San Carlos de Bariloche Airport serves as a gateway to northern Patagonia in Argentina. Located near the Andes mountains, it connects travelers to this remote region known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The airport handles domestic flights from major cities like Buenos Aires and offers seasonal international routes during peak travel times. Its location provides easy access to lakes, forests and ski resorts popular with hikers and winter sports enthusiasts. The terminal is compact and functional, reflecting the area’s focus on practicality over luxury.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type I
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Argentine Peso (ARS) £1 ≈ ARS 2,048.06 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in larger cities, especially with credit and debit cards. However, cash is often preferred in smaller towns.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. Tipping in taxis is not required, but rounding up is common. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is legal but should be done responsibly. It is common in parks and beaches. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited indoors in public spaces, but allowed in outdoor areas. |
| Argentina Independence Day (July) |
Expect public celebrations and some business closures. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Expect closures and holiday events. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police), 107 (Ambulance), 100 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Cabify, Uber, BA Taxi |
| Other: | Argentina is known for its vibrant culture, tango, and excellent cuisine, including steaks and wines. |
San Carlos de Bariloche Airport, also known as Teniente Luis Candelaria Airport, is a small but well-organized international airport located about 13 kilometers from the city center. Despite its modest size, it handles a busy stream of tourists especially during peak seasons, connecting Bariloche with major cities like Buenos Aires and seasonal international flights.
The airport offers a clean, manageable terminal with a good selection of shops and dining options, including duty-free for international travelers. Though many praise its efficiency and friendly staff, some visitors note limited lounge options and minimal free Wi-Fi, which may feel dated to frequent flyers.
Travelers should plan transfers carefully as public transport is somewhat infrequent. Taxis and pre-booked private shuttles are the most reliable ways to reach Bariloche town and nearby resorts. Weather can sometimes cause minor delays, especially in winter, so it’s wise to be flexible with connecting travel plans.
Overall, the airport complements the natural beauty of the region with an easygoing vibe, making arrival and departure straightforward for adventurers and nature lovers heading to the Patagonian wilderness.
Located landside in the domestic arrivals area opposite the AA2000 office, this lounge offers complimentary snacks, drinks including soft drinks, beer and wine, Wi-Fi, flight information monitors, and air conditioning. Open daily from early morning until 10 pm, it provides a comfortable and quiet environment but is only available before security.
Bariloche offers a range of accommodations from cozy boutique lodges and budget hostels to mid‑range hotels and luxury resorts, most clustered in the city center or along the lakefront for stunning views.
To San Carlos de Bariloche city centre:
The airport is about a 13-kilometre drive to the city centre. Taxi services are readily available and usually take around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares that vary but tend to be reasonable. There is also the Mi Bus Line 72 which connects the airport to downtown and operates roughly every two hours. This option is economical but slower and requires a SUBE card for fare payment.
To Cerro Catedral:
The famous ski resort Cerro Catedral is accessible via a taxi or private transfer from Bariloche city or the airport. The trip usually takes about 30 minutes and offers easy access to one of South America’s top ski destinations.
To Llao Llao:
Llao Llao, known for its luxury hotel and beautiful surroundings, is reachable by car or taxi from the airport or city centre, within about 25 minutes. Pre-arranged transfers are recommended, especially during the busy winter ski season.
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