Los Lagos Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Los Lagos in Chile with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Los Lagos.


Introduction to Los Lagos

Located in Southern Chile, Los Lagos is a region known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation amidst incredible landscapes.

The region is home to numerous lakes, volcanoes, national parks, and picturesque towns that are perfect for exploring. Visitors will also have the chance to taste some of Chile’s finest culinary delights and experience the country’s fascinating history.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through all the must-visit places, things to do, and where to stay in Los Lagos.

List of Places to Visit in Los Lagos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most popular cultural attractions in Los Lagos is the Museum of Colonial Churches, located in Castro. It features a collection of Chilote architecture dating back to the 17th century and gives visitors insight into the region’s history.

The city of Puerto Montt is home to the Juan Pablo II Museum, a modern museum that showcases the history of the region and its people. It also features art exhibitions and a library.

Other historical places worth visiting include the San Francisco Church and the Angelmp Cemetery in Osorno, and the Spanish Fort Reina Luisa in Calbuco.

Natural Attractions of Los Lagos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Los Lagos boasts an abundance of natural beauty, including the pristine chilote archipelago, snow-capped volcanoes, and crystal clear lakes. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, and kayaking.

Some of the best natural attractions in Los Lagos include the stunning Todos Los Santos Lake, the majestic Osorno volcano, and the beautiful Llanquihue National Reserve. Visitors can also explore the famous Chiloe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique culture and architecture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Los Lagos

Los Lagos is known for its scenic hiking trails and offers several options for bike lovers. One of the most popular hikes is the Osorno Volcano, a challenging route with spectacular views of glaciers and the surrounding landscape.

Other hikes worth considering are the Cochamo Valley, the Lake District Trail, and the Alerce Andino Nationa Park. For cyclists, the Puyehue Route, the Carretera Austral, and the Huilo Huilo Trails are excellent choices.

Best Things to Do in Los Lagos: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Los Lagos offers numerous other activities and tours. Adventurous travelers can go kayaking, horse riding, whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, or skiing.

For those interested in culture, we recommend visiting the iconic Chilote wooden churches, attending traditional dances and music shows, or taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Los Lagos

Los Lagos has so many incredible places to see and activities to do that narrowing down the options can be difficult. Here’s our recommended itinerary for one week in Los Lagos:

  • Day 1: Visit the Juan Pablo II Museum in Puerto Montt and explore the city’s charming historic center.
  • Day 2: Hike the Osorno volcano for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Day 3: Travel to Castro, explore the historic city center, and visit the Museum of Colonial Churches.
  • Day 4: Visit the unique Chiloe Island and learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Day 5: Go kayaking in the pristine waters of Lake Todos Los Santos.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to the beautiful Llanquihue National Reserve and hike one of its many trails.
  • Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the picturesque small towns that dot the region’s landscapes.

Food and Drink Scene of Los Lagos

Los Lagos is famous for its fresh ingredients, and visitors can expect to eat delicious seafood, meats, and vegetables during their stay. Here are some must-try dishes and local drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Curanto: a traditional Chilote dish made up of seafood, meats, and vegetables cooked underground.
  • Pastel de Jaiba: a crab pie made with fresh crab meat, potatoes, cheese, and cream that is typically served as a starter.
  • Caldillo de Congrio: a hearty fish stew made with congrio fish, potatoes, onions, and other vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: a traditional fermented drink made from grapes, apples, or other fruits.
  • Pisco Sour: a cocktail made with Pisco, a type of brandy, and lime juice that is a popular drink in Chile.

Where to Stay in Los Lagos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Los Lagos offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and cozy guesthouses. Visitors can stay in the major cities like Puerto Montt or smaller towns like Puerto Varas and Castro.

For travelers looking for luxury accommodations, we recommend the Hotel Awa in Puerto Varas or the Hotel Cumbres Puerto Varas. Budget-friendly options include Hostal Fx Patagonico in Puerto Montt or the youthful Hostal Y Turismo Llanquihue in Llanquihue.

What to Buy in Los Lagos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Los Lagos should not miss the opportunity to bring back souvenirs and unique local products. Here are some items to consider:

  • Handmade pottery and textiles crafted by the region’s indigenous people.
  • Traditional wooden crafts and sculptures from Chiloe Island.
  • Chilean wine and artisanal beers. Try the locally produced Cerveza Kunstmann, a popular beer in Chile.

Local Culture and Customs of Los Lagos

Los Lagos’ culture is heavily influenced by both indigenous and Spanish heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including the importance of family, music, and dance.

When visiting Chiloe Island, travelers should pay respect to the unique Chilote wooden churches and the colorful palafitos, houses built on stilts over the water.

Best Time to Visit Los Lagos

The best time to visit Los Lagos is during the summer months (December to March), where visitors can enjoy the mild weather and longer days. During the winter months (June to August), snow and colder temperatures make this region perfect for skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Los Lagos

Do:

  • Learn some Spanish before your trip to communicate with locals and fully immerse yourself in the culture.
  • Try the local food and drinks, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter in natural areas, and follow the “Leave No Trace” principles to ensure the preservation of the environment.
  • Do not disrespect local culture or act inappropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Los Lagos

Los Lagos is generally a safe region to travel to, but travelers should still take precautions and exercise common sense. It is always recommended to keep an eye on belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid carrying valuable items in public.

Health in Los Lagos

Visitors to Los Lagos should be aware of the sun’s strength in this region during the summer months. It is very intense and can cause severe sunburn or heatstroke, so wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated is essential.

Getting to Los Lagos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Los Lagos

The primary airport in Los Lagos is the El Tepual International Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt. This airport serves local and international flights, and visitors can take a taxi or bus to get to other destinations in the region.

Bus Stations Near Los Lagos

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel throughout Chile. There are several bus stations in Los Lagos, including the Terminal de Buses of Puerto Montt, which offers daily services to major cities in Chile.

Other Options

Travelers who prefer a more flexible itinerary can rent a car or take a taxi to get around the region. It is essential to have a valid driver’s license and insurance to rent a car in Chile.

How to Get Around in Los Lagos

Los Lagos offers several transportation options for visitors, including taxis, buses, and car rentals. Visitors can also join tours or hire a private driver for a more personalized experience.

Where to Go Next from Los Lagos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Los Lagos, visitors can continue their Chilean adventure by traveling to other nearby destinations like Valdivia, Pucón or Puerto Varas, all of which offer unique experiences.

Conclusion

Los Lagos is a region full of incredible natural beauty, fascinating history, and rich culture. This comprehensive guide has provided everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Los Lagos. With so many amazing places to visit and activities to enjoy, visitors will undoubtedly have a memorable experience in this unique part of Chile.



    Cochamó Valley
    Frutillar
    Puerto Montt
    Puerto Varas