Bariloche: Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Navigation

Discover Patagonia’s Natural Wonders on the Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Navigation Tour

If you’re looking to experience some of Patagonia’s most iconic sights in a single day, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Lake District’s breathtaking beauty. For $210 per person, you’ll spend around seven hours exploring Lake Nahuel Huapi, cruising on a catamaran, wandering through the enchanting Arrayanes Forest, and discovering the natural and cultural riches of Victoria Island. The tour is popular among travelers craving a mix of scenic boat rides, walks, and the chance to see unique Atlantic forest and indigenous cave paintings.

What we love about this experience is how it balances natural spectacle with cultural insights. You’ll love the way the crystal-clear waters of Nahuel Huapi set a stunning backdrop for your day, and the chance to walk among the striking, reddish Myrtle trees that form the array of the Arrayanes Forest—an experience unlike any other in the world. The guided visit to Victoria Island offers a look into its history and natural beauty, with trails leading to views that stretch across the lake.

One aspect to consider is the long transfers; reviews note that a significant portion of the day is spent in transit, which might leave less time for exploring the actual sites. If you’re someone eager to spend maximum time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed, especially at Isla Victoria. However, for those keen on seeing a broad swath of the landscape in one day, the itinerary offers a comprehensive snapshot.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning vistas and are comfortable spending a good part of the day in transit. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, organized experience that hits the main highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re looking for a day that combines boat rides, easy walks, and spectacular scenery, you’ll find this tour quite fitting.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery on Lake Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding islands
• Guided walks through the unique Arrayanes Forest and Victoria Island
• Boat rides included, offering unparalleled views of the landscape
• Cultural insights with visits to indigenous cave paintings and village ruins
• Long transit times may reduce time on-site — plan accordingly
• Suitable mainly for travelers who enjoy scenic day trips with a mix of boat travel and light walking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Navigation Tour

This seven-hour tour is designed to give you a taste of Patagonia’s most photogenic spots, combining boat rides, guided walks, and scenic viewpoints. Let’s break down what you can expect, how it all fits together, and why it might be the right choice for your trip.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from 14 different locations in Bariloche, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. After a roughly 45-minute van ride, you’ll arrive at Puerto Pañuelo, the departure point for your boat trip. The ease of pickup from various hotels is a small but valuable detail, saving time and reducing stress on a busy day.

The Catamaran Ride: Cruising Nahuel Huapi

The first major activity is a boat ride of about an hour on Lake Nahuel Huapi. From the water, you get a fresh perspective of the surrounding mountains and forests. Travelers often comment positively on the boat experience, with one reviewer noting the “unforgettable” views. The boat serves as a scenic bridge to the Quetrihue Peninsula, where the Arrayanes Forest begins to reveal itself.

Visiting the Arrayanes Forest

Disembarking on the Quetrihue Peninsula, you’ll explore the famous Myrtle forest on foot for about 45 minutes. This part of the tour is a true highlight—the orange-red bark of the Arrayanes trees makes for stunning photographs and a feeling of walking through a fairy tale. The guided walk offers insights into the forest’s uniqueness, as it’s a rare ecosystem found only in this part of Patagonia and a small section of the United States.

Reviewers mention that this walk is a good opportunity for photos and quiet reflection, though some found that the time spent here could be expanded. There’s a balance to be struck between walking and enjoying the scenery, and for most, 45 minutes feels just right.

More Great Tours Nearby

Continuing the Boat Ride and Visit to Isla Victoria

Next, you’ll board again for a 40-minute boat ride to Puerto Anchorena on Isla Victoria. This is the largest stop of the day, with about 1.5 hours of free time and guided tours available. Here, you can explore the island’s trails, see native flora and fauna, and marvel at the views across the lake and surrounding mountains.

One reviewer points out that the island’s natural beauty is a real highlight, though some felt that more time on Isla Victoria would have allowed for a deeper exploration. Still, the guided walk helps you connect with the environment and learn about the island’s ecological importance.

The Return and Final Stops

After exploring Isla Victoria, you’ll cruise back to the mainland via the boat, followed by a 45-minute van ride back to Bariloche. The day wraps up with drop-offs at your hotel or designated locations.

Practicalities and Value

The tour’s price includes transfers, navigation tickets, and bilingual audio guides, which add convenience and richness to your experience. However, be prepared to pay extra for park entry fees ($20 USD) and a boarding fee ($5 USD)—common in organized tours but worth factoring into your budget.

In terms of value, this tour packs a lot into a single day, from boat rides and guided walks to scenic viewpoints. For travelers wanting a rundown with minimal planning, it’s a convenient way to see these highlights. But it’s worth noting that some reviews express a desire for more time on-site at each location, especially Isla Victoria.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 3.4 out of 7 reviews suggests mixed experiences. One traveler, Yannick, felt “too much time spent in transfer and not enough time available on the sites, especially Isla Victoria.” This is a common concern—the tour’s logistics involve a lot of moving around, which might feel rushed if you’re eager to linger longer at each spot.

On the positive side, a traveler from GetYourGuide praised the guides’ attention and professionalism, emphasizing that the overall experience was “good.” This indicates that the guiding staff’s expertise and friendly attitude likely add to the trip’s value, even if the time constraints mean you might not get to see everything at leisure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a snapshot of Patagonia’s natural beauty in one organized outing. It suits travelers who are comfortable with long transfers and want a variety of experiences—boat rides, walks, and scenic viewpoints—all in one package. If you’re someone who values stunning vistas and guided commentary, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re a dedicated hiker or eager to spend hours exploring each site, you might find the itinerary a bit restrictive. The focus here is on covering a lot of ground, rather than deep exploration.

The Sum Up

The Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest tour presents a fine introduction to Patagonia’s highlights, especially for those who prefer guided experiences that mix boat rides with light walking and nature viewing. While the long transit times might feel a bit tiring and limit your time at each location, the scenery—crystal waters, towering Myrtle trees, and mountain vistas—makes it worthwhile.

If you’re after a well-organized day that balances scenic beauty with ease of logistics, and don’t mind a structured schedule, this tour offers good value. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to see the main sights without the hassle of continuous planning and who enjoy a comfortable, guided approach to exploring new landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and guided walks.

Where does the tour start?
You can be picked up from one of 14 designated locations in Bariloche, making it very convenient.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transfers, navigation tickets, and audio guide in English with a Spanish and Portuguese tour guide.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, travelers need to pay a boarding fee (~$5 USD) and a National Park entry fee (~$20 USD), both payable in cash or debit.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers find the Arrayanes Forest and scenic boat rides to be the most memorable parts, thanks to their unique beauty.

Is there free time on the island?
Yes, Isla Victoria offers about 1.5 hours of free time for exploring trails or relaxing, guided or self-guided.

How much walking is involved?
The guided walks around the Arrayanes Forest and Isla Victoria are relatively light, roughly 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, suitable for most fitness levels.

Can I customize or extend the experience?
This is a fixed itinerary, so while you can discuss options with your guide, the schedule is set for the tour.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, mainly because of the gentle walks and scenic boat rides. However, consider the long transit times if traveling with very young children.

This tour offers a practical and scenic way to encounter Patagonia’s unique landscapes without the need for extensive planning or multiple trips. It’s a good choice for travelers who value stunning views, guided commentary, and a balanced mix of water and land adventures. While not perfect for those wanting hours of deep exploration, it provides a memorable snapshot of this extraordinary region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby