Things To Do
in Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas is a charming city located in southern Chile, known for its stunning views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes reflected in Lake Llanquihue. The city's German-influenced architecture and picturesque gardens create a unique atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Puerto Varas to hike, kayak, and explore the surrounding national parks.
The city also offers a variety of delicious local cuisine and is a great base for exploring the beautiful Chilean Lake District.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Enjoy the stunning views of Volcán Osorno while sipping a warm coffee from a local café.
Visit the iconic Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, a beautiful wooden church. Then, take a stroll through the charming streets lined with colorful German-style buildings.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local specialties such as fresh fish or traditional Patagonian lamb. End the day by enjoying a relaxing lakeside sunset.
Embark on a hike in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Marvel at lush forests and diverse wildlife as you make your way to breathtaking vistas.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Explore additional trails or relax by the river for a peaceful afternoon.
Return to Puerto Varas and enjoy a hearty dinner at a local pizzeria. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town as night falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including lakes, mountains, and volcanoes
- Rich cultural heritage with a mix of German and Chilean influences
- Various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing
- Pleasant climate, with mild summers and cool winters
- Vibrant local food scene with fresh seafood and traditional dishes
- Limited public transportation options
- Can be touristy, leading to crowded areas during peak season
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in Chile
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in major cities
- Occasional rainy weather, especially in winter months
Best Activities in Puerto Varas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and volcanoes in the oldest national park in Chile.
Enjoy the serene waters and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while paddling on the second largest lake in Chile.
Embark on a cycling adventure through the beautiful Lake District, taking in the scenic routes and picturesque towns along the way.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puerto Varas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puerto Varas
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Puerto Varas, Lake Llanquihue, and the surrounding volcanoes, making it a popular spot for photography.
Provides stunning views of the city, the lake, and the Osorno Volcano, and is a great place to capture memorable photos.
Offers picturesque views of the city and the lake, with opportunities for capturing the iconic German-inspired architecture of the town.
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue, especially at sunrise or sunset, for stunning photo opportunities.
Food in Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of Chiloe Archipelago, consisting of a variety of seafood, meats, and potatoes, slow-cooked in a hole in the ground. Best enjoyed at local festivals or events.
Must-Try!
Savory pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, cheese, or seafood. Visit small bakeries or stalls for the best homemade options.
Fried pastry made from a mixture of squash and flour, often served with pebre (a condiment made of tomato, onion, and coriander). Found at local markets and street food vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puerto Varas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and a variety of street food including ceviche, empanadas, and sopaipillas.
Along the waterfront, numerous stalls offer grilled seafood, traditional empanadas, and delicious churros. Perfect for a casual and authentic dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puerto Varas, it's common to greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. It is also customary to use titles such as "Senor" or "Senora" when addressing someone, especially in formal situations.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Puerto Varas. It is customary to show deference and consideration towards older individuals, and this is often demonstrated through polite language and actions.
Punctuality is highly valued in Chilean culture, including in Puerto Varas. It's important to make an effort to arrive on time for social and business appointments as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puerto Varas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Varas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Puerto Varas, Chile, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it's important to check before tipping. Generally, a 10% tip is considered customary if a service charge is not included.
In Puerto Varas, Chile, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger businesses and tourist areas. It's always advisable to carry some cash for transactions in more remote or local areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puerto Varas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Puerto Varas as the weather is starting to warm up, flowers are blooming, and the days are getting longer. It's a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Summer is peak tourist season in Puerto Varas. The weather is warm and pleasant, and it's the perfect time for water activities like kayaking and sailing on Lake Llanquihue. The town also hosts various outdoor events and festivals during this time.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold. The weather is still mild, and it's a great time for exploring the surrounding national parks and natural landscapes.
Winter is the rainy season in Puerto Varas, but it also offers a unique charm with snow-capped mountains and cozy vibes. It's ideal for those interested in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Andes mountains.
Puerto Varas at Night
Hiking in Puerto Varas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike offering stunning views of the Lake Todos los Santos and the surrounding mountains, located near the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
Features a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, showcasing lush forests, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs.
A moderately challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Lake Rupanco and the Andes mountains.
A short but beautiful trail that leads to stunning waterfalls formed by the Petrohué River, and offers opportunities for photography and nature observation.
An accessible trail connecting several lakes with beautiful forest scenery, perfect for families and casual hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puerto Varas through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puerto Varas by plane.
Located in Puerto Montt, approximately 20 miles from Puerto Varas, this is the nearest international airport, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 660 miles south of Puerto Varas, this airport serves as a major gateway to southern Chile, including flights to various domestic and some international destinations.
Also known as El Tepual, this airport provides access to numerous regional and international flights, primarily serving the Los Lagos region.
Chile's largest airport located in Santiago, approximately 750 miles north of Puerto Varas, offering extensive international and domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly of German and Swiss descent, this group has a significant cultural influence in the region.
Includes Mapuche and other indigenous peoples, representing the original inhabitants of the area.
The majority of the population, consisting of people from various regions of Chile.
Includes recent arrivals from other Latin American countries and beyond, contributing to the demographic diversity.
A transient demographic that significantly impacts local economy and culture, especially during peak seasons.
The Soul of Puerto Varas
Discover the essence of Puerto Varas through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Puerto Varas, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball is widely played, particularly among youth, with several local clubs and leagues.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, especially on the beaches during the summer months, with various tournaments held.
The mountainous terrain around Puerto Varas makes mountain biking a favorite outdoor activity for locals and tourists alike.
Fishing, particularly fly fishing, is popular in the nearby lakes and rivers, attracting many enthusiasts.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Puerto Varas, with clubs forming and more young people getting involved.
Given the proximity to lakes and rivers, kayaking is a popular sport, with guided tours and rentals available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Varas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Chilean cuisine leans heavily towards meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Puerto Varas offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as quinoa salads, grilled vegetables, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy various options like corn-based dishes, soups, and seafood. Additionally, some restaurants and cafes offer gluten-free bread and desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puerto Varas with these cultural adventures.
