Northern Patagonia Adventure

  • 14 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 3
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Bariloche
  • Trip End: Bariloche
Northern Patagonia Explorer

Charming culture meets pristine wilderness on our Northern Patagonia Adventure.

Where there are volcanoes, there are hot springs, and there's no shortage of either on our 14-day Northern Patagonia Adventure. Starting and finishing in Bariloche, you'll fall in love with the relaxed Patagonian culture and postcard-perfect landscapes of Chile and Argentina. From the views atop Cerro Llao Llao and Osorno Volcano to the calm waters of Reloncavi Fiord and Lake Machonico, your camera will be filled to the brim with jaw-dropping moments. Along the way, you'll stay in comfortable accommodations, enjoy delicious local cuisine and learn the ins and outs of Patagonian culture from expert guides. If you love exploring by day and relaxing by evening, our Northern Patagonia Adventure is an adventurer's dream come true.

Trip Highlights

Reloncavi Fiord

Kayaking

Seven Lakes

Kayaking

Osorno Volcano

Hiking

Cerro Llao Llao & Playa Tacul

Hiking

Cerro Falkner & Bella Vista

Hiking

Explore Ring of Fire

Plus...

Visit Huilo Huilo Reserve

Plus...

Visit four National Parks

Plus...

Cruce Andino Route

Plus...

Parque Pumalín

Plus...

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Northern Patagonia Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Bariloche Trip End: Bariloche

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive, explore San Carlos de Bariloche

  • Day 2Hike Cerro Llao Llao and Playa Tacul

  • Day 3Hike Cerro Bella Vista or free time in Bariloche

  • Day 4Journey through "Ruta de los Siete Lagos", kayak Lake Machonico

  • Day 5Hike Volcan Lanin

  • Day 6Hike Lacar Lake, ferry to Huilo Huilo Reserve

  • Day 7Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve & Botanical visit

  • Day 8Free day in Puerto Varas

  • Day 9Hornopirén National Park & boat trip to Llancahué Island

  • Day 10Mussel boat experience, Boat journey to Quintupeu Cahuelmo Fiords in Parque Pumalín

  • Day 11Sea kayak Reloncavi Fiord

  • Day 12Hike Osorno Volcano

  • Day 13Cross Lago Todos Los Santos and journey over the Andes

  • Day 14Depart for home

  • Day 1

    Arrive, explore San Carlos de Bariloche

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    Our trip begins in Bariloche, a fantastic little town set on the shoreline of Lago Nahuel Huapi and the National Park of the same name (the oldest National Park in Argentina). You’ll have the afternoon to explore the town center with its log and stone buildings, quaint shops and endless views across the lake to stunning Andean peaks. A town and setting this perfect might make you think it’s all too good to be true, but there’s really no catch here – it’s the perfect starting point for an adventure into one of the world’s most stunning regions.

    Before dinner this evening your trip leader will go through the plan for your adventure in plenty of detail, building the excitement for the days to come - then we’ll experience a typical Patagonian evening meal together.
    Accommodation: Las Marianas Family Hotel, Bariloche
    Meals: Dinner

  • Day 2

    Hike Cerro Llao Llao and Playa Tacul

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    Our first outing on foot in this region is a hike to Cerro Llao Llao. After breakfast Patagonian style, we’ll take a short ride along the shoreline of Lago Nahuel Huapi to the trail head of Cerro Llao Llao. The trail weaves through spectacular forest and zig-zags its way up to the rocky outcrops that dot the ridge line, overlooking three different lakes as well as the peaks of Cerro Lopez and Cerro Capilla. Not a bad place for a morning tea break!

    After soaking in the spectacular views we’ll descend to lake level and walk the shoreline to the pristine lake beach Playa Tacul. Patagonian rivers and lakes are pure, clean and refreshing – we’ll have time to take a dip in the crisp lake waters and soak in the views before heading back to Bariloche.
    Accommodation: Las Marianas Family Hotel, Bariloche
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 5.6 miles (9 kilometers), 2-3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

  • Day 3

    Hike Cerro Bella Vista or free time in Bariloche

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    After breakfast this morning, we’ll head a short distance out of Bariloche and begin our hike to the Cerro Bella Vista, which literally means “beautiful view”. No surprises as to what’s in store for us today then! It’s a heart-pumping hike as we head above the treeline of the Cerro Bella Vista peak, but the views are well worth the effort as we’ll take in 360-degree views of the myriad lakes and crowded horizon line of huge peaks.

