Bariloche: Mountain trekking with private guide & lunch

Summary

Walk Patagonia’s wild trails at your own rhythm in Bariloche

You’ll hike through Bariloche’s wild mountains with a local guide who adapts the route to your pace and mood. Expect hotel pickup, fresh mountain air, simple lunch with local flavors, and real stories along the way — plus those sweeping lake views you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell so sharp — almost like cold water and pine needles mixed together. Our guide, Martín, met us right at the door of our little guesthouse in Bariloche, grinning and already joking about how “the mountain chooses you.” I’d worried I’d picked a route too tough (or too easy), but he just shrugged and said we’d figure it out as we went. That felt good — no pressure, just us and the trail ahead.

The first hour was mostly quiet except for our boots crunching on gravel and Martín pointing out these tiny yellow flowers pushing through the rocks. He told us their Mapuche name (I forgot it instantly — sorry, Martín), then laughed when I tried to repeat it. The wind picked up as we climbed higher, tugging at my jacket and making my cheeks sting a bit. We stopped for water where the path opened up to this view over Lake Nahuel Huapi — blue like paint, honestly. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic.

Lunch was simple: a sandwich with local cheese and ham, an apple that tasted sweeter than any I’ve had at home, and a cereal bar for later. We sat on a flat rock while Martín told stories about growing up nearby — something about his uncle getting lost here once, but he made it sound funny instead of scary. On the way down, my legs wobbled more than I’d admit out loud. We paused at a lookout where the clouds were moving so fast they looked like they might sweep us off the ridge if we stood too close.

I guess what surprised me most was how personal it felt — not just following some set path but actually choosing together as we went. The weather changed every half hour; sometimes sun on our backs, sometimes mist curling around the trees. It wasn’t perfect or easy all the time (my knees are still complaining), but there’s something honest about that kind of day in Patagonia.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Trekking in Bariloche Mountains

• Plan excursion with passengers
• Private transport to trailhead
• Trekking with landscape views
• Lunch and walking snack
• Return with stops at viewpoints

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bariloche trekking tour?

Yes, private transportation picks you up from your lodging in Bariloche.

Are meals provided during the trek?

Yes, lunch (sandwich and fruit) and a snack (cereal bar) are included.

Can beginners join this trekking day in Bariloche?

The route is tailored to your fitness level; beginners are welcome if moderately fit.

Is there a local guide during the trek?

Yes, a private mountain guide leads the entire excursion.

What equipment is provided for trekking?

Trekking poles, gaiters (if needed), first aid kit, VHF radio, and satellite communication are included.

How long does the day trip last?

This is a full-day activity with flexible timing based on chosen route and group pace.

Are children or infants allowed on this trek?

Specialized infant seats are available; check suitability based on difficulty chosen.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in Bariloche, all transportation to and from the trailhead, guidance from a local mountain expert throughout the trek, trekking poles and gaiters if needed, safety equipment like VHF radio and satellite communication, accident insurance coverage, plus a sandwich lunch with fruit and an extra snack before heading back down.