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Overview
It seems that each of the royal blue lakes in this region of chocolate-box prettiness is overlooked by its own snow-dipped volcano. On the lake shores are resort towns with an Alpine flavour and traditional villages of neat wooden cottages, while the landscape is carpeted with forests and studded with youthful streams.
Arriving from the airport at Temuco, the snowy peak of the volcano Villarrica towers over the lake of the same name. The surroundings of the lively lakeshore resort of Pucón are a base for walking in glorious national parks, climbing Villarrica, rafting on the Rio Trancura or luxuriating in hot springs. To the south, scenic roads lead to a necklet of seven exquisite, sinuous lakes, their shores enveloped by temperate rainforest.
To the west, port city of Valdivia sits at the confluence of three rivers which debouch into the Pacific half-way between Temuco and Puerto Montt. A lively university city, it has a multitude of cultural events celebrating its diversity and is famed for its seafood.
Holidays Chilean Lake District (north)
Browse our selection of unique and memorable holidays that include a visit to the Chilean Lake District. Book now with Journey Latin America.
Private Journeys
Chile / Patagonia
Active Chile: Hiking, cycling and kayaking in the lake district and Patagonia
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Chile
Luxury Chile: Exclusive lodges and untamed landscapes
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Group - Discovery
Chile / Argentina / Patagonia
Nandu: Peaks and plains of Patagonia
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Things to do
There is lots to see and do in the Chilean Lake District, from climbing an active volcano, to white-water rafting. Book now with Journey Latin America.
Accommodation
After a long day of exploring the Chilean Lake District, relax in our selection of comfortable accommodation. Book now with Journey Latin America.
Where to go when - our guide to Chilean Lake District (north)
The weather in Chilean Lake District (north) is wide and varied
In this natural haven, deep blue lakes mirror the thick alpine forests, picturesque towns and snow-dusted volcanoes that define the region. Like much of Chile, this is a year-round destination, with access to a diverse range of adventurous activities dependent upon seasonal changes in weather conditions. In the height of summer (December - March) you may enjoy rafting down the tumultuous waters of the Trancura river, or hiking in the deliciously cool shade of the monkey puzzle forests which skirt the serene lakes. As the weather cools off in the winter months, there are plenty of thrilling snow sports to partake in - you may wish to try your hand at tobogganing down the side of an active volcano, for example. Numerous local festivities celebrating the winter solstice and indigenous new year brighten up these months too. In the autumn or spring shoulder seasons, you’ll find fewer visitors and a real chance to relax in peace and quiet - this is a particularly good time to unwind with a dip in the naturally heated thermal springs.
View our Chilean Lake District (north) weather guidePapagaio
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