Circuito Chico
Discover the breathtaking Circuito Chico near Bariloche, Argentina – a scenic drive through Nahuel Huapi National Park with stunning lake views, towering peaks, and charming stops. Ideal for a half-day adventure, self-driving, cycling, or enjoying local chocolates. Navigate the beauty of the Patagonian Lake District.
The Circuito Chico, or 'Small Circuit,' is a classic and essential half-day excursion from Bariloche, offering a breathtaking introduction to the natural splendor of Argentina's Lake District. This roughly 60-kilometer loop winds through Nahuel Huapi National Park, treating travelers to panoramic views of turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests. It's the perfect route for a self-drive adventure, allowing you to stop at picturesque viewpoints, iconic landmarks, and charming local spots at your own pace. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Patagonia or returning for more, the Circuito Chico delivers unforgettable vistas around every bend. It's a highly recommended experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, easily accessible and rewarding.
Driving the Circuito Chico is arguably the most popular car-based activity in Bariloche, making it an excellent way to familiarize yourself with driving in the region. The well-maintained paved road is suitable for any vehicle, and the numerous points of interest make it an engaging journey. While popular and sometimes crowded, especially in peak season, careful planning can ensure a serene and memorable trip. Take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy the freedom of exploring this iconic Patagonian route.
Weather Overview
Andean Patagonian (Temperate Oceanic influence)Best months to visit
Complete Guide to Circuito Chico
Everything you need to plan your trip
Trip Planning
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Circuito Chico 2026 — Month-by-Month Guide
How to Get There
How to Get to Circuito Chico 2026 — Flights, Driving & Transport
Budget & Costs
Circuito Chico on a Budget 2026 — Costs, Tips & Money-Saving Guide
Seasonal Guide
Autumn in Circuito Chico 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Spring in Circuito Chico 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Summer in Circuito Chico 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Winter in Circuito Chico 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Circuito Chico (2026)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Circuito Chico (2026) — Neighborhoods & Hotels
Weather & Climate
Circuito Chico Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time
Activities & Adventures
Camping Guide
Camping in Circuito Chico 2026 — Campsites, Tips & Gear Guide
Day Trips
Best Day Trips from Circuito Chico 2026 — Distances & Driving Guide
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems in Circuito Chico (2026) — Secret Spots & Local Tips
Family Guide
Family Travel Guide to Circuito Chico (2026) — Kid-Friendly Tips
Hiking Trails
Hiking Trails in Circuito Chico (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps
Food, Wildlife & Photography
Plan Your Trip to Circuito Chico
Quick links to essential travel planning guides
Getting There
Flights, driving routes, and transport options to reach Circuito Chico.
View transport guideBest Time to Visit
Seasonal weather, crowd levels, and the ideal months to visit Circuito Chico.
See seasonal guideWhat to Pack
Essential gear and clothing for your Patagonia adventure — layers, rain gear, and more.
View packing listsBudget Overview
USD 30-50 — USD 200+/day (USD)
Nearby Destinations
Explore more of Patagonia with these nearby destinations.
Top Things to See & Do
Cerro Campanario Viewpoint
natureOffering arguably the best panoramic views of the entire region, Cerro Campanario provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista of lakes, islands, and mountains. A chairlift takes you swiftly to the top, where you'll find a cafe to enjoy the scenery.
Hotel Llao Llao
cultureAn iconic luxury hotel and an architectural masterpiece, Hotel Llao Llao is a landmark overlooking Bahía López and Lago Nahuel Huapi. You can admire its grandeur from outside, or indulge in a famous afternoon tea experience.
Punto Panorámico
natureA quintessential stop along the Circuito Chico, this viewpoint offers expansive, postcard-perfect vistas of Lago Nahuel Huapi, Lago Moreno, and the surrounding peaks. It's an ideal spot for photographs and soaking in the vast Patagonian landscape.
Colonia Suiza
cultureA charming historic village founded by Swiss immigrants, known for its artisan fair, souvenir shops, and traditional 'Curanto Patagónico' cooked in an earth oven. It's a delightful stop for a meal, a stroll, or to browse local crafts, especially on market days.
Puerto Pañuelo
adventureLocated adjacent to Hotel Llao Llao, Puerto Pañuelo is the departure point for popular boat excursions to Isla Victoria, Bosque de Arrayanes, and Puerto Blest. It's a bustling hub with stunning lake and mountain backdrops.
Cycling the Loop
adventureExperience the Circuito Chico at a slower, more immersive pace by renting a bicycle. Numerous rental shops are available along the route, allowing you to stop frequently, enjoy the fresh air, and discover hidden gems.
Bahía López
natureA picturesque bay with clear, tranquil waters and stunning mountain reflections. It's a quieter spot perfect for relaxing, kayaking, or enjoying a picnic away from the main crowds.
Best Time to Visit
summer
December - February
Warm days, comfortable evenings, occasional rain. Temperatures average 15-25°C (59-77°F).
Peak season
Visit very early in the morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid the heaviest crowds and tour buses at popular viewpoints.
autumn
March - May
Crisp, cool air with brilliant fall foliage. Temperatures average 5-15°C (41-59°F).
Moderate crowds
This is arguably the most beautiful time for photography, as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Crowds are significantly lower than summer.
winter
June - August
Cold with frequent snowfall, especially at higher elevations. Temperatures average -5-5°C (23-41°F).
