Overview
Chile’s lake district is a picturesque region of ancient forests straddling rugged hills lorded over by snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs and crystalline streams, interspersed by flowery meadows and cattle pasture.
The southern part of the region includes the Bavarian-style resort Puerto Varas on the shores of the vast lake Llanquihue, overlooked by the perfect cone of the Osorno volcano. Not far from here are the Petrohue Falls, a popular break in the journey for visitors on the Lakes Crossing route to Argentina. Puerto Montt is a large town with a busy fishing port from where it’s a short ferry ride to the deeply traditional island of Chiloe.
Holidays Chilean Lake District (south)
We have a selection of unique and memorable holidays in the Chilean Lake District. Find out more and 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)
Group - Discovery
Chile / Argentina / Patagonia
Charito: Pure Patagonia
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Chile
Luxury Chile: Patagonia, Chiloe and Maipo valley vineyards
(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 (south)
The weather in Chilean Lake District (south) is wide and varied
Twisted ancient forests, flowery meadows and snow-dipped volcanoes are mirrored in the glassy surfaces of the lakes in this serene region. December - March offers the driest and warmest weather - temperatures hover in the 20°Cs, though it still rains on about half the days of each month. Breathtaking views await those who climb to the icy summit of the imposing Osorno volcano, which rises from the vast Lago Llanquinhue. In January and February you can enjoy the traditional music, dances, feasts and activities of the local festivals held across local towns. Take a boat out to the charming island of Chiloé, renowned for its brightly painted stilt houses, UNESCO world heritage churches and rolling green pastures. Visit between October - March to witness Magellanic and Humbodlt penguins nesting in Puñihuíl, and with any luck you’ll also spot whales from the shore. From May onwards the rain sets in with more frequency and many trails will be muddy, though most hotels and restaurants remain open. This could be a good time to soak in the warm natural springs of Ralun.
View our Chilean Lake District (south) weather guidePapagaio
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