Bariloche: Full Day Circuito Grande and Villa La Angostura

Bariloche’s Circuito Grande and Villa La Angostura tour offers an enthralling exploration of Patagonia’s captivating landscapes. Traversing the famed National Route 40, travelers witness breathtaking vistas at every turn, from the Amphitheatre’s grandeur to the Enchanted Valley’s ethereal charm. Beyond the scenic drive, the tour immerses guests in the charming town of Villa La Angostura, where they can stroll along the waterfront, browse local boutiques, and uncover the region’s rich cultural tapestry. What secrets does this Patagonian gem hold, waiting to be unearthed by the discerning adventurer?

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Full-Day Tours In Bariloche.

Key Points

• This full-day tour covers the scenic Circuito Grande route and the town of Villa La Angostura, providing an immersive experience in the Patagonian landscape.

• The tour includes stops at the Amphitheatre, Enchanted Valley, and the confluence of the Traful and Limay rivers, offering breathtaking natural vistas.

• Participants will have free time to explore Villa La Angostura, known for its waterfront, local boutiques, and outdoor adventure activities.

• The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes roundtrip transfers, though food, drinks, and gratuities are not included.

• The tour has an overall positive rating, with reviewers praising the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, though some noted miscommunications regarding the tour duration and additional fees.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day Circuito Grande and Villa la Angostura tour in Bariloche, Argentina takes travelers on a scenic journey through the region’s natural wonders, spanning approximately 9-13 hours depending on traffic.

Departing at 8:30 am from downtown Bariloche hotels, the tour accommodates up to 10 people and explores the picturesque towns of Villa Traful and Villa La Angostura.

Along the way, guests can admire the stunning Limay River, the Amphitheatre, the Enchanted Valley, and the confluence of the Traful and Limay rivers.

After free time for lunch and exploration in Villa La Angostura, the tour visits the town’s port, bays, and a notable residence before returning to Bariloche.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the picturesque towns of Villa Traful and Villa La Angostura, offering travelers a scenic drive along National Route 40 that borders the Limay River.

Guests can then admire the stunning Amphitheatre and Enchanted Valley before stopping at the Confluencia, where the Traful and Limay rivers meet.

Coihue forests and the Traful viewpoint provide opportunities to immerse in the region’s natural beauty, followed by free time for lunch and exploration in Villa La Angostura.

The tour concludes with visits to the town’s port, Mansa and Brava bays, and the El Mesidor Residence.

Transportation and Pickup

Roundtrip transfers from centrally located hotels or a designated meeting point ensure convenient transportation for this full-day tour.

Pickup options include:

1. Option to request pickup from your hotel, if it’s within the designated pickup zone along Bustillo Avenue up to Km 8.

2. Meeting at a central location in downtown Bariloche, if your hotel is outside the pickup zone.

3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the transfer.

4. Additional pickup information will be provided if your hotel isn’t included in the standard pickup area.

The transportation for this comprehensive Circuito Grande and Villa La Angostura tour is designed to provide a seamless start and end to your unforgettable day exploring the stunning landscapes of Bariloche.

Included and Excluded

This tour includes an English-speaking guide and roundtrip transfers, yet excludes food, drinks, and gratuities. Admission to the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, a protected area since 2007, is free for tour participants.

The tour covers a lot of ground, taking visitors from Bariloche to the charming towns of Villa Traful and Villa La Angostura. Along the way, travelers can enjoy scenic drives, visit the Amphitheatre and Enchanted Valley, and stop at the Confluencia where the Traful and Limay rivers meet.

In Villa La Angostura, guests have free time to explore the port, bays, and El Mesidor Residence. While meals and tips aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the natural beauty of the Patagonian region.

Review Highlights

Travelers have praised the tour’s stunning Patagonian scenery and knowledgeable guides, describing it as a ‘once in a lifetime experience‘ despite some logistical issues. The tour earns an overall rating of 4.0/5 from 15 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the beautiful landscapes and excellent guides.

However, some travelers noted miscommunication regarding the tour duration, luggage policy, and additional fees at the harbor. Key review highlights include:

1. ‘Beautiful scenery, excellent guides’

2. ‘Long day but worth it despite some issues’

3. ‘Gorgeous Patagonian landscapes, highly recommended’

4. ‘Guides provided great information, wished for more time in Villa La Angostura’

While the tour may have some room for improvement in terms of logistics, the consensus is that it offers an immersive and unforgettable exploration of Bariloche’s natural wonders.

Scenic Drive Along National Route 40

Along the striking expanse of National Route 40, the tour follows the captivating course of the Limay River, offering a scenic drive through the heart of Patagonia’s rugged landscapes.

Hugging the riverbanks, the route provides ample opportunities to soak in the region’s natural splendor. Towering mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters create a breathtaking backdrop as the tour winds its way towards the charming town of Villa Traful.

Travelers can gaze out the windows, mesmerized by the ever-changing vistas that unfold before them. This scenic drive not only transports visitors through the stunning Patagonian scenery but also sets the stage for the immersive experiences that await at the tour’s subsequent destinations.

Free Time in Villa La Angostura

Freed from the constraints of the guided tour, visitors eagerly seize the opportunity to explore Villa La Angostura’s charming waterfront and quaint downtown at their own pace.

Among the top attractions are:

1. The Port of Villa La Angostura, bustling with fishing boats, boutiques, and alfresco cafés.

2. Mansa and Brava bays, offering stunning vistas of the Andes and crystal-clear lakes.

3. El Mesidor Residence, a historic mansion that now houses a museum showcasing the region’s cultural heritage.

4. Numerous outdoor outfitters and adventure tourism companies, catering to thrill-seekers looking to hike, kayak, or horseback ride through the surrounding natural wonders.

With ample time to wander, travelers can enjoy the local charm and tranquility of this picturesque Patagonian town.

Exploring Traful River Confluence

The Traful River Confluence, where the Traful and Limay rivers meet, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural wonders.

This picturesque spot is one of the highlights of the Circuito Grande tour, allowing travelers to witness the merging of the two rivers against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests.

As the tour makes a stop at the Confluencia, guests can snap photos, admire the serene vistas, and learn about the significance of this natural meeting point from the knowledgeable guide.

It’s a moment of tranquility amidst the day’s adventure, leaving a lasting impression on those lucky enough to witness the Traful River Confluence firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The best time of year for this tour depends on the traveler’s preferences. The region generally has mild summer temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round, though spring and fall may offer more pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Children on This Tour?

Children are welcome on the tour, but must sit on laps as it’s not wheelchair accessible. Infants may require extra planning, and parents should consider the long duration when deciding if the tour is suitable for young children.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Scenic Drive?

Yes, the tour allows for frequent photo stops along the scenic drive. Travelers can capture the stunning landscapes, including the Limay River, Amphitheatre, and Traful viewpoint. The guide will accommodate requests for photo opportunities throughout the day.

How Much Local Currency Should We Bring for Expenses?

The amount of local currency needed depends on the traveler’s plans and preferences. A general recommendation is to bring enough for any optional activities, meals, and souvenirs, typically between 50-100 local currency units per person for the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Activities?

There don’t appear to be any options to extend the tour or add activities. The itinerary seems fixed, though travelers may have some free time in Villa La Angostura to explore on their own. Additional experiences would likely require booking a separate tour.

Recap

This immersive Bariloche tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Patagonia’s breathtaking natural beauty.

From the scenic drive along National Route 40 to the charming town of Villa La Angostura, travelers are treated to a well-curated itinerary that showcases the region’s most captivating sights.

With knowledgeable guides and ample exploration time, this full-day adventure provides an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Patagonia.