Los Lagos

You will find snow-capped volcanoes, glacial lakes, and living traditions woven into nature, Chilote culture, and the warmth of the south.

To the adventure!

Welcome to Los Lagos

The Los Lagos Region feels like something out of a fairy tale.  From the slopes of the Osorno Volcano to the stilt houses of Chiloé, passing through glacial lakes, hidden hot springs, and national parks that protect the lush Valdivian rainforest. Here, Chilote culture, German heritage, and Huilliche roots coexist in a unique mosaic of traditions and landscapes. Explore cities like Puerto Varas or Frutillar, dive into the living history of Castro, drive along the Carretera Austral, or walk among thousand-year-old alerces. Los Lagos is water, land, history, and natural magic—all in one place!

Must-Sees

Mountains, lakes, vibrant culture, and soulful landscapes. These are the highlights of Los Lagos that will captivate you during your visit.

Chiloé and its Heritage Churches

Chiloé and its Heritage Churches

Explore the Isla Grande de Chiloé, with its colorful stilt houses, seafood markets, local mythology, and over 16 churches declared World Heritage Sites. A journey to the heart of the magical south!

Puerto Varas and Lago Llanquihue

Puerto Varas and Lago Llanquihue

With architecture inspired by German settlers, this city on the shores of Lago Llanquihue is perfect for relaxing, cycling, and enjoying southern cuisine with a view of the volcano.

Frutillar

Frutillar

A lakeside gem. Famous for its Teatro del Lago, tea houses, gardens, and the beloved kuchen. Ideal for those seeking culture, peace, and postcard-perfect views.

Carretera Austral Norte

Carretera Austral Norte

Head deep into the southern wilderness along one of the most scenic routes in the world. Rainforests, fjords, turquoise rivers, and the feeling of being at the end of the world.

Chiloé and its Heritage Churches

Chiloé and its Heritage Churches

Explore the Isla Grande de Chiloé, with its colorful stilt houses, seafood markets, local mythology, and over 16 churches declared World Heritage Sites. A journey to the heart of the magical south!

Puerto Varas and Lago Llanquihue

Puerto Varas and Lago Llanquihue

With architecture inspired by German settlers, this city on the shores of Lago Llanquihue is perfect for relaxing, cycling, and enjoying southern cuisine with a view of the volcano.

Frutillar

Frutillar

A lakeside gem. Famous for its Teatro del Lago, tea houses, gardens, and the beloved kuchen. Ideal for those seeking culture, peace, and postcard-perfect views.

Carretera Austral Norte

Carretera Austral Norte

Head deep into the southern wilderness along one of the most scenic routes in the world. Rainforests, fjords, turquoise rivers, and the feeling of being at the end of the world.

Why choose this destination?

Discover the unique charm this region has to offer.

Cuisine

Los Lagos is known for hearty, flavorful cuisine with a strong identity. Do not miss the curanto chilote, cooked underground with seafood, meats, and potatoes. Other highlights include sopaipilla pasada (fried pumpkin dough soaked in spiced syrup), empanadas de loco (pastries filled with Chilean abalone), cazuela de Cordero (lamb and vegetable stew), and German-inspired desserts like strudel and kuchen. In the lake district, trout and other fish round out a menu perfect for adventurous palates. And do not forget to pair it with a local craft cider or beer!

Handicrafts

Sheep’s wool textiles, carvings in native wood, and quila baskets are part of the rich artisanal heritage in the region. In Chiloé, hand-knitting and loom weaving are living expressions of local culture, while on the mainland, you will find beautiful work in basketry, leather, and ceramics. Every piece is functional, beautiful, and full of southern tradition.

Sustainability

Los Lagos is strongly committed to conservation tourism. Many rural lodges use renewable energy, composting systems, and rainwater reuse. National parks protect endemic species, and routes like the Carretera Austral encourage slow travel by car or camper van—inviting visitors to explore with care and respect.

Recommendations for your trip

What should I take?

What to Wear

Waterproof and windproof jacket Base and mid layers Trekking pants High-ankle trekking shoes

What to Bring

Trekking backpack Hiking poles Sunglasses Sunscreen Chargers and power bank

Weather

Temperature

Minimum: Between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F) Maximum: Between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F) – cool summers, cold and damp winters

Weather

High humidity with frequent rainfall year-round Mild, pleasant summers—perfect for outdoor activities Foggy autumns and winters, with lush green landscapes

Helpful information

Hospital

Hospital Base de Puerto Montt: Seminario 1055 Phone: +56 65 277 2000

Banks and ATMs

ATMs are available in Puerto Varas, Frutillar, Osorno, Ancud, Castro, and Puerto Montt Bank opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM ATMs: Available 24/7

Did you know?

Did you know?

Curanto en hoyo is an ancestral tradition that brings the entire community together. It is an ancient method of cooking seafood, smoked meats, and potato-based dishes underground, using the abundant natural ingredients in the region.

In Chiloé, some wooden churches were built over 200 years ago—without a single nail! They were constructed using only wooden joints and traditional techniques.

What to Wear

Waterproof and windproof jacket Base and mid layers Trekking pants High-ankle trekking shoes

What to Bring

Trekking backpack Hiking poles Sunglasses Sunscreen Chargers and power bank

Temperature

Minimum: Between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F) Maximum: Between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F) – cool summers, cold and damp winters

Weather

High humidity with frequent rainfall year-round Mild, pleasant summers—perfect for outdoor activities Foggy autumns and winters, with lush green landscapes

Hospital

Hospital Base de Puerto Montt: Seminario 1055 Phone: +56 65 277 2000

Banks and ATMs

ATMs are available in Puerto Varas, Frutillar, Osorno, Ancud, Castro, and Puerto Montt Bank opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM ATMs: Available 24/7

Did you know?

Curanto en hoyo is an ancestral tradition that brings the entire community together. It is an ancient method of cooking seafood, smoked meats, and potato-based dishes underground, using the abundant natural ingredients in the region.

In Chiloé, some wooden churches were built over 200 years ago—without a single nail! They were constructed using only wooden joints and traditional techniques.