Explore the Stunning Landscapes of Chile’s Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is famous for its spectacular scenery—deep blue mountain lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush forests. Moreover, it is renowned for popular resorts, year-round recreation, and rich traditional folklore, handicrafts, and legends.

The Lake District spans two of Chile’s regions: the Ninth Region, known as La Araucanía, and the Tenth Region, Los Lagos. This captivating region is anchored by the inland city of Temuco in the north, Valdivia on the Pacific coast in the middle, and Osorno inland. Puerto Montt, located on the Bay of Reloncavi, marks the district’s southern end. From north to south, the Lake District stretches from the Pacific Ocean eastward to the Andes mountains.

The Terrain and Scenery of Chile’s Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is aptly named, featuring twelve major lakes complemented by numerous smaller bodies of water. This stunning area boasts rivers, waterfalls, forests, thermal hot springs, and the Andes mountains, including six active volcanoes. Among these, Villarica rises to the impressive elevation of 9,341 feet (2,847 meters), making it one of the most active volcanoes in Latin America.

The Lake District is often highlighted in many travel itineraries within Chile. The scenery is often compared to the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland. Thanks to early German immigration, the area bears a unique cosmopolitan yet distinctly Chilean charm reflected in its towns, farms, and traditions.

• Temuco acts as the capital of La Araucanía and serves as the gateway to the Parque Nacional Conguilio, which is home to the unique monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria). The park features the snow-capped Sierra Nevada peak and the active Llaima Volcano.
• Puerto Montt, the capital of Los Lagos, is the gateway to Chiloé, Aisén, and the stunning Chilean Patagonia, where several islands and fjords await exploration. This vibrant city is celebrated for its delicious seafood and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Nearest to Puerto Montt is the Chiloé Archipelago, comprising countless islands, the largest being Isla Grande. For many years, Chiloé remained isolated from mainland Chile, fostering its rich ethnic traditions and folklore. The persistent fog surrounding the area adds to its enchanting mystique, while the diverse flora and fauna create an inviting habitat for countless bird and marine species.

Transportation Options in Chile’s Lake District

Accessing Chile’s Lake District can be achieved through various transportation methods, including air travel, bus services, and land routes. By air, domestic flights connect Santiago de Chile airport (SCL) to Puerto Montt el Tepual Airport (PMC).

The bus system provides convenient connections to and from Santiago and other nearby cities. Notably, Puerto Montt serves as both the gateway to the Lake District and the departure point for cruises to Antarctica and the Chilean Fjords. Visitors can traverse Lago Todos Los Santos, surrounded by Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, one of South America’s most scenic water crossings. Travelers can enjoy scenic boat rides to and from Argentina through this picturesque area.

For those opting to drive or take a taxi (usually around $1 per kilometer), routes via the Pan-American Highway lead into the Lake District from various Chilean cities or from Argentina via Paso Puyehue, a pass resting at about 4,000 feet (1,212 meters) during the summer. For more information on travel options, check for varied transportation methods throughout Chile.

When to Visit the Lake District

The Lake District is an all-season destination, offering a temperate climate, albeit with considerable rainfall. Spring and summer, spanning from November to April, experience drier conditions. Travelers should note that rain can occur year-round, with heavier precipitation from May to October, resulting in colder temperatures. Travelers should remain vigilant for potential flooding that may disrupt plans and regularly check weather conditions in Temuco, Valdivia, and Puerto Montt to ensure optimal travel experiences.

Shopping and Restaurant Tips

The Lake District is home to the Mapuche indigenous community, known for their vibrant handicrafts, which can be found in craft fairs, shops, and boutiques. Given the abundance of water in the region, it is no surprise that the seafood is exceptional. A visit to the fish market at Angelmó will showcase a delicious variety of local seafood, providing insights into the region’s culinary traditions.

Travelers can indulge in local specialties by exploring the menu at Salvia’s Local 20. This area is renowned for offering remarkable dishes that perfectly pair with Chilean wines:

• Parillada de Mariscos: A delightful grilled mixed seafood platter.
• Cancato: Grilled fish that can be stuffed with an array of vegetables, cheeses, or sausage.
• Curanto: A traditional dish featuring various meats and sausages, fish, mollusks, and crustaceans, potatoes, and corn cooked in an earthen pit or in a large earthenware pot, typically saved for major celebrations.

The Culture and History of La Araucanía

The La Araucanía portion of Chile’s Lake District, stretching from the Río Renaico to the northern shores of Lago Calafquén, encompasses significant destinations like Villarica and Pucón. This region offers countless adventures in smaller towns and resort areas, featuring lakes, national parks, hot springs (known locally as termas), rivers, and coastal ports.

The term La Araucanía derives from the Araucanian Indians, or Mapuche, who initially resisted Inca expansion and later Spanish colonization. A robust Mapuche community thrives here, and their rich culture, traditions, and extraordinary handicrafts attract numerous visitors. Notably, a Mapuche group exists in the Netherlands through the Rehue Foundation, which supports the preservation of their culture.

Travelers can find excellent accommodations in well-known resorts in Villarica at the western end and Pucón at the eastern end of Lago Villarrica, situated at the volcano’s base. Alternatively, visitors may opt for smaller communities surrounding the lake, which provide easy access to various activities and excursions.

