The Complete Guide to Planning a Lake Excursion to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest in San Carlos De Bariloche

Are you thinking of visiting San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina? If so, you should definitely put a lake excursion to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest on your itinerary! This stunning location has beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife. In this guide, we’ll explain how to plan your trip, so you can enjoy the best experience possible.

What is Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest?

Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest are located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park on the western side of Lake Nahuel Huapi. The forest is a primeval relic of arrayanes, a species of cinnamon tree, and it’s been declared a Natural Monument by the government of Argentina. Surrounding it are beaches, mountains, and glaciers, all of which contribute to its remarkable natural beauty. A variety of wild animals make their home here, including large Andean condors and pumas.

What To Expect When You Visit

When you visit Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest, you can expect a truly magical experience. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene as you wander through the arrayanes forest. During your exploration, you’ll have a chance to see some incredible wildlife like Andean condors, pumas, monkeys, and even dolphins in the lake. Along the way, you’ll also take in breathtaking views of the lake, mountains, and glaciers.

Best Time Of Year To Visit

The best time to visit Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest will depend on what kind of experience you’d like to have. If you want to go boating in the lake and enjoy some sunny days at the beach, mid-summer (December to January) is the best time to visit. The region can get quite chilly in winter (July to August), so be sure to pack some warm clothes if you’re visiting then. Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, kayaking, and fishing.

How To Get To Victoria Island And Arrayanes Forest

The easiest way to get to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest is by boat from San Carlos de Bariloche. You can take a ferry or private boat tour from Puerto Pañuelo for about four hours. You can also rent a car from San Carlos de Bariloche and drive for about two hours until you reach the entrance to the park. From there it will take about an hour to get to the island by boat.

What To Pack For Your Visit?

When packing for your trip to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest, it’s important to think about the weather conditions, your planned activities, and how long you’ll be there. Generally speaking, you should bring some comfortable clothes and shoes as well as a swimsuit if you plan on going boating in the lake. Sunscreen is also essential if you’re visiting in summer. If you’re going hiking or camping around the island, you should bring a tent, sleeping bag, first aid kit, and other camping essentials.

Things To Do At Victoria Island And Arrayanes Forest

Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest are full of things to do. Here are some of the top activities to try during your visit:

• Hiking: There are many scenic hiking trails in the area that wind through lush forests, alongside towering mountains and past stunning lakes.
• Mountain biking: For those looking for an adrenaline rush during their visit, there are plenty of exhilarating trails for mountain biking.
• Horseback riding: You can rent horses from local stables near San Carlos de Bariloche and then explore the island by horseback.
• Boating: The lake is an excellent place for boating activities such as kayaking, fishing, and water skiing.
• Wildlife watching: The island has a unique ecosystem with plenty of fascinating wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for pumas and Andean condors.

Where To Stay

If you’re planning on staying the night on Victoria Island, there are some camping spots located near the island’s sandy beaches. Alternatively, you can head back to San Carlos de Bariloche and stay at one of its cozy accommodation spots. There is also a range of other activities in the area including trekking trips, sailing excursions, rafting trips, zip-lining adventures, spas, and winery tours.

Book A Guided Tour Of Victoria Island And Arrayanes Forest

To truly get the most out of your visit to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest, it’s best to go on a guided tour with an experienced local guide. They can help you get around safely and show you all the highlights of this diverse region. They will also be able to teach you about its flora and fauna as well as its abundant history.

Conclusion

A visit to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest is an unforgettable experience. From its lush forests to its stunning wildlife to its many activities, this region is simply breathtaking. To make sure you don’t miss out on anything, it’s best to go on a guided tour with an experienced local guide who can show you all its highlights. So what’re you waiting for? Make sure to add this wonderful experience to your San Carlos de Bariloche itinerary! If you’d like to book your own tour of Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest with a professional guide, click here!