Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt to Bariloche Private Transfer
Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt to Bariloche Private Transfer
Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt & Bariloche, Chile - Argentina
Price, timing and itinerary details change according to the selected option.
From Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt
Transfer Overview
Travel between Chile's Lake District and Bariloche in northern Argentine Patagonia with a private vehicle and driver. The route crosses the Andes via Cardenal Samoré Pass and continues through the forest to Villa La Angostura and along Lake Nahuel Huapi to Bariloche.
We pick you up at your hotel, lodge, Puerto Montt Airport or another location agreed in advance and take you directly to your accommodation. You travel with your own group, without having to go to a bus terminal, change vehicles or plan your day around a bus timetable.
The entire journey is by road. Transfers are available in both directions, with optional sightseeing stops arranged before you travel.
Price Details:
From
US$ 1050per vehicle
The exact rate depends on the vehicle type, the pickup and drop-off locations, your schedule and the travel date.
Transfer Includes
- ● Private vehicle and driver
- ● Pickup and drop-off at the agreed locations
- ● Brief stops along the way as needed
- ● Drinking water
Transfer Excludes
Frequently Asked Questions about the Puerto Varas - Bariloche Private Transfer
How long does the transfer from Puerto Varas to Bariloche take?
The direct transfer usually takes around 6-8 hours without extended stops. The road distance is approximately 320 km, but the journey time also depends on traffic, the season, weather in the Andes and queues at the border.
From Puerto Montt, the distance is approximately 340 km and the journey takes a little longer.
We recommend setting aside most of the day for the transfer. A museum visit, lunch, a walk, hot springs or a winery visit will add to the travel time. Avoid tight flight connections or other time-sensitive bookings with non-refundable deposits on the day of your transfer.
From Puerto Montt, the distance is approximately 340 km and the journey takes a little longer.
We recommend setting aside most of the day for the transfer. A museum visit, lunch, a walk, hot springs or a winery visit will add to the travel time. Avoid tight flight connections or other time-sensitive bookings with non-refundable deposits on the day of your transfer.
Which route does the transfer follow?
From Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, we travel via Osorno and Entre Lagos, then through the Puyehue area to the Cardenal Samoré border crossing, officially called Paso Internacional Cardenal Antonio Samoré.
After crossing into Argentina, the road continues to Villa La Angostura and along Lake Nahuel Huapi to Bariloche.
The route crosses a relatively low section of the Andes and runs through forest for much of the drive. It is a long journey, but not a high-altitude crossing.
Before each trip, we check the road conditions and border opening hours.
After crossing into Argentina, the road continues to Villa La Angostura and along Lake Nahuel Huapi to Bariloche.
The route crosses a relatively low section of the Andes and runs through forest for much of the drive. It is a long journey, but not a high-altitude crossing.
Before each trip, we check the road conditions and border opening hours.
Does this transfer include boat crossings?
No. The entire journey is by road. This is not the scenic lake crossing that combines bus travel with several catamaran trips between Chile and Argentina.
Can we travel through Cardenal Samoré Pass in winter?
Yes. The crossing operates year-round, but winter weather can affect travel. Snow, ice and heavy rain may lead to restrictions or temporary road closures.
In winter, vehicles carry the equipment needed for the route, including snow chains. These are used when required by the road authorities or weather conditions.
We confirm winter transfers based on the weather forecast and current road conditions.
In winter, vehicles carry the equipment needed for the route, including snow chains. These are used when required by the road authorities or weather conditions.
We confirm winter transfers based on the weather forecast and current road conditions.
What happens if the pass is closed?
Weather-related closures are beyond our control. If Cardenal Samoré Pass is closed, we check whether there is a safe alternative route.
An alternative road route would be considerably longer and could change both the schedule and the price. If it is not possible to cross safely that day, we will discuss the next steps with you based on the situation.
An alternative road route would be considerably longer and could change both the schedule and the price. If it is not possible to cross safely that day, we will discuss the next steps with you based on the situation.
How long will we spend at the border?
There is no set waiting time. Immigration and customs checks can be fairly quick on quiet days, but queues during high season, weekends and public holidays can add considerably to the journey.
This is why all transfer times are estimates.
This is why all transfer times are estimates.
What travel documents do we need?
The documents you need depend on your nationality and immigration status. Each passenger is responsible for having a valid passport and any visa or other entry permission required by the destination country.
When you book, we will ask for the passenger details needed to arrange the international transfer.
When you book, we will ask for the passenger details needed to arrange the international transfer.
Can we book a transfer from Bariloche to Chile?
Yes. We arrange transfers in both directions between Bariloche and Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt and other nearby towns in Chile's Lake District.
We will confirm your pickup and drop-off locations when you book.
We will confirm your pickup and drop-off locations when you book.
Can you pick us up at Puerto Montt Airport?
Yes. Your transfer can start or finish at El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt, airport code PMC.
