Andean Cruise in one day
- hpvalero
- Jan 28, 2024
- 3 min read
The renowned Andean Cruise offers an unforgettable tourist trip that crosses majestic landscapes of the Andes, connecting Argentina and Chile. This unique experience immerses you in panoramic views that will remain in your memory forever. In addition to the unique journey, it offers the opportunity to cross the most emblematic lakes of both countries and explore some charming towns at the border points.
The itinerary begins in Puerto Varas, the city of origin of the agency responsible for the tour, "Cruce Andino". The trip usually starts at 8 in the morning by bus. About 40 minutes away is the first point: the Petrohué Falls, a must-see stop in Chilean Patagonia. With three walking trails, the most notable leads to the impressive waterfall known as Saltos de Petrohué. This tour is short and accessible, ideal even for older companions.
After a brief stop of approximately 30 minutes, the bus heads to the port, where the first boat leaves to cross the All Saints Lake. During the two-hour crossing, you will be able to enjoy the panoramic view of the majestic Osorno volcano in all its splendor.
The first boat trip culminates in Peulla, a town blessed by impressive nature. Here, there is only one hotel where a mandatory stop for lunch is made. If you prefer other options, such as a tour to a farm (with an additional cost of 25 thousand pesos / about 27 to 30 dollars) or simply exploring the surroundings, they are also possible. The stop is usually about two hours, enough time to explore or participate in local tours. It is recommended that you bring food if you opt for these options instead of having lunch at the restaurant.
After lunch, for those on the one-day Andean Crossing tour (as there are also two- or three-day options), it's time to pack up and head to the next point. Before arriving in Argentina, keep in mind that this is the last point in Chile and you will go through immigration control, have your passport on hand and the sheet you receive when entering Chile.
The driver will make a brief stop at the border to take some photos and then drive along an unpaved road to immigration control in Argentina, where you will board a boat to Puerto Blest (Argentina). This journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
After passing immigration control in Argentina, you will board a boat that will take you to Puerto Blest, enjoying about 20 minutes of spectacular views of Argentine Patagonia. Upon arriving in Puerto Blest, you will be closer to your final destination: Bariloche.
In Puerto Blest, you have the option of walking about 3 kilometers or taking the bus to the hotel, where you will wait to board the last boat. You can relax with a drink or explore the surroundings while you wait. The wait is 40 minutes and then you will be ready to board the last boat to Bariloche. The boat ride lasts about an hour, giving you views of the islands around this stunning turquoise lake.
The trip concludes in Bariloche, disembarking in Puerto Pañuelos. If your hotel is in the center, the agency usually offers transportation on one of its buses. This circuit combines bus and boat trips, offering unique experiences to discover the charming towns on the border of both countries.
Although the cost of this trip is considerable, exceeding $300 for foreigners on the one-way trip alone, the response from tourists has been positive. It is worth mentioning that this route is exclusive to an agency, which justifies the price. However, if you ask me if it's worth it, I can definitely tell you that.
What does the trip include and what does it not?
The cost of the ticket includes transportation, but does not include meals. In the case of two or three days it does include lodging.
The trip does not include additional tours, such as the tour to the farm in Puerto Peulla, which has an additional cost.
Some suggestions for your trip:
Bring food. That will save you the cost. There are no restrictions regarding taking it onto boats or buses and you can leave your things on the buses without a problem.
If you are carrying luggage or a carry-on backpack, I suggest sending it to the hold from the beginning of the trip since this way you will avoid carrying packages. Carry only what you need with you.
If you are counting on having a signal or internet, forget it. The only point with wifi is Puerto Peulla, so I suggest you keep that in mind.
Check the weather and season of your trip, sometimes it rains or is very cold.
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