A loop around Circuito Chico is one of the best things to do when visiting Bariloche. This scenic drive stretches for approximately 60 kilometers and offers some of the most postcard-worthy views in the region.
From deep blue lakes and lush forests to the rugged peaks of the Andes, here’s everything you need to know to plan a visit:
How to get to Circuito Chico
You can visit Circuito Chico on your own or by hopping on a guided tour. Nothing against the tours, but in this case, doing the loop on your own is what we would recommend! There’s just so much more to it than the popular stops and you can do it at your own pace.
Let’s break down the DIY options:
🚗 By car: renting a car is the option we recommend the most! We also recommend you rent it for at least 2 days to properly enjoy the hikes within the circuit. One day feels very rushed.
Rent your car with RentalCars >
🚌 By local bus: taking the local buses is a very economical way to visit Circuito Chico. The buses (lines 20, 10, and 13) run regularly and stop at key points along the route. You can find the bus’s full timetable here.
Patience is key if you choose this option as buses are usually crowded, especially by the end of the day when everyone is heading back to town.
Tip: You’ll need a SUBE card to use public transport in Argentina. You can buy one at any kiosk/convenience store, train and subway stations, lottery agencies, and post offices.
🚲 By bike: renting a bike is also a great way to visit! Several shops in Bariloche rent mountain bikes and electric bikes for the circuit. If you choose this option, check out this post from The Whole World or Nothing (James & Sarah did the circuit by bike and have great tips).
Note: it is also possible to hike the Circuito Chico but this is considered a challenging route and it can take up to two days to complete. We recommend downloading the map trail with AllTrails so as not to miss the adjacent trails around the circuit too (viewpoints, mountain huts, lakes, etc).
If you do opt for a guided tour after all, here are some options we love:
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Malargüe – Argentina’s Real Hidden Gem
Circuito Chico Map and Route
Pro Tip: download our Google Maps pins for easier access during your trip!
Key Stops & Activities
1. Cerro Campanario
One of the most breathtaking stops on the Circuito Chico is Cerro Campanario. A chairlift takes you to the summit at 1,050 meters above sea level, where you’re greeted by what National Geographic once called one of the top 10 views in the world. They were not wrong, it is breathtaking!
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased at the entrance and cost 10k pesos per person (around 10 euros).
Tip: It’s very windy at the top but there’s a café where you can shelter and still enjoy the views with a cup of coffee ☕
2. Llao Llao Peninsula
Further along the route, you will find the iconic Llao Llao Hotel and Parroquia San Eduardo, on the Llao Llao Peninsula. The hotel is renowned for its stunning landscapes and luxurious amenities. Nearby, the Parroquia San Eduardo is a nice little wood chapel, built in 1938 in the old Gothic style.
3. Sendero de los Arrayanes
Sendero de los Arrayanes is one of the most popular trails in Bariloche! Walk through a magical forest of orange-barked myrtle trees and stop at two viewpoints overlooking Lake Moreno and Isla de los Conejos.
🥾 Details: the trail is a 6.3 km loop trail that takes an average of 1:40h to complete, and you can find the complete map on AllTrails.
4. Cerro Llao Llao
Cerro Llao Llao offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the area. The views from the viewpoint at the top of the mountain are simply unreal! The trail is a beautiful forest path and can easily be combined with other trails such as the one to Villa Tacul for example.
🥾 Details: the trail is a 5.6 km out & back trail that takes an average of 2h to complete, and you can find the complete map on AllTrails.
5. Lago Escondido
Lago Escondido is an honestly not-so-well-hidden but still very beautiful lake in the circuit. We guess it’s called the hidden lake because you might easily miss it if you’re driving by but it’s located right next to the road, behind the trees.
You can reach it in two ways: a longer 40-minute trail through the forest or a quick 5-minute walk from the road (park your car here for the second option).
🥾 Details: the trail is a 2.6 km out & back trail that takes an average of 40 min to complete, and you can find the complete map on AllTrails. It is also possible to continue along the trail and connect with the Los Troncos Bay Trail to Los Troncos Beach.
6. Bahía Lopez
You’ll pass through the Mirador Bahía Lopez (a viewpoint), then the Puente Arroyo La Angostura (a bridge), and then you’ll reach Bahía Lopez. All of which offer stunning views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding mountains. This is the perfect spot to stop for a picnic, enjoy some kayaking, and explore nearby trails.
7. Refugio Lopez
Mountain hut culture in Argentina is just as popular as it is in the Alps! If you’re new to the term, it refers to the tradition of using mountain huts, also known as refuges, which provide basic accommodation, food, and shelter for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bariloche is dotted with these, and Refugio Lopez is one of the easiest to access and the trail starts on the Circuito Chico (starting point here). The hike takes you through lush forests and rocky terrains and once at the refuge, you can relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the views.
This hike is doable in one day and takes about 3 to 4 hours each way. Unless you’ve already planned to spend a night at another hut such as Refugio Frey or Jakob, we recommend you sleep here for the full experience!
Tip: If you have more time and enjoy challenging hikes, you can do the Bahía Lopez – Mountain Peak – Refugio Lopez trail (AllTrails map here).
8. Patagonia Brewery
Located near the end of the circuit (if you go anti-clock-wise) the Patagonia Brewery is a must-visit! Its unique location offers stunning views over the lake and mountains and it’s a perfect place to relax and try local brews.
The brewery also has a restaurant where you can sample local cuisine paired with their signature beers. Plus, vibes are unmatched here!
Hot tip: If you’re as into beer as we are, maybe skip Patagonia for the day and jump on this beer experience tour on a separate day. You’ll hit up Wesley Brewery, Cervecería Gilbert, and Patagonia itself — way better decision, trust us! 🍻
9. Punto Panoramico
One of the major stops along the route is the Punto Panoramico, a viewpoint of Lake Moreno and the surrounding mountains and a great spot for photos.
Also read: Mendoza Wine Tour: How to Choose the Best Wineries to Visit
10. Colonia Suiza
This small village is notable for its Swiss heritage and it’s a must-visit! Here you can explore local crafts and enjoy traditional dishes like Curanto, an indigenous cooking method adopted by the settlers. The village also hosts an artisan market on Sundays and it’s overall just a very charming place.
Note: the village is not exactly on Circuito Chico but is located just a half-hour drive away.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on trying curanto here—a traditional meal brought over from Chile by Emilio Goye, one of the village’s first settlers. It’s a slow-cooked feast that takes hours over the fire, so make sure to book ahead. Or, if you prefer, you can join a tour that includes this delicious meal, like this one!
Know Before You Go:
☀️ Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Circuito Chico is during the warmer months, from October to April when the weather is mild and the days are longer.
☁️ Weather Conditions: The weather can change rapidly. Check the forecast and dress in layers. Bring a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.
🍉 Supplies: Bring enough water and snacks. There are plenty of tea houses around the circuit but if you’re hiking to viewpoints, you should have enough supplies with you.
Additional Tips for Exploring Circuito Chico:
- Circuito Chico is located about a 30-minute drive from the center of Bariloche.
- It takes about 40 minutes only to drive the whole Circuito Chico without any stops.
- Before going on one of the many hikes, make sure to check the difficulty levels and download the map using an app such as AllTrails for safety.
- After around 4-5 PM you cannot enter some of the trails on the route as the forest guards close the entry points.
