Do I need a passport for this tour?

Yes. You will cross the Argentina–Chile border by water, so a valid passport is essential. Check any visa requirements for Chile before booking.

What is included in the 11-hour duration?

The time covers three boat crossings (Nahuel Huapi, Frías, and Todos los Santos lakes), coach transfers between lakes, a stop at Petrohué Waterfalls, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Bariloche. Exact timing depends on your hotel location.

Is hotel pickup included, and from where?

Pickup is included from select centrally located Bariloche hotels only. If your accommodation is outside the service zone, you'll be directed to the nearest designated meeting point. Confirm your pickup location when booking.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear layers and bring a windproof, waterproof jacket as lake conditions and mountain weather are unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. A daypack for personal items during boat transfers is helpful.

Are meals included in this tour?

The tour description does not specify meal inclusions. Confirm whether lunch and beverages are provided or if you need to arrange your own; packing snacks and a refillable water bottle is advisable for an 11-hour day.

Can I do this tour in reverse (Puerto Varas to Bariloche)?

The itinerary is designed as a one-way crossing from Bariloche to Puerto Varas. If you need reverse routing or a round-trip experience, contact the operator directly to discuss alternatives.

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Andean Lakes Crossing Journey from Bariloche to Puerto Varas

(3)

Bariloche, Argentina

Boat ToursCity ToursNature Tours

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About this activity

Cross three pristine Andean lakes on this full-day journey from Bariloche, Argentina to Puerto Varas, Chile, combining three scenic boat cruises with coach transport through temperate rainforest and past dramatic mountain peaks. This border-crossing route showcases some of Patagonia's most iconic landscapes in a single immersive experience.

Depart from Bariloche, Argentina, to Puerto Varas in Chile on three cruises, crossing lakes surrounded by the Andes mountains. This 11-hour trip will sail from Puerto Pañuelo across the Nahuel Huapi Lake, toward the heart of the Southern Andes.

Sail the green waters of Frias Lake to Puerto Frias, admire the stunning Tronador Hill and the condors flying around. Cross the Chilean border and through the Valdivian Rain Forest, toward Peulla, Chile. Cruise across Todos los Santos Lake to Petrohue, and board a coach to the Petrohue Waterfalls, then on to your final destination of Puerto Varas.

Please note: The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside the geographic area, we will confirm you the closest meeting point.

Highlights

✓Three separate lake cruises: Nahuel Huapi, Frías, and Todos los Santos
✓Alpine views of Cerro Tronador and opportunities to spot Andean condors
✓Transit through UNESCO-listed Valdivian Temperate Rainforest
✓Visit Petrohué Waterfalls with coach-based access
✓Argentina–Chile border crossing by water

Insider tips

★Bring layers and a windproof jacket—lake winds can be sharp even in summer, and weather changes quickly in the Andes
★Pack binoculars or a telephoto lens for wildlife spotting (condors, southern beech forests) and mountain photography
★Start this tour early to maximise daylight hours across all three lakes and avoid arriving in Puerto Varas after dark

Good to know

•Total duration is 11 hours; plan for an early morning departure and late afternoon/early evening arrival
•Hotel pickup is only available from select centrally located Bariloche hotels; confirm your meeting point in advance if staying outside the main zone
•Comfortable walking shoes and waterproof bag recommended for boat transitions and the waterfall area
•Passport required for Argentina–Chile border crossing; check visa requirements before booking

Who it's for

Adventure travellers seeking multi-country experiences and iconic Patagonian sceneryNature photographers interested in Andean landscapes and wildlifeTravellers based in Bariloche wanting a deep-dive day trip to Chilean Patagonia without self-driving

Best time to visit

October to April (Southern Hemisphere spring and summer) offers the most stable weather, longest daylight, and best visibility of mountain peaks and wildlife. Winter crossings are possible but lake conditions may be rougher and daylight limited.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Rob H.

Apr 2026

Very enjoy, the bit at the end nobody expects the best part. Joseph take care us very well, 6 stops in about 3 hours. Thank you so much!

Sam J.

Mar 2026

our guide Diego had so many stories and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight. Mid-week so it was quiet so it wasnt too busy. Blew our cape town one out of the water, and perfect for first-timers, and ran the full 4 hours promised. Would book again no question.

Grace T.

Jul 2025

So nice this one, the bit at the end nobody expects was amazing and Marco the guide explain everything good. Better than Paris for sure, we go again!

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