Puerto Varas

Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
05/08/2025
Charming wooden pier with canopy lights on Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Varas, Chile, showcasing symmetry and scenic views.
Gabriel Felix, Pexels

Nestled on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Varas is a picturesque destination offering stunning panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes like Osorno and Calbuco. The town blends a unique German architectural heritage with abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure and a tranquil atmosphere.

The town offers a relaxed environment with various charming cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying local and German-influenced cuisine. While there aren't large party districts, the presence of numerous hostels suggests a welcoming atmosphere for backpackers to connect. Strolling along the lakefront provides a pleasant space to unwind and observe the surroundings.

Top 5 Things to do in Puerto Varas

Activities in Puerto Varas primarily involve exploring the natural volcanic landscapes, engaging in water sports on the lakes and rivers, and experiencing the unique German-Chilean culture of the region.

1. Visit Petrohué Falls and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Discover the powerful Petrohué Falls, where turquoise waters cascade over dark volcanic rock formations, with the majestic Osorno Volcano often visible in the background. The falls are located within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile's oldest national park, offering well-maintained walking trails that provide various viewpoints of the falls and surrounding native forest. This is a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty. Consider visiting on a clear day for the best volcano views.

Cost: Entrance to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is approximately CLP 7,000 (about USD 8) per adult. Guided tours from Puerto Varas often combine this with Osorno Volcano, with prices starting from around USD 49-80.

Transport: The falls are approximately 45-50 km from Puerto Varas. Public minibuses depart from the corner of San Bernardo and Walker Martínez streets in Puerto Varas, costing approximately CLP 3,000 (about USD 3.5) one-way, with a journey time of around 1.5 hours. Taxis or rental cars offer a more direct route, taking about 45 minutes.

2. Explore Osorno Volcano

Ascend the slopes of the iconic Osorno Volcano, an active but currently dormant stratovolcano known for its almost perfect conical shape. From its ski center at 1,240 meters above sea level, panoramic views of Lake Llanquihue, the Calbuco Volcano, and the Pacific Ocean unfold. During summer, visitors can hike, while in winter, it becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding. Chairlifts are available to reach higher viewpoints.

Cost: Organized half-day tours from Puerto Varas cost around CLP 28,500 (about USD 30-45). Chairlift tickets for higher ascent are an additional cost, approximately USD 15-30 depending on the section.

Transport: Osorno Volcano is about a 1-hour drive from Puerto Varas. Tours typically include hotel pickup. Alternatively, a rental car or taxi can be used.

3. Discover Frutillar's German Heritage

Journey to Frutillar Bajo, a charming lakeside town renowned for its strong German influence. Stroll along the waterfront, admire the well-preserved German colonial architecture, including traditional wooden houses with pointed roofs, and visit the modern Teatro del Lago. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local and German-inspired pastries ('kuchen') and coffee.

Cost: Visiting Frutillar independently has no direct entrance cost. Bus fare from Puerto Varas is approximately CLP 2,000-3,000 (about USD 2-3) one-way. Day tours from Puerto Varas can range from USD 140-200.

Transport: Frutillar is approximately 28 km north of Puerto Varas. Direct buses depart hourly from Plaza de Puerto Varas, taking about 40 minutes. A taxi takes approximately 18 minutes and costs around USD 11-14. Tours usually include transportation.

4. Rafting on the Petrohué River

Experience the adrenaline of whitewater rafting on the Petrohué River, known for its Class III and IV rapids. This activity provides an exciting way to explore the region's dynamic waterways while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, with views of Osorno, Calbuco, and Puntiagudo volcanoes. It is an adventurous activity suitable for those aged 10 and above.

Cost: Guided rafting tours cost approximately CLP 40,000 (about USD 43-52) per person.

Transport: Tours typically include pickup from Puerto Varas accommodations and transport to the rafting base near Ensenada, which is about 60 km from Puerto Varas.

5. Day Trip to Chiloé Island

Embark on a full-day excursion to Chiloé Island, a unique cultural and natural destination. Explore charming towns like Chacao, Castro (known for its colorful 'palafitos' or stilt houses and the San Francisco Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site), and Dalcahue, with its traditional market and wooden church. Some tours may also include boat trips to observe penguin colonies at Puñihuil (seasonal). This trip offers insight into a distinct island culture.

Cost: Full-day tours from Puerto Varas range from CLP 45,000 (about USD 50-61) per person, with additional costs for boat trips (approx. CLP 9,000 / USD 9.5) and lunch (approx. CLP 14,000 / USD 15).

Transport: Tours include transportation from Puerto Varas to Pargua, where a ferry is boarded to cross to Chiloé Island. The total tour duration is typically 10-12 hours.

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