San Carlos de Bariloche Airport, also known as Teniente Luis Candelaria Airport, is located in San Carlos de Bariloche – a city in southern Argentina.

Serves: San Carlos de Bariloche
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAZS
IATA: BRC
Elevation: 2,512ft/765m
Coordinates: 41°09′00″S 71°09′00″W
Airport type: International
Tower frequency: 118.4
Ground frequency: 121.8
Number of runways: 1
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART)
Fire category: CAT 8
Surface: Asphalt
AOE: Yes

On the Ground

Longest runway: 2,400 x 45 metres
PCN: 60/F/B/W/T
Equipment available: All equipment is available here
Navaid: Yes
Type of A/C handled: Up to B767
Terminal capacity: 1,500,000 annually
Cargo capacity: 50,000 mt annually
Fuel types: Jet A-1
There is no FBO at this airport
The airport is approximately 13 km from the city

Operational Information

Typical lead time for permit approval: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Required
Alternate airports: SAEZ, SAAR, SARI

Contact numbers

Police: +54 294 420 6111
Fire: +54 294 420 6222
Customs: +54 294 420 6333
Airport authority: +54 294 420 6444

Tourist Information

Immigration rules: All global visitors and crew must present a visa and valid passport
Crew requirements: The crew must be in uniform and have a passport, visa, and be on the Gendec
Ground transport: Includes car rentals, buses, hotel shuttles, and non-metered taxis (negotiate the price before entering – typical fare to city centre is 1,200 – 2,500 ARS)
Accommodation: Available at Llao Llao Hotel, Alma del Lago Suites, and Hotel Edelweiss
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)

Attractions Near San Carlos de Bariloche Airport

San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC, SAZS) is located about 13 km east of San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro Province, Argentina, in the heart of Patagonia’s Lake District. This region is renowned for its stunning lakes, Andean mountains, and outdoor activities, making it one of Argentina’s top tourist destinations. Below is a list of notable attractions near the airport, focusing on natural wonders, cultural sites, and recreational activities within a reasonable distance. Distances are approximate from the airport, and most attractions are in or around Bariloche or its surrounding Nahuel Huapi National Park.

1. Cerro Catedral

South America’s premier ski resort in winter (June-September) and a hiking/biking hub in summer. Offers panoramic views, ski lifts, and trails through alpine landscapes.  

Distance from Airport: 30 km (40-minute drive).  

Why Visit: Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or summer outdoor adventures with breathtaking vistas.

2. Circuito Chico (Small Circuit)

A scenic 60-km loop west of Bariloche, featuring viewpoints like Llao Llao Peninsula, Cerro Campanario (with a chairlift to a 360° lookout), and Lago Moreno. It is ideal for driving, cycling, or guided tours.  

Distance from Airport: 20-35 km (30-50-minute drive, depending on stops).  

Why Visit: Showcases Patagonia’s lakes and forests in a compact, accessible route.

3. Nahuel Huapi National Park

A vast park surrounding Bariloche, home to Lago Nahuel Huapi, hiking trails (e.g., Refugio Frey), and wildlife-like condors. Activities include kayaking, trekking, and boat tours to islands like Isla Victoria.  

Distance from Airport: 15-50 km (20-minute to 1-hour drive, depending on trailhead or dock).  

Why Visit: A must for nature lovers, offering endless outdoor activities.

4. Cerro Otto

A hill accessible by cable car or hiking trails, offering panoramic views of Bariloche, Lago Nahuel Huapi, and the Andes. Features a revolving restaurant and winter sledging.  

Distance from Airport: 15 km (20-minute drive to base).  

Why Visit: Family-friendly with easy access and stunning views.

5. Llao Llao Hotel and Resort

An iconic luxury hotel on the Circuito Chico, set against lakes and mountains. Non-guests can visit for dining, tea, or to admire its historic architecture and grounds.  

Distance from Airport: 35 km (45-minute drive).  

Why Visit: A cultural and architectural gem in a postcard-perfect setting.

6. Colonia Suiza

A charming Swiss-inspired village near Bariloche, known for its artisanal market (Wednesdays and Sundays), craft beer, and traditional foods like fondue. Hosts the Curanto Festival (a Patagonian barbecue).  

Distance from Airport: 30 km (40-minute drive).  

Why Visit: Offers a cultural experience with Alpine vibes and local crafts.

7. Parque Municipal Llao Llao

A forested area with easy-to-moderate hiking trails (e.g., Sendero de los Arrayanes) leading to hidden beaches and viewpoints over Lago Nahuel Huapi.  

Distance from Airport: 35 km (45-minute drive).  

Why Visit: Ideal for tranquil hikes and nature immersion.

8. Museo de la Patagonia

Description: Located in Bariloche’s Civic Center, this museum explores the region’s Indigenous history, natural environment, and European settlement through exhibits and artefacts.  

Distance from the Airport: 13 km (15-minute drive, in the city centre).  

Why Visit: A quick, educational stop for history and culture enthusiasts.

9. Cruce Andino (Boat Trip to Chile)

A spectacular day-long boat and bus journey through lakes and mountains to Puerto Varas, Chile, crossing the Andes. Departs from Puerto Pañuelo near Llao Llao.  

Distance from Airport: 35 km to Puerto Pañuelo (45-minute drive).  

Why Visit: A bucket-list experience for cross-border adventure seekers.

10. Bariloche Chocolate Shops (Avenida Mitre)

Bariloche is Argentina’s chocolate capital, with famous shops like Rapa Nui, Mamuschka, and Frantom offering handmade chocolates, ice cream, and cafes.  

Distance from the Airport: 13 km (15-minute drive, in the city centre).  

Why Visit: A delicious treat for foodies and a fun, family-friendly activity.

Additional Notes

Bariloche is a year-round destination that blends Alpine charm with Patagonian wilderness. Its proximity to Nahuel Huapi National Park and ski resorts makes it ideal for adventure and relaxation. The airport itself is functional but lacks on-site attractions, so the focus is on the surrounding area.

Getting Around: Bariloche Airport is well-connected, with taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services to the city centre (13 km) and attractions. Local buses (e.g., Line 20 to Llao Llao) are budget-friendly but less frequent. Renting a car is ideal for exploring Circuito Chico or further sites like Cerro Catedral. Most attractions are 13-50 km away, easily reachable within an hour.  

Travel Tips:

Best Time: Summer (December-March) is best for hiking, biking, and lake activities, and winter (June-September) is best for skiing and snow sports. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and mild weather.  

Essentials: Dress in layers (Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable), bring sunscreen and carry cash for smaller vendors—book tours or rentals in advance during peak seasons.  

Activities: Prioritize outdoor pursuits (hiking, skiing, kayaking) for the region’s natural beauty, but save time for cultural stops like museums or chocolate tasting.  

Safety: The area is tourist-friendly, but follow trail guidelines and check the weather before engaging in outdoor activities, especially in winter.