Puerto Varas
Chile · Los Lagos · 50 m
Description
Puerto Varas is a picturesque lakeside town on the shores of Lake Llanquihue in Chile's Lake District and one of the country's most charming travel destinations. Shaped by German immigrants who settled here in the mid-19th century, the town combines traditional wooden architecture, flower-filled streets, and a relaxed atmosphere with spectacular views of the snow-capped Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Puerto Varas is an ideal base for exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, home to the Petrohué Falls, Lake Todos los Santos, scenic hiking trails, and a wide range of outdoor activities. German culinary traditions, artisan breweries, and the iconic Sacred Heart of Jesus Church continue to reflect the town's European heritage, giving Puerto Varas its distinctive character and making it one of southern Chile's most popular destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 4 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Osorno Volcano(Day trip)
- Petrohué Falls(Day trip)
- Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park(Day trip)
- Llanquihue Lake Waterfront
- German Colonial Historic Center & Sacred Heart Church
- Todos los Santos Lake(Day trip)
- Cruce Andino Boat Crossing to Bariloche(Day trip)
- Osorno Volcano Ski & Chairlift Center (June - September)(Day trip)
- Puerto Varas Casino
- Philippi Park
- Mount Calvary Viewpoint
- Río Maullín Kayaking
- Llanquihue Lake Boat Tours
- Frutillar(Day trip)
- Puerto Octay(Day trip)
- Ensenada(Day trip)
- Calbuco Volcano(Day trip)
- Beer Festival (February)
- Kuchen Cafés
- Fishing on Llanquihue Lake
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Puerto Varas
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry