Puerto Montt Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Puerto Montt? Look no further than this comprehensive travel guide filled with tips, recommendations, and must-see attractions.


Your Complete Guide to Puerto Montt, Chile

Nestled in the heart of Los Lagos in Southern Chile, Puerto Montt is a city of incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With stunning views of the Andes Mountains, pristine lakes and rivers, and a wealth of activities to choose from, this charming city is easy to fall in love with. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history buff, a foodie, or a culture seeker, there’s something for everyone in Puerto Montt. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best things to see, do, and experience in this vibrant city.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Montt

There’s no shortage of breathtaking natural scenery and culturally rich attractions in Puerto Montt. Here’s a list of the top places you won’t want to miss on your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Antonio Felmer: This museum is dedicated to the rich history and culture of the region, with exhibitions showcasing local indigenous artifacts, traditional crafts, and photographs of Puerto Montt throughout the years.

  • Iglesia Catedral de Puerto Montt: Built in 1856, this neo-gothic style cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the city. With its stunning stained glass windows and impressive architecture, it’s an essential stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Montt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lago Llanquihue: A beautiful lake that stretches over 870 km², surrounded by rugged mountains and dotted with picturesque villages. Spend a day exploring the shoreline, hiking, fishing, or boating on its crystal-clear waters.

  • Petrohué Waterfalls: Located in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, these cascading waterfalls are a must-visit for nature lovers. With their turquoise blue waters and dramatic drops, they make for a postcard-perfect photo opportunity.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Montt

Puerto Montt is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, with a range of hiking and biking trails for all levels. Here are some favorites:

  • Alerce Andino National Park: Home to the endangered native Alerce tree, this park offers several hiking trails that wind through pristine forests, past waterfalls, and up to panoramic viewpoints.

  • Osorno Volcano: For a more challenging hike, climb up the slopes of this active volcano for breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Montt: Activities and Tours

Whether you prefer to keep it low key or like your adrenaline pumping, there are plenty of things to do in Puerto Montt. Here are some favorite activities:

  • Kayaking in Reloncavi Bay: Explore the beauty of the region’s coastline from the water by taking a guided kayak tour.

  • Horseback Riding in the Andes: Enjoy a guided horseback ride through the stunning Andes Mountains and meadows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Montt

Here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Puerto Montt:

Day 1: Arrive in Puerto Montt

Settle into your accommodation and explore the city center, taking in the local architecture and trying some of the best local cuisine.

Day 2: Vicente Perez Rosales National Park

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of the park, visit the Petrohué Waterfalls and take a picnic by Lake Todos Los Santos, enjoying the scenery

Day 3: Alerce Andino National Park

Hike one of the park’s trails for an up-close look at the unique local ecosystem, including ancient Alerce trees.

Day 4: Osorno Volcano

Take a challenging hike to the summit of the Osorno Volcano, to soak up some of the most spectacular views in the area.

Day 5: Rural Farming Communities

Spend the day on a guided tour of the area’s rural farming communities, experiencing life beyond the city limits.

Day 6: Reloncavi Bay

Explore the area’s stunning coastline with a guided kayak tour.

Day 7: Depart from Puerto Montt

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Montt

Must-Try Dishes

  • Curanto: A traditional local dish made with shellfish, meat, and potatoes, all steamed together in a pit in the ground.

  • Sopaipillas: Fried dough served with pebre (a typical Chilean salsa). These are sold from street vendors throughout the city.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A refreshing traditional drink made from fermented maize.

  • Terremoto: Made from pineapple ice cream, wine, and grenadine, this sweet cocktail is a local favorite.

Where to Stay in Puerto Montt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re planning on staying in Puerto Montt, you have plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Here are some top picks:

  • Casa Perla: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Puerto Montt and offers rooms that are both comfortable and stylish.

  • Hotel Cumbres Puerto Varas: Located just a short distance away, in beautiful Puerto Varas, this hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

What to Buy in Puerto Montt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some local products worth taking home with you include:

  • Handicrafts: You can find a variety of locally made handicrafts, such as woven woolen products, ceramics, and traditional instruments.

  • Seafood: Puerto Montt is home to some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere - make sure to bring some home to enjoy!

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Montt

With a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and immigrant cultures, Puerto Montt boasts a rich and diverse cultural history. Here are some customs and traditions you may encounter while exploring the area:

  • Feria Artesanal Angelmo: This market features handmade arts and crafts from around the region and is a great place to discover local customs and traditions.

  • Mapuche Culture: The Mapuche people are the indigenous people of Chile, and their culture can be seen throughout the area in the form of handicrafts, food, music and more.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Montt

The best time to visit Puerto Montt is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Montt

Do:

  • Get off the beaten path: Some of the area’s best attractions and experiences are off the main tourist routes, so make sure to explore beyond the city center.

  • Try the local cuisine: From seafood to traditional dishes, Puerto Montt is a foodie’s paradise - don’t miss out on the flavors of the region.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack appropriately: Depending on the time of year, the weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring appropriate clothing and equipment for any outdoor activities.

  • Underestimate the power of the sun: Even on overcast days, the sun can be strong in Puerto Montt, so make sure to wear sunscreen and take necessary precautions to avoid sunburn.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Montt

Puerto Montt is generally a safe city, but as with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Health in Puerto Montt

As with most travel, it’s important to take necessary health precautions, including staying up-to-date on any vaccinations recommended by your doctor and using mosquito repellent if traveling during the summer months.

Getting to Puerto Montt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puerto Montt

For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is El Tepual International Airport, located approximately 20km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Montt

There are several bus stations in Puerto Montt, connecting the city to destinations throughout the region.

Other Options

For those looking for a more scenic route, there is also the option of traveling by ferry to Puerto Montt from other coastal cities.

How to Get Around in Puerto Montt

The easiest way to get around Puerto Montt is by taxi, with fares typically being affordable. Alternatively, you can also rent a car or travel by bus.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Montt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Puerto Montt is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Some nearby destinations to consider include:

  • Chiloé Island: A stunning archipelago that’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike.

  • Puerto Varas: Known for its stunning views of the Osorno volcano and the surrounding lake, this charming town is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Puerto Montt.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to discover the rich cultural heritage of the area, explore the natural beauty of the region, or try some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste, Puerto Montt is a destination that has something for everyone. With this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this vibrant city and the surrounding region.

Puerto Montt City, with Mt Osorno in the background Puerto Montt City, with Mt Osorno in the background Navimag ferry, enroute from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt Navimag ferry, enroute from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt