Puerto Blest Cruise & Waterfalls Hike with optional Frias Lake

Discover the Natural Wonders of Patagonia: Puerto Blest Cruise & Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche

This full-day tour takes you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery near Bariloche, Argentina, with a mix of boat cruises, land hikes, and stunning vistas. For around $200 per person, you’ll spend about 9 hours exploring Nahuel Huapi Lake, visiting Puerto Blest, and hiking to Los Cantaros Waterfalls. Some tours also offer the exciting extension to Frias Lake, a hidden gem with strikingly green waters.

What we love about this experience is the chance to enjoy a peaceful boat ride across cobalt-colored waters, surrounded by trees like coihue and Patagonian cypress, which add to the sense of wilderness. Plus, the hike to the waterfalls gives you a wonderful balance of land and water exploration, perfect for families or those craving an authentic nature experience.

That said, a potential drawback is that the tour can be quite lengthy and involves some crowding, given that it’s booked an average of 38 days in advance and can include up to 60 travelers. Also, the national park fee and boat tax are extra costs not included in the initial price, so be prepared for a few additional expenses.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat cruises, gentle hikes, and are comfortable with a full-day excursion. If you’re eager to learn about the area’s flora and history—such as Dr. Francisco Moreno’s resting place—you’ll find this tour offers a good mix of sightseeing and education. Families, nature lovers, and those looking for a relaxed but comprehensive day out will appreciate the balance of activities.

Key Points

• Scenic Lake Voyage: The boat cruise across Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Blest offers stunning views and a chance to see native flora and fauna.
• Natural Landmarks: Highlights include the Los Cantaros Waterfalls and the possibility of extending to Frias Lake, known for its vibrant green waters.
• Historical Stops: Passing Centinela Island with Dr. Moreno’s gravesite adds a touch of local history.
• Flexible Activity Options: After sightseeing, there’s time to relax, explore trails, or enjoy lakeside lunch (own expense).
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help interpret the landscape and history, enriching the trip despite some language barriers noted by travelers.
• Value Consideration: While the price covers transportation and guided commentary, some reviews suggest you might find similar experiences cheaper if organizing independently.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Bariloche

We are picked up from centrally located hotels early in the morning, setting a comfortable tone for the day ahead. The journey begins with a quick 30-minute drive to Puerto Pañuelo, the gateway to Nahuel Huapi Lake. This initial transfer allows travelers to settle in and get ready for the boat cruise.

The Cruise Across Nahuel Huapi Lake

The boat ride itself is the highlight for many. Cruising over the pristine, deep blue waters offers sweeping views of surrounding mountains and forests. As you pass Centinela Island, you’ll hear the historic significance of Dr. Francisco Moreno, the founder of the national park, whose gravesite is marked there. The boat horn sounds a nostalgic tribute as you glide past.

During the cruise, you’ll see native trees like coihue and Patagonian cypress, plus moss, ferns, and fungi unique to this rainforest-like environment. The calm waters and dense greenery create a calming atmosphere—ideal for photography or simply soaking in nature’s silence.

Arriving at Puerto Blest and Lunch

Upon reaching Puerto Blest, you’ll have the opportunity for a lakeside lunch at a local restaurant—although this is at your own expense. After some downtime, the guided walk toward Los Cantaros Waterfalls begins. The hike is leisurely but offers rewarding views of the waterfalls, and the trail winds along Los Cantaros Lake, giving ample time to relax or explore further.

The Waterfalls and Land Exploration

Climbing the steps to Los Cantaros Waterfalls provides a satisfying physical activity amid scenery reminiscent of a lush jungle. Travelers will love the view of the waterfalls’ source, and the walk along the lake offers a serene environment. Many reviews highlight how the hike exceeded expectations with its beauty, especially when the weather cooperates.

Optional Frias Lake Extension

For those opting for the Frias Lake extension, a short bus ride brings you to Puerto Alegre. From there, a boat cruise through Lago Frías reveals striking green waters—a result of glacial pulverization—and views of Cerro Tronador’s white summit. It’s a unique perspective that’s usually confined to boat travelers and adds a layer of adventure to the day.

Return Journey

After the exploration, you’ll hop back on the boat, heading to Puerto Pañuelo, and then by coach back to your hotel in Bariloche. This completes a full day of scenic beauty, fresh air, and light adventure.

The Real-World Experience: What Travelers Say

Several reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and the stunning landscapes as high points. One traveler appreciated the way pass Centinela Island was a “salute to Moreno,” adding depth to what otherwise is a straightforward sightseeing trip. The scenery during the boat cruise is consistently praised as “absolutely amazing,” making it clear why many choose this tour.

However, some reviews express disappointment with the communication—not all guides speak English fluently, which can make understanding the history and details challenging. As one reviewer noted, the tour was conducted in Spanish, which might be frustrating if you don’t speak the language, although this is a relatively minor drawback if you’re adaptable.

A recurring theme is value for money—some feel that booking directly with local vendors could save money, but the convenience of organized pickup, guided commentary, and included transport often justifies the price for many travelers.

The lunch option is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to purchase on site is wise. Many travelers find the hike up to the waterfalls to be a highlight, with the lush environment and the sounds of flowing water offering a truly immersive experience.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Bariloche, streamlining the experience. The boat cruise is a key feature, providing a relaxing but visually stunning ride across Nahuel Huapi Lake. For the Frias Lake extension, a short bus ride takes you to the boat that traverses Lago Frías, offering views only available from water.

Timing is structured but flexible enough to allow for leisurely exploration after the main sightseeing. Be prepared for a full day, especially if you choose the Frias Lake extension, which adds about 30 more minutes of travel and sightseeing.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At around $200, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with transportation, guided commentary, and stunning scenery. The extra costs—such as the park fee and boat tax—are not included, so budget accordingly.

Reviews suggest that, while the price might seem high, many find the scenery and guided insights worth it. Some travelers felt the value was limited if they could arrange similar activities independently, but for those seeking convenience and guided explanations, the tour provides good peace of mind.

We recommend bringing cash for meals and extras, and confirming your voucher in advance, as some reviews mention the importance of having printed documentation for park entry.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers wanting a mix of boat rides and hikes, families seeking a relaxed outdoor day, or travelers eager to explore beyond the city. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on their feet and are comfortable with group tours. If you’re interested in native flora, waterfalls, and scenic lakes, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer more independent adventures or English-speaking guides are a priority, you might want to do some planning ahead or look at alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from centrally located hotels in Bariloche and transportation back after the trip, making logistics easier.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch at the lakeside restaurant is at your own expense. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the break.

What is the extension to Frias Lake?
This optional add-on involves a bus ride to Puerto Alegre and a boat cruise through Lago Frías, famous for its vivid green waters and views of Cerro Tronador.

What kind of footwear should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are best, especially for the hike up to Los Cantaros Waterfalls. Trails can be uneven but generally manageable for most.

Is there a minimum age for participation?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with walking and being outdoors for several hours.

How much extra will I need to pay?
The national park fee and boat tax are additional costs to be paid on the day of travel. Prices vary, so budget for these extras.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded and scenic taste of Patagonia’s lakes and waterfalls near Bariloche. The combination of boat rides, nature hikes, and the option to visit Lago Frías makes it a versatile choice for nature enthusiasts. While it’s not without its small frustrations—like language barriers or additional costs—the beautiful landscapes and the chance to learn about the area’s flora and history make it worthwhile. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day that combines water, land, and storytelling, this tour could very well be your highlight in Argentina’s Lake District.