Best Day Trips from Circuito Chico
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, Circuito Chico offers an unparalleled base for exploring the region's most iconic natural wonders and charming towns. Its panoramic viewpoints, serene lakes, and verdant forests provide a perfect starting point for unforgettable day trips, easily accessible with the freedom of your own rental car.
Circuito Chico, often referred to as 'The Small Circuit,' is a picturesque loop road winding through the heart of the Nahuel Huapi National Park, just west of San Carlos de Bariloche. While the circuit itself is a destination, its strategic location makes it an ideal hub for venturing further into the Argentine Patagonia. From the comfort of your rental car, you can effortlessly access pristine mountain lakes, discover vibrant artisan communities, and embark on breathtaking hikes, all while enjoying the flexibility to explore at your own pace. This guide unlocks the best day trips from Circuito Chico, emphasizing the incredible opportunities that self-driving provides to truly immerse yourself in this magnificent corner of the world.
Area Overview
Circuito Chico is conveniently situated west of San Carlos de Bariloche, forming a roughly 60 km loop. The main access roads are paved, connecting directly to RN40, the primary north-south artery in Argentine Patagonia. To the north, RN40 leads towards Villa La Angostura and the Ruta de los 7 Lagos. To the south, RN40 heads towards El Bolsón and Esquel. Key access points from Circuito Chico typically involve driving east towards Bariloche's city limits to connect with major routes. The region is well-signed, but having a good map or GPS is recommended, especially for excursions into national parks where some secondary roads may be gravel.
Day Trips
Bariloche City Exploration
Discover the vibrant heart of San Carlos de Bariloche, famous for its Swiss-alpine architecture, delectable chocolate shops, and bustling craft breweries. Explore the Civic Center, stroll along the lakeside, and indulge in local gastronomy. While public transport is an option, a rental car provides the freedom to easily combine this with other nearby attractions or enjoy a scenic drive back to your Circuito Chico accommodation.
Colonia Suiza & Panoramic Views
Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Colonia Suiza, the oldest European settlement in the region, known for its traditional curanto feast and artisan market on Wednesdays and Sundays. Combine this with a visit to Cerro Campanario, acclaimed by National Geographic as one of the 'world's best views,' accessible via chairlift. A car allows you to easily hop between these points and explore other viewpoints along Circuito Chico.
The Seven Lakes Route (Partial)
Embark on a segment of Argentina's legendary Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Route of the Seven Lakes), driving north on RN40 towards the charming town of Villa La Angostura. This scenic drive showcases crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and magnificent mountain vistas. Stop at numerous viewpoints to capture breathtaking photos and enjoy short walks. Villa La Angostura itself offers quaint shops and restaurants, making it a perfect lunch stop. A rental car is essential for this iconic Patagonian journey.
Mount Tronador & Alerces Waterfall
Journey deep into Nahuel Huapi National Park to witness the majestic Mount Tronador, a triple-peaked stratovolcano straddling the Chile-Argentina border, famous for its 'Thundering Glacier.' The drive includes a significant gravel section (RP81/RP82), leading to Ventisquero Negro (Black Glacier) and the stunning Cascada de los Alerces. This trip requires careful driving, but the rewards are immense: pristine nature, glacial landscapes, and impressive waterfalls. A sturdy rental car is indispensable for navigating the varied terrain and restricted gate hours.
El Bolsón & Lago Puelo Artisan Escape
Head south on the iconic Ruta 40 to El Bolsón, a bohemian town renowned for its vibrant artisan market, organic produce, and laid-back atmosphere. Explore the market (especially on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), sample local craft beers, and enjoy the counter-culture vibe. Continue to Lago Puelo National Park, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Your rental car ensures you can easily visit both and enjoy the scenic drive through valleys and past fruit farms.
Circuito Grande Scenic Loop
For a full day of exploration, embark on the Circuito Grande. This extensive loop takes you from Circuito Chico, through Bariloche, north on RN237, then east on RP65 towards Villa La Angostura before returning via RN40. It encompasses diverse landscapes, from steppe to dense forests, passing by lakes such as Nahuel Huapi, Traful, and Espejo. It’s an ideal way to experience a broader section of the region, revealing hidden valleys and remote vistas that are only accessible with your own vehicle.
Best Season to Visit
The best time to visit and undertake day trips from Circuito Chico is during the Patagonian summer (December to March) for pleasant weather and full accessibility to all roads and hiking trails. Spring (October-November) and Autumn (April-May) also offer beautiful landscapes with fewer crowds, though some higher elevation roads might still have snow or ice in early spring/late autumn.
Car Rental Advice
Renting a car is by far the most advantageous way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia from Circuito Chico. Public transport is limited for many of the best day trips, and organized tours offer less flexibility. With your own vehicle, you gain the freedom to stop at any scenic viewpoint, explore off-the-beaten-path trails, and tailor your itinerary to your interests. For destinations like Mount Tronador or the full Circuito Grande, which involve gravel sections (e.g., RP81/RP82 to Tronador or parts of RP65 on Circuito Grande), a 4x4 or a vehicle with higher clearance is advisable, especially outside of peak summer. Ensure your rental includes comprehensive insurance. Fuel stations are readily available in Bariloche and Villa La Angostura, but less frequent on remote stretches, so always fill up before long journeys. Always check road conditions, especially during winter or shoulder seasons, as some routes may close due to snow or ice. Embrace the self-drive adventure; it truly unlocks the Patagonian wilderness!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the roads around Circuito Chico paved?
Yes, the entire Circuito Chico loop itself is paved, as are the main highways like RN40 connecting to Bariloche and Villa La Angostura. However, some popular day trip destinations, such as the route to Mount Tronador (RP81/RP82), involve significant stretches of well-maintained gravel road.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for day trips?
While not strictly necessary for all trips, a 4x4 or a car with higher clearance is highly recommended for journeys involving extensive gravel roads, such as the full trip to Mount Tronador or exploring more remote areas within Nahuel Huapi National Park, especially if you plan to travel outside of the peak summer months when road conditions can be more challenging.
What should I carry in my car for day trips?
Always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and rental agreement. It's also wise to have a physical map or offline GPS, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and warm clothing layers, even in summer, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Are there tolls on the Patagonian roads?
Generally, there are no tolls on the national routes (like RN40) or provincial roads in this part of Patagonia. However, some specific access roads or national park entrances may have fees, for example, the entrance to Nahuel Huapi National Park for certain activities or areas.
How easy is it to find fuel?
Fuel stations are plentiful in major towns like Bariloche and Villa La Angostura. However, on longer day trips or in more remote areas, stations can be scarce. Always ensure your tank is full before embarking on a long journey, especially when heading towards El Bolsón or the more remote parts of the national park.
Are there any driving restrictions or gate hours for national parks?
Yes, some national park areas, particularly the road to Mount Tronador, have specific gate opening and closing hours for entry and exit, and one-way traffic sections. Always check local information or park ranger offices for the latest schedules before you go to avoid disappointment.
Is it safe to drive in Patagonia?
Driving in Patagonia is generally safe, but requires attention due to winding mountain roads, occasional gravel sections, and wildlife crossings (especially guanacos or deer). Drive defensively, adhere to speed limits, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Always inform someone of your route if venturing into very remote areas.