We can also pick you up at La Paloma Airfield, including when you arrive from Chaitén, or at a hotel or lodge in Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt or another location agreed in advance.
In Argentina, we can take you to your hotel, cabin or other accommodation in Bariloche, Villa La Angostura or another agreed location around Lake Nahuel Huapi.
We do not recommend a tight connection with a flight departing from Bariloche or Puerto Montt on the same day. Border queues are unpredictable, so it is important to leave plenty of time.
We can also pick you up at La Paloma Airfield, including when you arrive from Chaitén, or at a hotel or lodge in Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt or another location agreed in advance.
In Argentina, we can take you to your hotel, cabin or other accommodation in Bariloche, Villa La Angostura or another agreed location around Lake Nahuel Huapi.
We do not recommend a tight connection with a flight departing from Bariloche or Puerto Montt on the same day. Border queues are unpredictable, so it is important to leave plenty of time.
What vehicle will we travel in, and is there room for our luggage?
We use private minivans for individual travelers, families and small groups. For larger groups, we arrange a minibus or private bus.
Please tell us how many people are traveling and how many bags you will have, including their approximate sizes. Mention any sports equipment or other bulky items when you book.
For a journey of this length, the vehicle needs enough room for both you and your luggage, not just enough seats.
Please tell us how many people are traveling and how many bags you will have, including their approximate sizes. Mention any sports equipment or other bulky items when you book.
For a journey of this length, the vehicle needs enough room for both you and your luggage, not just enough seats.
What are the advantages of a private transfer?
You travel directly from your pickup address to your destination, without taking your bags to a bus terminal, waiting for a scheduled departure or finding a taxi when you arrive.
The vehicle is just for your group, and the pickup time is arranged around your itinerary. Your driver stays with you throughout the road journey between the two countries.
This can be especially helpful for families with young children or older relatives, travelers with sports equipment or bulky luggage, and anyone who prefers the privacy and flexibility of their own vehicle.
The vehicle is just for your group, and the pickup time is arranged around your itinerary. Your driver stays with you throughout the road journey between the two countries.
This can be especially helpful for families with young children or older relatives, travelers with sports equipment or bulky luggage, and anyone who prefers the privacy and flexibility of their own vehicle.
Can we stop for sightseeing on the way to Bariloche?
Yes, with advance planning. The standard service is a direct transfer with brief stops as needed. Longer visits and activities need to be arranged before you travel.
We recommend choosing one main activity, with one or two short scenic stops if time allows, rather than trying to fit everything into the same day.
Moncopulli Auto Museum. The museum is on Route 215 between Osorno and Entre Lagos, so it requires almost no detour. It is a good option for anyone interested in classic cars, motoring history and vintage machinery. Allow around 90 minutes to two hours for a visit.
Lake Puyehue and Salto de los Novios. You can stop by Lake Puyehue or visit the roadside viewpoint at Salto de los Novios waterfall. Both work well as short stops along the route.
Anticura and the Puyehue area. For a longer nature stop, we can plan a short walk in Anticura, on the road to the border in the Puyehue National Park area. There are walks through the Valdivian forest to waterfalls. We will allow extra time for the walk when planning your day.
Lago Espejo. Once you have crossed into Argentina, Lago Espejo is an option for a short stop by the lake.
Villa La Angostura. With more time available, you can stop in Villa La Angostura for lunch, coffee or a walk around town before continuing along Lake Nahuel Huapi to Bariloche.
We recommend choosing one main activity, with one or two short scenic stops if time allows, rather than trying to fit everything into the same day.
Moncopulli Auto Museum. The museum is on Route 215 between Osorno and Entre Lagos, so it requires almost no detour. It is a good option for anyone interested in classic cars, motoring history and vintage machinery. Allow around 90 minutes to two hours for a visit.
Lake Puyehue and Salto de los Novios. You can stop by Lake Puyehue or visit the roadside viewpoint at Salto de los Novios waterfall. Both work well as short stops along the route.
Anticura and the Puyehue area. For a longer nature stop, we can plan a short walk in Anticura, on the road to the border in the Puyehue National Park area. There are walks through the Valdivian forest to waterfalls. We will allow extra time for the walk when planning your day.
Lago Espejo. Once you have crossed into Argentina, Lago Espejo is an option for a short stop by the lake.
Villa La Angostura. With more time available, you can stop in Villa La Angostura for lunch, coffee or a walk around town before continuing along Lake Nahuel Huapi to Bariloche.
Can we stop for local food or craft beer?
Yes. Chile's Lake District has a strong tradition of craft beer, local cheeses, cured and smoked meats, and German-style baking. Its food brings together local ingredients and Central European influences.
One option is a craft brewery near Osorno on Route 215, along the route toward Puyehue. This stop works particularly well when traveling from Argentina to Chile: the border crossing is already behind you, leaving more flexibility for lunch and a beer before continuing to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt.
Tastings are for passengers only, not the driver. We check opening hours and availability before adding the visit to your itinerary.
