Best things to do in Puerto Varas
Find out more about those top places in Puerto Varas
Explore the Charm of Puerto Varas: A Gateway to Chile’s Stunning Lake District
Nestled between two majestic snow-capped volcanoes, Osorno and Calbuco, the picturesque town of Puerto Varas is one of Chile’s best-kept secrets. If you’ve been searching for a charming destination with a perfect blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures, Puerto Varas should be at the top of your list of places to visit.
Known as the "Gateway to the Chilean Lake District," Puerto Varas offers more than just beautiful scenery. With its Germanic roots, the town boasts a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from its bustling neighbor, Puerto Montt. From half-timbered houses to a stunning Lutheran-style cathedral, the town’s colonial past is evident in every corner, making it a real treat for history buffs and those keen to explore local culture.
Top Attractions in Puerto Varas: Natural Beauty Meets History
Puerto Varas may be small, but it’s brimming with sightseeing opportunities that make it a must-see for any traveler to Chile. Let’s dive into the top attractions and things to do in this hidden gem.
1. Lago Llanquihue – The Heart of Puerto Varas
If you’re a fan of scenic views (and who isn’t?), Lago Llanquihue will steal your heart. This inland sea stretches for miles and offers some of the most breathtaking vistas in all of Chile. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or simply strolling along the shoreline, the lake provides endless opportunities for relaxation and outdoor fun.
2. Osorno Volcano – Nature’s Majestic Wonder
For the more adventurous traveler, Osorno Volcano is a must-do. The iconic volcano towers over the town, and while it may look serene from a distance, it’s an adrenaline-pumping destination for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding (depending on the season). Imagine standing at the summit, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and panoramic views of the entire Chilean Lake District—this is what bucket list dreams are made of.
3. A Germanic Legacy: Puerto Varas Town Center
The German influence is alive and well in Puerto Varas, and you’ll feel it as you wander through the town’s historic streets. Stroll past the charming German-style houses, enjoy a coffee at a local bakery, or marvel at the Lutheran-style cathedral that stands as a tribute to the town’s colonization in the mid-19th century. The town’s fascinating history combined with its natural beauty offers the perfect mix for sightseeing.
4. Chiloe Island – An Easy Day Trip
Looking for a bit of adventure beyond Puerto Varas? Head over to Chiloe Island, just a short drive away. Known for its unique wooden churches, traditional palafitos (wooden stilt houses), and delicious seafood, Chiloe Island offers a cultural and scenic experience that you won’t forget. A great day trip from Puerto Varas, it’s an easy way to add some diversity to your Chilean adventure.
Things to Do: Adventure Awaits in Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into hiking, kayaking, or just taking in the majestic landscapes, there’s no shortage of things to do here. For those with a bit more energy to burn, volcano treks, zip-lining, and horseback riding are some of the exhilarating activities available in the region.
Not to mention, the nearby National Parks, like Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, offer an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in Chile’s wilderness, with its lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain views.
Travel Guide Tips for Visiting Puerto Varas
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Weather: It’s the Lake District, so expect a bit of everything. Rain is frequent, especially in the winter months, but this just adds to the lush, green beauty of the area. Be sure to pack waterproof gear for your adventures!
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Getting Around: Puerto Varas is small enough to explore on foot, but for those wishing to explore further, renting a car or taking a local bus is a great way to see the surrounding areas. Public transport is reliable, and there’s always something new to discover on the outskirts of the town.
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Dining: Be sure to indulge in local cuisine, especially the freshly caught salmon and delicious Chilean wines. If you’re a fan of German food, you’re in for a treat—many local restaurants serve hearty dishes that pay homage to the town’s heritage.
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Best Time to Visit: While Puerto Varas is beautiful year-round, the summer months (December to February) are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and water sports. If you’re a fan of winter sports, Osorno Volcano offers skiing and snowboarding in the cooler months.
Why Puerto Varas Should Be on Your Travel Radar
Puerto Varas is the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of Chile’s most underrated destinations. With its Germanic charm, volcanic peaks, and proximity to Lago Llanquihue, this town offers a unique combination of sightseeing, adventure sports, and relaxing lakeside vibes.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Chile's most picturesque hidden gems. Whether you’re hiking up volcanoes, cruising across lakes, or simply soaking in the charming town atmosphere, Puerto Varas offers a bit of everything for every kind of traveler.
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Osorno Volcano
Towering over the vast Lake Llanquihue is Orsano Volcano, one of South America’s greatest natural wonders. A variety of tours runs daily from Puerto Varas to the perfectly conical slopes of the volcano, which allow you to walk through millennia old coigües forests, marvel at the La Burbaja crater and take ski lifts to the highest summit where you can see magical lava formations.
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Lake Llanquihue
Surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes and lush pine forests, Lake Llanquihue is Chile’s most scenic lake and its second largest. Puerto Varas, which sits on its shores, is the ideal base for exploring this pristine wilderness. Every day tours leave the mountain town to explore the lake’s rich flora and fauna, the German influenced towns that pepper its shores, including charming Frutillar, and admire breathtaking views of the Andes.
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Petrohué Falls
Not far from the base of Osorno Volcano is the spectacular Petrohué Falls in the mesmerizing Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Set amongst verdant pine forests, the waterfalls are one of Chile’s finest with numerous trails around the edge that let you admire the full force of nature. Make sure to look out for the aptly named torrent ducks that live in and around the white water rapids.
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Museo Pablo Fierro
A highlight of Puerto Varras is undoubtedly the Museo Pablo Fierro, one of Chile’s most eccentric museums. With the powder blue clapperboard exterior bedecked in vintage cars, bicycles and other unique objects and the interior crammed full of unusual and often unforgettable memorabilia detailing the 19th century colonization of southern Chile, the museum is unforgettable.
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Frutillar
Located on the eastern shores of Lake Llanqihue, a tour of the Germanic village of Frutillar is one of the best tours available from Puerto Varas. With a factory producing excellent smoked sausages, inns selling traditional pilsner and 19th century Alpine lodges lining the twisting streets, it is easy to forget Frutillar is in Chile and not Bavaria. Tours of the village often encompass the fascinating Museo Colonial Alemán, which details German immigration to the area.
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Boat Tours of Lake Llanquihue
There is no more iconic experience in Puerto Varas than taking to the tranquil waters of Lake Llanquihue to savor the spectacular views of the Andes. Boat tours and kayak excursions from the town take you to the lake’s most remote islets where you will be amazed by the rugged volcanic geology and the bio-diverse ecosystem.
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River Rafting
For thrill seekers, the best experience to be had in Puerto Varas is rafting the white water rapids of the Rio Petrohué, where you will get up close to the raw power of nature. To cap this adrenaline pumping experience off, tours finish with cold beers and traditional southern Chilean food against a backdrop of glacier capped peaks.
