Colonia Suiza Travel Guide

Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Colonia Suiza, Patagonia.


Introduction to Colonia Suiza

Colonia Suiza is a small town located in the southern Andes of Patagonia, Argentina. It was originally founded by Swiss and German settlers in the late 1800s and still retains much of its Alpine-style architecture. This charming town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and plentiful outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Colonia Suiza

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Histórico Colonia Suiza: This museum showcases the town’s history and culture, including exhibits on the indigenous Mapuche people and the European settlers who founded the town.
  • Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen: This beautiful church was built by the German colonists in the 1930s and features stained glass windows and a wood-carved altar.
  • Ferrocarril Austral Fueguino: This narrow-gauge railway was built by prisoners in the early 1900s and runs along the scenic Pipo River.

Natural Attractions of Colonia Suiza: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lago Escondido: This picturesque lake is surrounded by dense forests and offers plenty of fishing opportunities.
  • Cerro Castor Ski Resort: Colonia Suiza is just a short drive from this popular ski resort, which features over 20 kilometers of ski runs and stunning mountain views.
  • Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego: Just an hour away from Colonia Suiza, this national park offers an abundance of hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Colonia Suiza

Whether you prefer hiking or biking, Colonia Suiza has plenty of great routes to choose from.

  • Laguna Esmeralda: This 4-hour round trip hike takes you through the beautiful forest to a stunning glacial lake.
  • Cerro Castor: This mountain offers a challenging hike or bike ride, with incredible views over the surrounding landscape.
  • Collón Cura: This off-road biking trail takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside in Patagonia.

Best Things to Do in Colonia Suiza: Activities and Tours

  • Fly-fishing: Colonia Suiza is known for its great fishing opportunities, with plenty of trout and salmon in the rivers and lakes.
  • Horseback riding: Experience the beauty of the Andes from a different perspective.
  • Whale watching: Take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Colonia Suiza

Day 1: Arrive in Colonia Suiza and explore the town

Day 2: Hike to Laguna Esmeralda

Day 3: Fly-fishing or horseback riding

Day 4: Visit Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego

Day 5: Bike or hike around Cerro Castor

Day 6: Whale watching tour

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Colonia Suiza

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: A traditional Argentine barbecue, featuring grilled meats and vegetables.
  • Locro: A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat.
  • Empanadas: Savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Mate: A bitter tea made with the leaves of the yerba mate plant, often shared among friends and family in a communal gourd.
  • Malbec: A popular red wine, known for its strong tannins and fruity flavors.
  • Quilmes: The most popular beer in Argentina, named after the indigenous Mapuche people.

Where to Stay in Colonia Suiza: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hostería Kaikén: This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and an on-site restaurant.
  • Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort features stunning mountain views, a spa, and an indoor pool.
  • Los Juncos: This family-run hotel is set in a beautiful Alpine-style building and offers a sauna and hot tub.

What to Buy in Colonia Suiza: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-knit woolens: Colonia Suiza is known for its high-quality wool products, including hats, sweaters, and scarves.
  • Mapuche crafts: Artisans in the area create beautiful hand-knitted textiles, woven baskets, and carved wooden objects.
  • Wine: Stock up on bottles of Malbec or other Argentine wines to bring home as gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Colonia Suiza

The local culture in Colonia Suiza is a blend of European and indigenous traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including:

  • Greetings: Argentineans often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, even if they are meeting for the first time.
  • Punctuality: It is considered rude to be late for appointments or meetings.
  • Dress: Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Colonia Suiza

The best time to visit Colonia Suiza is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is mild and there are long hours of daylight. However, the ski season (June to September) also attracts many visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Colonia Suiza

Do:

  • Do take part in local customs, such as sharing mate with friends.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including Argentine barbecue and empanadas.
  • Do learn a few Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t drink tap water, unless it has been boiled or filtered.
  • Don’t forget to tip service workers, such as restaurant servers or tour guides.

Safety and Health

Safety in Colonia Suiza

Overall, Colonia Suiza is a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take normal precautions, such as guarding their belongings and avoiding walking alone at night. Driving can be hazardous due to narrow, winding roads and unpredictable weather conditions in the mountains.

Health in Colonia Suiza

There are no major health risks in Colonia Suiza, but visitors should take precautions against sunburn, dehydration, and altitude sickness. It’s also a good idea to check with a doctor or travel clinic before departing and to make sure you are up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Colonia Suiza: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Colonia Suiza

The nearest major airport to Colonia Suiza is Malvinas Argentinas International Airport in Ushuaia, which is approximately one hour away by car or bus.

Bus Stations Near Colonia Suiza

Buses from Ushuaia and other nearby cities stop at the Colonia Suiza bus station, which is located in the center of town.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Colonia Suiza by car, although road conditions can be challenging in the mountains. Some tour companies offer private transfers or guided tours.

How to Get Around in Colonia Suiza

The best way to get around Colonia Suiza is by car or bike. Visitors can also take taxis or use the local bus service to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Colonia Suiza: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ushuaia: This scenic city is the southernmost city in the world and offers plenty of sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities.
  • El Calafate: Located in the heart of Argentina’s Patagonia region, this city is known for its stunning glaciers and national parks.
  • Puerto Natales: Just across the border in Chile, this scenic town is the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park and is famous for its seafood.

Conclusion

Colonia Suiza may be a small town, but it offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, culture, and relaxation. From stunning natural beauty to delicious cuisine and friendly locals, this charming town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Patagonia.