Things To Do
in Los Lagos
Los Lagos is a region in southern Chile known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush forests, pristine lakes, and snow-capped volcanoes. The region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as trekking, fishing, and kayaking. Charming towns like Puerto Varas and Frutillar showcase a blend of traditional German architecture with local culture, offering visitors a unique experience.
The region is also famous for its delicious seafood cuisine, with fresh salmon and seafood dishes being a must-try for visitors.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by hiking in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Enjoy the breathtaking views of mountains and lakes while breathing in the fresh air.
Visit the Petrohué Falls and marvel at the cascading waters surrounded by volcanic rock. Take a moment for photography and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Chilean dishes. Relax and reflect on your day while watching the sunset over the lake.
Kick off your day with a boat tour on Lake Todos los Santos. Experience the stunning turquoise waters and lush landscapes as you glide across the lake.
Explore the enchanted forest surrounding the lake on a guided walk. Learn about the unique flora and fauna native to the region.
Enjoy a calm dinner at a lakeside lodge, relishing fresh fish dishes. Spend your evening stargazing as the sky clears up.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lakes, mountains, and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with indigenous history and traditions.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
- A growing tourism sector with various amenities and services.
- Mild climate suitable for various agricultural activities.
- Remote location can make access challenging for some travelers.
- Limited infrastructure in certain areas, affecting transport and services.
- Seasonal weather variations can impact tourism and activities.
- Economic disparities may affect quality of life for residents.
- Occasional natural disasters, such as earthquakes, due to geographical location.
Best Activities in Los Lagos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and mountains of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The park offers various trails for all levels of hikers.
Experience the beauty of Lake Todos los Santos by kayaking. Enjoy the lush surroundings and the majestic views of the Osorno Volcano.
Try your hand at fishing in the Reloncaví Sound, where you can catch salmon and trout while enjoying the scenic views of the fjords.
Marvel at the spectacular Petrohué Falls, where the Petrohué River cascades over volcanic rocks. The surrounding area is perfect for picnicking and photography.
Discover the diverse ecosystems of Puyehue National Park, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and soaking in natural hot springs.
Tours
Uncover the best of Los Lagos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Los Lagos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the conical volcano and the surrounding landscapes.
Provides stunning views of the still waters, lush greenery, and the backdrop of mountains, perfect for photography.
Features beautiful cascades and natural landscapes that offer excellent photography opportunities.
Food in Los Lagos
Los Lagos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These savory pastries are typically filled with beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. They can be found at local bakeries and food stalls throughout the region.
Must-Try!
A traditional Chilote dish consisting of seafood, meats, and potatoes, all cooked in a hole in the ground covered with nalca leaves. Travelers can experience authentic curanto at traditional celebrations or local restaurants.
Made famous by the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, this hearty conger eel soup is a popular dish in the region and can be enjoyed at many seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Los Lagos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh seafood, fruits, and local delicacies. Visitors can savor freshly prepared ceviche or sample local cheeses and pastries.
Known for its vibrant fish market and artisan crafts, Angelmo also features numerous food stalls serving up an assortment of seafood dishes, including the famous curanto.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Los Lagos, it's customary to offer a friendly handshake or kiss on the cheek, especially among acquaintances and friends. Maintain eye contact and smile to convey warmth and sincerity.
While punctuality is appreciated in business contexts, social events may have a more relaxed approach to time. Arriving a bit late to social gatherings is generally acceptable, but it's respectful to inform the host if you will be significantly delayed.
The region of Los Lagos is known for its stunning natural beauty. Show respect for the environment by following local guidelines for conservation, avoiding littering, and being mindful of the flora and fauna during outdoor activities.
Safety
Tipping in Los Lagos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Los Lagos, Chile, tipping practices generally follow the norms found throughout the country. It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. Tips are also appreciated in cafes, bars, and by taxi drivers, although they are not obligatory. The amount can vary based on the quality of service received.
Payment methods in Los Lagos are quite diverse. Most establishments accept cash (Chilean pesos) and credit/debit cards, with Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted. Mobile payment options have also started to gain popularity. It's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors or markets where card payments may not be available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season when the weather is warm and pleasant. It's the best time for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and fishing.
Fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for nature walks and photography. It's also a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.
Winter is the time for skiing and snowboarding in the Andes mountains. The landscape is transformed into a winter wonderland, and hot springs are particularly enjoyable during this time.
Spring is a great time to see wildflowers blooming and enjoy the mild weather before the peak tourist season begins. It's a good time for birdwatching and exploring the region's national parks.
Los Lagos at Night
Hiking in Los Lagos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The trail leads to the summit of Cerro San Lorenzo, providing breathtaking panoramic vistas.
This national park features a variety of hiking trails through lush temperate rainforests, waterfalls, and the famous Hanging Glacier. Trails range from easy walks to more strenuous treks.
A scenic area for hiking that features trails along the shores of Lago We are and some inland routes. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A striking hike that takes you up to the summit of Cerro Chaitén, an extinct volcano. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the Chaitén River.
This trail offers a moderate hiking experience that takes you through forests and along lakes. It's a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Los Lagos region.
Aiports
How to reach Los Lagos by plane.
Located in the city of Quillota, Teniente Vidal Airport is a regional airport serving the Los Lagos region.
Located in Puerto Montt, El Tepual International Airport serves as a major international connection for southern Chile.
Located in Antofagasta, this airport serves international and domestic flights, situated to the north of Los Lagos.
Situated on Easter Island, Mataveri International Airport handles international flights and is relatively nearby Los Lagos.
Located in Temuco, La Araucanía International Airport serves as a significant airport for the region of Los Lagos and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people who inhabit the southern regions of Chile and Argentina, including the Los Lagos region.
The largest demographic group, comprising individuals of mixed native and European ancestry.
Individuals of European descent, including those with German, Italian, and Spanish ancestry.
Residents living in rural areas, often engaged in agriculture and livestock farming.
Residents living in urban areas, including major cities like Puerto Montt and Osorno.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Los Lagos and throughout Chile, with many amateur and professional leagues, clubs, and a vibrant fan culture.
A traditional sport that involves cowboys showcasing their horsemanship and skills in a rodeo setting, which is particularly popular in rural areas of Los Lagos.
Basketball has gained popularity, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and community programs.
Both indoor and beach volleyball are played widely, with many locals participating in recreational and competitive tournaments.
Given the region's abundant lakes and rivers, fishing is a popular pastime, with both locals and tourists engaging in this activity.
With its stunning landscapes, hiking is a favored activity, drawing outdoor enthusiasts to explore the national parks and natural reserves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Lagos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Chilean cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Los Lagos offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in tourist areas like Puerto Varas and Chiloe.
Travelers with gluten restrictions will find that many places in the region offer gluten-free alternatives, such as quinoa or corn-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs in advance when dining out.