Explore Chile’s beautiful Lake District by foot, bike and scenic drives, discovering a region shaped by ancient forests, shimmering lakes, volcanoes and charming southern towns. Rich in history, culture and natural beauty, this 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.
Today’s adventure takes us into Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile’s first national park, established in 1926. This active 16-kilometer hike crosses a beautiful and varied section of the park, with several ascents rewarded by sweeping views of the surrounding lakes and volcanoes. Along the way, the landscape changes dramatically, from lush temperate rainforest to volcanic steppe and the shores of Andean lakes. After the hike, we’ll visit the Petrohué Falls, where inky-green waters rush through ancient lava channels formed by the 1835 eruption of Osorno Volcano, before returning to Puerto Varas.
Please Note: This excursion does not operate between April and September. A similar alternative will be offered during these months.
Overnight Hotel Bellavista (3 stars) or similar, Puerto Varas.
Meals: breakfast and box lunch.
Today, we’ll discover the Lake District from a different perspective, cycling along the scenic roads between Frutillar and Puerto Varas. After leaving our hotel, we’ll drive to Frutillar, a charming lakeside town known for its well-preserved German-influenced architecture and vibrant cultural traditions. From there, we’ll get our bikes ready and begin pedaling south along Lake Llanquihue, passing old southern homes, quiet beaches, and open views of Osorno, Calbuco, and Tronador volcanoes. The route covers approximately 35 kilometers on a mix of paved and gravel roads, with some gentle ups and downs along the way. Our support vehicle will accompany us with water, fruit, and chocolates before we return to Puerto Varas.
Note: This biking excursion does not operate in April. During this month, it will be replaced by the Frutillar and Puerto Octay excursion, which includes a visit to the German Colonial Museum. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Overnight Hotel Bellavista (3 stars) or similar, Puerto Varas.
Meals: breakfast and snack.
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.
This trip includes easy walks and relaxed hikes through low mountain trails. An average level of fitness is sufficient.
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.
We recommend the following: small daypack, waterproof hiking shoes, socks, waterproof parka and pants, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, bathing suit and towel.
We reserve the right to change the order of the days of any itinerary at the sole discretion of the trip guide and based on operational considerations. The trip guide can modify, change or eliminate part of the itinerary based on safety/weather considerations.
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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
