Circuito Chico - Image 1
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Circuito Chico Bariloche

4.8
·1k reviews·, Argentina

A breathtaking 60km scenic loop in Bariloche, offering stunning Patagonian vistas, iconic landmarks, and diverse exploration options.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Circuito Chico - Image 1

Circuito Chico Bariloche

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking 60km scenic loop in Bariloche, offering stunning Patagonian vistas, iconic landmarks, and diverse exploration options.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"Excellent way to spend the day, we did the circuit on ebikes which made everything easier."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Secure Your Car!

Be extremely cautious of car theft. Never leave valuables visible and park where you can see your vehicle.

🚲 E-bike for Ease

E-bikes make navigating the hills effortless and allow you to focus on the scenery.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cerro Campanario

Cerro Campanario

Mid-point of Circuito Chico

Panoramic 360° views of lakes, mountains, and forests. A must-see mirador!

Llao Llao Hotel & Gardens

Llao Llao Hotel & Gardens

Near the start/end of the circuit

Iconic historic hotel with stunning architecture and beautiful surrounding gardens.

Punto Panorámico

Punto Panorámico

Along the circuit

Offers breathtaking viewpoints of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and surrounding mountains.

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Planning Your Visit

Secure Your Ride & Belongings

While e-bikes offer an easy way to explore, car rentals are common. Be extremely vigilant about your vehicle; theft targeting tourists is a known issue. Never leave your car unattended, even in busy areas. Consider parking where you can always see your vehicle. Reddit

Best Time for Views & Fewer Crowds

The circuit offers stunning vistas, but timing can impact your experience. Weekends and peak tourist seasons can bring more visitors. Consider visiting on weekdays or during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed exploration of the beautiful landscapes. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Circuito Chico, San Carlos De Bariloche, Argentina [2048x1366] [OC]

🚗 Secure Your Car!

Be extremely cautious of car theft. Never leave valuables visible and park where you can see your vehicle. Reddit

🚲 E-bike for Ease

E-bikes make navigating the hills effortless and allow you to focus on the scenery. Reddit

reddit.com

Recommendations around Bariloche

reddit.com

Bariloche

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Even if driving, wear comfortable shoes for short walks and exploring viewpoints. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The miradors offer incredible photo opportunities of the Patagonian landscape.

reddit.com

Looking for suggestions for first time going to Patagonia in Argentina

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Secure Your Car!

Be extremely cautious of car theft. Never leave valuables visible and park where you can see your vehicle. Reddit

🚲 E-bike for Ease

E-bikes make navigating the hills effortless and allow you to focus on the scenery. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Even if driving, wear comfortable shoes for short walks and exploring viewpoints. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The miradors offer incredible photo opportunities of the Patagonian landscape.

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and accessibility of Circuito Chico, with many recommending e-bikes for an enjoyable exploration. However, a significant concern is car security, with multiple reports of theft targeting rental vehicles. Despite this, the stunning viewpoints and natural beauty make it a highly recommended experience.

"Excellent way to spend the day, we did the circuit on ebikes which made everything easier. Parking, hills and taking in the sights. So easy. Multiple policía at the parking areas, plenty of restaurants, cervecerias, playas and miradors. Highly recommend."

Robert Quinn

"Really beautiful places to see!"

Patrícia Shibuya

"Do not leave your car out of sight! We got robbed while we stepped out of our rental car. The robbers don't break the glass, just disengage the alarm and open the trunk. They specifically target foreigners with rental cars and are very fast. They don't look suspicious, seem to work in pairs. If you will stop for the view or take a picture, better to park somewhere where you can see your car anytime. Even if there are people around, do not trust. No one does anything even if they see robbery. Apparently there are many cases like this but local people do not want to share not to impact tourism."

Neslihan SASMAZER

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Easy e-bike navigation
Beautiful natural landscapes

What People Dislike

Car theft concerns
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Circuito Chico is a scenic route near Bariloche. You can drive your own car, rent one, or take a bus. Many visitors opt for e-bikes or guided tours for a more immersive experience. The route is well-marked and starts from the city center. Reddit

Driving offers flexibility, but e-bikes are highly recommended by visitors for ease of navigating hills and enjoying the scenery without the stress of parking. Reddit

For families, consider a guided tour or renting a car. E-bikes can be an option if your children are comfortable cycling, but ensure you have appropriate safety gear. The numerous stops for views and snacks make it engaging for all ages.

Yes, local buses operate along parts of the Circuito Chico route, offering a budget-friendly way to see some of the main attractions. However, a car or bike provides more freedom to stop at all the viewpoints. Reddit

The Circuito Chico itself is about 60 km (37 miles) long. Driving the entire circuit, including stops at viewpoints and for photos, typically takes 3-5 hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Circuito Chico is a scenic route, not a ticketed attraction. There are no entry fees for the circuit itself. However, some specific attractions along the route, like chairlifts at Cerro Campanario, may have separate charges. Reddit

Generally, the viewpoints (miradores) along Circuito Chico are free to access. You can stop and enjoy the scenery without any cost. Reddit

Circuito Chico is an open road, accessible 24/7. However, most businesses and attractions along the route operate during daylight hours, typically from morning until early evening. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of peak holiday seasons. Late afternoons can also be less crowded than midday. Reddit

Yes, booking tours for Circuito Chico in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Many local tour operators offer various options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The absolute best photo spots include Cerro Campanario for its 360° panorama, Punto Panorámico for lake and mountain vistas, and the Llao Llao Hotel area for its iconic architecture. Don't miss the smaller, unnamed miradores for unique perspectives. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos. Midday can be harsh, but still offers stunning scenery. Reddit

