Top Puerto Varas Day Trips

Known for its dramatic landscape at the foothills of the Andes, Puerto Montt is best explored outside the city limits. Visit three of the area's top attractions on this shore excursion from the port, including a stop at Petrohue Waterfall, the German city of Frutillar, and the City of Roses, all while taking in incredible views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and volcano. This tour includes all entrance fees and transportation.

Explore the natural wonders of Chile’s Lake District on this full-day tour from Puerto Varas to the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park. Pass through towns like La Poza, Ensenada and Peulla; admire the Petrohué Falls (extra cost); and cruise across the Todos los Santos Lake in a catamaran. After a delicious 3-course or box lunch (depending on option selected), choose from optional activities like hiking, kayaking, horseback riding or a 4WD safari, and enjoy the park’s scenic rivers, forest valleys and soaring cliffs.

Admire the shimmering lakes and soaring peaks of the Chilean Lake District on this 6-hour tour from Puerto Varas, including hotel pick-up. Soak up the scenery as you travel to the Osorno Ski Center, located at 3,937-feet (1,240-m) on the Osorno Volcano, and enjoy panoramic views of Llanquihue Lake and Calbuco volcano below. Then, head to the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, where you can hike through the evergreen forests, visit Todos los Santos Lake and be awed by the Petrohué Falls.

Soaking in the hot springs at Termas del Sol is popular with travelers in Puerto Varas. But getting there without your own transport is tricky. Rather than relying on slow, infrequent buses, opt for a tour that transports you directly from your hotel. Relax and recharge in 10 pools; visit the charming town of Cochamó; and soak in views over the Reloncaví Sound, Lake Llanquihue, and the Puelo River.

Visit an active volcano and other natural highlights of Southern Chile. Begin on the southern shores of Lake Llanquihue and enter Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Petrohué Waterfalls and the tranquil beaches surrounding Lake Todos los Santos. Lunch in Ensenada at the foot of the Osorno Volcano. Travel up the volcano to a ski resort for striking views of the Petrohué River Valley.

Discover the natural wonders and gastronomic heritage of lakeside Llanquihue on this 6-hour tour from Puerto Varas. Discover Llanquihue’s German colonial history, sample the city’s famous Bavarian-style sausages (extra cost) and get a glimpse of local life as you pass dairy farms, salmon farms and breweries. After visiting the memorial to the German colonists, head to nearby Frutillar, where you can tour the German Colonial Museum and visit the Teatro del Lago (Lake Theater).

This experience combines two of the most spectacular highlights of southern Chile in one relaxed small-group tour. Travelers visit the powerful Petrohué Waterfalls and the dramatic slopes of the Osorno Volcano, surrounded by glaciers, lakes, and volcanic landscapes. Our tours are designed to be personal and unhurried, giving guests time to explore, take photos, and truly enjoy the scenery. Led by local guides who know the region well, this experience offers an authentic and memorable way to discover the beauty of the Chilean Lake District.

This tour is an alternative to traditional Chiloé tours. On this 9-10 hour tour we will visit a beautiful penguin colony, in addition to the magical Isle of Chiloé.

Explore the German influence, vibrant color, Llanquihue Lake, and much more on this small-group tour of Frutillar. Your excursion includes round-trip transfers from Puerto Varas, so you won’t have to organize that separately. Get your cameras ready to snap pics of the surrounding volcanoes, old cottages, and the Teatro del Lago. Before you leave, your guide will show you the best place to buy kuchen and apple strudel.

The tour combines two of the most spectacular highlights of southern Chile in one experience: the powerful Petrohué Waterfalls and the dramatic slopes of the Osorno Volcano. This small-group tours allow travelers to explore at a relaxed pace, enjoy incredible viewpoints, and take memorable photos while discovering the beauty of Chile’s Lake District with knowledgeable local guides.

Explore the stunning beauty of Chile's natural landscapes on this full-day private tour from Puerto Varas. Begin your adventure along the shores of Lake Llanquihue, visiting the magnificent Petrohue Falls and the serene Todos los Santos Lake. There’s an optional stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Ensenada before heading up to Osorno Volcano, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views and have free time to take in the surroundings. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the wonders of the Chilean landscape.

Discover the magic, culture, and traditions of Chiloé on an unforgettable full-day adventure from Puerto Varas. Cross the Chacao Channel to reach the legendary Isla Grande de Chiloé, a land of colorful palafitos, historic wooden churches, vibrant markets, and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Explore the charming towns of Ancud, Castro, and Dalcahue, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and way of life. As you travel through this fascinating archipelago, learn about the myths and legends that have shaped Chilote culture for generations, from mysterious sea creatures to stories passed down through local folklore. Admire stunning scenery, discover traditional architecture, and immerse yourself in one of Chile’s most distinctive destinations. A perfect combination of history, culture, nature, and local traditions, this tour is the ideal way to experience the authentic spirit of Chiloé in just one day.

