Mascardi Lake Kayaking and Trekking

If you’re looking for a day that combines gentle adventure with stunning scenery, this Mascardi Lake Kayaking and Trekking experience from Bariloche might be just the ticket. For around $475 per person, you get approximately 7 hours of exploring, with hotel pickup included — a well-organized way to spend a day surrounded by nature’s best. Expect to paddle across Mascardi Lake, hike through lush forests to Llum Lagoon, and enjoy a picnic on a quiet beach in the Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the small group size—limiting it to just 9 travelers—and the expert guides, who seem to make the experience both educational and fun. The chance to paddle to a secluded beach and trek through pristine woods with a knowledgeable guide adds rich context and authenticity to your adventure.

However, be aware that this is a moderate activity — a good level of physical fitness is recommended. If you’re looking for a leisurely day with lots of comfort, this might require some motivation, especially in the forest trek. But for those who enjoy being active in beautiful surroundings, this tour offers a compelling balance of adventure and tranquility, perfect for travelers who want an immersive experience rather than just sightseeing.

This tour suits adventure-minded travelers who love outdoor activities, appreciate natural beauty, and don’t mind some physical exertion. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to explore at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and delicious local lunch.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines kayaking, trekking, and a scenic picnic in the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
• Small Group: Limited to 9 travelers, offering personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Veronica and Esteban are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Beautiful Locations: Paddle to Playa Leones and trek to Llum Lagoon, both offering peaceful, scenic settings.
• Value for Money: Includes transfers, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and guided expertise.
• Physical Consideration: Moderate activity level suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting in Bariloche, the tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup around 9:00 am. This hassle-free start means you’re immediately immersed in the day’s calm anticipation, leaving behind the city’s buzz for the tranquility of Nahuel Huapi National Park. The drive to Camping Wiritray, owned by the Mapuche community, is about 45 minutes, giving you time to enjoy scenic views and get briefed on what’s ahead.

Once at Wiritray, your adventure begins with a 1.5-hour kayaking trip across Mascardi Lake. The water here is often noted for its clarity and calmness, ideal for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed paddle. As you glide over the lake, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Patagonian Andes — a background that’s as impressive as it is calming. According to reviews, the landscape during the paddle is truly magical, and it’s common to see fewer than five other boats or groups, adding an intimate, almost private feel to your outing.

Paddling to Playa Leones, one of the park’s most beautiful beaches, is a highlight. The quiet, secluded spot feels like your own private paradise, perfect for soaking in the scenery. One reviewer fondly recalled, “the water was clear and calm,” which makes the paddling both enjoyable and accessible.

After the kayaking, the group embarks on a trek through the forest towards Llum Lagoon. This 1.5-hour hike offers a change of pace — from watercraft to foot, immersing you in lush greenery and the sounds of native flora and fauna. Your guide shares insights about the natural environment, enriching your appreciation of the surroundings. The trek’s natural setting is noted for its beauty, and the experience is described as peaceful and educational.

Lunch is served on the shoreline, making for a relaxed and scenic meal. The reviews rave about the gourmet picnic, with one traveler mentioning it might be the best picnic they’ve ever had. The lunch is thoughtfully prepared and accommodates allergies and food sensitivities — a nice touch for travelers with special dietary needs. Pairing local wines with the meal enhances the experience, adding a bit of regional flavor.

After lunch, there’s time to relax on the beach before kayaking back across the lake to the starting point. The entire trip is rounded out with hotel drop-off in Bariloche, making the day seamless from start to finish.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Transfer and Briefing

The day begins early with pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a hassle-free adventure. The 45-minute drive to Camping Wiritray offers scenic views and a chance to meet your guides — key for understanding the tour’s natural and cultural context.

Kayaking on Mascardi Lake

Once arrived, the group gets familiar with their equipment before setting out on the lake. The paddle to Playa Leones is about 1.5 hours, during which the scenery impresses with Patagonian mountain vistas and crystal-clear waters. The quietness and size of the lake mean you’ll likely encounter few other boats, providing a sense of solitude that many reviews find especially pleasurable.

Trek to Llum Lagoon

After the paddle, the trek begins. The 1.5-hour walk through dense forest is guided by experts who offer insights into local flora and fauna. Many guests comment on the beautiful, tranquil environment, and one review notes, “the guide, Veronica, was excellent,” making the hike both informative and engaging.

Picnic Lunch and Relaxation

The lunch on the beach is a major highlight — a custom gourmet picnic with local ingredients, snacks, and regional wines. Reviewers appreciate how well the lunch is tailored to dietary needs and how delicious it is, making it more than just a meal but a true highlight of the day.

Return Paddle and Drop-off

The return kayak trip offers another peaceful paddle, with views that might include reflections of the Andes, and the chance to unwind after the hike. The transfer back to Bariloche completes the experience smoothly.

Worth Considering

While the tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, it does require a moderate physical effort — paddling and walking combined. If you have mobility issues or prefer very easy activities, this might be more demanding than other options. Also, since the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to confirm your plans before booking, especially given the advance booking window of around 82 days.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy being active amidst stunning scenery. If you appreciate guided insights about the natural environment, or if you’re traveling with family or friends who value small groups and personalized attention, you’ll find it enriching. The experience is especially perfect for those who want a balanced day of paddling, hiking, and relaxing in nature.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Bariloche, bottled water, lunch, snacks, and a professional guide, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

What is the duration of the trip?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and concluding with your return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 14 years, so it’s best suited for teenagers and adults with moderate physical fitness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera. Everything else, including kayaking gear and lunch, is provided.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 9 travelers, which helps ensure personalized service and a more intimate experience.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The gourmet picnic lunch is prepared with attention to allergies and food aversions, so inform the guide beforehand if needed.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to combine adventure with natural beauty, this Mascardi Lake kayaking and trekking tour offers solid value. You’ll get a taste of Patagonia’s mountains and forests, enjoy peaceful paddling, and savor a delicious picnic in one of Argentina’s most scenic parks. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable, authentic experience that balances activity with relaxation.

While it requires a reasonable level of fitness, those who love being outdoors, exploring at a gentle pace, and soaking in stunning views will find this tour well worth the investment. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate guided insights and want to connect more deeply with the environment, rather than just ticking sights off a list.

If you’re looking for a day of quiet beauty, authentic experiences, and a bit of light adventure in the Argentine Lake District, this tour could be just the right fit. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and leave with memories of a truly special place.