Bariloche, gateway to Patagonia and a top-class tourist destination

What does Bariloche represent from a tourist point of view?

Bariloche is the northern gateway to Patagonia, a prime tourist city and one of Argentina's main hubs. It is the largest city in the Patagonian region and enjoys excellent air connectivity. There are flights between one and a half and two hours from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza, as well as connections to Salta, El Calafate, and Ushuaia.

The city offers more than 900 accommodations, ranging from five-star hotels to hostels, campsites, and glamping sites. The same goes for the cuisine, which is impossible not to enjoy. Patagonian cuisine has a unique identity with dishes like lamb, trout, and mountain stews. In the case of Bariloche, chocolate is part of its DNA: anyone who visits the city can't leave without trying it and taking it home.

Is it a winter-only destination or does it have year-round appeal?

Bariloche offers options to enjoy in every season. Not only is it a ski resort or a snow destination in winter, but it's also highly sought after by American tourists between November and March for activities such as fishing, trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are many options, both on lakes and on land, with group or private experiences. It's a very versatile destination with a wide variety of options.

Where do most foreign visitors come from?

The main market is Brazil, followed by Chile. The US market is also significant and is in the top five, along with Mexico, Colombia, Uruguay, and Peru. In the United States, cities like Miami generate a large number of visitors to Bariloche.

How do you analyze tourism markets to focus your promotion?

We work with statistics and data intelligence to understand not only current tourism figures, but also to project trends and define promotional strategies in each market.

Does the promotion vary by country?

Yes, communications are segmented according to the tourist profile in each market. Not all of a destination's offerings are relevant everywhere. For example, the offering for Miami is not the same as for Peru. A suitable approach is sought to ensure a match between what is promoted and what travelers in each country are looking for.

What are the main attractions for the US market?

Fishing is very important, as is gastronomy. As for skiing, there are specific markets within the U.S. where this segment is relevant. Because it's off-season, American skiers can enjoy the winter season in Bariloche while it's summer in their own country. The Bariloche ski resort is the largest in Latin America and has undergone an investment plan of more than $22 million, improving its infrastructure for professional and advanced skiers.

What is Bariloche's connectivity with the United States?

Although Bariloche doesn't have direct flights to the U.S., its international airport is well connected via Buenos Aires and Santiago, Chile. From there, airlines such as United, American Airlines, and Delta offer direct flights to various U.S. cities. Between 25 and 40 daily flights connect Bariloche with Buenos Aires, making it easy to get there.

Do American tourists often combine Bariloche with other Argentine destinations?

Yes, they generally don't just travel to Bariloche, but also take tours throughout Argentina. They might spend a few days in Buenos Aires and then visit different parts of Patagonia or the north and center of the country.

What other tourist destinations near Bariloche would you recommend?

Within the province of Río Negro, El Bolsón is an interesting option with a strong culinary identity. There is also the Andean region, which includes destinations such as El Hoyo and Lago Puelo, in the province of Chubut. Furthermore, San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura form a tourist triangle with Bariloche, connected by the famous Seven Lakes Route, a highly sought-after circuit for both domestic and international tourists. It's a region with multiple options to enjoy in a single trip.