Cruce Andino: Puerto Varas to San Carlos de Bariloche

Peulla, Chile



Discover the beautiful landscapes of the colorful region of Patagonia on this one-way transfer from Puerto Varas, Chile to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.

Scenic Andes Route from Puerto Varas (Chile) to San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina)

This multi-modal journey suits travelers seeking to explore Patagonian lakes, mountains, and cross-border natural landscapes between Chile and Argentina.

Highlights

  • Travel the historic route connecting Puerto Varas and San Carlos de Bariloche through the Andes
  • Experience boat navigation across three lakes: Nahuel Huapi, Frías, and Todos los Santos
  • Explore overland routes featuring forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife

Description

This scenic route connects Puerto Varas in Chile to San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina, crossing the Andes mountain range. Travelers cross three lakes by boat and travel four overland routes by bus, linking natural attractions such as rainforests and waterfalls on both sides of the border.

The boat crossings cover:

  • Nahuel Huapi Lake (Argentina)
  • Frías Lake (Argentina)
  • Todos los Santos Lake (Chile)

The overland segments connect the following points: Bariloche to Puerto Pañuelo, Puerto Blest to Puerto Alegre, Puerto Frías to Peulla, and Petrohué to Puerto Varas. Throughout the journey, passengers enjoy panoramic views and opportunities to experience local wildlife, culture, and gastronomy.

Itinerary

  • 8:00 AM - Overland travel from Puerto Varas to Petrohué (Chile)
  • 10:30 AM - Boat sailing from Petrohué to Peulla on Lake Todos los Santos (Chile)
  • 12:30 PM - Free time in Peulla for lunch (Chile)
  • 3:00 PM - Overland travel from Peulla to Frías Port (Chile/Argentina border)
  • 5:00 PM - Boat sailing from Frías Port to Blest on Lake Frías
  • 6:00 PM - Boat sailing from Blest to Pañuelo Port on Lake Nahuel Huapi (Argentina)
  • 7:00 PM - Overland travel from Pañuelo Port to San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina)
  • 8:00 PM - Arrival in San Carlos de Bariloche (Argentina)

Includes

  • All overland transportation and boat sailings during the journey
  • Guides throughout the trip
  • Baggage allowance: 1 suitcase up to 23 kg and 1 carry-on bag up to 10 kg per person

Excludes

  • Lunch
  • Food and drinks
  • Lodging
  • Optional or extra activities
  • Entrance fees to parks
  • Boarding taxes

Important Information

  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible; persons with reduced mobility must be accompanied as no assistance is provided
  • Itinerary may change slightly during winter (April to September)
  • Additional luggage beyond the 23 kg suitcase and 10 kg carry-on allowance incurs a US$40 fee per extra suitcase
  • Luggage is delivered at the start and returned at the end of the trip—carry all travel documents as hand luggage

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring weather-appropriate clothing and your travel documents, and plan your visit outside the winter months if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Cruce Andino is a guided scenic tour that travels the traditional Andes route between Puerto Varas, Chile, and San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, crossing three lakes and diverse Patagonian landscapes.
The tour usually lasts a full day, but exact duration depends on the operator and weather conditions; check the website for specific timing details.
The tour crosses Nahuel Huapi, Frías, and Todos los Santos lakes, connecting Chile and Argentina through the Andes.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; travelers should verify their entry permissions for both Chile and Argentina before booking.
You will see Patagonian forests, waterfalls, mountain scenery, and local wildlife typical of the southern Andes region in Chile and Argentina.
Meal inclusion varies by tour provider; check the booking details to confirm whether meals or snacks are provided during the journey.
While overland travel is possible, the Cruce Andino tour offers specialized transport and guidance through remote routes and lake crossings not easily accessible alone.
This tour involves boat rides and overland travel through varied terrain, so it may not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility; consult the operator beforehand.
The tour operates year-round, with summer and spring offering milder weather and clearer conditions; check seasonal availability with the provider.
Yes, since the tour crosses the international border between Chile and Argentina, carrying a passport is mandatory for customs and immigration procedures.

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