Arrayanes Forest with Victoria Island

If you’re visiting Bariloche and craving a full day immersed in untouched nature, the Arrayanes Forest with Victoria Island tour offers a compelling blend of scenic boat rides, hiking through a rare forest, and exploring the diverse flora of Los Arrayanes National Park and Victoria Island. Priced at around $150 per person, this 6-7 hour trip is a popular choice, often booked well in advance—about 52 days on average—highlighting its appeal among travelers seeking authentic Patagonian wilderness.

What makes this tour particularly special? First, you’ll get to walk among trees estimated to be around 300 years old in the Arrayanes Forest, famous for its twisted cinnamon-colored bark and white flowers. Second, the visit to Victoria Island offers not only lush trails lined with sequoias, pines, and birches but also a chance to cool off at Playa del Toro—a refreshing summer option.

A potential consideration is the length of the day; some reviews mention delays or longer-than-expected return times—so flexibility is key, especially if you have tight travel schedules or flights.

This tour suits nature enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone interested in seeing the lesser-visited, well-preserved corners of Argentine Patagonia. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a balanced mix of scenery and walking without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Unique Forest: The Arrayanes Forest is the only one of its kind in the world, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
• Diverse Trails: Walking through Victoria Island offers a rich variety of native trees and scenic views.
• Scenic Transportation: The boat ride adds a memorable element and allows for stunning lake vistas.
• Expert Guides: Reviews mention knowledgeable guides, enhancing the experience with detailed stories.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, boat ride, and guided walks, offering a comprehensive experience.
• Time Management: Some reviews note delays, so setting realistic expectations about timing can help.

Introduction: What’s in Store?

This full-day tour offers a blend of boat rides, forest walks, and island explorations, making it a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Patagonia. Starting from Bariloche, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, then transported to Puerto Anchorena to board a catamaran heading toward Victoria Island. The adventure includes visits to the famous Arrayanes Forest, a unique ecosystem with trees that look like they belong in a fairy tale, and a trek through the lush trails of Victoria Island.

The journey typically lasts around 6 to 7 hours, and at $150 per person, it provides a well-rounded experience that includes guidance, boat ride, and park entrance fees. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to see the natural highlights of the area without fussing over logistics or multiple bookings.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the Arrayanes Forest itself is extraordinary. Its cinnamon-colored bark and twisted trunks are unlike any forest we’ve seen before, and it’s the only one of its kind left on the planet since the Japanese population disappeared years ago. Guides like Malina, who reviews praise as “extremely knowledgeable,” help you understand the significance of these trees, which are around 300 years old.

Second, the scenic boat ride across Nahuel Huapi Lake offers a chance to see the surrounding mountains and water from a different perspective. Many reviews highlight the comfortable vessel and the amazing views of snow-capped peaks and pristine waters, making it a highlight of the day.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Some travelers have noted that the tour’s timing can be unpredictable—delays in returning or longer-than-expected stops. One review describes a 2-hour delay on the way back, which could be problematic if you have flights or other scheduled activities later. It’s wise to communicate with the tour operator about estimated times and be flexible.

Also, because the tour involves walking trails and boat rides, comfortable shoes and a rain jacket (if visiting in wetter months) are recommended. Limited group size—maximum of 10 travelers—ensures a more personalized experience, but it also means early booking is wise to secure your spot.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Bosque de Arrayanes

This is the star of the tour. Located within Los Arrayanes National Park, the forest’s native trees are a rare sight worldwide. The trees, called Myrceugenella apiculata, stretch up to 25 meters tall and have twisted, cinnamon-colored bark, which is soft yet always cold to the touch. The bark peels away in irregular white plates, creating a striking contrast against the darker trunks.

Walking among these giants, you’ll appreciate the age and resilience of these trees, which have survived for centuries. Guides often describe the ecological importance of the forest and its native species, making this more than just a pretty walk—it’s an educational experience.

Stop 2: Isla Victoria

After the forest stroll, you’ll hop aboard the catamaran for a cruise across the lake to Victoria Island. Here, the trails are lush with sequoias, firs, pines, and birches, providing a diverse botanical landscape. Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and peaceful environment.

In summer, there’s an option to cool off at Playa del Toro, a small beach where you can relax or take photos of the surrounding mountains and water.

The walk on Victoria Island typically lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes. The guided commentary enriches the walk with insights about native flora and the island’s natural history, making it a highlight for those interested in ecosystems.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides. Kevin_L calls their guide “extremely knowledgeable,” adding that the tour was “beautiful and tremendous.” Stephen_P notes the snow-covered mountains seen during the hike, emphasizing the spectacular scenery.

Others appreciate the value for money: including transportation, boat, and park fees, it’s a comprehensive day out. Gabrielle_B mentions the friendly staff and amazing views, reinforcing the overall positive experience.

However, some reviews, like Rafael_j’s, express frustration over long delays or poor organization, highlighting the importance of timely scheduling and clear communication.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is handled comfortably with an air-conditioned vehicle, and the boat ride is smooth and scenic. The small group size of up to 10 travelers offers a more intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

The tour is designed to fit within a 6 to 7-hour window, but be prepared for possible delays. If you have tight schedules, communicate with the tour operator or plan accordingly.

Pricing and Value

At $150 per person, the tour’s price includes park entrance fees, boat ride, and guided walks. Many travelers find this to be excellent value, considering the comprehensive experience and expert guidance provided. The inclusion of transportation and boat makes it a one-stop shop that eliminates the need for separate bookings or logistical planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those keen to see Patagonia’s unique flora. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided walks and scenic boat rides. If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational, and visually stunning day out, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Arrayanes Forest with Victoria Island tour offers a well-rounded taste of Patagonia’s natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and an effortless way to explore, it’s a great choice for those wanting to connect deeply with the landscape without the hassle of organizing transport or activities.

While the possible delays are worth noting, most travelers find the experience worthwhile, especially when they’re prepared for a full day outdoors. The tour’s emphasis on native trees and ecosystems provides an enriching perspective that enriches any trip to Bariloche.

If you’re after authentic wilderness and unforgettable views, this tour offers both at a reasonable price, delivered by a trusted operator. Just remember to confirm timings and be flexible—you’ll be rewarded with a memorable day in the Patagonian wild.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle for transfers to the boat and parks.

How long does the entire tour last? Expect about 6 to 7 hours, including all stops, boat rides, and walking.

What should I bring for the walks? Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing, especially if visiting in cooler or wetter months.

Are park entrance fees included? Yes, the tour fee includes all fees and tickets necessary for entrance to the Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island.

Can the tour accommodate English speakers? While reviews mention guides speaking English, it’s best to confirm your language preference when booking.

Is the group size small? Yes, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I have a late flight or tight schedule? Check with the tour provider about timing, as some reviews note delays; plan your day accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly? The itinerary involves walking and boat rides, so it’s generally suitable for most ages, but consider mobility needs for elderly travelers.

This guided day trip offers a wonderful way to discover the richer side of Bariloche’s natural landscape—a true highlight for those eager to see Patagonia’s distinctive forests and islands in a single, well-organized outing.