Planning a trip to Bariloche during the snow season? Discover what the weather is like during this time, what to pack, the best tours to take, the best ski resorts to visit, the best month to see snow in Bariloche, when it starts snowing, and many other valuable tips for your trip.
When it comes to seeing snow, Bariloche becomes one of the favorite destinations in South America. The small city located in Argentine Patagonia boasts magnificent natural beauty, with beautiful crystal-clear lakes, mountains, and parks.
During the winter, the region opens its ski resorts, becoming one of the most visited cities for snow sports or simply to enjoy the winter atmosphere and all its beauty, with snow-covered landscapes. In order to enjoy the winter scenery and the cold and snow in Bariloche, it is worthwhile to travel there even if you are not interested in skiing.
Simplifying Bariloche’s Snow Season
The snow season in Bariloche begins in June and lasts until October.
The best places to see snow in Bariloche are in the mountains, with the main ones being Cerro Catedral and Cerro Otto.
The main ski resorts in Bariloche are Cerro Catedral, Piedras Blancas, and Centro de Esquà Nórdico.
The best months for skiing in Bariloche are from July to September, when there is the most snow.
Winter is high season in Bariloche, so book your hotel in advance to get the best accommodations.
Purchase travel insurance that covers sports if you plan to ski or engage in any other sport.
The best activities to do during the snow season in Bariloche are skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, visiting the ski resorts, sailing on Lake Nahuel Huapi, visiting San Martin de Los Andes, taking the Circuito Chico tour, and exploring Villa La Angostura.
When does it snow in Bariloche?
The snow season in Bariloche takes place during the winter, from July to October. The first snowfalls usually occur in May, but the snow does not accumulate. In June, snowfalls become more frequent, but the snow layer is thin, the ski resorts remain closed, and the city has not yet reached the peak of its winter beauty.
It’s important to remember that snowfalls are a weather phenomenon, so it’s not possible to predict an exact date for when they will start or end. In 2024, the first snowfall occurred at the end of April, an out-of-season snowfall caused by a cold front.
Therefore, if you’re traveling to make the most of the snow season or specifically to ski, I recommend planning your trip between late June and September.
Where to See Snow in Bariloche?
The best places to see snow in Bariloche are the mountains, where the ski resorts and parks are usually located. The mountains Cerro Catedral, Otto, López, Tronador, and Campanario are the best spots to see snow in Bariloche.
In downtown Bariloche, snowfalls are not common, and when they do occur, the snow doesn’t accumulate. However, if you’re lucky enough to catch a snowfall in the city center, it becomes beautiful during the event, with rooftops and streets covered by a thin layer of snow.
Ski Resorts in Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche is a very popular ski destination in South America, sought after by both beginner and professional skiers. The region doesn’t have a large variety of ski resorts, but the ones it does have are of good quality.
The main ski resorts in Bariloche are Cerro Catedral, Piedras Blancas, and the Centro de Esquà Nórdico.
In addition to the ski resorts, you can use Bariloche as a base to visit ski centers in nearby towns, such as Cerro Bayo in Villa La Angostura and Cerro Chapelco in San MartÃn de Los Andes.
At the ski resorts, besides the fee to access the slopes, you also have the option to book ski and snowboard lessons, as well as rent clothing and equipment.
The resorts offer instruction for both adults and children, from beginners to more advanced levels. You can choose between group or private lessons. View Bariloche’s primary ski resorts:
- Cerro Catedral: This is the largest and most popular ski resort in Bariloche. Covering an area of 1,200 hectares, it is located 25 kilometers (15.53 miles) from downtown Bariloche. The ski center offers a complete infrastructure, with a variety of sports and activities, restaurants, bars, and a hotel with a view. It is the most well-equipped ski resort in Bariloche and the largest in South America.
- Piedras Blancas: Located on Cerro Otto, 10 kilometers (6.213 miles) from downtown Bariloche, this ski center covers an area of 3,000 meters and features slopes of varying difficulty levels. It offers ski lessons for adults and children, but its lessons are more recommended for beginners.
- Centro de Esquà Nórdico: Also located on Cerro Otto, this ski center in Bariloche specializes in Nordic skiing, a type of the sport that can be practiced on flat terrain, slopes, or even through the woods. It offers ATV rides, snowmobiles, and other adventure activities.
What is the best time to ski in Bariloche?
The ski season in Bariloche begins when the ski slopes open, usually between June and October. However, the resorts may start operating with a low level of snow. Therefore, the best months to ski in Bariloche are from July to September, when the snow quantity is at its highest.
How to get to the snowy areas in Bariloche?
