Argentina Ski Adventure - 5 Days
Highlights
- Go on a walking tour of Buenos Aires and visit the historic sights
- Stroll the streets of San Carlos de Bariloche, the main city in Argentina's Lake District
- Hit the slopes of Cerro Catedral, the premier skiing destination in Argentina
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Buenos Aires - Explore | Buenos Aires |
| Day 2 | Fly from Buenos Aires to Bariloche | Bariloche |
| Day 3 | Cerro Catedral Ski Excursion | Bariloche |
| Day 4 | Cerro Catedral | Bariloche |
| Day 5 | Bariloche to Buenos Aires - Departure |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires - Explore
Welcome to Argentina! The capital city of Buenos Aires is known as the "Paris of South America" and the "Queen of El Plata." Famous for its mix of European ambiance and Latin American culture, it's the birthplace of the tango and is filled with beautiful Baroque architecture. Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will transfer you to your hotel. Once you've had the chance to rest, you can head out and explore. The city center is your best starting point.
Suggested activities include:
- Visit the Plaza de Mayo, the city's oldest square. This plaza is ringed with ornate government buildings, the Metropolitan Cathedral, City Hall, and the Casa Rosada (Presidential Palace).
- See the Obelisco, one of the most famous landmarks in the city. This iconic national monument sits in the middle of Avenida 9 de Julio, which boasts a whopping 16 lanes, making it the widest city street in the world.
- Discover the Teatro Colón, one of South America's premier opera houses. The horseshoe-shaped gallery features 2,487 seats and incredible acoustics. You can opt to take a tour or watch a show here. The Colón's neoclassical facade has been the face of one of the most handsome buildings in Buenos Aires since its opening in 1908.
- Take a walk in Puerto Madero, an upscale waterfront neighborhood adjacent to Buenos Aires' downtown. Here you can enjoy a romantic stroll over the canal on the Puente de la Mujer bridge at sunset.
- Dine at an Argentine steakhouse or parilla. You should plan on eating late—since Buenos Aires' culture thrives after dark and it's common to have dinner after 9 pm—especially on weekends.
Day 2: Fly from Buenos Aires to Bariloche
This morning, after breakfast in Buenos Aires, a driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to Aeroparque Airport, located in the city. You will then catch a flight to Bariloche, located southwest in Argentina's Lake District.
San Carlos de Bariloche was founded in 1902 on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi, which itself is part of the larger Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi. If you detect some native influence in that name, you're correct. It comes from the Mapuche indigenous people who once inhabited the area, and it means "jaguar island." The lake straddles the Chilean border, with the city of Bariloche located on the southeast shore. This region is beautiful and you'll be able to experience its majesty on nature hikes and excursions.
Upon arrival at Bariloche's airport, a driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Even though you may be tired from your flight, try to get out and explore the city. The charming chalet-style buildings and alpine architecture can be seen and enjoyed on a brisk walk around, and the city center abounds with waterfront plazas, chocolate shops, and upscale restaurants.
When dinnertime comes around, be sure to sample the local cuisine. You'll find that it differs considerably from what's typically found in Buenos Aires. Here regional fare like wild boar and lake trout is popular and delicious, as is the fondue (a culinary addition first introduced by the city's Swiss immigrants).
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Cerro Catedral Ski Excursion
Wake up bright and early and enjoy a hearty breakfast. You're going to need the fuel because you'll be spending the day on the slopes of Argentina's premier ski destination: Cerro Catedral. This 7,640-foot (2,338-meter) mountain boasts 75 miles (120 km) of slopes of varying levels of difficulty. There are even 32 miles (52 kilometers) of cross-country ski routes if you'd like to test your endurance.
But first thing's first. After breakfast, you'll hop in a vehicle that will whisk you away to the mountain. Upon arrival, the driver will guide you to the office where you can pick up your equipment and passes. Then, from 9 am to 4 pm, you will enjoy the rush of carving your way down Cerro Catedral complemented by all the beautiful scenery of Lago Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding mountains.
Day 4: Cerro Catedral
Enjoy your time on the mountain!
Day 5: Bariloche to Buenos Aires - Departure
The tour comes to an end today. A driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport to return to Buenos Aires. You'll then go to the international airport where you'll catch your flight home. Adios!
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