Places to Stay in the Lake District and Things to Do

Travelers often choose to stay in Pucón, Villarrica, Osorno, Puerto Varas, or Puerto Montt, all of which offer diverse activities. For example, Pucón features sailing, water sports, skiing in season, and horseback riding, while the Villarrica region provides skiing, fishing, and rafting.

For those seeking thrill, the Hotel Del Lago Resort and Casino offers excitement, or adventurous options such as skydiving, whitewater rafting on the Trancura River, visiting hot springs at Huife or Palquín, and exploring the Feria Artesanales for Mapuche handicrafts and food.

Countless activities cater to various interests, and here are ten recommended experiences for travelers:

1. Explore Huerquehue National Park, situated on Lago Caburga’s eastern shore, to witness the diverse wildlife reserve.
2. Tackle the Lago Verde Trail for breathtaking views of Villarica Lake and the striking volcano.
3. Visit the CONAF Visitor Center in Lago Conguillío for a slideshow presentation before embarking on a hike or boat trip to learn about forestry preservation.
4. Wander through Conguillio National Park, famous for its ancient araucaria forests.
5. Experience the local culture at Licán Rey, on Lago Calafquén, during its nightly craft fairs, while enjoying the beaches and delightful restaurants.
6. Relax on the black sand beaches at Coñaripe along Lago Calafquén’s eastern shore and rejuvenate at the local hot springs.
7. Discover Panquipulli, near Mocho-Choshuenco volcano and Valdivia.
8. Spend time in Valdivia, known as the city of rivers, for its rich German heritage evident in its cuisine, customs, and architecture.
9. Take a scenic boat ride to Isla Teja and visit the Museo Histórico y Arqueológico to see artifacts representing both Mapuche and early German settlers.
10. Explore historical sites like the remaining Spanish forts at Corral, Niebla, and Isla Mancera.

Los Lagos Region

The Los Lagos region showcases numerous picturesque lakes and captivating volcanoes. Osorno, often called the “Fujiyama of South America,” is particularly famous for its iconic conical shape. Travelers should visit Osorno to explore the Museo Municipal de Osorno or Casa de la Cultura José Guadalupe Posada, where artifacts from pre-Colombian times through today are showcased. The Auto Museum Moncopulli offers an exciting glimpse into classic automobiles.

The Osorno area serves as a prime starting point for excursions to lakes Puyehue, Rupanco, and Puyehue National Park. Visitors will find skiing to be another engaging option in this beautiful region. Ski enthusiasts can take advantage of Puerto Varas as a comfortable base for skiing at La Burbuja, while those preferring hiking can climb Osorno in Villarrica National Park to enjoy the immense views, lava flows, and unique geological features.

Lake Tours and Activities

Travelers can embark on a circle tour around Lago Llanquihue from Puerto Varas, stopping to enjoy stunning views of the volcanos at Calbuco and Osorno. The area’s dairy farmland is historic, featuring traditional European architecture that lends the landscape a “Little Bavaria” vibe. However, visitors should be aware that road conditions may vary due to rain.

An additional must-visit is La Ensenada for its black sand beaches, which also serve as the perfect entry point for Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where various adventures await, including rafting, cycling, horseback riding, and hiking.

Numerous activities are available in the region, and here are some recommended options for visitors:

• Tour the open-air museum featuring restored colonial homes and furniture from the early German settlement era, and check the schedule for summer classical music concerts.
• Take a horseback tour from Ensenada through native rainforests to experience scenic areas often missed on hiking or driving routes.
• Visit Parque Alerce Andino to witness dense larch forests and diverse native vegetation. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as pumas, gray foxes, endangered dwarf deer (pudu), wild cats, and skunks.
• Explore Pelluco and Chinquihue located along the Tenglo Channel.
• For seasoned climbers, ascending Calbuco is a thrilling option.
• Hike or backpack across various scenic trails around Petrohue and the lake.
• Swim, sunbathe, picnic, fish, or simply relax on the beaches of Playa La Baja, Playa Cascadas, Playa Maitén, and Playa Puerto Fonck.
• Visit Termas de Puyuhuapi, one of the well-known hot springs resorts in the Lake District.
• Venture east of Llanquihue towards Petrohue, located on Lago Todos Los Santos.
• Ascend from Lago Todos Los Santos to the mystical magma canyon along the Desolation Path, the site of discovery by Jesuit priests in the 17th century.
• Begin your journey at Petrohue on the lake crossing to Peulla, disembarking for a bus ride across the pass to Puerto Frias in Argentina. Complete the adventure with a boat ride along Lago Frias towards Llao Llao and beyond to additional Argentine destinations. Alternatively, enjoy hiking between Peulla and Puerto Frias.
• Tour Puerto Montt to appreciate landmarks such as the German Colonization Monument and the Cathedral in Plaza Central, the first public square garden.
• Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Petrohué River, featuring challenging rapids of Level III and IV difficulty.
• Hike to the Cascada Velo de la Novia or Bridal Veil Waterfall, nestled within the National Park Vicente Pérez Rosales.