Andean Lakes Crossing Journey From Bariloche to Puerto Varas

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is a captivating full-day adventure that takes travelers through the breathtaking landscapes of the Patagonian Andes. Traversing the border between Argentina and Chile, this remarkable experience combines scenic road trips, picturesque sailing voyages, and visits to natural wonders like the Petrohue Waterfalls. While some travelers have noted occasional inconsistencies in service, the journey’s ability to showcase the region’s stunning glaciers, majestic volcanoes, and cultural experiences make it a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the beauty of the Andean lakes.

Key Points

1. The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey is a full-day adventure from Bariloche to Puerto Varas, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Patagonian Andes.

2. The tour includes hotel pickup, boat voyages across Nahuel Huapi and Todos Los Santos lakes, a stop for lunch in Peulla, and a visit to the Petrohue Waterfalls.

3. Passengers must provide valid passport details and comply with luggage restrictions, with a maximum of 2 suitcases per person (20kg each).

4. The tour features stunning views of Andean glaciers, Púella, Puntiagudo Hill, and Osorno Volcanoes, providing an immersive experience of the region’s natural wonders.

5. Customer reviews on the Andean Lakes Crossing Journey are mixed, with some complaints about service consistency and the handling of passengers and luggage.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey is a full-day adventure that takes travelers across the stunning landscapes of the Patagonian Andes.

The tour begins with hotel pickup and a drive along Nahuel Huapi Lake to Puerto Pañuelo, where passengers embark on a 1-hour sailing voyage across the lake to Puerto Blest.

They then board a bus to Puerto Alegre, followed by a 20-minute cruise on Frias Lake.

After crossing into Chile, the journey continues with a lunch stop in Peulla and a final cruise across Todos Los Santos Lake with views of the Puntiagudo Hill and Osorno Volcanoes.

The tour culminates with a visit to the Petrohue Waterfalls before arriving in Puerto Varas between 6:30 and 8 PM.

Pickup and Drop-off Details

At the start of the journey, passengers can be picked up from selected centrally located hotels or they can meet directly at the designated meeting point of Mitre 219 in San Carlos de Bariloche.

The tour ends at the Turistur Office located at Del Salvador 72 in Puerto Varas.

Confirmation of pickup details is required at the time of booking.

Travelers are allowed a maximum of 2 suitcases per person, with a weight limit of 20kg each.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the maximum group size is 40 travelers.

Included Services and Costs

Included in the Included Services and Costs are live commentary onboard, a professional guide, and transport by shared air-conditioned coach.

The tour price starts from $455.00 per person and is non-refundable. Lunch isn’t included, and gratuities are also not covered.

Passengers are allowed a maximum of 2 suitcases (20kg each) per person.

Admission fees for various stops along the journey are mostly free, except for the Petrohue Waterfalls, which requires a separate admission fee not included in the tour price.

Passenger Requirements and Limitations

Passengers must have a valid passport to travel on the day of the tour, and passport details are required at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the maximum number of travelers per group is 40.

Travelers are allowed up to 2 suitcases per person, with a maximum weight of 20kg each.

Confirmation of pickup details must be provided at the time of booking.

Admission fees for some stops, such as the Petrohue Waterfalls, aren’t included in the tour price.

Day-by-Day Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in a climate-controlled bus, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along Nahuel Huapi Lake to Puerto Pañuelo.

From there, they’ll board a boat for a 1-hour voyage across the lake to Puerto Blest.

The tour then continues by bus along the Frias River to Puerto Alegre, where they’ll cruise for 20 minutes on the ‘City of Faith’ across Frias Lake.

After crossing into Chile, the group will enjoy views of the Andean glaciers and Pùella before stopping for lunch in Peulla.

The final leg involves a scenic cruise across Todos Los Santos Lake, culminating in a visit to the Petrohue Waterfalls before arriving in Puerto Varas.

Crossing the Argentinian-Chilean Border

After crossing the border from Argentina into Chile, travelers on the Andean Lakes Crossing Journey will witness the breathtaking scenery of the Andean glaciers and Púella.

The bus will take them through the dramatic Andean landscape, providing stunning vistas of the snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes.

This portion of the journey offers a unique opportunity to observe the transition from the Argentine to the Chilean side of the Andes.

Travelers will be able to admire the rugged beauty and majestic glaciers that characterize this region, a true highlight of the day-long excursion from Bariloche to Puerto Varas.

Scenic Views and Natural Wonders

Across the border, travelers are treated to a panoramic display of the Andean glaciers and Púella.

The journey continues with a cruise across the breathtaking Todos Los Santos Lake, offering spectacular vistas of the towering Puntiagudo Hill and the majestic Osorno Volcanoes.

At the final stop, visitors can marvel at the cascading waters of the Petrohue Waterfalls, a natural wonder that caps off this scenic adventure.

Throughout the day, the tour provides ample opportunities to witness the region’s stunning landscapes, from pristine alpine lakes to snow-capped peaks, leaving travelers awestruck by the sheer beauty of the Andean wilderness.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have consistently shared their perspectives on the Andean Lakes Crossing Journey, with reviews providing valuable insights into the overall experience. While some passengers praised the stunning scenery and unique aspects of the tour, others expressed concerns about the reliability and communication of the guide. To better understand the experiences, let’s take a closer look at the feedback:

Ratings	Number of Reviews	Average Rating
5 stars	1	3.0/5
3 stars	1
1 star	1

The notable complaint centered around the "irresponsible handling of passengers and luggage during the trip," which appears to be an area for potential improvement. The reviews present a mixed picture, highlighting the need for consistent service and communication to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Tour?

If the weather is bad, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary as needed. They’ll prioritize passenger safety and aim to provide the best possible experience given the conditions. Flexibility is crucial on outdoor tours affected by unpredictable weather.

Can I Bring Additional Luggage Beyond the 2-Suitcase Limit?

The tour has a strict 2-suitcase limit per passenger. Additional luggage beyond this is not permitted. Passengers are advised to pack carefully and limit belongings to avoid any issues during the journey.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Shared One?

A private tour option is not mentioned in the given tour details. The tour is offered as a shared group experience with a maximum of 40 travelers. Passengers are limited to 2 suitcases per person.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Meal for Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special meal for lunch. The tour operator allows passengers to make dietary requests during the booking process, though the lunch is not included in the tour price.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors on This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The standard tour price of $455 per person applies to all passengers, regardless of age. There’s no mention of reduced rates for specific age groups.

Recap

The Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is an exhilarating full-day adventure that combines remarkable views, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. While some passengers have noted inconsistencies in service and luggage handling, the tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Patagonian Andes, from scenic drives along Nahuel Huapi Lake to visits to the stunning Petrohue Waterfalls.