Are you thinking about exploring Puerto Varas and the Charm of Lake Llanquihue? So we leave you this itinerary for your adventure in the South of Chile.
Day 1: Puerto Varas
Morning: Start at the Saltos de Petrohué in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. To get there, take route 255 towards Ensenada. Entry fees range from free for children and disabled persons to CLP 6,200 for foreign tourists. It’s recommended to buy tickets online at [aspticket.cl].
This place offers privileged views of the Osorno Volcano and impressive waterfalls accessible via walkways. For more adventure, you can go rafting on the river with certified agencies.
If you bought your ticket online, you can continue to Lago Todos Los Santos for lunch or boating. Alternatively, return to Puerto Varas and stop for a meal in Ensenada.
Looking for accommodation in Puerto Varas? Find the best option in our tourist services search engine.
Afternoon: The city of Puerto Varas is a panorama in itself, considered one of the most beautiful in Chile. It has a wonderful coastal edge, with views of the Osorno Volcano and heritage sites like the Lutheran Church, the Pablo Fierro Museum, and the Princess Likarayen Monument. You can stay in the city and explore its houses with larch facades, many of them historical monuments. You can also visit Philippi Park, which has a small, easy trail. Watching the sunset from there is a beautiful and free experience.
Day 2: Llanquihue and Frutillar
If you love birds, head early to Llanquihue, known as the city of swamps. It has more than 72 hectares of this ecosystem, including Las Ranas swamp and Lotus Lagoon, home to species like the swamp crow, heron, and the unmistakable seven-colored tanager. The most notable species are the rail, the taguita, herons, and colonies of yecos that have made this lagoon their home, nesting in the only eucalyptus tree in the middle of the lagoon. These places, although not protected wild areas, are very fragile ecosystems, so we must be very respectful and not litter.
The new Llanquihue waterfront offers another great view for visitors. The recently restored pier and Los Cisnes Beach, with its sculptural interventions, are an increasingly well-known postcard.
In the afternoon, Frutillar is an excellent option for further exploring the basin. Its heritage houses, many located along the shore, tell the story of the German immigrants who brought their customs, architecture, and cuisine. The Teatro del Lago is a must-visit, contributing to the quality of life and recognized by UNESCO as a City of Music. In the summer, enjoy musical weeks and cultural events throughout the year. You can sail on a catamaran or kayak, or visit the German Colonial Museum with its permanent exhibitions and wonderful gardens.
Day 3: Puerto Octay
Puerto Octay is located in the northern part of Lake Llanquihue. It is ideal for those seeking the beauty of Puerto Varas or Frutillar but with fewer crowds and more tranquility.
An excellent option is to participate in the Botes De Octay workshops, part of the Creative Llanquihue Destination. These workshops promote family activities and traditional naval carpentry. You can build your own sailboat and navigate the lake.
If you want to try local cuisine, here are some recommended restaurants.
