Distance from Bariloche to El Bolsón
Bariloche and El Bolsón are about 120 km apart
The distance from Bariloche to El Bolsón is about 120 km by road, and the trip takes roughly 2 hours by car (approximate, depending on the exact route, weather, and traffic). It’s one of the most popular short trips in Argentine Patagonia, connecting two of the region’s favorite destinations.
Driving route and distance from Bariloche to El Bolsón on Google Maps.
Let someone else do the driving. We run private, door-to-door transfers between Bariloche and El Bolsón — travel relaxed and arrive fresh.
Many travelers ask how far El Bolsón is from Bariloche because they’re planning to visit both towns in the same trip — Bariloche for its lakes, chocolate, and mountain scenery, and El Bolsón for its relaxed, artsy vibe, craft markets, and access to trails like Cerro Piltriquitrón and Cabeza del Indio. At just 120 km apart, both can easily be combined into one Patagonian itinerary.
What’s included
- Private door-to-door transfer from Bariloche to El Bolsón
- Professional English-speaking driver
- Hotel or address pickup
- Comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle
- Flexible departure time
Not included
- Gratuities (optional)
- Meals and entrance fees
The Route: Ruta 40 South Through the Valley
The standard route between Bariloche and El Bolsón runs south along the famous Ruta 40, Argentina’s legendary north-south highway. This stretch is paved and well maintained, hugging the base of the Andes and passing through a mix of forest, farmland, and open valley scenery before descending into the El Bolsón valley, framed by Cerro Piltriquitrón and Cerro Perito Moreno.
It’s considered one of the more scenic short drives in the region — not as dramatic as the Seven Lakes Route, but still full of classic Patagonian views, especially as the road opens up into the wide, green valley where El Bolsón sits.
How Travelers Usually Make the Trip
By Car or Private Transfer
Driving is by far the most common way to cover this distance. At around 120 km, it’s a comfortable, non-stressful trip that most people complete in about 2 hours, including a short stop. This makes a private transfer or rental car the most flexible option — you can leave when you want, stop for photos along the way, and go straight to your accommodation or trailhead without waiting around.
By Long-Distance Bus
Regular bus services run between Bariloche and El Bolsón throughout the day, making several stops along the way. It’s a budget-friendly option, though travel time tends to run a bit longer than a direct private transfer due to intermediate stops and fixed schedules.
By Plane
Given that this is a short regional distance, flying is generally not necessary and isn’t a practical option for this specific route — there’s no direct commercial flight connecting Bariloche and El Bolsón, since the driving time (around 2 h) is already faster than checking in, flying, and transferring from any nearby airport would be. Flying only tends to make sense for much longer distances within Argentina, such as connections to Buenos Aires or other provinces, not for this particular short hop.
Practical Notes for the Drive
- Tolls: There may be a toll or two along the route; keep some cash or card on hand just in case.
- Fuel and rest stops: There are gas stations and small towns along the way where you can stop for fuel, coffee, or a bathroom break — useful even on a short 2-hour drive.
- Best time to travel: Daytime hours are ideal for enjoying the valley and mountain views, and driving conditions are generally easier outside of winter snow or heavy rain, when the road can occasionally be affected by weather.
- Is driving worth it vs. flying? Absolutely — since there’s no direct flight for this route, driving (or taking a transfer or bus) is not just worth it, it’s the only realistic way to go, and at just 2 hours it’s a pleasant trip in its own right.
Combining Bariloche and El Bolsón in One Trip
Because the distance is so manageable, many visitors treat El Bolsón as an easy day trip from Bariloche or a short stopover on the way further south toward Esquel or Los Alerces National Park. Either way, having a private, door-to-door transfer takes the guesswork out of timing, luggage, and navigating the route yourself.
Book Your Bariloche–El Bolsón Transfer
Skip the bus schedules and rental car paperwork. Our private transfers cover the Bariloche to El Bolsón route door-to-door, with a comfortable vehicle, a local driver, and flexible pickup times that fit your plans. Message us on WhatsApp to check availability and get your trip organized in minutes.