Reaching the main mountains in Bariloche is easy, as there are various transport options from the city center to these areas. The most common ways to get to the ski resorts are by car, taxi, transfer, tour, or bus.
Buses are the most economical way to reach the snowy areas in Bariloche. Taxis, Uber, and transfers offer the most comfort. Renting a car also provides great convenience and flexibility, but if you’re not used to driving in snowy conditions, this might not be the best option. Some travel agencies also offer packages that include transportation and entrance to the ski resorts.
How to Get to Cerro Catedral?
The most economical way to get to Cerro Catedral is by bus. There are regular buses that go from downtown Bariloche to the mountain. However, this might not be the most comfortable choice for people who are carrying sports or ski gear. To use the bus, you’ll need a SUBE card, the same one used in Buenos Aires and other cities.
Taxis/remises are a good option for those looking for more comfort. Prices aren’t very high, but I suggest negotiating the fare before the trip. Getting a taxi back from Cerro Catedral is easy, as there is a taxi stand at the location. An alternative to taxis is Uber.
Transfers are perfect for those seeking convenience or traveling with ski/snowboard equipment. Taxis usually don’t have the proper setup to carry this type of gear, so hiring a transfer is a good alternative.
For those with a car, this is definitely a very comfortable option. The roads to the mountain are in good condition, with safety barriers and clear signage. Parking at the ski resort is paid.
Some agencies also offer packages that include transfers and admission to the ski resort or other activities on the mountain.
How to Get to Cerro Otto?
The Cerro Otto Tourist Complex offers a free transportation service for its visitors, departing from Calle Mitre and Villegas, in downtown Bariloche. Transportation is provided by minibuses that run regularly. For visitors staying in the city center, this is the most convenient way to reach the mountain.
Taxis/remises, Ubers, and transfers are also viable options for reaching Cerro Otto. Since Cerro Otto offers free transportation, these alternatives are recommended for those staying farther from downtown or looking for a more private ride.
The road leading to the mountain is well-maintained and clearly marked if you’re driving your own vehicle. Additionally, parking is free. Some agencies also offer packages that include transportation and an activity on the mountain.
Weather and Temperature in Bariloche During the Snow Season
Bariloche is beautiful all year round, but during winter, it becomes even more charming. With snow-covered mountains, trees blanketed in snow, and even the city itself covered in snow on special occasions.
In winter, the city has a cold climate, with a high chance of rain and shorter days. The rainiest month is June, with an average precipitation of 120 mm.
The average winter temperature in Bariloche is 7°C (44.6 °F), with the highest temperatures occurring during the day, reaching up to around 13°C (55.4°F) on the warmest days. The lowest temperatures happen at night, when the thermometer hovers around 0°C (32°F), with minimums close to −7°C (19.4°F). On snowy days, temperatures stay below zero even during the day.
If you’re staying in the mountain or ski resort areas, subzero temperatures are quite common.
What to Do in Bariloche During the Snow Season?
The most popular winter activities in Bariloche are trips to the mountains and ski resorts. However, some of the region’s classic tours can be enjoyed year-round, such as a visit to Victoria Island.
Most of the city’s hiking trails are closed in winter, and even those that remain open are better done in summer, when the circuits are safer.
1. Cerro Catedral
Cerro Catedral is the main ski resort in Bariloche and the largest in South America. I recommend this excursion not only for those planning to practice snow sports but also for those who simply want to enjoy the scenery.
In addition to ski and snowboard lessons and a variety of slopes for practicing the sports, Cerro Catedral features a restaurant, viewpoints overlooking the mountains, and a chairlift tour for those who want to take in the landscape.
In addition to the ski resort, Cerro Catedral is home to Refugio Frey, a traditional mountain lodge located 1,700 meters above sea level, which can be reached by a hiking trail. Many tour agencies offer excursions to Refugio Frey.
- Suggested tour: Ski or snowboard lesson in Cerro Catedral, Circuito Chico with optional Cerro Catedral, and 4-hour Cerro Catedral Base Tour.
2. Cerro Otto
This is one of the most classic winter tours in Bariloche.
Cerro Otto stands 1,405 meters above sea level, and at its summit is the famous 360° rotating café, a glass-walled café that offers panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding mountains. At the top, it’s also possible to enjoy snow activities such as tubing (sliding down on inflatable tubes), sledding, and snow hiking.
For those who want to ski or snowboard, Cerro Otto is also home to the Piedras Blancas and Centro de Esquà Nórdico ski resorts.
- Suggested tour: Hike through Cerro Otto to the Berghof refuge.
3. Arelauquen Refuge
The tour to the Arelauquen Refuge is a unique experience in Bariloche, combining adventure with a magnificent dinner. The adventure begins with the journey to the refuge, which is reached by snowmobiles or ATVs that travel through a snowy, winding forest.
Once at the refuge, it’s time to relax and enjoy a candlelit dinner in a cozy mountain house surrounded by snow. This is a great snow activity for couples looking for a different kind of experience in Bariloche.
4. Cerro López
Cerro López is part of the Circuito Chico, but if you have time in your itinerary, a dedicated visit is well worth it. The mountain stands 2,075 meters above sea level and offers one of the most stunning views in the region, with the lake in the background and snow-covered peaks all around.
If you’re adventurous, you can reach the higher part of the mountain via a hiking trail. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, there’s a zipline at the base with beautiful views. Additionally, Cerro López has other easier trails than the one leading to the summit. Only do snow hikes accompanied by tour guides.
- Suggested tour: Hike through Cerro López, Cerro López zipline adventure from Bariloche, and snow adventure in Bariloche: 2 days of winter exploration.
5. Take a Ski Lesson
Even if you’ve never been on skis before, this is the perfect chance to try. Lessons are offered at the main resorts, such as Cerro Catedral, Piedras Blancas, and Centro de Esquà Nórdico. The ski resorts offer lessons for both adults and children, either private or in groups.
6. Sail on Lake Nahuel Huapi to Victoria Island
This is a classic tour in Bariloche, and even in winter, the boat trip to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest continues to operate. The lake’s scenery changes with each season, but it remains beautiful year-round.
In winter, the mountains are snow-covered behind all the vegetation. During the winter season in Bariloche, it gets very cold while sailing on Lake Nahuel Huapi. So, dress appropriately for the intense cold, as the wind during the boat ride can be strong.
- Suggested tours: visit to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest, sailboat tour on Lake Nahuel Huapi, and the Andean crossing through the lakes of the Andes Mountains.
7. Visit Downtown Bariloche and the Chocolate Shops
Strolling through downtown Bariloche is a classic activity in any season. But if you’re lucky enough to catch a snowfall, don’t miss the chance to walk around and admire the snow-covered city — it’s a rare and privileged sight.
During snowfalls, rooftops and streets get blanketed in snow, adding an extra touch of winter charm to Bariloche. Take the opportunity to visit an artisanal chocolate shop — the city has many wonderful chocolate stores.
- Suggested tours: free walking tour of Bariloche, chocolate tasting, Patagonian Experience wine tasting, and a wine-tasting winehouse experience.
8. Scenic Tour of Bariloche’s Circuito Chico
A classic tour that can be done year-round. The Circuito Chico passes through stunning spots like the viewpoint of Lake Moreno, the San Eduardo Chapel, Cerro López, and the Llao Llao Hotel. I must admit we prefer the summer landscapes on this tour, but of course, in winter the scenery is also beautiful, with snow-covered peaks and trees.
This is a tour that can be done independently by car or with a tour agency. During winter, I recommend doing it with an agency due to the snow on the roads.
9. Visit San MartÃn de Los Andes
If you have more time, you can include a trip to San MartÃn de Los Andes in your itinerary — a charming little village located on the shores of a beautiful lake.
San MartÃn de Los Andes is especially picturesque in winter, with the town blanketed in snow and surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The place strongly resembles the Christmas villages seen in movies.
The drive along the Route of the Seven Lakes, which leads to San MartÃn, is an attraction in itself, with stunning landscapes. If you don’t have experience driving in snowy conditions, I recommend booking a tour or a transfer to San MartÃn de Los Andes. It’s also possible to do this route by bus.
San MartÃn de Los Andes is also home to some very popular ski resorts, the most famous being Cerro Chapelco, which features 29 slopes of all levels and offers ski and snowboard lessons.
10. Visit Villa La Angostura
Villa La Angostura is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bariloche, and it’s a beautiful destination with a welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery that combines lakes, forests, and mountain peaks.
It’s possible to visit the area on a day trip, but to enjoy it more calmly, it’s worth spending one or two nights in the town. In winter, the landscape is enchanting, with snow-covered streets and cozy chalets.
Villa La Angostura is also home to a great ski resort, Cerro Bayo Ski Boutique, which features 25 slopes of varying levels.
EXTRA TIP! If you still have time in your itinerary, El Bolsón is a great nearby town to visit from Bariloche. El Bolsón is known for its craft beer production and local tourism. It’s a small and charming town with unique natural beauty and great food. We prefer visiting El Bolsón during spring and summer, as there are many trails and lakes that are best enjoyed in those seasons. However, in winter, the town also has its charm, with a calmer and more welcoming atmosphere. You can visit the town by private car, bus, or on a day tour.
What to pack for Bariloche during the snow season?
To enjoy the snow season in Bariloche with comfort and safety, it’s essential to dress properly and use the right gear.
In Bariloche, there are many shops where you can rent clothing and equipment for those planning to do snow sports or simply play in the snow. So, if you don’t have snow gear, there’s no need to worry — just rent it for the days you’ll need it.
For your everyday activities, special clothing isn’t necessary — just dress in layers with proper clothing for low temperatures and intense cold.
Check out our suggestions for essential items to enjoy the snow and cold in Bariloche, Argentina:
- Thermal Base Layers: Wear thermal layers to keep warmth close to your body. This includes thermal tops, pants, and socks. Choose materials like wool or synthetic fabrics that help retain heat.
- Mid Layers: For the intermediate layer, opt for warm materials such as fleece or wool sweaters.
- Waterproof Jacket: This is an essential item for winter outings in Bariloche. Choose a jacket that is wind- and water-resistant to protect yourself from snow, rain, and wind.
- Rain Poncho: Winter is the rainiest season in Bariloche, so I recommend bringing a rain poncho. It’s more effective than an umbrella on windy and snowy days, and it’s ideal for outdoor activities.
- Waterproof Pants: These are essential for anyone planning to do snow sports or play in the snow. It’s an item worth renting unless you already have one and prefer to bring it.
- Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: Keeping your head, hands, and neck warm during the coldest days makes a big difference, as these areas are particularly sensitive to the cold.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays reflected on the snow. These rays are extremely harmful to your vision and can impair visibility. Sunglasses or ski goggles with proper lenses are a must for anyone engaging in snow sports or activities.
- Sunscreen: Even on cold days, UV radiation can be strong on the snow. So don’t forget to apply sunscreen.
- Waterproof Boots: Choose boots suitable for walking in the snow, preferably waterproof and with good grip to avoid slipping. Waterproof boots can be rented along with other snow gear.
- Thermal Socks: Wear thick, thermal socks to keep your feet warm. Avoid wearing multiple layers of socks, as this can cause compression and sweating. Choose a high-quality sock designed for low temperatures that keeps feet warm without trapping moisture.
- Moisturizers: The cold makes skin extremely dry, so don’t forget to bring good facial and lip moisturizers. For the body, opt for a quality lotion or body oil.
Ski clothing and equipment rental
The ski resorts in Bariloche offer rental services for clothing and equipment for skiing, snowboarding, and various snow activities. You can also rent your clothes and gear in downtown Bariloche, where there’s a wide selection of rental shops. Most of the snow clothing rental stores are located in the Civic Center of Bariloche, on the road heading out to the ski resorts.
For those planning to ski, I recommend renting the equipment directly at the ski resorts. Although it may be a bit more expensive, you won’t have to carry the gear around. On the other hand, if you only need to rent snow clothing, prices are usually cheaper in downtown Bariloche.
I strongly recommend bringing your own gloves, goggles, and hat. The gloves and hats available in rental shops are often sweaty (since they’ve been used before, and many places rent them out again without washing). Goggles often don’t fit well, either being too big or too small.
Travel insurance for skiing in Bariloche
Travel insurance is always essential, but if you plan to ski or practice other extreme sports, it becomes even more important. That’s because sports activities come with a higher risk of accidents, making it crucial to have access to effective medical care in such cases.
Most standard travel insurance policies do not include coverage for adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding. So, when purchasing your travel insurance for Argentina, pay close attention to the coverage details and choose a plan that includes protection for sports-related accidents.
Get your travel insurance quote for Bariloche here.
Also check out: Where to stay in El Calafate, with tips on the best areas and hotels.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ARGENTINA
Book your hotel in Argentina in advance
To ensure the best stay in Argentina, we recommend using Booking or Hotels.com, reservation sites we trust for all our trips. With a wide selection of hotels and the best available rates, you will find the perfect option for your stay, ensuring an incredible and economical travel experience. Our favorite hotels in Argentina are:
- Mine Hotel (Buenos Aires)
- Diplomatic Hotel (Mendoza)
- Hotel Nahuel Huapi (Bariloche)
- Hotel Kosten Aike (El Calafate)
For greater convenience, rent a car in Argentina
Argentina is a wonderful country to explore by car, offering stunning landscapes and charming cities. If your plan is to explore more than one city and maximize your comfort and freedom, renting a car is the ideal choice. The companies we recommend for car rentals are Discover Cars and Rental Cars.
Book your tours and experiences
Planning your tours in advance can save you a lot of time during your trip. Imagine being able to book all your activities directly from the comfort of your home and even pay with your credit card. The companies we use and recommend for booking tours and buying tickets are Viator, Civitatis, and Get Your Guide.