Busy
The landscape is covered in snow, offering a magical, serene experience. Roads are usually clear, but check conditions for ice. Combines well with skiing at Cerro Catedral.
spring
September - November
Mild temperatures, blossoming flowers, and gradually warming. Averages 8-18°C (46-64°F).
Low crowds
Enjoy the fresh spring air and fewer visitors. Water levels in lakes are high from snowmelt, and the landscape is vibrant green. Some attractions might have reduced hours early in the season.
Rent a Car in Patagonia
Browse Car RentalsGetting There
| From | Method | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bariloche City Center | car | 3-5 hours (with stops) | Car rental + fuel | Renting a car is the most recommended way to experience Circuito Chico, offering maximum flexibility. The route begins just west of the city along Av. Bustillo. |
| Bariloche City Center | bus | 4-6 hours (with stops/waits) | $2-5 USD (Sube card required) | Take local bus line 20 from downtown Bariloche. It covers most of the major stops, but requires patience for waits and transfers. A Sube card is essential for payment. |
| Bariloche City Center | car | 45 minutes | $20-30 USD (taxi/remis one-way) | A taxi or remis can take you directly to specific points like Cerro Campanario, but for the full circuit, it's costly. Pre-negotiate fares. |
| Bariloche City Center | bus | 4-5 hours | $30-60 USD | Numerous tour operators in Bariloche offer half-day guided bus tours of Circuito Chico, perfect for those who prefer not to drive or navigate public transport. |
Where to Stay
Hostel/Camping
$15-40/night/night
For budget travelers, hostels in downtown Bariloche offer easy access to the bus network, while some campsites like Camping Lago Moreno are directly on the Circuito Chico for nature immersion.
Cabins/Aparts
$60-150/night/night
Many cozy cabins and apartment rentals ('aparts') are available along the first half of Circuito Chico (up to Km 15-20), offering a more tranquil setting with lake views. Ideal for families or longer stays.
Boutique Hotels
$100-250/night/night
Scattered along the route, especially near Llao Llao and Lago Moreno, these hotels offer personalized service, charming decor, and often stunning lake or mountain views. Great for couples.
Luxury Resorts
$250+/night/night
The iconic Hotel Llao Llao stands as the premier luxury option, with other high-end resorts also available in the Llao Llao area, providing world-class amenities and unparalleled Patagonian elegance.
Cost Overview — Circuito Chico
Daily Cost (USD)
Cost by Category
Driving Tips
- 1Start your drive early in the morning (before 9 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4 PM) during summer to avoid the heavy traffic and congestion caused by tour buses at popular viewpoints.
- 2Parking can be very limited at key stops like Cerro Campanario and Punto Panorámico. Be prepared to wait for a spot, or consider parking a bit further and walking.
- 3The road is generally paved and in good condition, but sections can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially around bends, and be mindful of cyclists.
- 4Keep your headlights on, even during the day, as it's often a legal requirement in Argentina and significantly improves visibility on the tree-lined, winding roads.
- 5Allow ample time (3-5 hours minimum) for the entire loop, factoring in stops for photos, short walks, and enjoying a meal or coffee. Don't rush the experience.
Local Tips
- 1Don't miss the 'Curanto Patagónico' experience at Colonia Suiza, usually available on Wednesdays and Sundays. It's a unique traditional cooking method in an earth oven and a true local delight.
- 2For a less crowded but equally stunning view, consider hiking one of the shorter trails around Hotel Llao Llao or Bahía López, such as the Sendero de los Arrayanes, instead of just the main viewpoints.
- 3Pack layers, even in summer, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. A light waterproof jacket is always a good idea, as Patagonia is known for its unpredictable conditions.
- 4Explore some of the lesser-known access points to Lago Moreno, like Playa del Viento, for a quieter beach experience, perfect for swimming on a warm day.
- 5If cycling, rent an e-bike for an easier and more enjoyable ride, especially if you're not an experienced cyclist. Also, start early to beat the traffic and strong winds that often pick up in the afternoon.
Free planning advice from people who know Patagonia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete the Circuito Chico?
While the driving itself can be done in about 1.5-2 hours, we recommend allocating 3 to 5 hours to comfortably enjoy all the stops, take photos, and perhaps have a meal or a coffee.
Is it worth renting a car for Circuito Chico?
Absolutely. Renting a car offers the most flexibility to stop wherever you like, spend as much time as you want at each point, and avoid crowded tour bus schedules. It's the most popular way to experience the circuit.
Can I do Circuito Chico by public transport?
Yes, local bus line 20 from Bariloche goes along the Circuito Chico. However, it requires a Sube card for payment and involves waiting at bus stops, which can extend the trip significantly.
What are the absolute must-see stops along the route?
Cerro Campanario (for unparalleled views), Punto Panorámico, and Colonia Suiza (especially on market days for local food and crafts) are widely considered the essential stops.
Is Circuito Chico suitable for families with children?
Yes, it's very family-friendly. The short distances between stops, diverse viewpoints, and options like the chairlift at Cerro Campanario or exploring Colonia Suiza make it enjoyable for all ages. Kids will love the chocolate stops too!
Where can I eat along the Circuito Chico?
You'll find various options: cafes at Cerro Campanario and Punto Panorámico, traditional Patagonian food (like Curanto) in Colonia Suiza, and upscale dining near Hotel Llao Llao. Numerous breweries also offer food.
Is the Circuito Chico crowded in summer?
Yes, summer (December-February) is peak season, and popular spots can get very crowded, especially from late morning to mid-afternoon. Visiting early or late in the day is highly recommended to avoid the busiest times.