Buenos Aires to Bariloche: Top 3 Travel Routes

There are three main options when traveling from Buenos Aires to Bariloche: by bus, train, and plane. The price, accessibility, speed, and comfort are a few things to consider when choosing your mode of transport for the journey.

By bus

The bus journey from Buenos Aires to Bariloche is a budget-friendly option, spanning approximately 1600 kilometers and taking around 22 to 23 hours to complete. While it may seem like a lengthy trip, this mode of travel offers an affordable way to reach your destination, even if the distance makes the journey somewhat tedious. On average, the bus fare costs around USD 40 to USD 120, with business and economy options for seats. Ticket prices will vary based on the services and facilities you pick, such as reclining seats, beds, and meals.

• Distance covered: Approximately 1600 kilometers
• Duration: 22 to 23 hours

Pro tips:

• At the time of writing, 7 different buses take off from Buenos Aires to Bariloche daily.
• Some of the most popular bus services include Bariloche VIP Sleeper and El Valle Sleeper, which offer good services at affordable rates.
• Book your tickets well in advance to get a good seat.
• Selecting a window seat to enjoy the beautiful scenery on your journey.
• Pack your phone charger and dress comfortably for the journey.
• Since you will be getting off at many rest stops on your journey, remember to keep your valuables safe.

By train

There are no direct trains from Buenos Aires to Bariloche. Instead, you need to take a combination of different train routes and possibly buses, up to a total distance of 1600 km. From Buenos Aires, take a train to Bahía Blanca and transfer to Tren Patagonico in Viedma to catch another train to Bariloche. The Buenos Aires-Bahía Blanca train journey takes roughly 18 to 19 hours and costs around USD 15 to 50. The Tren Patagonico-Bariloche train journey takes around 18 hours to complete and costs around USD 19. In between, you will have to take a 3 to 4-hour bus ride to the train station in Vedma, Tren Patagonico, for which you will have to pay around USD 10 to 30. Though traveling by train is budget-friendly, it is not time-efficient and involves the hassle of booking multiple tickets and transferring to stations. The best part about traveling from Bariloche to Buenos Aires by train is the beautiful views you can get on your journey.

• Distance covered: Approximately 1600 kilometers

• Duration: 36 hours (plus additional time for transfers and buses)

Pro tips:

• The best train operator to book tickets from is Trenes Argentinos.
• There are only a few departure times, so keep a note to choose the right time to travel and book your tickets. 
• To get the cheapest fare, book from the government website.
• Always keep your ticket with you. You could be asked to show your ticket even after you have boarded the train.
• Most train journeys set off at night, so keep that in mind and wear warm, comfortable clothes.
• You need to show your ID when purchasing a ticket from the counter

By flight

A direct flight from Buenos Aires to Bariloche takes just 2 to 2.5 hours and covers 1310 kilometers. Most travelers opt to fly between the two cities because of the short travel duration, comfort, and convenience. However, it is also the most expensive way to travel, with average airfare costing USD 60 to USD 440 for a way flight. Regular flights are available from the Aeroparque, Ezeiza, and El Palomar airports, however, Aeroparque Jorge Newbery in the Palmero neighborhood is the most accessible. It includes flights from various airlines, including Aerolineas Argentinas, LATAM, Norwegian Air, and Andes Lineas Aereas.

• Distance covered: 1310 kilometers
• Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours

Pro tips:

• If you decide to take a flight from Ezeiza, you will have to travel about an hour out of the city to the airport. Call a cab in advance to catch your flight on time.
• Budget-friendly flights are offered by airlines like FlyBondi and JetSmart.
• The earlier you book your ticket, the higher the chance of getting it at a cheaper rate.
• Security checks take a lot of time, especially when the lines are long, so make sure to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before your departure time.

A quick overview of traveling from Buenos Aires to Bariloche

Transport Mode	Distance Covered	Time Taken	Why Choose This
Bus	1600 kilometers	22 hours to 23 hours	A budget-friendly option with scenic views. Various service options are available, including reclining seats and beds.
Train	1600 kilometers	Approximately 36–41 hours (including bus transfers)	A scenic train journey, budget-friendly, and an opportunity for beautiful views.
Plane	1310 kilometers	2 hours to 2.5 hours	Shortest travel duration, comfort, and convenience. Suitable for travelers with limited time.

Whether you prioritize time, budget, or the joy of exploration, your chosen route will shape your Argentine adventure, offering a unique journey through this remarkable country.

Nestled in the heart of the Argentine Patagonia, Bariloche is celebrated for its mesmerizing natural landscapes, encompassing crystal-clear lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and verdant forests. If you're wondering about things to do in Bariloche, you won't be disappointed. Local guides, deeply passionate about Bariloche's treasures, will accompany you on your Bariloche trip, providing valuable insights into the region's magnificent sights, rich history, and cultural heritage.

If you are looking for a more personalized travel experience, plan a customized trip to Argentina that suits your pace and includes specific attractions or activities. This flexibility enables you to explore not only Bariloche but also other Argentine destinations.

Before setting out on your Bariloche adventure, we encourage you to explore our guide spotlighting the top things to do in Argentina. Additionally, consult our website for seasonal insights that can help you choose the best time to visit Argentina, ensuring you make the most of your trip.

FAQs

1. How many days do you need to get to Bariloche?
The time it takes to reach Bariloche from Buenos Aires depends on the mode of transportation you choose. The bus journey typically takes around 22 to 23 hours. While there is no direct train to Bariloche, the train journey, including transfers and buses, can take approximately 36 to 41 hours. A direct flight from Buenos Aires to Bariloche takes just 2 to 2.5 hours.
The number of days you need will also depend on your travel preferences and whether you plan to stop and explore other destinations along the way.

2. How to go from Buenos Aires to Bariloche?
You can take the bus, a plane, or a train to get from from Buenos Aires to Bariloche. For the budget-conscious traveler with a taste for adventure, the bus offers a more extended 22 to 23-hour scenic route covering approximately 1600 kilometers. If you savor the journey as much as the destination, the train, though not direct, provides picturesque views but requires more time. However, for those seeking swifter, hassle-free transit, a direct 2 to 2.5-hour flight from Buenos Aires to Bariloche offers unmatched comfort and time efficiency.