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Circuito Chico. However, if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens, you can capture even more expansive landscapes. Reddit

Generally, there are no photography restrictions on the public viewpoints along Circuito Chico. You are free to take photos of the natural scenery. Some private establishments might have their own policies. Reddit

At Cerro Campanario, aim for wide panoramic shots to capture the vastness of the lakes and mountains. Also, try to get shots of the different islands and the distant peaks. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and cervecerias (breweries) along Circuito Chico, offering everything from quick snacks to full meals with stunning views. Many are located near popular viewpoints. Reddit

Yes, many restaurants offer lunch options. Consider stopping at places near Llao Llao or Cerro Campanario for a meal with a view. Some offer local Patagonian specialties. Reddit

You'll find a variety of options, including traditional Argentine parrilla (grill), pasta, sandwiches, and local trout. Many places also serve craft beer and pastries. Reddit

While some restaurants offer fine dining with views, you can also find more casual cafes and parrillas that are more budget-friendly. Packing some snacks and water can also help save money. Reddit

Options can vary, but many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to check menus beforehand or ask staff about vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Circuito Chico offers a fantastic family adventure with plenty of stops to keep children engaged. The Cerro Campanario chairlift is often a highlight for kids, providing a fun ride and incredible views. Many viewpoints offer safe spaces for them to run around briefly. Consider renting a car or joining a guided tour for easier logistics with younger children, as e-bikes might be challenging for very young ones. Reddit

Numerous restaurants along the route offer kid-friendly menus, and the sheer beauty of the landscape can captivate even the most restless youngsters. Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and the numerous parrillas and cafes provide opportunities for breaks and treats. The overall experience is one of natural wonder and accessible adventure.

🚗 Budget Travelers

Exploring Circuito Chico on a budget is definitely achievable. Opting for public buses is the most economical way to see parts of the circuit, though it limits your flexibility. Packing your own food and water for the day can significantly cut down on expenses, as dining at restaurants with views can be pricey. Reddit

If you choose to rent a car, look for deals and consider smaller, more fuel-efficient models. While e-bikes offer a great experience, the rental cost can add up. Prioritize free viewpoints like Punto Panorámico and enjoy the natural beauty, which costs nothing. Many visitors find immense satisfaction in exploring independently and enjoying the stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Circuito Chico is a dream destination. The panoramic views from Cerro Campanario are unparalleled, offering vast landscapes that beg to be captured. Punto Panorámico provides iconic shots of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially during the golden hours. Reddit

Don't overlook the smaller, less-crowded viewpoints for unique compositions. The Llao Llao Hotel offers architectural and landscape photography opportunities. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a telephoto lens for details of distant peaks. Be mindful of the changing light throughout the day to maximize your photographic potential. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Circuito Chico: Your Transport Options

Circuito Chico is a 60-kilometer (37-mile) scenic loop, and how you choose to explore it significantly impacts your experience. Car rental is a popular choice, offering flexibility to stop at any viewpoint and explore at your own pace. However, be extremely mindful of car security, as theft targeting tourists is a concern. Many visitors report incidents of break-ins, so never leave valuables visible and try to park where your vehicle is in sight. Reddit

For a more active and immersive journey, e-bikes are highly recommended. They make the numerous hills manageable, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery without the physical strain. This option is favored by many for its ease and enjoyment. Reddit Public buses are also available, providing a more economical way to see some of the main sights, though they offer less flexibility than a private vehicle or bike. Guided tours are another excellent option, especially for first-time visitors, as they handle navigation and provide local insights.

Regardless of your chosen transport, remember that the circuit is best enjoyed with ample time for stops. The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the destinations. Plan for at least 3-5 hours to truly soak in the views and enjoy the various attractions along the way. Reddit

The Unmissable Views: Top Miradores on Circuito Chico

The primary draw of Circuito Chico is its spectacular natural beauty, showcased through a series of stunning viewpoints, or miradores. Cerro Campanario is arguably the crown jewel, offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the surrounding lakes, islands, and the Andes mountains. A chairlift takes you to the summit, making it accessible for most visitors. Reddit

Another essential stop is the Punto Panorámico, which provides sweeping vistas of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and the iconic Llao Llao peninsula. The Llao Llao Hotel itself is a landmark worth visiting, not just for its architecture but also for the picturesque surroundings. Many smaller, often unnamed, viewpoints are scattered along the route, each offering a unique perspective and a chance for a quiet moment of appreciation. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider the time of day for the best photographic opportunities. Golden hour light can transform the already stunning landscapes into something truly magical. Even if you're not a professional photographer, these viewpoints are guaranteed to leave you in awe of Patagonia's grandeur.

Dining with a View: Culinary Delights on Circuito Chico

The Circuito Chico experience extends beyond its visual splendor to include a variety of dining options, many of which boast incredible views. Along the route, you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and cervecerias (breweries) catering to different tastes and budgets. These establishments offer a perfect opportunity to refuel while taking in the Patagonian scenery. Reddit

From casual eateries serving hearty sandwiches and local trout to more upscale restaurants offering traditional Argentine parrilla (grilled meats) and regional specialties, there's something for everyone. Many places are strategically located near popular viewpoints like Cerro Campanario and the Llao Llao Hotel, allowing you to combine a meal with sightseeing. Don't miss the chance to try some of the local craft beers, which are a popular offering in the region. Reddit

While many dining spots offer a more refined experience, budget-conscious travelers can still find good options. Packing snacks and water is always a practical tip, but embracing the local culinary scene, even for a simple coffee and pastry with a view, is a memorable part of the Circuito Chico journey.

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