Katelyn Lundquist is a student at the University of Findlay and an ISA Photo Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Patagonia is a very large area, but I’m so glad I chose Bariloche for Spring Break! This cute little town is located in northern Patagonia and thrives off of tourism. It may be small and a little off the beaten path, but nonetheless perfect for a vacation. After spending nearly a week here, I don’t consider myself an expert, but am willing to share my experiences in hopes of guiding the next curious traveler. Here I present to you my “Guide to a Week in Bariloche”. Please keep in mind that this post includes accounts of my personal experiences in Bariloche and that everyone’s stay will be a bit different. Happy Traveling!
1) To start, 22-24 hour bus rides are not recommended for those who are prone to motion sickness, car sickness, or if any of the following smells make you nauseous or uncomfortable in the least bit: meat sandwiches, cigarette smoke, smelly socks, cotton candy, dirty Port-a-Johns, tuna fish, or fake strawberry. As I myself, fit into this category 100% there wasn’t a curve or bump in the road that went by that I didn’t think about what was happening to my previously consumed lunch. On the other hand, if you do not fit into this category and don’t mind bumping along the Argentine countryside for about a day, by all means, take an omnibus! Bus fares are significantly cheaper, but airplanes get you there in about 1/5 of the travel time.
2) When you arrive in Bariloche, you’re probably going to want somewhere to stay. I recommend a hostel for short term stays. Hostels are great if you’re just passing through or if you want to stay for about a week. Anything longer and I would suggest renting an apartment as the price is better for a longer period of time. In Bariloche, there are hostels everywhere and most are very affordable with very kind staff.
3) When in Bariloche, eat chocolate!! Nuff said… Bariloche is famous for its chocolate and you won’t be disappointed. Two really great places you have to stop in are Rapa Nui and Mamuschka.
4) Vacationing on your own is fun too, but you really learn a lot about where you are by taking tours or going on excursions with other tourists and/or locals. There really is so much to do in Bariloche from horseback riding to zip lining to kayaking. With that being said, make sure you pack the necessary gear for each activity. Kayaking in jeans or hiking in flip flops would not be very fun. Personally, the group I was with chose rafting, trekking (hiking), and horseback riding, all of which I do not regret in the least bit.
In the end, if you have a chance to go to Bariloche, I say go for it! It’s a small town, yes, but with so much to offer and it’s so beautiful!
The world awaits…discover it.
Nice!