Things To Do
in Los Lagos
Los Lagos is a southern Chilean region famed for its shimmering lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush temperate forests. It anchors a network of towns around Llanquihue and Todos los Santos lakes, offering dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures. The area blends indigenous Mapuche heritage with German-influenced architecture in places like Frutillar and Puerto Varas, plus a maritime culture in coastal towns such as Puerto Montt.
Visitors flock here for pristine landscapes, seafood-rich cuisine, and easy access to the Queulat, Puyehue, and Chiloé ecosystems.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread and homemade jams. Stroll along the serene shores of Lake Llanquihue, taking in the stunning views of the Osorno Volcano in the distance. Visit the iconic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, marveling at its beautiful architecture and the lush gardens surrounding it.
After lunch at a waterfront restaurant, embark on a guided tour of the town's historic buildings, learning about its German heritage. Stop by the Museo Pablo Fierro, where you can explore fascinating local art and history exhibits. Finish your afternoon with a leisurely walk through the vibrant local market, sampling artisan cheeses and handcrafted goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Chilean dinner featuring local seafood at a restaurant overlooking the lake. Experience the lively atmosphere of Puerto Varas by visiting a local bar for a pisco sour or craft beer. Take a peaceful evening stroll along the lakefront promenade, watching the lights reflect off the water.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, a short drive from Puerto Varas. Upon arrival, prepare for a day of outdoor adventure, starting with a guided hike through lush forests to the stunning Petrohué Falls. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you take in the vibrant colors of the landscape.
After exploring the falls, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river, surrounded by the park's breathtaking scenery. Spend the afternoon kayaking on the emerald waters of Lake Todos los Santos, where you can admire views of the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes. Capture the beauty of this pristine environment with your camera as you paddle through the tranquility of nature.
Return to Puerto Varas in the evening and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant. Reflect on your day's adventures over a delicious meal featuring local specialties. If you're up for it, catch a live music performance or cultural event in town to immerse yourself in the local vibe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚎One-way ticket (local transport) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $25-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and volcano scenery
- Strong seafood and regional cuisine
- Compact towns with easy access to nature
- Charming German-influenced towns like Frutillar
- Can be weather-dependent; some outdoor activities require flexibility
- Roads between more remote spots can be winding and slower
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Los Lagos
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning light over the lake with the Osorno Volcano as a backdrop; classic postcard scenery.
Colorful wooden facades along the lakeshore, with a touch of old-world charm and café culture.
Turquoise cascades framed by dark basalt rock, ideal for dramatic landscape photography.
Vibrant boats, docks, and stalls; bright colors and textures ideal for street photography.
Iconic UNESCO-listed towers and hulls in a maritime setting; distinctive woodwork and silhouette shots.
Food in Los Lagos
Los Lagos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional seafood and meat dish cooked in a hole in the ground, often served with potatoes and herbs; best experienced in Chiloé or at dedicated curanto spots.
Must-Try!
A hearty seafood stew featuring mussels, clams, shrimp, and fish in a rich broth.
Sweetcorn crust pie filled with beef, chicken, olives, and eggs; a comforting regional staple.
A rustic, broth-based stew with meat and vegetables; a warming, homey option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful fish stalls, seafood tastings, and craft stalls by the water; ideal for sampling fresh bites.
Empanadas, completos, and other quick bites sold by vendors along the lakefront and markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Chileans typically greet with a handshake; among friends a kiss on the cheek may occur. Politeness in language goes a long way.
Be punctual for tours and meetings; form orderly queues and avoid rushing others.
Spanish is dominant; learning a few phrases helps. English is more common in larger towns and tourist-focused spots.
Safety
Tipping in Los Lagos
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% service charge is common in many restaurants; if not included, a 10–15% tip is customary in nicer establishments.
Cash (CLP) and cards are widely accepted; some places accept USD in tourist zones. ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec–Feb: Warm days by the water, long daylight hours; expect higher visitation and more outdoor activities.
Mar–May: Mild days with colorful foliage around the lakes; fewer crowds and comfortable hiking weather.
Jun–Aug: Cooler, wetter, and windier; snow on higher peaks; ideal for cozy cafés and museum visits.
Sep–Nov: Temperatures rise, landscapes bloom; shoulder season with good value and improving trail conditions.
Los Lagos at Night
Hiking in Los Lagos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic hike with views over Llanquihue Lake and surrounding ranges; some segments are steeper and require good footing.
Trails passing by waterfalls and alpine lake scenery; suitable for a scenic day hike.
Forest and crater landscapes with beech and lenga trees; diverse wildlife and evergreen scenery.
Airports
How to reach Los Lagos by plane.
Major gateway to the Los Lagos region (Puerto Montt); connects to Santiago and international routes via hub airports; taxis and buses available to towns along the lakes.
Chile’s main international hub; many onward domestic flights to Puerto Montt and other regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Chilean with a mix of Mapuche communities in the southern areas and a heritage of German settlement around the lakes.
Domestic and international travelers exploring lakes, volcanoes, and the Chiloe archipelago.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and casual games are common in parks and stadiums.
Lakes Llanquihue and Todos los Santos host sailing, windsurfing, and fishing activities.
Calm waters around Puerto Varas and Frutillar are ideal for paddling newcomers and experienced paddlers alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Lagos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian options; request plant-based dishes and salads. Pairs with regional vegetables and pasta preparations.
Ask about vegan options; many places can adjust dishes by omitting meat and dairy; emphasize fresh produce and grain-based plates.