Brazo Tristeza
Experience something different. This excursion takes you to the least-explored, most remote area of the lake.
Description
**Experience something different. This excursion takes you to the least-explored, most remote area of the lake.**
Cancellation Policy: *free cancellation* up to 48 hours before departure
The excursion begins at *Puerto Pañuelo*, located about 25 km from the center of Bariloche. From there, we set sail across *Lake Nahuel Huapi* to explore *Brazo Tristeza*—one of the most striking and least-visited corners of Nahuel Huapi National Park.
As we enter this arm of the lake, the waters grow calmer, and the landscape takes on an increasingly rugged character. We navigate between the steep slopes of Mount López and Mount Capilla, surrounded by mountains, *native forests, and waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs*—a sight especially prominent during the thaw season or following rainfall.
As we venture further, the forest becomes denser and more humid, transitioning into the lush *Valdivian temperate rainforest*—a feature typical of the areas within the park that receive the highest levels of precipitation. This environment supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including numerous bird species. It is also home to the *huillín* (southern river otter), a species native to Patagonia and a symbol of Nahuel Huapi National Park, though spotting one in the wild is quite rare.
Throughout the journey, the rocky shorelines reveal traces of the ancient glaciers that shaped this landscape thousands of years ago. If weather conditions permit, we may also catch a glimpse of the imposing Mount Tronador, with its snow-capped peaks and glaciers rising high above the mountain range.
Upon reaching the end of Brazo Tristeza, we disembark for an *easy hike through the forest to the Cascada del Arroyo Frey (Frey Stream Waterfall)*. There, the sound of the water and the vegetation surrounding the trail create a unique natural setting—the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this hidden corner of Patagonia. Once the hike is over, we begin the return journey by boat along the same arm of the lake, enjoying its landscapes, mountains, and sheltered waters once again, before arriving back at *Puerto Pañuelo*.
-Arrival at port: 9.00 AM
-Boat departure: 9.30 AM
-Return to port: 3.00 PM
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Included
- -Boat trip along the Tristeza Arm of Nahuel Huapi Lake
- -Easy hike to the Frey Stream Waterfall
- -Bilingual guide during the excursion.
- --Assorted herbal infusions, coffee, tea, sweet snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Not Included
- Round trip transfer to the port
- Lunch (if not included in the price)
FAQ
- **Where does the boat depart from?** The boat departs from Puerto Pañuelo
- **How much is the National Park entrance fee and the Port fee? Where should I pay?** The Port fee is $ 7600 (Argentine pesos) per person from 5 years of age. The National Park entrance fee is $ 35000 for non-resident adults; $15000 Argentine Residents; ** Do not pay entrance to parks **: children under 5 years; Retirees and Pensioners who are residents of Argentina; Persons with a disability certificate; Residents of Bariloche. The Entrance to Parks are paid at the place on the day of the tour.
- **Do you pick me up at the hotel?** If you’ve hired the tour with the shuttle service, we pick you up at your hotel provided it is within the agreed route. If it is not, we will assign a meeting point as close as possible to your hotel so you can take the shuttle.
- **Is the hike to the cascade long or have any difficulty?** The walk lasts 50min on the way out and 30min on the way back. If the weather conditions are favorable, it stays in the waterfall for 30min. The landing time can vary between 1: 15hs and 2hs. The distance to travel is 1300m, in rough undulating terrain, quasi horizontal. Suitable for all types of passengers, this does not include people with disabilities or reduced mobility, who may eventually make the trip depending on their particular condition.
- ** Are there facilities for people with disabilities? ** Both the port facilities, such as the boat, and the trail are NOT prepared for people with severe motor disabilities.
- ** What clothing should I wear? ** It is suggested to wear appropriate footwear for a walk on a rugged path, clothing according to the season. In summer, long pants and long sleeves are suggested. Hat or visor cap. Sunscreen cream. Sunglasses. In winter the path can be slippery and with muddy sectors. Gloves and good coat are suggested.
- **Can I bring my own food?** Yes, you can bring your own food or buy pizzas and beer/soft drinks offered on board.
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