A smaller, less accessible port town than nearby Puerto Montt, scenic Puerto Varas overlooks Llanquihue Lake and the snowcapped peak of Osorno Volcano in Chile’s Lake District. Dubbed “the City of Roses,” the town is known for its traditional German-style architecture and cuisine.
The Basics
Puerto Varas is an ideal spot for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and sport fishing. The port town is a starting point for full- and half-day excursions into the surrounding countryside, including trips to Osorno Volcano, the Green Lagoon (Laguna Verde), and Petrohué Waterfalls. Most tours include pickup and drop-off from area hotels.
Puerto Varas is a cultural gem as well, with Chilean-German traditions and distinctly German architecture such as the red, wooden spires of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church (Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús). Opt for a cultural tour to further explore the area’s German influence and visit the historic village of Frutillar. To avoid the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transport, opt for a guided 4-day tour of Chile’s Lake District with round-trip airport transfers included.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Puerto Varas is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Dress in warm layers, as it can get chilly throughout the year.
- The city is also well known for its German-accented cuisine; be sure to try the tasty kuechen (cakes).
How to Get There
Located on the shores of Llanquihue Lake in southern Chile, Puerto Varas is accessible by land from Puerto Montt. The drive takes about 30 minutes along a well-traveled road, and you can take a minibus, rent a car, or hire a taxi. There are also regular ferry connections up and down the coast, and buses throughout the region. The airport in Puerto Montt offers connections from Santiago and other Chilean cities.
When to Get There
You can visit Puerto Varas year-round, but the most popular time to go is from February to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Visit in winter for fewer crowds and better skiing conditions.
What to See Around Llanquihue Lake
Set at the base of Osorno Volcano, Llanquihue is Chile’s second largest lake, and a popular destination for hiking, sport fishing, kayaking, and sailing. While in Puerto Varas, consider exploring the lakeside towns of Frutillar, Ensenada, and Puerto Fonck.
