Chico Circuit and Cerro Campanario

Chico Circuit and Cerro Campanario

If you’re heading to the South of Argentina, specifically Rio Negro, you’ll want to carve out some time for the Chico Circuit and Cerro Campanario tour. At $65 per person, this four-hour excursion offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and a taste of local charm. Starting from the city, the tour winds through some of the most iconic sights, culminating with the unforgettable views from Cerro Campanario, all guided in Spanish by knowledgeable local guides.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the careful selection of stops ensures you see the best of what Bariloche has to offer—no wasted time. Second, the optional chairlift ascent at Cerro Campanario adds a thrill and a chance to capture perfect photos of the surrounding mountains and lakes. A possible consideration is the timing of the pickup, which some travelers have noted as a bit variable, so patience and flexibility are helpful.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Bariloche’s natural beauty and key landmarks without spending an entire day on the road. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed yet informative experience with memorable vistas and local highlights.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Cerro Campanario and other vantage points.
• Comfortable transportation included, with air-conditioning for a smooth ride.
• A well-paced itinerary that covers hiking, sightseeing, and cultural spots.
• Optional chairlift ascent to Cerro Campanario, enhancing the experience.
• Informative guiding in Spanish that enriches your understanding.
• Authentic local stops, including Puerto Panuelo and Colonia Switzerland.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Chico Circuit and Cerro Campanario Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

Starting from five convenient pickup points in Bariloche, the tour offers a comfortable transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle. After a brief intro, your guide takes you on a 65 km route that highlights the region’s most captivating views and landmarks. An optional chairlift ascent at Cerro Campanario is a highlight, offering some of the best panoramic sights in the area—mountains, lakes, and forests all spread out below you.

The tour is designed to cater to a variety of interests, balancing natural scenery with cultural highlights like the San Eduardo Chapel and Puerto Panuelo, where you can glimpse the area’s history of lake navigation. The total duration is about four hours, with specific stops including a 45-minute visit to Cerro Campanario for photos and a short 10-minute stop at Puerto Panuelo.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start in the City: We begin in central Bariloche, along Avenida Bustillo, which runs parallel to Lake Nahuel Huapi. This scenic road offers an immediate taste of the landscape—imposing mountains on one side, shimmering lake on the other.

Stop 1: Panoramic Lake Nahuel Huapi View: Around km 8, the first stop provides a sweeping view of the lake’s central region, with Huemul Island front and center. It’s a perfect spot to start soaking in the scenery and snapping some photos.

Stop 2: Cerro Campanario: At km 17, you’ll reach the base of Cerro Campanario. Here, many opt to take the chairlift—an optional ascent—to the summit, at 1050 meters. The views from above are often cited as some of the best in Patagonia, with mountains, lakes, and forests visible in every direction.

Stop 3: Llao Llao Area: After the summit, the route continues to the iconic Llao Llao Hotel and San Eduardo Chapel—both cultural and architectural gems. The area exudes classic Patagonia charm, with the hotel’s stunning architecture set against the backdrop of mountains.

Stop 4: Puerto Panuelo: A quick 10-minute stop here provides a chance to admire the dock and perhaps see the boats that set out onto Lake Nahuel Huapi. Travelers often comment on the “beautiful views” and “great photo opportunities” at this spot.

Stop 5: Panoramic Viewpoint: The tour takes you to a viewpoint at 645 meters above sea level, veering into the Moreno Lakes and Llao Llao Peninsula, offering breathtaking vistas that make it easy to understand why this region is so celebrated.

Return to the City: After these highlights, the route circles back along Avenida Bustillo, completing the circuit with a sense of satisfaction—and plenty of photos.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

One reviewer, Ricardo, sums it up well: “Every stop has its charm, from natural landscapes to local traditions.” His appreciation for the mix of scenery and cultural sites captures why many travelers find this tour rewarding.

However, another reviewer, Juan Manuel, noted a less positive experience with the pickup process: “More communication would help. We waited 45 minutes on a noisy road without knowing what was happening.” This highlights the importance of patience and understanding when dealing with group tours, especially in busy travel seasons.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value of the Tour

At $65, the price reflects good value given the quality of the vistas, the inclusion of transportation, and the chairlift at Cerro Campanario. Remember, the ascent is optional, so you can choose to skip it if you prefer a more relaxed experience or want to save some time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, scenic overview of Bariloche’s most famous sights. It’s perfect for those who want beautiful photos, cultural insights, and a comfortable ride. The tour is also flexible enough for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to understand why this part of Argentina is such a treasured destination.

The Sum Up

The Chico Circuit and Cerro Campanario tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting a balanced mix of natural beauty and local highlights. The route covers the most iconic spots, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection on the stunning landscapes. The optional chairlift ascent adds an extra touch of excitement and is well worth the small extra cost for most travelers.

While the pickup process may sometimes be a bit unpredictable, this small hiccup doesn’t detract from the overall experience. The expert guidance in Spanish, combined with the ease of transportation, makes this a convenient, enjoyable way to get a taste of Patagonia’s grandeur without the hassle.

If you’re keen on breathtaking views, cultural landmarks, and a relaxed pace, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for first-timers who want a compact yet thorough introduction to Bariloche’s natural and cultural richness.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops and transportation time.

How many stops are included in the route?
There are five main stops, including the panoramic lake view, Cerro Campanario, Llao Llao area, Puerto Panuelo, and a viewpoint at 645 meters.

Is the Cerro Campanario ascent included?
The ascent is optional and done via chairlift, which is included in the tour price.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, camera, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket—especially if you plan to take the chairlift to Cerro Campanario.

Are foods included?
No, foods are not included. You might find local cafes or snack options at some stops if you want to grab a bite.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guiding is in Spanish, so some familiarity with the language will enhance your experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s moderate length and scenic stops make it suitable for families with children, but always check if the child needs special accommodations.

How crowded is the tour?
The size of the group isn’t specified, but given the 4-hour duration and shared vehicle, expect a small to medium-sized group.

What are the main highlights I should expect?
Expect breathtaking views of lakes and mountains, visits to cultural sites like San Eduardo Chapel, and memorable photo moments from Cerro Campanario’s summit.

In sum, this tour offers a compact, scenic, and culturally enriching experience perfect for those wanting to grasp Bariloche’s essence without a full-day commitment. It combines spectacular vistas with local flavor, making it a worthwhile addition to your Patagonian adventures.

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