Bariloche Downtown 2

San Carlos de Bariloche, commonly known simply as Bariloche, is the largest city in the Argentine province of Río Negro and the seat of the department of the same name. It is located in the foothills of the Patagonian Andes on the southern shore of Nahuel Huapi Lake, near the border with Chile. With a population of 135,755 according to the 2022 census, Bariloche is a mid-sized city by national standards but holds significant regional importance. It is not only the most populous city in its province but also the largest in the Patagonian Andes, and the third largest in the entire Argentine Patagonia, following Neuquén and Comodoro Rivadavia. Its urban zone is characterized by its low density and has an area of more than 220 square kilometres (85 sq mi), extending longitudinally from east to west for about 50 kilometres (31 mi).

Known as the "Switzerland of South America," San Carlos de Bariloche boasts stunning snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and lush forests. The town is located on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, which offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and sailing. You can also take a scenic hike in the surrounding mountains, which offer breathtaking views of the landscape.

For adrenaline junkies, San Carlos de Bariloche is the perfect place to indulge in adventure sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding. The town is home to one of the largest ski resorts in South America, Cerro Catedral, which offers a wide range of slopes for both beginners and experts.