Discover Argentina: A Spectacular Journey Crossing the Andes from Bariloche to Santiago via Puerto Varas

Discover Argentina:

A year-round destination brimming with limitless attractions, it lies in the Southern Hemisphere, where seasons are opposite to those of Western Europe or the US.

Its cultural landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse influences, reflecting its history of immigration and indigenous heritage. At its core lies the passionate spirit of tango, born in the streets of Buenos Aires, where sultry dance halls echo with the rhythmic beat of bandoneóns. The European influence is palpable in the architecture of cities like Buenos Aires and Córdoba, with elegant boulevards and ornate buildings reminding us of Paris and Madrid.

Argentina's food scene is a testament to its cultural fusion, blending indigenous ingredients with Spanish, Italian and other immigrant traditions. Indigenous cultures, such as the Mapuche and Quechua, add depth to Argentina's cultural tapestry, preserving ancient customs and spiritual practices amid modernity. Festivals and celebrations across the country pay homage to these diverse influences, showcasing Argentina's rich cultural heritage for all to experience and cherish.

The Paris of South America:

Recommended Stay 3–4 Days

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, offers a multitude of attractions and experiences. Start your journey by immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic neighborhood of San Telmo, known for its cobblestone streets, antique shops and lively tango performances. Don't miss the iconic landmarks such as the Obelisco and the colorful La Boca district, known for its tango dancers and music scene, along with its famous Caminito street. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the elegant streets of Recoleta and visit the Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita Perón's tomb is located. Finish your day with a visit to the trendy Palermo neighborhood, known for its blend of trendy cafes, eclectic street art and a riveting nightlife scene.

Note: Fly or take a bus from Buenos Aires to San Carlos de Bariloche, a city located in the province of Río Negro in the Argentine Patagonia.

Magical Bariloche, Argentina:

Recommended Stay 2–3 Days

Discover Argentina's Bariloche, nestled in the Andes Mountains, offering a captivating atmosphere defined by its stunning natural beauty and alpine charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in a wide range of activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding in the warmer months.

Discover the Bariloche Argentina food and wine scene.

One of the highlights of the food scene in Bariloche is its emphasis on regional cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients such as Patagonian lamb, trout and wild boar. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes like cordero al asador (grilled lamb), trout cooked over an open flame and hearty stews made with seasonal vegetables and herbs.

Additionally, Bariloche is famous for its chocolate shops, where visitors can sample an array of handmade chocolates, truffles and pastries. The town's Swiss-inspired chocolate makers have perfected their craft over generations. Using high-quality cocoa beans and traditional techniques to create delicious treats that are beloved by locals and visitors alike.

When it comes to wine:

Bariloche offers a selection of Argentine varietals that pair perfectly with the local cuisine. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Torrontés are among the most popular wines, with many vineyards located in the nearby regions of Mendoza and Patagonia. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at local restaurants and bars, or embark on a wine tour to explore the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process firsthand.

Note: From Bariloche, embark on the Andean Lake Crossing (Cruce de Lagos) excursion.

Bariloche to Puerto Varas, Chile:

Recommended Stay 2–3 Days, including an overnight at Argentina-Chile border.

The Andean Lake Crossing from Bariloche to Puerto Varas is a journey of unparalleled beauty and majesty, offering travelers a breathtaking glimpse into the heart of the Andes Mountains. As the boat glides across glacier lakes and waterways, passengers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests and cascading waterfalls.

Puerto Varas serves as the gateway to Chile's enchanting Lake District, offering a wealth of outdoor activities. For those seeking relaxation, Puerto Varas boasts thermal hot springs where visitors can unwind surrounded by stunning natural surroundings. Additionally, the town's culinary scene showcases the region's fresh seafood, traditional Chilean dishes and German-inspired cuisine, complemented by locally produced wines and craft beers.

Note: Best travel option to Santiago is taking a bus for a scenic overland journey.

Discover Argentina, Finish the Adventure in Santiago, Chile:

Recommended Stay 2–3 Days

Santiago, Chile's vibrant capital, pulses with a unique blend of modernity and tradition, set against the backdrop of the majestic Andes Mountains. In the heart of the city, visitors can explore three cultural attractions that showcase Chile's rich heritage. The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's indigenous culture, housing an extensive collection of artifacts dating back thousands of years. For a deeper understanding of Chile's history, the Chilean National History Museum features exhibits spanning from pre-Columbian times to the present day, housed within the neoclassical Palacio de la Real Audiencia. Santiago's cultural scene extends outdoors to the lush Parque Metropolitano, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Here, visitors can hike, cycle, or take a scenic cable car ride to the summit of Cerro San Cristóbal, enjoying panoramic views of the city below.

Day Trips:

Horseback Riding Day Trip: Escape the urban hustle of Buenos Aires with a day trip to discover Argentina's tranquil countryside. Saddle up for a scenic horseback riding adventure through the sprawling pampas, experiencing the traditional gaucho way of life firsthand while admiring the vast landscapes and rolling hills.

Tigre Delta Tour: Embark on a leisurely boat tour of the Tigre Delta, a sprawling network of islands and waterways just outside Buenos Aires. Glide past charming riverside communities, lush vegetation and historic landmarks, soaking in the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of this unique delta region.

Luxury To Iguazu Falls: From Buenos Aires, treat yourself to a flight excursion to the majestic Iguazu Falls, one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders. Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the falls on exclusive guided tours.

Don Julio

Buenos Aires, Argentina
50Best Accolades
No.19 The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2023
No.3 Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2023
A cathedral for steak lovers. Start with crispy yet tender mollejas (sweetbreads) and goat’s cheese provoleta but be sure to leave plenty of room for the star of the show. The bife de chorizo is thick and juicy, but those in the know order the off-menu entraña (skirt).
Key Information
Average price per person $30
+54 11 4832 6058
Visit Don Julio's Website
Guatemala 4699, Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires, C1425 CABA

El Boliche de Alberto...Bariloche

Expert reviews including Fodor's, Travel + Leisure, Frommer's & Lonely Planet.
El Boliche de Alberto specializes in traditional Argentine dishes, with a focus on high-quality meats cooked to perfection on the grill. From succulent steaks to tender lamb chops, the menu features a variety of options to satisfy meat lovers.
+54 294 431433
Villegas 347, San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

Borango Santiago

Reviews: Boragó has garnered widespread acclaim both locally and internationally, earning recognition as one of Latin America's top restaurants.
What to expect: The menu, named ‘Endémica’, showcases the bounty that Chile has to offer. Guzmán takes diners through the regions with dishes such as pink tomato Mariscal served on a pumpkin, duck aged in beeswax and murra and for dessert, a sea strawberry cake and ice brûlée with plants from the Atacama Desert – the arid plateau on the Pacific Coast. It’s an experience for all the senses, but diners are unlikely to get the same one twice, as the menu changes with the seasons.
Address: Nueva Costanera 3467, Vitacura, Santiago, Chile
Phone: +56 2 2953 8893