How to get from Buenos Aires to Bariloche
Buenos Aires to Bariloche is a classic Patagonia run. Most travelers fly (fastest), others take a comfy overnight bus (budget with views), while road-trippers self-drive the Pampas-to-Andes highway. Below are your best routes, prices to expect, step-by-steps, and map links.
At A Glance (Buenos Aires to Bariloche)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight (AEP/EZE → BRC) + City Transfer | ~2h15 flight + 25–40m into town | Fastest, most convenient |
| 🏷️ Cost: Typical AR fares vary widely by season; check deals on » Booking.com Flights | Trip.com fares | ||
| 🚌 Long-Distance Bus (Semi-Cama / Cama / Suite) | ~20–24h overnight/daytime | Budget, scenic slow travel |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~ARS budget-dependent (seat class/date). Compare curated listings on » Trip.com activities | ||
| 🚘 Self-Drive (Ruta Nacional 3/5/22/40) | ~17–22h behind the wheel (split over 1–2 days) | Freedom to stop & explore |
| 🏷️ Cost: Car ~USD-equivalent per-day + fuel/tolls » compare rentals | Trip.com Car Hire | ||
| 🚐 Private Car/Driver (Door-to-Door) | ~17–22h (usually split with an overnight) | Groups, heavy luggage, custom pace |
| 🏷️ Cost: Quote-based by distance/vehicle. Compare on » GetTransfer | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest/Most Convenient: Fly AEP/EZE → BRC; frequent daily flights, quick transfer into town.
- Cheapest (often): Overnight bus with reclining seats (Semi-Cama/Cama/Suite); slower but scenic.
- Most Scenic/Flexible: Self-drive the Pampas & steppe with optional overnight in Bahía Blanca/Neuquén.
- Door-to-door comfort: Private driver if you prefer not to self-drive long distances.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- Price volatility: Argentina prices fluctuate—check multiple dates and book early for holidays/winter ski season.
- Airports: Many BUE→BRC flights use Aeroparque (AEP) near downtown; some depart Ezeiza (EZE). Verify before you go.
- In-city transfers: Use local ride-hailing (Uber/Cabify/DiDi) or compare fixed quotes on GetTransfer. Premium meet-and-greet: Welcome Pickups (check coverage).
- Luggage storage: Sightseeing pre-departure? Stash bags via Radical Storage Buenos Aires or Radical Storage Bariloche.
- Winter readiness: June–Sept can bring snow/ice near Bariloche—carry layers; check road advisories if driving.
✈️ Option #1 — Flight to San Carlos de Bariloche (BRC) (Fastest & Easiest)
Fast Many daily flights Airport transfers
- Overview: Nonstop flights from Buenos Aires Aeroparque (AEP) and Ezeiza (EZE) to Bariloche Airport (BRC). From BRC it’s ~15–18 km to downtown/Centro Cívico.
- How to book (with price): Compare fares on Booking.com Flights and Trip.com. Official airline sites (e.g., Aerolíneas Argentinas) and BRC airport pages list schedules/services.
- Pros: 2h15 airtime; minimal downtime. Cons: Winter weather can cause occasional delays.
Step-by-step: Flight AEP/EZE → BRC
- Get to your departure airport: AEP is near Palermo/Recoleta; EZE is farther—reach both by taxi/ride-hail or prebook on GetTransfer.
- Search and book your flight on Booking.com Flights or compare times on Trip.com; check baggage rules.
- Arrive at BRC; withdraw cash if needed. For town, take a taxi/remis, hotel shuttle, or prebooked transfer (check your hotel/agency).
- Ride 25–40 minutes to your hotel around Centro or near the lakeshore (Bustillo Avenue).
Getting to the main embarking points (AEP/EZE & BRC)
- AEP/EZE access: Ride-hailing (Uber/Cabify/DiDi) widely used; allow extra time for traffic to EZE.
- BRC arrivals: Taxis/remises outside arrivals; many hotels offer paid shuttles (arrange ahead in high season).
- Official info: EZE Airport | AEP Airport | BRC Airport
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚌 Option #2 — Long-Distance Bus (Semi-Cama, Cama, or Suite)
Budget Reclining seats Overnight ride
- Overview: Comfortable coaches run from Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro (Buenos Aires) to Terminal de Ómnibus de San Carlos de Bariloche. Seat types: Semi-Cama (140–150°), Cama (160–170°), Suite (near-flat).
- How to book (with price): Check operators/times at Retiro or browse curated options on Trip.com activities. Prices vary by class/date; bring ID for boarding.
- Pros: No airport transfers; luggage included; big windows for steppe views. Cons: 20–24 hours; arrival time depends on traffic/weather.
Step-by-step: Retiro → Bariloche by Bus
- Get to Retiro Bus Terminal (near Retiro train/metro). Use taxi/ride-hail or Subte + short walk; arrive 45–60 minutes early.
- Choose seat class (Semi-Cama/Cama/Suite) and buy your ticket at a counter or online via agencies like Trip.com activities.
- Board at the indicated plataforma; keep valuables with you. Coaches typically include rest stops and onboard service.
- Arrive at Bariloche Bus Terminal; take a taxi or local bus to your hotel in Centro/Circuito Chico area.
Getting to the main embarking points (Retiro & Bariloche Terminal)
- Retiro access: Subte C line (Retiro), Mitre Line trains, or taxi/ride-hail (Uber/Cabify/DiDi).
- Bariloche arrival: Taxis/remises at the terminal; local buses head along Av. de los Pioneros/Bustillo.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚘 Option #3 — Self-Drive Road Trip (1–2 Days via the Pampas & Steppe)
Flexible Scenic Long distance
- Overview: Several good routes. Popular two-day plan: Buenos Aires → Bahía Blanca (overnight) → Neuquén → Bariloche (joining RN40 for the Andean approach).
- How to book (with price): Compare vehicles and one-way options on Booking.com Car Rental or Trip.com Car Hire. Verify insurance, mileage, and roadside assistance.
- Pros: Detours to Atlantic or wine country; stop when you like. Cons: Fatigue, winter conditions near the Andes; fuel costs add up.
Step-by-step: BA → Bariloche by Car
- Pick up your rental in BA (downtown or AEP/EZE). Request an authorized driver list, spare tire, and emergency kit.
- Plan your route and stops: e.g., Day 1 to Bahía Blanca, Day 2 via Neuquén joining RN40 to Bariloche.
- Check weather/road advisories (winter) and carry cash/card for fuel. Drive defensively; wildlife can appear at dusk.
- Arrive in Bariloche; return car downtown or keep it for the Ruta de los 7 Lagos day trip.
Getting to the main embarking points (BA pickups & RN40 approach)
- Pickup spots: City offices and both airports (AEP/EZE) have extended hours; confirm Sunday/holiday schedules.
- Arrival: Most hotels offer on-site/nearby parking; streets can be hilly/icy in winter.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚐 Option #4 — Private Car/Driver (Door-to-Door, Custom Pace)
No self-drive stress Great for families/groups Higher cost
- Overview: Charter a sedan/van with a professional driver BA→Bariloche (often split with an overnight). Agree on stops, luggage, and winter equipment.
- How to book (with price): Request instant quotes on GetTransfer by entering pickup/drop, dates, and vehicle size; compare offers and reviews.
- Pros: Door-to-door with rest stops when you want. Cons: Costlier than bus/flight; long hours on the road.
Step-by-step: Private Transfer
- Submit your trip on GetTransfer with addresses, timing, and stopovers (e.g., Bahía Blanca or Neuquén).
- Pick a vehicle class (sedan/SUV/van), confirm baggage capacity, and what’s included (tolls, waiting time, winter chains).
- Share live location on pickup day; agree on rest breaks and estimated arrival time in Bariloche.
Getting to the main embarking points (Door-to-Door)
- Pickup in BA: Any hotel/apartment/airport; drivers can provide child seats on request.
- Drop in Bariloche: Downtown/Centro Cívico or lakeside hotels along Av. Exequiel Bustillo.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Buenos Aires to Bariloche)
Flight or bus—what’s better?
Flights are ~2h15 plus local transfers—best for time-savings. Buses cost less and you see the country, but take ~20–24 hours.
Which Buenos Aires airport should I use?
Most domestic flights use Aeroparque (AEP) near downtown; some depart Ezeiza (EZE). Choose based on your location/flight time.
How far is BRC from town?
About 15–18 km; expect 25–40 minutes by taxi/shuttle depending on your hotel along Bustillo/centro.
Is winter driving difficult?
Snow/ice possible (Jun–Sep). Carry chains if advised, check forecasts, and avoid night driving near the Andes.
Where should I stay in Bariloche?
Centro for walkability; Bustillo (km 1–10) for lake views and access to Circuito Chico. Compare deals on Booking.com.
Any must-do tours?
Circuito Chico, Cerro Campanario chairlift, Isla Victoria & Arrayanes boat—browse GetYourGuide Bariloche or Klook Bariloche for pickups and schedules.