Andean Lakes Crossing Journey From Bariloche to Puerto Varas

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is a breathtaking expedition that captivates travelers with its stunning scenery and culture. Traversing through lush landscapes, this 11-hour adventure combines scenic bus rides, a picturesque catamaran sail, and multiple border crossings, offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region. From the awe-inspiring volcanoes to the charming town of Puerto Varas, this journey promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on it. With highlights like the Petrohué waterfalls and a scenic boat ride on Llanquihue Lake, the true wonder of this expedition lies in the unforgettable moments that await.

Key Points

• An 11-hour expedition featuring a scenic bus ride, catamaran sail, and multiple border crossings between Bariloche and Puerto Varas.
• Highlights include views of Osorno and Tronador volcanoes, a stop in Peulla for lunch, and visits to Petrohué waterfalls and Llanquihue Lake.
• Reservation without upfront payment required, with a "reserve now & pay later" option available, but no refunds within 7 days of departure.
• Live commentary, professional guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off included, but food and drinks are excluded from the tour package.
• Passport details required at booking, with a maximum luggage allowance of one item up to 23kgs and one carry-on.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Journey

The Andean Lakes Crossing journey offers travelers a mesmerizing adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Patagonian region.

This 11-hour expedition takes you from Bariloche to Puerto Varas, featuring a scenic bus ride, catamaran sail, and border crossings.

Along the way, you’ll witness the breathtaking views of Osorno and Tronador volcanoes, as well as the serene Todos los Santos Lake.

The journey includes a stop in Peulla for lunch (not included) and a boat ride across Todos los Santos Lake to Petrohué, where you can visit the Petrohué waterfalls and Llanquihue Lake before concluding in Puerto Varas.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this all-inclusive experience is priced from $390 per person.

Booking and Payment Details

For the Andean Lakes Crossing journey, travelers can reserve their spot without paying upfront. However, they’ll need to provide their passport details at the time of booking for all participants.

This "reserve now & pay later" option allows travelers to secure their spot without any immediate financial commitment.

It’s important to note that no refunds will be issued within 7 days prior to the departure date. This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can adequately plan and prepare for the journey.

Travelers who need to cancel their trip are encouraged to do so well in advance to receive a full refund.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The journey begins in downtown Bariloche, where travelers embark on a scenic bus ride to Puerto Pañuelo.

There, they board a catamaran to sail across the stunning Lake Nahuel Huapi. Along the way, they’re treated to breathtaking views of Osorno and Tronador volcanoes during the crossing of Todos los Santos Lake.

The journey continues with a bus ride through the stunning Perez Rosales National Park, culminating in a lunch stop in Peulla.

Afterward, travelers hop on a scenic boat ride across Todos los Santos Lake to Petrohué, where they can visit the waterfalls and take in the views of Llanquihue Lake before concluding the day in Puerto Varas.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Andean Lakes Crossing journey includes a live commentary and professional guide to accompany travelers throughout the experience.

Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels are provided, along with transport by shared air-conditioned coach.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so travelers will need to plan and budget for their own meals, particularly during the lunch stop in Peulla.

The maximum luggage allowance is one item up to 23kgs and one carry-on.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers must ensure their passport details match the booking information.

Pickup is available from centrally located hotels, with alternative meeting points confirmed if necessary.

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Important Travel Information

Travelers must ensure their passport details match the booking information, as passports are required on the travel day.

The maximum luggage allowance is one item up to 23kgs and one carry-on. This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

While hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels are included, alternative meeting points may be confirmed if necessary.

It’s important to note that food and drinks aren’t included in the tour.

Participants should be prepared for a full day of travel, including scenic bus rides, catamaran sails, and border crossings amid stunning Andean landscapes.

Scenic Bus Ride to Puerto Pañuelo

Commencing the journey, participants board a scenic bus that departs downtown Bariloche, embarking on a captivating drive towards Puerto Pañuelo.

The route winds through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Patagonian countryside. Along the way, the bus passes through rolling hills, lush forests, and tranquil lakes, providing ample opportunities for passengers to admire the region’s natural beauty.

The guide provides live commentary, sharing insights into the history, geography, and cultural significance of the areas traversed.

As the bus approaches Puerto Pañuelo, anticipation builds for the next stage of the Andean Lakes Crossing adventure – the catamaran sail across the serene Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Crossing Todos Los Santos Lake

Next, passengers board a catamaran to cross the serene Todos los Santos Lake.

Surrounded by the majestic Andes, they’re treated to stunning views of the snow-capped Osorno and Tronador volcanoes during the journey.

The crossing offers several highlights:

1. Gliding across the placid, mirror-like surface of the lake.
2. Spotting the diverse wildlife, including birds and maybe even the elusive huillín, a rare otter species.
3. Admiring the lush, verdant forests that line the lake’s shores.
4. Anticipating the arrival in Petrohué, where they’ll visit the beautiful waterfalls and Llanquihue Lake before concluding the day’s adventure in Puerto Varas.

Exploring Petrohué and Llanquihue

After crossing the serene Todos los Santos Lake, the journey continues as passengers disembark at Petrohué.

This picturesque village nestled along the shores of Llanquihue Lake offers a chance to explore the nearby waterfalls. Visitors can stroll through the lush surroundings, taking in the cascading waters and admiring the natural beauty of the area.

The boat ride across Llanquihue Lake provides stunning views of the snow-capped Osorno Volcano, a prominent landmark in the region.

As the tour nears its end, the group arrives in the charming town of Puerto Varas, known for its blend of German and Chilean influences, concluding this captivating Andean lakes crossing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Journey?

According to the overview, food and drinks are not included in the tour package. Passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages to consume during the journey.

Are Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, discounts are available for children and seniors. The tour operator offers a 20% discount for children under 12 and a 10% discount for adults aged 65 and over at the time of booking.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take the Andean Lakes Crossing tour is during the spring and summer months, typically from October to March, when the weather is milder and the scenic landscapes are at their most picturesque.

Can I Stop and Explore Along the Way or Is It a Non-Stop Trip?

The tour allows some stops and exploration along the way, but it’s primarily a non-stop journey. Participants can enjoy scenic views, visit places like Peulla and Petrohué, and experience the different modes of transport included in the itinerary.

How Much Time Is Spent on Each Mode of Transportation (Bus, Boat, Etc.)?

The trip involves multiple modes of transportation, with travelers spending around 3 hours on the scenic bus ride, 2 hours on the catamaran and boat crossings, and the remaining time exploring stops like Peulla and Petrohué.

Recap

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is a remarkable experience that showcases the stunning natural beauty of the region. Travelers will be captivated by the breathtaking views of volcanoes, lush landscapes, and serene lakes, while also enjoying the cultural highlights like the Petrohué waterfalls and the charming town of Puerto Varas. It’s an unforgettable adventure that combines scenic transportation, picturesque sights, and the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Patagonia.

You can check if your dates are available here: