Circuito Chico

A spectacular 80-kilometer scenic loop drive south of Bariloche featuring pristine lakes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas with stops at viewpoints and small towns. This quintessential Patagonian route is one of South America's most rewarding day trips.

Things to do

• Lago Moreno viewpoint — Stop at this iconic overlook for classic turquoise lake views framed by Cerro Campanario and the Andes beyond.
• Cascada Los Alerces waterfall hike — Walk through ancient alerce forest to reach a pristine waterfall dropping into a crystal-clear pool.
• Colonia Suiza village tour — Explore this charming Swiss-influenced settlement with traditional architecture, craft shops, and local artisan cafés.
• Cerro Campanario chairlift ascent — Ride the cable car up this 1,050-meter peak for panoramic views of Lakes Nahuel Huapi, Moreno, and surrounding mountains.
• Lago Gutiérrez scenic stop — Pause at this secluded turquoise lake's eastern shore for photography and picnicking away from main crowds.
• Puerto Pañol beach access — Walk down to this small sandy beach on Lago Moreno for swimming and views of the Circuito's most photographed landscape.
• Punto Panorámico López overlook — Stop at this elevated viewpoint for sweeping vistas across multiple lakes and the distant Cerro López peak.

Food to try

• Trucha ahumada (smoked trout) — Fresh-caught Patagonian lake trout smoked over beech wood, available at local shops and restaurants throughout the circuit.
• Kuchen de Colonia Suiza — Rich layered cake with jam and cream following Swiss-German tradition, best sampled at family-run cafés in Colonia Suiza.
• Cordero patagónico (Patagonian lamb) — Slow-cooked wild lamb from the region's estancias, tender and flavorful, served at restaurants in Bariloche and small lodges.
• Chocolate artesanal (artisanal chocolate) — Belgian-style chocolate made by local producers using Argentinian ingredients, found in Bariloche shops near the circuit entry points.
• Empanadas de queso y champiñones — Baked pastries filled with local cheese and wild mushrooms from the Patagonian forests, sold at roadside stops and picnic areas.

Local customs & good to know

• Drive the loop counterclockwise early morning — Starting before 8 AM and going counterclockwise from Bariloche ensures better light for photography and fewer tour buses at viewpoints.
• Respect the Swiss heritage in Colonia Suiza — This small town was founded by Swiss immigrants; locals appreciate visitors who engage respectfully with their cultural traditions and shop at family-owned businesses.
• Allocate a full day with stops — While the 80 kilometers can be driven in three hours, a worthwhile visit requires six to eight hours to hike, eat, and experience viewpoints properly.
• Weather changes rapidly — Patagonian mountain weather shifts quickly; bring layers and check conditions, as morning clarity can turn to afternoon rain or wind affecting visibility.

Nearby

• Cerro Campanario — 3 km
• Refugio Frey — 8 km
• San Carlos de Bariloche — 10 km
• Bariloche (Neuquén) — 11 km