drawback is that the tour doesn’t include the Cerro Campanario lift, so if you’re eager for that high-altitude view, you’ll need to purchase your ticket separately. Still, with so much to see and do, this trip works best for those wanting a manageable overview of Bariloche’s highlights without feeling rushed.

This tour would suit travelers who love scenic drives, photo opportunities, and learning about local history. If you appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides and want a reliable way to see the area’s highlights, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

Comprehensive highlights: Covers lakes, mountain viewpoints, historic Swiss settlement, and iconic sights.
Authentic experiences: Visits Colonia Suiza, highlighting its cultural and culinary uniqueness.
Stunning vistas: Stops at Campanario Hill and Llao Llao Peninsula for photo-worthy views.
Flexible and informative: Bilingual guides in Spanish and Portuguese help make the trip accessible.
Value for money: At $66 per person, it offers a rich taste of the region in just 7 hours.
Limited inclusion: Does not include Cerro Campanario lift or meals, but options are available at Colonia Suiza.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour

Planning more time in San Carlos De Bariloche? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Starting Point and Overall Structure

This tour begins with hotel pickup in central San Carlos de Bariloche—making it easy for most visitors staying in the city center. It’s a 7-hour outing, which includes some driving, sightseeing, and time exploring Colonia Suiza. The journey is led by a bilingual guide, typically fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, ensuring clarity and engagement throughout. The small group size, or at least the focus on a guided experience, means you’ll get plenty of personal attention, and the guide’s insights add depth to the trip.

The Scenic Drive and Lake Views

The route covers 60 km along the Chico Circuit, a popular scenic drive that threads through the heart of the Lake District. We loved how the guide pointed out the various sections of Nahuel Huapi and Moreno lakes, emphasizing what makes each one unique. The drive along Ezequiel Bustillo Avenue is particularly picturesque, with stops at Playa Bonita where Huemul Island makes a striking backdrop for photos.

One highlight is Campanario Hill, a stop that’s a must for anyone wanting to see panoramic views of the lakes and mountains. You can purchase a ticket to ascend the hill by lift—though it’s not included in the tour price—and we think it’s worth considering if the weather is clear. From here, the views are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect spot to snap some memorable photos.

Iconic Landmarks and Photo Stops

The route takes you past Llao Llao Hotel and San Eduardo Chapel, two of the most recognizable symbols of Bariloche’s landscape. The hotel’s architecture and the chapel’s location on the lakeshore make for charming photo opportunities. Crossing the Angostura Bridge, you’ll see where Moreno and Huapi lakes meet, a spot that highlights the region’s water-rich environment and rugged terrain.

We enjoyed the view of Lopez Bay and Capilla Hill, both offering postcard-perfect scenery. The drive around the Llao Llao Peninsula further emphasizes why this area is so frequently photographed—craggy hills, reflective lakes, and lush forests all combined make it a photographer’s dream.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Colonia Suiza

The highlight for many is a stop at Colonia Suiza, the first European settlement in the region. This village exudes a rustic charm, with handicraft stalls, traditional Chilean foods, and wooden buildings. We found it fascinating to learn about Emilio Goye, one of the first settlers, and his introduction of curanto, a traditional Araucanian dish that visitors can taste (though food costs are not included in the tour).

The village is lively with local craft markets and small cafes, giving travelers a chance to stroll and soak in the local atmosphere. Travelers should note they get about two free hours here to explore at their leisure—plenty of time to browse crafts, buy souvenirs, or sample regional snacks.

While you're exploring San Carlos De Bariloche, here are other experiences we've looked into

Practical Details and Considerations

It’s worth mentioning that the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in most central locations, but not at hotels on Avenida Pioneros or in residential areas. That could be a consideration for those staying farther out.

The tour costs $66 per person, which we think offers pretty good value considering the sightseeing, guide, transportation, and included stops. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to eat in Colonia Suiza or at the various scenic stops.

The Guide and Visitor Experience

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one traveler noting Richard as “a great guide and quite accommodating.” The guides’ local insights make the scenery come alive, and their language skills help non-Spanish speakers appreciate the region’s stories and natural features.

Some travelers expressed disappointment with the Swiss Colony’s food options and rustic facilities, which suggests that if you’re expecting a gourmet experience there, you might be let down. However, the cultural authenticity and local crafts compensate for that.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Bariloche’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. It suits those who enjoy picturesque landscapes, culture, and guided comfort. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning lakes and mountain vistas, while history buffs will enjoy learning about the Swiss settlement’s roots.

Final Thoughts

This Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and convenient logistics. For a reasonable price, you get a well-organized day exploring some of the most iconic sights in the Lake District. The stops at Campanario Hill and the Llao Llao Peninsula promise some of the best views in the region, perfect for photography and simply soaking in the landscape.

The visit to Colonia Suiza adds a layer of cultural depth and authenticity, giving you a taste of early European settlement life amid stunning natural scenery. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge help make the experience engaging and informative.

If you’re looking for a reliable, scenic tour that covers the essentials without overwhelming, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value guided experiences and want a taste of everything—lakes, mountains, history, and local culture—without extensive hiking or complicated logistics.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in central San Carlos de Bariloche. If you’re staying outside these areas, you’ll be given the closest available meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, providing enough time to see the key sights comfortably without feeling rushed.

What’s not included in the price?
The ascent to Cerro Campanario by lift is not included, nor are food and drinks. You might want to budget for meals or snacks at Colonia Suiza and scenic stops.

Can I buy the lift ticket at Campanario Hill?
Yes, the lift ticket is available separately, and many travelers find it worth the extra cost for the panoramic views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The weather can change quickly, so layers and a windbreaker are wise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if your kids enjoy scenic drives and outdoor views. Just keep in mind the overall duration and walking opportunities.

How big are the groups?
While not explicitly stated, small-group or guided experiences are typical, ensuring you get personalized attention and explanations.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Campanario Hill, Llao Llao Peninsula, and other scenic spots are perfect for capturing the region’s beauty.

To sum it up, the Chico Circuit & Colonia Suiza Tour offers a satisfying snapshot of Bariloche’s landscapes and cultural roots. It’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded, guided introduction to this stunning corner of Argentina, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide.