El Bolsón is a small town in Argentine Patagonia, famous for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful mountains, artisan markets, and outdoor adventures.
It’s a perfect destination for travelers who want to enjoy nature, go trekking, relax, and experience local culture at a slower pace.
Surrounded by the Andes Mountains, forests, and rivers, El Bolsón is a hidden gem that feels different from other towns in Patagonia — more artistic, more relaxed, and full of charm.
How to Get to El Bolsón
El Bolsón is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Bariloche, in the province of Río Negro.
You can reach it by:
- Car: Driving from Bariloche (or Esquel) takes around 2 hours, following Route 40. It’s a very scenic drive, passing by mountains, valleys, and forests.
- Bus: There are daily bus services from Bariloche and Esquel.
- Plane: The nearest airports are Bariloche (BRC) and Esquel (EQS), but El Bolsón also has a small local airport for some regional flights.
What to See and Do in El Bolsón
El Bolsón is a true paradise for hikers. There are many trails for all levels, and most of them start right from town or just a short drive away.
Some of the top trekking circuits include:
- Cajón del Azul:
A classic trek! It’s a moderate hike that takes you to a stunning river with crystal-clear blue waters. Along the way, you pass through forests, suspension bridges, and small mountain refuges where you can rest or even stay overnight. - Cerro Piltriquitrón (“Piltri”) and the Carved Forest (Bosque Tallado):
You can drive partway up the mountain and hike to the Carved Forest, a magical place where artists have sculpted fallen trees into amazing figures. From there, you can keep hiking up to the Piltriquitrón Summit for panoramic views of the valley and mountains. - Laguna Natación:
A beautiful and less-crowded trail that leads you to a peaceful mountain lagoon, surrounded by forests and rocky peaks. - Refugios Network:
El Bolsón has a famous network of mountain refuges (rustic cabins in the mountains) where hikers can sleep, eat, and enjoy the mountains.
Popular refuges include Refugio Hielo Azul, Refugio Dedo Gordo, and Refugio Encanto Blanco. You can plan multi-day treks connecting several refuges.
Tip: Trekking in El Bolsón is well-marked but always check weather conditions before heading out. Rain can make trails muddy and rivers harder to cross.
Visit the Artisan Market (Feria Regional)
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, the town’s main square fills with local artisans selling handmade goods:
- Wool clothing
- Wooden crafts
- Natural cosmetics
- Homemade jams and chocolates
- Local beers
It’s a great place to shop, taste local food, and experience the relaxed vibe of the town.
Enjoy Local Food and Beer
El Bolsón is known for its local produce and craft beer. Thanks to its special microclimate, it has farms producing berries, hops, vegetables, and more.
You can visit breweries, organic farms, and small restaurants offering delicious food made with local ingredients.
Don’t miss:
- Artisan beers (El Bolsón is known as the craft beer capital of Patagonia!)
- Berry-based desserts (like raspberry pies)
- Homemade ice creams with natural flavors
Explore Lago Puelo and Lago Epuyén
Nearby, you can visit Lago Puelo National Park, just 20 minutes from El Bolsón.
The park protects a beautiful lake with turquoise waters, surrounded by green forests and mountains. Perfect for:
- Easy hikes
- Boat trips
- Kayaking
- Picnics on the beach
Another nearby lake, Lago Epuyén, is also worth a visit for swimming and relaxing, especially in summer.
What the Town Feels Like
El Bolsón has a very special, relaxed energy. Many people who visit say it feels more like a mountain village from another era, where life is slower and simpler.
You’ll find:
- Colorful houses
- Cafés with mountain views
- Street musicians playing in the plaza
- Markets full of art and natural products
It’s also known for its history with hippie communities in the 1970s, which gave the town a unique cultural flavor.
When to Visit El Bolsón
- Summer (December to March): Best for hiking, swimming in rivers and lakes, and enjoying outdoor life.
- Fall (April-May): The forests turn golden and red — it’s stunning for photography and trekking.
- Winter (July-August): You can see snow-capped mountains and even ski in nearby areas like Cerro Perito Moreno.
- Spring (October-November): Flowers start blooming, and the weather gets warmer.
Travel Tips
- Currency: Argentine peso (ARS).
- Weather: Always bring layers, even in summer. Nights can be cool.
- Car rental: Useful if you want to explore nearby lakes and trailheads.
- Local guide: Recommended for longer treks or if you want to connect multiple refuges.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
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