This half-day trekking experience offers the opportunity to explore one of the lesser-known trails within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Surrounded by native forests and pristine landscapes, you'll follow a scenic route featuring impressive viewpoints over the Petrohué Valley and River. Along the trail, you'll encounter volcanic terrain formed by the most recent eruption of Osorno Volcano, creating a striking contrast between lush vegetation and rugged lava fields. With a moderate level of difficulty and expert guidance throughout the experience, this trek is ideal for nature lovers seeking an authentic outdoor adventure in Chile's Lake District.

Explore the remote wilderness of Chile’s Chiloè island on this full-day tour, including hotel pick-up from Puerto Varas and round-trip transport by ferry from Pargua. Explore Chacao village, walk the sandy Arena Gruesa beach and tour the historic landmarks and markets of Ancud, then visit some of the island’s UNESCO-listed churches.

Discover the distinct culture and natural wonders of Chile’s Lake District - with ease and efficiency - on a full-day group tour from Puerto Varas. After a comfortable transfer from the city, your group will walk to the spectacular Petrohue Falls. From Lago Todos Los Santos, take a catamaran tour and enjoy unrivaled views of surrounding volcanoes. Next, visit the small mountain village of Peulla, where you can explore independently and enjoy lunch (own expense).

Discover one of the most scenic and lesser-known hiking routes in Chile's Lake District. This trekking experience combines native forest trails, volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and impressive waterfalls within the protected environment of Llanquihue National Reserve. Following the course of Río Blanco, you'll hike through ancient forests and volcanic terrain while enjoying breathtaking views of Calbuco Volcano. The route offers a perfect balance between adventure and nature, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the region beyond the traditional tourist attractions.

Uncover the colonial history and heritage of Chile’s Lake District on this full-day tour from Puerto Varas, including hotel pick-up. Journey along the ancient Route of Settlers, stopping to admire the scenery around Llanquihue Lake and visit the Memorial to the German Colonists. After taking in the highlights of Llanquihue and Frutillar, climb to the ski resort of Osorno volcano, where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views over the Lakelands.

Discover the history of deep Chiloé, with its traditions, myths, legends, colors and architecture that make Chiloé a unique destination in the world.

Surrender and immerse yourself today in a unique experience of relaxation as we venture on this excursion to Termas del Sol. Located in the Reloncaví Fjord, about 2 and a half hours from Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas, we will discover this oasis. Immersing ourselves in the thermal waters that vary between 36° and 45°, surrounded by exuberant nature. Termas del Sol are renowned for their healing hot springs, rich in minerals and therapeutic properties, as well as being famous for their ability to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. Termas del Sol is a perfect place to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can also take a walk on the nearby nature trails or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Departure at 09:30 hrs from Puerto Varas to Frutillar on Route 5, in approximately 40 minutes we will arrive at Cancagua Spa a spectacular Relaxation Center where we can enjoy 2 1/2 hours in a Hot Tub in the middle of the native forest and overlooking Lake Llanquihue. An unforgettable experience that will make us charge batteries to continue with the rest of our activities on this day. After this we will head to the center of Frutillar for lunch (optional). At a predetermined time we will continue with our visit to the town with the Catholic Church, Lutheran Church, Lake Theatre and German Colonial Museum. Finally we can enjoy a beautiful sailing on Lake Llanquihue on the Bandurria Catamaran, this activity lasts 45 minutes and is optional. Return in the afternoon by the coastal route that links Frutillar with Llanquihue, last stop in this city and return to Puerto Varas at 17:30 hrs approx.

The trip from Puerto Varas to Bariloche on this tourist transportation is an unforgettable experience that combines comfort and scenic beauty along a picturesque itinerary from Puerto Varas to Bariloche. Buses or minibuses are designed with passenger comfort in mind, with comfortable, padded seats that offer generous space to stretch your legs and relax during the journey.

Join a special adventure where you can go kayaking on the first Patagonian fjord and witness a very particular phenomenon in the Estuary of Reloncaví: The union of the fresh waters of the river with the sea. You can enjoy incredible views of the Osorno Volcano and its fascinating natural environment from a different perspective, while we paddle with salmon and different birds.

This private experience invites you to discover the hidden natural beauty and cultural charm of Chile’s Llanquihue Lake region. Departing from your hotel in Puerto Varas, you’ll travel through picturesque landscapes toward the Puerto Octay Waterfalls, where a short 40-minute walk leads you to one of southern Chile’s most beautiful and peaceful spots — a true masterpiece of nature. Continue to the charming town of Puerto Octay, known for its colorful wooden architecture and German heritage. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch and a stroll through the central square to take in the relaxed atmosphere of this lakeside community. The journey continues to Frutillar, a lakeside gem famous for its black sand beaches, views of the Osorno Volcano, and its elegant Teatro del Lago. Walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy the tranquil scenery, and don’t miss the chance to taste one of Frutillar’s traditional German pastries, a beloved local tradition.