Patagonia Traveler

Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas & The Lake District: Magic Under the Volcanoes

Known as the "City of Roses," Puerto Varas sits gracefully on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, offering one of the most iconic views in South America: the perfect snow-capped cone of the Osorno Volcano. This region is a harmonious blend of breathtaking Andean landscapes and a unique cultural heritage influenced by German settlers. With its alpine-style architecture, world-class fly fishing, and emerald-colored lakes, the Lake District is Chile’s capital of adventure and serenity—a place where you can hike through ancient forests by day and enjoy sophisticated gourmet dining by night.

3 tripsin Puerto Varas
Skorpios II expedition cruise ship navigates icebergs near a massive blue glacier in Patagonia.
Southern sea lion swimming in shallow coastal waters of the Chonos Archipelago, Patagonia.
Snow-capped mountains rise above dense temperate rainforest along the fjords and channels of Patagonia's Chonos Archipelago.
Orange expedition ship navigating near the brilliant blue ice formations of Glaciar San Rafael in Chilean Patagonia.
Patagonia CruisesNature and Landscapes

Skorpios Cruise - Northern Ice Field: San Rafael Glacier

6 days
Chile, Patagonia

This expedition begins from the city of Puerto Montt, sailing 800 miles towards the amazing encounter with the magical ancient ice of the San Rafael Glacier, through spectacular archipelagos, channels and gulfs. We will visit this imposing territory where cities and towns such as Quemchi, Dalcahue and the fishing village of Puerto Aguirre are found, showing us the entire splendor of the wonders of a vigorous nature.

From
USD 2,720per person
Glacier-fed turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and verdant forests along the Cruce Andino route near Puerto Varas.
Lakeside lodge at Puerto Blest near Bariloche with turquoise waters, forested mountains, and docked boat.
Aerial view of Bariloche's Circuito Chico with snow-capped Andes peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests in Patagonia.
Cruce Andino ferry boat navigates turquoise waters with dramatic forested mountains and rocky peaks in Patagonia.
Tourist photographing snow-capped volcano and forested island from ferry boat on Lake Todos los Santos during Cruce Andino crossing near Puerto Varas.
Hikers photograph Villarrica volcano from a turquoise river viewpoint in Chile's Lake District during Cruce Andino trek.
Heritage and CultureNature and LandscapesMulti-country tripsGetaways

Andean Lakes Crossing. Bariloche and Puerto Varas

8 days
Argentina, Patagonia, Chile

Experience 7 days and 7 nights exploring two of the most stunning destinations in Argentina and Chile: Bariloche and Puerto Varas. Enjoy their rich gastronomy, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history. The journey connects these gems via the Andean Crossing, sailing through Patagonia's most iconic lakes. An unforgettable adventure awaits!

From
USD 2,100per person
Cruce Andino ferry boat navigates turquoise waters with dramatic forested mountains and rocky peaks in Patagonia.
Aerial view of Santiago's downtown skyline with modern skyscrapers, highways, and the Andes Mountains in the distance.
Puerto Varas lakeside town with snow-capped Osorno volcano, German-style churches, and colorful architecture overlooking blue waters.
Argentine flag flying from a wooden dock overlooking turquoise Lake Nahuel Huapi with snow-capped Andes mountains in Bariloche.
Buenos Aires Puerto Madero waterfront with iconic white bridge, modern skyline, and tall ship under blue sky.
Multi-country trips

Andean Lakes Adventure: Journey through the Southern Capitals

12 days
Argentina, Chile

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Argentina and Chile. This captivating tour takes you to the most stunning lakes in the region, while also exploring the vibrant capitals of Buenos Aires and Santiago de Chile. Experience the magic of Patagonia as you travel between the charming cities of Puerto Varas and San Carlos de Bariloche.

From
USD 2,550per person

Travel Essentials

Colorful modern architecture of Teatro del Lago overlooking Llanquihue Lake in Frutillar, Chilean Patagonia.

Climate

Lush and temperate. This region stays green because it rains—even in summer. Temperatures range from 50°F to 72°F (10°C - 22°C). Always carry a light rain jacket.

Snow-capped Osorno volcano rises above Puerto Octay's lakeside homes and sailboat on Chile's Lake Llanquihue.

Best Time to Visit

October to April. Spring and summer offer blooming gardens and clear views of the volcanoes. January and February are the warmest but also the busiest.

Duration

Stay 2 to 3 nights. It serves as the perfect midpoint between Santiago and the deep Patagonia of the south.

Logistics

You can get there from Argentina via the Andean Lakes Crossing, also from Argentina by land transfer or to the Puerto Montt airport (PMC) which is 25 minutes away.

Snow-capped volcano rises above turquoise rapids and lush forest at Petrohué Falls, Chilean Patagonia.

Must-See Experiences

  • Osorno Volcano: Drive up to the ski center for a panoramic view of the entire valley or take the chairlifts for an even closer look at the glacier.

  • Petrohué Waterfalls: Witness the raw power of the turquoise River Petrohué as it rushes through volcanic rock chutes with the volcano as a backdrop.

  • Lake Todos los Santos: Take the legendary "Andean Crossing" navigation. Its deep emerald waters and surrounding mountains make it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

  • Frutillar: Visit this charming lakeside town, famous for its German heritage, the stunning Teatro del Lago (Opera House), and its traditional kuchen (pastries).

  • Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park: Explore Chile's oldest national park, home to ancient temperate rainforests and pristine trekking trails.