    If you’d prefer to spend the day with some downtime or with other activities, the day is yours to explore Bariloche and its surroundings.
    Accommodation: Las Marianas Family Hotel, Bariloche
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 7.5 miles (12 kilometers), 6-7 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,624 feet (800 meters) ascent, 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) descent

  • Day 4

    Journey through "Ruta de los Siete Lagos", kayak Lake Machonico

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    We’ll leave Bariloche this morning and head through the renowned “Road of the Seven Lakes”, a journey of extraordinary beauty. We’ll wind through lush forests, skirt crystal clear lakes and pass dramatic waterfalls, and a stop for a swim is certainly an option if you’re keen! Once we reach Lake Machonico, we’ll don lifejackets and head out for a paddle in the kayaks, our kayak guide will share insights about the surrounding landscape, including Volcan Lanin, the immense cone which dominates as the centerpiece of the National Park of the same name.

    Afterward, we’ll drive a short distance to San Martin de Los Andes, a beautiful little town on the shore of Lago Lácar that proudly enjoys a laid-back pace of life and some of the best mountain views anywhere in the world.

    For our evening meal, we’ll be treated to views overlooking Lago Lácar, a perfect closing to a wonderful day.
    Accommodation: Le Village Hotel, San Martin
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Kayaking: 2 hours

  • Day 5

    Hike Volcan Lanin

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    As well as being famous for dramatic granite peaks and lakes, Northern Patagonia and the lakes district is equally renowned for its perfectly conical volcanic peaks. 

     We’ll begin our hike at Puerto Canoa on the shores of Huechulafquen Lake. The trail is well-marked, initially crossing a pampa of radales before we embark on a smooth, gradual ascent into a forest of cohiues and araucarias. After a while we’ll encounter a steep step to navigate around an old volcanic slag covered with vegetation. As the forest ends, the trail opens to a perfect view of the hanging glacier on the southern slope of the volcano.

    We’ll return along the same route and head back to San Martin with time to relax before dinner.
    Accommodation: Le Village Hotel, San Martin
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 12.4 miles (20 kilometers), 8 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,346 feet (1,020 meters) ascent, 3,346 feet (1,020 meters) descent

  • Day 6

    Hike Lacar Lake, ferry to Huilo Huilo Reserve

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    This morning our hike crosses land belonging to the Mapuche people of this region, skirting around the base of Cerro Curru-Huinca hill, and after a couple of hours or so, leading us to the road where our transport will be waiting.

    We’ll then take a stunning drive through the Parque Nacional Lanin to the Chilean border crossing. With another stamp in the passport we’ll board a ferry on the shores of Lago Pirihueico (can you keep up with all these lakes?!), and head across to the Huilo Huilo Reserve. This is a 600 km2 private biological reserve in the heart of the Chilean temperate rainforest with a high amount of precipitation and relatively warm temperatures during summer. Nature lovers will find themselves in paradise here, with 81 known bird species, and even the elusive puma living here.

    Today is a day full of highlights, and there’s one more to come – our home for the evening – the Reino Funghi Hotel. Shaped like a mushroom, paying homage to the fungi found in the surrounding forest, this hotel is a feat of architecture and unlike anything you’ll have ever stayed in! Settle in this evening with an onsite brewed beer and views to die for!
    Accommodation: Reino Funghi Hotel, Huilo Huilo
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 1.9 miles (3 kilometers), 2-3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,899 feet (579 meters) ascent, 1,899 feet (579 meters) descent

     

  • Day 7

    Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve & Botanical visit

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    This morning you’ll wake up feeling like you’re part of a fairy tale, as you stare out at the forest and volcano. Whoever thought a mushroom-shaped hotel could be so cozy? Today we’re lucky to have an extraordinary walking trail right on our doorstep! Stretching along the banks of the Fuy River, which originates from the glacial runoff on the slopes of the Mocho-Choshuenco Volcano, a stunning trail weaves its way through lush Valdivian forest with abundant birdlife, crystal clear tributary streams and picture-perfect waterfalls. Of course, if you’d prefer to kick back and soak in the hot pools at our lodgings, or soak in the lakeside views with a coffee or hot chocolate, there’s no better place to do it!

    Afterward, we’ll take a guided tour through the Botanical Gardens where we’ll be taught all about the flora and fauna of the natural reserve. Later today, we’ll head south to yet another picture-perfect settlement - Puerto Varas, nestled on the shoreline of Lago Llanquihue, the second largest lake in Chile.
    Accommodation: Hotel Cabana del lago, Puerto Varas
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 2.1 miles (3.4 kilotmeters), 2-3 hours, flat

  • Day 8

    Free day in Puerto Varas

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    Looming large across the shores of Lago Llanquihue, are the conical peaks of Volcán Osorno and Volcán Calbuco. The views of these imposing peaks are a great indicator of the array of options available to you here in Puerto Varas. The day is yours to explore this incredible adventure playground. Take a boat trip across the lake, walk the plethora of trails just outside town, work on your biking skills on the Osorno Volcano pump track, enjoy the view of four volcanoes whilst rafting the rapids of the Petrohué River - the options are endless.

    If you’re unsure what to do today, don’t worry, your guides will help you with planning (including the best places to eat), and there’s always another approach – simply soak in the Patagonia vibe whilst relaxing by the lake, just as the locals do. You're on your own for lunch and dinner today, check out the fantastic array of restaurants in Puerto Varas.
    Accommodation: Hotel Cabaña del lago, Puerto Varas
    Meals: Breakfast

  • Day 9

    Hornopirén National Park & boat trip to Llancahué Island

    #78686

    This morning we’ll continue our journey south along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, until we reach our second mode of transport for the day, a ferry ride that will take us across the Reloncavi Fiord. We’ll head for Hornopirén, a village that gets its name from the nearby volcano and which means “Snow Oven” in Mapudungun, the Mapuche language. There are amazing views here, between the glacier of the volcano and the Andes that fall into Chilean fiords.

    We’ll grab lunch at the local market – we highly recommend a fresh catch of Merluza or Congrio (Southern Hake and Conger Eel). With our bellies full, and depending on time, we’ll stop off along the drive through Hornopirén National Park for a wander. Renowned for its mountains, glaciers and volcanoes all packed into a relatively small area, along with a wide variety of fauna residing in the untouched temperate rainforest – this is a dreamlike setting.

    Later, we’ll take a quick boat ride alongside the Isla Pelada and across to Llancahué Island, our home for the evening. After another meal of delicious local fare, we’ll sit in hot pools and stare at the vast night sky.
    Accommodation: Llancahué Hotel, Llancahué Island
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3-4 hours, flat

  • Day 10

    Mussel boat experience, Boat journey to Quintupeu Cahuelmo Fiords in Parque Pumalín

    #78687

    Today we’ll hop on board a working boat to cross a very short stretch of water to reach Isla Cabras. Our captain, Claudio, owns a couple of mussels farms around the fjord and he will give us an introduction to his job, learning about the process of mussel farming! Mussel culture has been growing in Chile for the last 15 years and offers another sea-based income for the country which is also one of the main producers of salmons in the world. We will have the opportunity to pull out a rope full of shellfish, harvesting some to enjoy for dinner later. 

    We will head back to our hotel for lunch before taking a short boat ride to the entrance of one of the world’s most dramatic fiords, Cahuelmo, where we’ll encounter a South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) colony. On our way back to Llancahue island we discover a very narrow sea entrance towards the East, Quintupeu fiord, one of the world’s most dramatic fiords, home to incredible waterfalls and granite peaks (think Milford Sound in New Zealand). The deep blue waters of the fiord are met with the steep green forested walls of the Andes, rising over 4,200 feet (1,280 meters) above the water.  

    We’ll disembark on a small beach on Quintupeu fiord for a short hike to reach the base of an amazing waterfall, with a perfect pool for a swim at the foot of the fall. We’ll spend the evening back on the island, enjoy a soak in the hot pools before dinner, and reflect on a day full of mesmerizing landscapes.   
    Accommodation: Llancahué Hotel, Llancahué Island
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 0.5-1 hour

  • Day 11

    Sea kayak Reloncavi Fiord

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    After an early breakfast, those who’ve not yet had their fill of springs may have time for a quick dip before we head back to Hornopirén village and along the shores of Reloncavi Fiord to Cochamo. We’ll grab a hearty snack before hitting the water on tandem sea kayaks for a paddle in the calm waters of this fiord. Here the clear waters of the Petrohué River meet the salt waters of the Gulf, passing snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls and oftentimes the occasional visitor in the form of a sea lion or dolphin! Lunch today is a highlight, as we’ll stop at a small, locally owned farm for a local meal. This is a great opportunity to spend time with the Yolanda family, who’ve been living on the banks of this fiord for three generations.

    After our paddle, we’ll head through the wilderness to our lodging for the evening, the stunning and homely Petrohué Lodge. This beautiful place sits on the very edge of the Lago Todos Los Santos and the mouth of the Petrohué River.

