Explore Chile’s beautiful Lake District through active excursions and scenic journeys, discovering a region shaped by ancient forests, shimmering lakes, volcanoes and charming southern towns. From trekking and cycling during the warmer months to volcanic and cultural experiences in April, this four-day journey offers a memorable introduction to one of southern Chile’s most captivating landscapes.
Our adventure in Chile’s Lake District begins with a morning arrival at Puerto Montt Airport, where our guide will be waiting to welcome us. From here, we’ll travel by private transfer to Puerto Varas, a scenic town known for its German-influenced architecture, views of Lake Llanquihue, and the striking silhouette of Osorno Volcano. After checking in at our hotel, the rest of the day is free to rest, wander through town, or simply enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.
Overnight Hotel Bellavista (3 stars) or similar, Puerto Varas.
Meals: none.
From October to March, explore Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park on the full-day Desolación Trek. This active 16 km / 10 mi hike crosses a varied landscape of temperate rainforest and volcanic terrain, with several ascents rewarded by sweeping views of the surrounding lakes and volcanoes. After the hike, visit Petrohué Falls before returning to Puerto Varas.
In April, the Desolación Trek is replaced by an excursion combining Osorno Volcano and Petrohué, including the corresponding entrance fee and lunch. Discover panoramic volcanic landscapes before visiting the powerful waters and lava formations of Petrohué Falls.
Activities are subject to weather, trail, road and access conditions.
Overnight Hotel Bellavista (3 stars) or similar, Puerto Varas.
Meals: breakfast and box lunch (lunch in april).
From October to March, discover the Lake District by bike on the regular Bike by the Lake excursion. Depart from Puerto Varas and cycle along the shores of Lake Llanquihue, passing through Llanquihue before continuing toward Frutillar. Along the way, enjoy quiet rural landscapes, traditional southern homes and open views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. The route covers approximately 35 km / 21.7 mi on a combination of paved and gravel roads.
In April, the cycling excursion is replaced by a regular excursion to Frutillar and Puerto Octay, including entrance to the Frutillar Colonial Museum. Explore the cultural heritage, German-influenced architecture and lakeside landscapes of these historic towns before returning to Puerto Varas.
Note: The Frutillar Colonial Museum is closed on Mondays.
Overnight Hotel Bellavista (3 stars) or similar, Puerto Varas.
Meals: breakfast and snack (box lunch in april).
Today we'll enjoy our final views of the Lake District before heading off to Puerto Montt Airport to board our onward flight. Adiós Lake District!
Meals: breakfast.
Nights 1 - 3 at Hotel Bellavista, Puerto Varas - Set just steps from Lake Llanquihue, Hotel Bellavista offers a warm and comfortable stay with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. Its welcoming Standard rooms feature private bathroom facilities, Wi-Fi, and a cozy atmosphere to rest after exploring Chile’s Lake District. Guests can enjoy southern hospitality, relaxing common areas, and daily breakfast before heading out to discover the landscapes around Puerto Varas.
Regular departures available every day from October to April.
The trip starts any day either at Puerto Montt Airport or your hotel in Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas. The trip finishes on the fourth day at Puerto Montt Airport or back at your hotel in Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas. Please contact us for information about which domestic flights fit best with the program itinerary.
The activity level varies according to the season. From October to March, the program includes full-day trekking excursions such as Alerce Andino and El Solitario. Both are generally low-to-moderate difficulty, but trails may include uneven ground, exposed roots, rocks, small streams and volcanic terrain.
To fully enjoy these excursions, guests should be regularly active and comfortable walking for several hours on natural terrain. Guests with knee or hip problems, cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, pregnancy, or concerns about their fitness should consult their doctor and our team before choosing a trekking activity.
Some trails pass through remote areas with limited communications, making appropriate preparation especially important.
In April, trekking is replaced by lighter sightseeing and half-day activities around Osorno Volcano and Petrohué.
Guide to passenger ratio: 1:14.
Transport is normally in minivans that seat from 8 to 14 people or private vehicles.
From November to April expect generally good weather, with temperatures varying from a maximum of 30°C/86ºF to a minimum of 8°C/46ºF. However, it does tend to rain one or two days a week in summer. From May to October rain is more abundant and the temperature drops to an average of max. 15°C/59ºF to min. -2°C/28ºF.
Bring a small day backpack, waterproof hiking shoes and socks, waterproof parka and pants, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other personal outdoor essentials.
Trekking poles are required for trekking activities from October to March. We strongly recommend bringing your own. Pole rental can be requested when booking but is subject to limited local availability.
Guests participating in trekking activities may be asked to complete a brief pre-trip health and participation form before travel. This information helps us better understand relevant health considerations and prepare for the activity.
The Desolación Trek and Bike by the Lake operate from October to March.
In April, the following seasonal alternatives apply:
All excursions are subject to weather, road, trail and access conditions. Cascada Expediciones reserves the right to modify the itinerary when necessary for operational or safety reasons.
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Updated October 4th, 2022
Dear Traveler,
We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile.
Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:
In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!
Best,
The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia
