Top Campanario Half-Day Tours: Reviews & Insights

Dreaming of those stunning views from Campanario Hill in Bariloche, Argentina, is that so? That soaring chairlift ride, the panoramic vistas that stretch across Nahuel Huapi Lake, that’s what everyone remembers, isn’t it? I can tell you that choosing the right tour makes a big difference. No need to feel confused about it all. I want to share insights on five fantastic half-day tours, perfect for soaking in that Patagonian beauty without using up your whole vacation.

1. Classic Campanario Experience: The Standard Ascent

Often, folks start with the basic package, very much a simple trip up and down the Cerro Campanario chairlift. It sounds pretty standard, I get it. It gives you a wonderful opportunity to just soak in the scenery. The tours usually arrange transportation from downtown Bariloche, so no stressing over local buses for you. Upon arrival, they assist with the chairlift tickets. From there, very much it’s your time to wander around the summit.

What’s to like:

Convenient hotel pick-up, no getting lost getting there.
Chairlift tickets are sorted for you; no need to queue and wait for your ticket.
Plenty of free time at the top.

Heads up:

Drinks or food are not included; bring your own, or spend money in the cafe.
That tour only covers transport, so it’s less guided, more independent.

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2. Campanario with a Side of Swiss Flavors: Llao Llao & Colonia Suiza Combo

Feel like adding a bit of culture and beauty? How about that a tour combines Campanario with visits to Llao Llao Hotel and Colonia Suiza. You’ll swing by that famously fancy Llao Llao Hotel. Stroll those manicured grounds with your camera in hand. Afterward, the bus heads to Colonia Suiza, so it’s a sweet village known for its artisan market and traditional curanto (a Patagonian barbecue cooked in the ground) that is really nice. This one brings a great blend.

What’s to like:

Three birds with one stone; great value, right?
Llao Llao offers fabulous photo opportunities, so strike a pose.
The craft market at Colonia Suiza brings that local vibe; you know what I mean.

Heads up:

That curanto lunch can be rather pricey. It’s your choice, that’s how it goes.
Schedules tend to be somewhat tight to accommodate everything; just saying.

Read our full review: Campanario, Llao Llao & Suiza Full Review and Details

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3. Lakeside Views: Campanario and Nahuel Huapi Boat Ride

You want a bit of time on the water, you say? Some tours package the Campanario ascent with a boat trip on Lake Nahuel Huapi. Take it as getting that breathtaking panoramic perspective from above, followed by gliding across those shimmering waters. Usually, you visit Isla Victoria or maybe even Bosque de Arrayanes (the Myrtle Forest) depending on what route that boat takes. Just watch that combination, it’s pretty magical.

What’s to like:

Two drastically different perspectives, up high and down low.
Bosque de Arrayanes gives an ethereal feeling; it’s a special forest for a reason.
Nice relaxing way to round out your adventure is sailing.

Heads up:

These boat tours sometimes feel super popular, rather crowded.
Some people are seasick prone so just keep that in mind when booking.

Read our full review: Campanario & Lake Tour Full Review and Details

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4. Active Adventure: Campanario Hike & Chairlift Descent

Those after something more strenuous might like hiking up Campanario. A few of those tours allow that, so it’s a great way to challenge yourself physically and be out in that fresh Patagonian air. That way, you hike up, savor that summit views, and rest your legs with a smooth chairlift ride back down. I just thought you might want to consider that approach.

What’s to like:

Hiking offers that immersive experience; so close to the landscape.
That satisfaction from that sense of accomplishment that can come from that climb; no small thing.
Enjoyment with that descent without any extra effort, by chairlift.

Heads up:

Be aware the trails could be steep and challenging for less experienced folks.
That weather conditions can shift fast, pack gear accordingly.

Read our full review: Campanario Hike Review and Details

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5. Photography Focused: Campanario with Professional Guide

If capturing professional photographs is one of your desires, and I am just saying here, you might check on a tour that pairs that Campanario visit with that photo guide. Very much that seasoned photographer provides coaching, helping those aspiring amateurs to frame those views just perfectly. Usually, these tours schedule the outing in those golden light hours too. If your idea is next level pictures, there you go!

What’s to like:

Expert advice; improve your picture composition!
You will get those unforgettable sunrise or sunset photos I bet.

Heads up:

You want to find the sweet price, these types of tours are often a bit more upscale.
Do you understand all the options on your camera? So just study up before booking.

Read our full review: Campanario Photography Review and Details

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