LAKE CROSSING

The Lake District of Chile and Argentina has been a major tourism hot spot for many years as it is the product of amazing nature of volcanic cataclysms, millenary glaciers, snow-capped mountains, rivers and wildlife. These large lakes, beautiful parks and woodlands spread along the Andes range, and because of its elevation the mountain chain protects a series of ecosystems from native woodlands to volcanic mountains.  This is by far one of the most intriguing and picturesque regions of South America.  Due to the beauty of this particular journey this international route is extremely popular and therefore comes highly recommended to be added to any travellers’ itinerary.   Bariloche of course can be the base of your Patagonian adventure, where you find activities galore and of course plenty of shops selling the finest handmade chocolates!

Day 1: Journey to Puerto Varas (Chile)

Upon your arrival into Puerto Montt airport (Chile) you will be taken by bus to your hotel in Puerto Varas, 20kms from Puerto Montt and on the shore of German influenced region of Lake Llanquihue, the second largest lake of Chile.

Puerto Varas is the gateway to the uniquely beautiful region of Patagonia and is the starting point for all Patagonian adventures, however this town is spectacular in itself with breathtaking landscapes, lake beaches, shopping, casino district and the many open air activities.  The hotel we have selected is close to some great local restaurants and in the heart of Puerto Varas.

Day 2: Journey to Peulla

The lake crossing from Chile to Argentina is one of the most fascinating trips you will take in your lifetime.  This adventure starts just after breakfast with a transfer to the terminal to board the bus to the Petrohue village including a visit to the Petrohue River falls complete with a volcanic backdrop.  We then continue down to the lake side to embark on the catamaran for the crossing the lake Todos los Santos to Peulla.  This part of the journey will provide budding photographers with breathtaking scenery so be sure to have your camera with you at all times.

When you arrive into Peulla you will be transferred to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure.  The hotel we have selected in Peulla is close to the lake and ideally located for leisurely walks soaking in the beauty of the area.

Day 3: Journey to Bariloche (Argentina)

After an early breakfast your journey continues by coach to cross the Perez Rosales National Park to arrive in Argentina.   From the Lake Frias crossing there is a coach transfer to Puerto Blest.  Following the coach is a boat navigational trip through the serene Lake Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Panuelo for a final coach journey to the “Swiss” Town of Bariloche.   

Surrounded by the foothills of the Andes, the southern shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and the National Park, the city of Bariloche is a breathtaking scenic location and endless exciting activities are guaranteed for tourist, locals and hikers.

The hotels we have selected for Bariloche is in the city and offers great views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.  The remainder of the day is free for you to have a stroll around the town and enjoy the local sights and sample some of the famous delicious Bariloche handmade Swiss chocolates!

Day 4: Sightseeing Bariloche

We have included 2 full days in Bariloche for you to go at your own pace and choose from the many activities and excursions we can organise for you in this remarkable city.  Bariloche is full of tours/adventures so depending on what your interests are we can recommend going on an excursion to see the surrounding villages and mountain landscapes, take a lake cruise, horse riding, mountain biking or take a scenic tour around Lake Nahuel Huapi and the magical Lopez Bay.   Your choices are endless!

Day 5: Depart Bariloche

This morning your journey concludes with a transfer back to the Bariloche airport to continue on with your journey.

Onward Journey Suggestions

• Buenos Aires at a Glance to explore this cultural tango city
• Experience the magnificent grandeur and roar of Iguazu Falls

Your options are endless and our Travel Specialists will be able to assist you with expert information on South America.