    With the Osorno Volcano in the background, it’s the perfect place to kick back, relax and soak in the views of both the lake and the volcano.
    Accommodation: Petrohue Lodge, Petrohue
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Kayaking: 2 hours

  • Day 12

    Hike Osorno Volcano

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    Petrohué Lodge has its very own pioneer’s museum, which you’ll likely have discovered the night before. When you awake today, you’ll feel like a pioneer as you stare over the lake and imagine what Swiss visionary Don Ricardo Roth imagined when he set out to transform the lodge from a failing transport company to a charming wilderness lodge. In those days travelers would undertake an arduous multi-day journey to get to the lodge, a strategic resting point on the way to Peulla. These days, it’s the perfect base to enjoy Volcán Osorno, standing tall on the edge of Vicente Perez Rosales National Park. We’ll begin our hike through the barren, tortured volcanic landscape that gradually transforms into lush woodland and finally reveals an astonishing view of Lago Todos Los Santos, when we reach the high point of the hike – Desolation Pass. It’s a breathtaking sight!

    We’ll return to Petrohué Lodge for the evening and celebrate the days hike with a glass of red wine and an open fire. As if that’s not enough, there are wonderful wood-fired hot tubs dotted around the hotel ready for an evening soak.
    Accommodation: Petrohue Lodge, Petrohue
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 8.7 miles (12 kilometers), 4-6 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,940 feet (592 meters) ascent, 1,940 feet (592 meters) descent

     

  • Day 13

    Cross Lago Todos Los Santos and journey over the Andes

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    This morning’s journey will take us on the pioneering lakes route (also known as ‘Cruce Andino’) that you’ll have heard so much about whilst staying at Petrohué Lodge. We’ll board a catamaran for a cruise across Lago Todo Los Santos to Peulla where we’ll stop for lunch.

    Then, after a dramatic crossing of the Andes into Argentina, it’s a short boat trip across Lago Frías to Puerto Alegre, and a bus to Puerto Blest. A catamaran departs from Puerto Blest for a beautiful one-hour trip along Lago Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Panuelo, from there the final stretch takes us back on terra firma to Bariloche. This is an outstandingly beautiful trip that’ll immerse you in the landscapes that Patagonia is so well-known for!

    We’ll arrive back in the relative hustle and bustle of Bariloche, in time to enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating our discovery of Patagonia’s natural wilderness.
    Accommodation: Las Marianas Family Hotel, Bariloche
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 14

    Depart for home

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    Today is the final day of your trip to explore the incredible diversity and beauty of Northern Patagonia. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed and invigorated after exploring one of the most dramatically beautiful places on Earth. Your trip leader will arrange transport to the airport for you, if you’re flying out today. If you’ve made your own arrangements to stay on a bit longer, enjoy your time!
    Accommodation: Not applicable
    Meals: Breakfast

Northern Patagonia Adventure Departure Dates

Active Adventures

This trip is operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

*Book by October 15, 2024 to SAVE $800 USD pp on select departure (Mar 9) . Note the savings on selected dates have already been applied in pricing below. Looking for a shorter Patagonia trip? Check out our 8-Day Torres del Paine Adventure.

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Included

  • 13 nights’ accommodation
  • 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 12 dinners
  • Our own highly experienced trip leaders, with you from start to finish
  • Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fuelled
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern and comfortable!

What Our Guests Say

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With our Price Promise you don't have to wait for future sales to get the best price.

So go for it - secure your preferred trip and departure date by booking your dream adventure now!

*Terms and conditions apply - see below

 

*Price Promise is available for bookings made on or after October 16, 2024. If the advertised price of your booked future trip decreases within 60 days of your original booking date, you can contact us to request the lower price be applied to your existing booking. You must contact us no later than 60 days from your original booking date and provide details of the available price/discount you wish to avail. The price of your trip can be changed only once and only if you contact us during the time at which the lower price is advertised/available. Price Promise cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts. The company reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time in its sole discretion. Other restrictions may apply.  

 

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip we’ll meet you at Las Marianas Hotel in Bariloche, Argentina at 6pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Bariloche, though you must make your own way to Las Marianas Hotel at the pre-designated time.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at the Bariloche Airport (BRC) in time for flights below.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in San Carlos de Bariloche airport (BRC), the main northern gateway town to Argentinian Patagonia, by 4pm. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, you can depart at any time after breakfast. If you're considering an early morning flight please let us know so that we can make arrangements.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a solid level of fitness and typically hikes on the trip range between three and six hours to complete. So get out there with a daypack on and train so you’ll be ready to join us! While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills and down hills and carrying a pack! With some preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We’ve selected the accommodation on this trip for the unique character and adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Patagonia. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s and lodges.

We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once during your trip, and the best time will be on your free day in Puerto Varas.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?  

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Is tipping expected in Patagonia?

Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures trip leader and USD$20 per day, per guest, per trip leader (and US$10 each per day for your W-trek guide if you’re going to Southern Patagonia). You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Patagonia. During your Active Adventures trip, your trip leader will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you.

For other restaurants or services during your time in Patagonia, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

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