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Colorful shingle-roofed stilt houses in the morning light, Castro, Chile.

Things to do in  Castro

Stilt waters run deep

The largest and oldest town on the island of Chiloé, Castro seduces travelers with its colorful shingle-roofed palafitos (stilt houses) perched on the waterfront. The town’s best-known attraction is the neo-Gothic butterscotch-colored Iglesia San Francisco de Castro (Church of San Francisco), one of the 16 wooden churches that make up the island’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Churches of Chiloé. Whether you want to dive into Chiloé’s rich maritime heritage or explore the coastal landscapes of nearby Parque Nacional de Chiloé (Chiloé National Park), you’ll find plenty of things to do in Castro.

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Time Zone
CLST (-3)
When to visit

Castro’s maritime climate ensures mild temperatures year-round, but the best (and most popular) time to visit the island of Chiloé is in summer's dry season, which runs from December through February. Expect rain any time of year, even in the dry season. Summer temperatures are mild, reaching highs of around 64°F (18°C).

Getting around

Castro is small enough to get around on foot. For trips farther afield and around the island of Chiloé, you can use the frequent bus services between Castro and Ancud or rent a vehicle. While many travelers rent cars in Puerto Montt and bring them onto the island by ferry, you can rent a car in Castro, although island rates are typically higher.

Traveler tips

For a taste of local culture, it's a great idea to time your visit to one of Castro’s traditional festivals, such as February’s Festival Costumbrista Chilote, which celebrates the island of Chiloé’s unique culture and folklore. Part of this festival centers around making chicha, an alcoholic drink from fermented apples, and curanto, shellfish and pork steamed over hot rocks in the ground.

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People Also Ask
Q:What is Castro famous for?
A:

Castro, Chile, is famous for its colorful palafitos, traditional wooden houses perched on stilts above the waterfront. Castro is also known for Iglesia San Francisco de Castro (Church of San Francisco), part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q:What are "palafitos", and where can I see them in Castro?
A:

Palafitos are traditional wooden houses raised above the water on stilts to offer fishermen direct access to the sea while protecting them from the incoming tide. Palafitos are a big attraction in Castro, and you can see them lining the waterfront in the Gamboa and Pedro Montt neighborhoods.

Q:What are the best things to do in Castro?
A:

The best things to do in Castro include strolling along the waterfront to admire the traditional palafitos, visiting the Church of San Francisco, checking out the Regional Museum of Castro (Museo Regional de Castro), exploring nearby Chiloé National Park, and taking a boat tour to see marine wildlife.

Q:Is Castro a good base for exploring Chiloé Island?
A:

Yes, Castro is a good base for exploring the rest of the island of Chiloé. As the island’s largest town, Castro offers the widest choice of accommodation and dining options and easy access (whether by tour, private vehicle, or public transportation) to the island’s major attractions.

Q:How can I travel from Puerto Montt to Castro?
A:

To get from Puerto Montt to Castro, you can travel by bus, car, or plane. Bus and car journeys include a ferry ride and take around 3.5 hours. Alternatively, take a 30-minute flight from El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt to Mocopulli Airport and drive 30 minutes to Castro.

Q:Is Castro worth visiting?
A:

Yes, Castro is worth visiting. The town has a unique character and is home to some distinctive architecture. It’s also a great place to get your bearings and learn about the culture and heritage of Chiloé before exploring more of the island and the surrounding islands in the archipelago.

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