Things To Do
in Alerce
Alerce, Chile sits along the northern shore of Reloncaví Sound near Puerto Montt in the Los Lagos Region. The town blends coastal industry with access to lush forests and nearby national parks, including the famed alerce trees. The climate is cool and damp much of the year, with scenic fjords, beaches, and mountain backdrops shaping everyday life.
Visitors can expect a laid-back vibe, hearty seafood fare, and gateways to Patagonia’s landscapes just a short drive away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the quaint town of Alerce, nestled in the stunning Patagonian region of Chile. Spend the morning settling into your accommodations and getting to know the local ambiance. A leisurely stroll through the nearby lush forests introduces you to the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Chilean dishes. Afterward, take a guided tour of the nearby Alerce Coastal Range National Park, where you can marvel at ancient trees and diverse wildlife. Capture stunning photographs of the lush landscapes and perhaps spot some hermits or condors.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the Pacific. Spend your evening relaxing by the lakeside, where you can enjoy the serene views as the sun sets over the water. End your day with a small campfire, sharing stories with friends or fellow travelers.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast before heading out to explore Alerce Andino National Park. The morning is perfect for hiking the beautiful trails, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Chilean nature. Don’t forget your camera, as every turn offers picture-perfect views.
On your way back, stop for a picnic lunch in a picturesque clearing within the park. Afterward, visit the park's interpretation center to learn more about the unique flora and fauna of the area. This is a great chance to appreciate the conservation efforts in place and the importance of the Alerce tree.
Return to Alerce for dinner at a charming family-owned establishment that serves hearty traditional meals. After dinner, enjoy a cultural experience by attending a local folk music performance that reflects the rich heritage of the region. Allow the sounds of the guitar and traditional instruments to transport you to another time.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $50-110 |
| 🚌Local transit (1-way ticket) | $0.80-1.80 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to pristine coastlines and national parks
- Fresh seafood and welcoming local culture
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable, especially outside summer
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¡Buen provecho!" - Enjoy your meal!
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ayuda, por favor" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Alerce
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, nets, and harbor activity create vibrant morning compositions.
Wide waterfront views with mountain backdrops and sea activity; ideal for sunset shots.
Charming German-influenced architecture along Llanquihue Lake with reflections on calm mornings.
Ancient alerce trees and misty coastal forests offer dramatic nature photography opportunities.
Food in Alerce
Alerce Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich seafood-and-meat stew featuring shellfish, potatoes, and greens, commonly found at coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Fried conger eel or other white fish served with potatoes and lemon; a coastal favorite.
A fragrant seafood soup with a variety of shellfish and fish, often enjoyed with crusty bread.
A crab pie baked with a creamy topping, commonly served as a hearty local dish.
Crab chowder featuring crab meat, milk or cream, and aromatics; a comforting regional staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market by the waterfront offering fresh seafood, prepared dishes, and handicrafts; a great place to sample local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake in formal settings; use polite language (usted) with strangers. Personal space is valued, and modest dress is typical in small towns. Ask before taking photos of people and provide a friendly context when engaging with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Alerce
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 5 –10% in restaurants if service is not included. Small tips are appreciated for good service in cafés and bars.
Cash (Chilean Peso) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; ATMs are common in urban areas. Some smaller markets and street vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days (often 18–25°C) with long daylight hours; variable but shorter rain bursts; ideal for outdoor activities and coastal photography.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage around lakes and coastal towns; rainfall begins to increase; great for scenic walks and fewer crowds.
Cool and wet; frequent rain, especially on the coast; snow at higher elevations; plan for indoor activities and longer processing time for outdoor shoots.
Transition period with increasing daylight and budding vegetation; rain showers mixed with sunny spells; good for wildlife viewing and fresh produce.
Alerce at Night
Hiking in Alerce
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest paths that pass ancient alerce trees and overlook the sea; suitable for various skill levels.
Accessible trails with views of Petrohué Falls and the surrounding lakescape.
Airports
How to reach Alerce by plane.
Serves Puerto Montt and the surrounding region with connections to Santiago and other Chilean destinations; roughly 15-25 km from central Puerto Montt.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of urban residents, fishermen, farmers, and service workers; heritage includes Spanish, German, and Mapuche influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local clubs and informal matches are common in towns and parks.
Kayaking, sailing, and fishing are popular along Reloncaví Sound and nearby lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alerce.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in markets and many restaurants; look for salads, grilled vegetables, soups, and dairy-based dishes. Communicate clearly (vegetariano/vegetariana) and ask for items without meat or seafood; many places can adapt dishes or offer vegetable sides.