
Refugio Otto Meiling
A high-altitude mountain refuge in Patagonia offering breathtaking 360° views and a cozy stay after a challenging trek.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Refugio Otto Meiling
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude mountain refuge in Patagonia offering breathtaking 360° views and a cozy stay after a challenging trek.
"The 360 degree view from here is one of the best I've seen anywhere in the world!"

🎒 Pack Light, Trek Smart
Bring essentials for trekking. Consider bringing your own food to save costs, as prepared meals can add up.
🦟 Horse Fly Defense
Horse flies can be a nuisance. Pack insect repellent and consider protective clothing to ward them off.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic 360° Views
Refugio Otto Meiling summit
Witness some of the most breathtaking 360-degree vistas in Patagonia. Absolutely unforgettable!

Sunrise Spectacle
Refugio Otto Meiling viewpoint
An early wake-up call for sunrise is highly recommended for an unforgettable visual experience.

Glacier Excursions
Surrounding glaciers
Explore nearby glaciers with guided excursions available from the refugio. An adventurous addition to your trek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Stay in Advance
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Favorite multi-day Bariloche refugio trek?
🎒 Pack Light, Trek Smart
Bring essentials for trekking. Consider bringing your own food to save costs, as prepared meals can add up.
🦟 Horse Fly Defense
Horse flies can be a nuisance. Pack insect repellent and consider protective clothing to ward them off.
My practical tips for Bariloche
Otto Meiling Refugio - recent updates?
🛌 Cozy Accommodations
The refugio offers warm and cozy sleeping arrangements, a welcome comfort after a long trek.
🏕️ Tent Camping Option
If you prefer camping, there are prepared spots outside the refugio, offering shelter from the elements.
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina 🇦🇷
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Light, Trek Smart
Bring essentials for trekking. Consider bringing your own food to save costs, as prepared meals can add up.
🦟 Horse Fly Defense
Horse flies can be a nuisance. Pack insect repellent and consider protective clothing to ward them off.
🛌 Cozy Accommodations
The refugio offers warm and cozy sleeping arrangements, a welcome comfort after a long trek.
🏕️ Tent Camping Option
If you prefer camping, there are prepared spots outside the refugio, offering shelter from the elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning 360-degree views from Refugio Otto Meiling, calling it a must-do in Patagonia. The friendly staff and good food are frequently praised, and the option to camp adds flexibility. However, the cost of prepared meals can add up, and horse flies can be a significant nuisance during certain times of the year.
"The view is amazing and its super worth it to get up for sunrise. The people working in the hostel are super nice. If you bring your own food you can still eat and wash your dishes in the refugio."
Marie Becker
"Amazing! Really tough climb but you can't beat the views!
There is good food, friendly staff, and all of the necessary facilities.
I camped in a tent, which was great.
The cost of the stay does add up quickly if you eat the prepared meals.
The horse flies are horrible! So prepare for that!"
B
"Wow what a view. Fun accommodations. If you like your privacy, not the best place for you to go. But heck, it beats the heck out of sleeping out in a tent. The food was good as well."
Texas Man
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Refugio Otto Meiling is typically accessed via multi-day treks from Bariloche. The most common routes involve hiking through scenic Patagonian landscapes. Websites like barilochetrekking.com offer detailed information on routes and trail conditions.
Many trekkers opt for 2 to 4-night routes to fully experience the refugio system around Bariloche. The specific 'best' route often depends on personal preference for scenery and difficulty. Researching different trail options is recommended.
Information on public transport to specific trailheads can vary. It's advisable to check local Bariloche transport schedules or consider organized tours that include trailhead access.
Refugio Otto Meiling is a mountain hut accessible only by foot. Vehicle access is not possible. The journey is part of the adventure!
The trek involves varied terrain, including ascents and descents, rocky paths, and potentially some snow or ice depending on the season. Proper hiking boots are essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially for overnight stays. You can usually reserve through the hut's official forms or by contacting them directly.
As a mountain refuge, it's generally accessible for trekkers at all times. However, services like food and staff availability will have specific operating hours. It's best to confirm these directly.
The cost can vary depending on whether you use the prepared meals or bring your own food. Staying overnight and purchasing meals can add up quickly. Check their official pricing for current rates.
Yes, there are designated spots for tent camping outside the refugio. These spots are often prepared to offer some protection from the wind and weather.
While specific trail entrance fees are not always mentioned, it's wise to check for any park or reserve regulations that might apply to the area you are trekking through.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The refugio offers essential facilities including sleeping areas, a common room, and a kitchen area for guests to use if they bring their own food.
Yes, good food is available for purchase. However, the cost of prepared meals can increase the overall expense of your stay.
The atmosphere is generally friendly and communal. It's a great place to meet fellow trekkers, though if you prioritize privacy, it might not be ideal.
Yes, excursions to nearby glaciers are available, offering opportunities for adventure and exploration around the refugio.
Pack layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sun protection, and insect repellent. If you plan to cook, bring your own food and cooking supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular light for photography, painting the surrounding peaks in warm hues. The 360-degree views provide endless opportunities throughout the day.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be beneficial for sunrise/sunset shots. Don't forget extra batteries as charging may be limited.
The entire area around the refugio offers incredible viewpoints. The summit provides a full 360-degree panorama, and various points along the trails offer unique perspectives of the glaciers and mountains.
The dramatic mountain peaks, vast glaciers, and the changing light during sunrise and sunset are prime subjects. The refugio itself can also make for charming shots against the epic backdrop.
Including a person or a recognizable object in your frame can help convey the immense scale of the Patagonian landscape. Experiment with different compositions to emphasize the vastness.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking to Refugio Otto Meiling
It's important to be prepared for the Patagonian weather, which can be unpredictable. While the views are spectacular, be aware of potential nuisances like horse flies, especially during certain seasons. Packing appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing is highly advised. The refugio itself offers a warm and cozy respite after a day of hiking, making the challenging trek worthwhile.
Life at the Mountain Refuge
Guests have the option to purchase prepared meals, which are noted as being good. However, for budget-conscious travelers, bringing your own food is a viable alternative, and the refugio provides facilities for guests to eat and wash their dishes. Additionally, there are prepared spots for tent camping outside the refugio, offering an alternative to sleeping indoors and providing shelter from the elements.
Exploring the Surrounding Glaciers
While specific details on guided tours might require direct inquiry, the availability of such activities from Refugio Otto Meiling adds another layer of adventure for visitors. These explorations are a highlight for many, providing a deeper connection with the natural wonders of the area and showcasing the unique geological formations shaped by ice over millennia.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit