How difficult is the waterfall hike?

The hike to Los Cantaros Waterfall is moderate—approximately 1–2 hours on forest trails with gentle elevation gain. It's manageable for reasonably fit adults and families with children aged 10+, but can be slippery after rain and involves rooted, uneven terrain.

Waterproof hiking shoes, layers (fleece or thermal), a windproof outer jacket, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The microclimate can shift rapidly between the open lake and shaded forest. Bring a camera or binoculars for wildlife and scenery.

Is this suitable for families with young children?

The boat journey is family-friendly and accessible to most ages, but the waterfall hike is best suited to children aged 8–10 and above who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain for 1–2 hours. Discuss your child's abilities with the operator when booking.

What if the weather is bad?

The tour typically operates in light rain, but heavy storms or high winds can trigger cancellations or route changes. Tours are most stable from November to March; June–August often see afternoon weather closures. Confirm cancellation and rebooking policy when booking.

The standard 9-hour tour does not include a meal. Pack snacks or a picnic lunch, or arrange a packed lunch with the operator in advance. Onboard refreshments are limited.

How far is Puerto Blest from Bariloche?

Puerto Blest is accessible only by boat across Nahauel Huapi Lake; the boat journey is roughly 1–1.5 hours each way from Bariloche's port. The 9-hour total includes all transfers, cruising, and hiking time.

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 1

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 2

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 3

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 4

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 5

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 6

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 7

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 8

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche 10

1 / 10

Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike from Bariloche

(5)

Bariloche, Argentina

Boat ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCity ToursNature Tours

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Combine a full-day lake cruise across Nahauel Huapi with a guided forest hike to Los Cantaros Waterfall at Puerto Blest, a remote peninsula framed by Patagonian temperate rainforest. This is one of Bariloche's most scenic and accessible ways to experience pristine Andean landscape without requiring serious trekking fitness.

Take a scenic boat cruise on Nahauel Huapi Lake to Puerto Blest, where you can explore the unique natural landscape on foot and visit Los Cantaros Waterfall. A local guide will show you the sights and history of the area as you navigate Nahauel Huapi Lake, admiring the majestic cypress and coihue trees that grow in the rainforest microclimate of this area. Enjoy this family-friendly boat journey and stroll among the natural wonders of Puerto Blest on this relaxing day trip from Bariloche!

Highlights

✓Boat cruise across turquoise Nahauel Huapi Lake with glacier-fed mountain backdrops
✓Los Cantaros Waterfall hike through native cypress and coihue forest
✓Guided interpretation of local ecology and regional Patagonian history
✓Remote wilderness setting accessible without technical climbing or long drives
✓Sheltered boat journey suited to mixed-ability groups

Insider tips

★Bring layers and a windproof jacket—lake winds can intensify cold even in summer, and microclimate shifts are sharp between water and forest
★Pack binoculars and a camera with zoom; Andean condors and southern beech forest wildlife are frequently spotted but distant
★Eat a substantial breakfast before departure; onboard catering options are limited, though packed lunches can sometimes be arranged in advance

Good to know

•Total duration is 9 hours including transfers, boat transit, and hiking; waterfall hike itself is moderate (roughly 1–2 hours walking on forest trails)
•Waterproof footwear strongly recommended; trails can be muddy and slippery after rain
•Life jackets provided; no swimming, but photo stops and short rest breaks included
•Operates year-round but November–March offers longest daylight and most stable weather; avoid June–August for frequent afternoon weather closures

Who it's for

Families with older children and mixed fitness levels seeking nature without high technical demandsNature photographers and birdwatchers drawn to Patagonian ecosystemsCruisers and boat-tour enthusiasts wanting lake and rainforest in one outingTravellers with limited mobility who want scenic wilderness access via boat rather than long hikes

Best time to visit

November to March (Southern Hemisphere spring and summer) for reliable weather, minimal boat cancellations, and maximum daylight. Early morning departures mean you'll reach the waterfall in optimal light and avoid afternoon lake winds.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Olivia F.

Jan 2026

our captain Hassan really knew their stuff and a hidden cove we anchored in to swim was the highlight, and booked it for my birthday.

Nick W.

Dec 2025

our captain Priya couldnt do enough for us and jumping off the back into clear water was the highlight. Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. Booked it for my birthday, and mid-week so it was quiet. Would book again no question, no joke

Ben F.

Nov 2025

our captain Diego was brilliant and dolphins riding the bow for ages was the highlight, and for our anniversary, loved it

Amara C.

Apr 2025

our captain Sven really knew their stuff and jumping off the back into clear water was the highlight ... Used it for our summer trip so it wasnt too busy. Handy if youre short on time, and stopped at 3 different bays, and great if youre not super fit, and stopped at 3 different bays. Would book again no question, no joke

Will C.

Apr 2025

our captain Wei sorted everything for us and the little blue cave stop was the highlight, and for our anniversary.

from€181.94€154.04/ person

Instant ConfirmationBest priceMobile voucher