You do not need to include a brewery or winery tour to enjoy the local food. We can instead plan a lunch stop or a chance to try regional cheeses, cured meats, smoked foods and pastries.
On the Argentine side, Villa La Angostura is another option for lunch and local craft beer before continuing to Bariloche.
One option is a craft brewery near Osorno on Route 215, along the route toward Puyehue. This stop works particularly well when traveling from Argentina to Chile: the border crossing is already behind you, leaving more flexibility for lunch and a beer before continuing to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt.
Tastings are for passengers only, not the driver. We check opening hours and availability before adding the visit to your itinerary.
You do not need to include a brewery or winery tour to enjoy the local food. We can instead plan a lunch stop or a chance to try regional cheeses, cured meats, smoked foods and pastries.
On the Argentine side, Villa La Angostura is another option for lunch and local craft beer before continuing to Bariloche.
Can we visit a winery along the way?
Yes, but a winery visit needs more time and advance planning.
Winemaking in the Los Lagos Region and the Osorno Valley is relatively new, with vineyards much farther south than Chile's traditional wine regions. One option is Coteaux de Trumao in the Osorno Valley, which offers vineyard visits and tastings.
A visit involves a detour, so we plan it as an extended transfer with a winery visit, not a quick roadside stop.
There are also small wineries around Llanquihue and Frutillar that may fit into the beginning or end of your journey on the Chilean side. Visits depend on availability and must be confirmed for your travel date.
Winemaking in the Los Lagos Region and the Osorno Valley is relatively new, with vineyards much farther south than Chile's traditional wine regions. One option is Coteaux de Trumao in the Osorno Valley, which offers vineyard visits and tastings.
A visit involves a detour, so we plan it as an extended transfer with a winery visit, not a quick roadside stop.
There are also small wineries around Llanquihue and Frutillar that may fit into the beginning or end of your journey on the Chilean side. Visits depend on availability and must be confirmed for your travel date.
Can we spend half a day at Puyehue Hot Springs?
Yes, but this needs to be planned as a longer day, not a short stop during a standard transfer.
The hot springs are near the route, but a visit takes several hours. We can arrange time in the thermal pools and, depending on the option you choose, lunch as well.
You will need an earlier departure, and the visit must be booked in advance. We also need to leave enough time to reach the border during opening hours.
The hot springs are near the route, but a visit takes several hours. We can arrange time in the thermal pools and, depending on the option you choose, lunch as well.
You will need an earlier departure, and the visit must be booked in advance. We also need to leave enough time to reach the border during opening hours.
Is lunch included?
Meals are not included in the standard transfer. We provide drinking water in the vehicle.
With advance notice, we can arrange a packed lunch or a lunch stop in Chile or Argentina.
Because border queues are unpredictable, we recommend leaving some flexibility in the schedule rather than planning a long, multi-course lunch before the crossing. It is usually best to choose one place in advance and allow time for it in the itinerary.
With advance notice, we can arrange a packed lunch or a lunch stop in Chile or Argentina.
Because border queues are unpredictable, we recommend leaving some flexibility in the schedule rather than planning a long, multi-course lunch before the crossing. It is usually best to choose one place in advance and allow time for it in the itinerary.
Can we turn the transfer into a sightseeing day with a guide?
Yes. We can combine the transfer with a guided itinerary based on your interests.
You could visit Moncopulli Auto Museum, take a forest walk in Anticura, see a waterfall in the Puyehue area or stop by Lago Espejo after crossing into Argentina. Other options include local food, craft beer, a winery in southern Chile, a few hours at the hot springs or more time to explore Villa La Angostura.
We suggest choosing one main activity rather than trying to combine several longer visits. We will then plan the day around it, taking into account your direction of travel, the season, daylight hours and border opening times.
This is priced as a transfer with sightseeing, rather than a standard direct transfer.
You could visit Moncopulli Auto Museum, take a forest walk in Anticura, see a waterfall in the Puyehue area or stop by Lago Espejo after crossing into Argentina. Other options include local food, craft beer, a winery in southern Chile, a few hours at the hot springs or more time to explore Villa La Angostura.
We suggest choosing one main activity rather than trying to combine several longer visits. We will then plan the day around it, taking into account your direction of travel, the season, daylight hours and border opening times.
This is priced as a transfer with sightseeing, rather than a standard direct transfer.
How do we book?
Send us your travel date, where you would like to be picked up and dropped off, the number of passengers, and the number and approximate size of your bags.
To add sightseeing, tell us what interests you: nature, local food, wine, craft beer, hot springs, a museum, a relaxed lunch or a short walk.
We will check the route and border conditions, confirm availability and opening hours for any planned visits, choose a suitable vehicle and send you a quote.
To add sightseeing, tell us what interests you: nature, local food, wine, craft beer, hot springs, a museum, a relaxed lunch or a short walk.
We will check the route and border conditions, confirm availability and opening hours for any planned visits, choose a suitable vehicle and send you a quote.