A tour covering both the Lake District and Chiloé Island in southern Chile is an excellent choice for those seeking a mix of beautiful lakes, mountains, forests, and unique cultural experiences. The itinerary below includes nature, adventure, and cultural highlights, perfect for an enriching 7-9 day journey through these two stunning regions of Chile.
Day 1: Arrival in Temuco (Lake District)
Arrival in Temuco: Fly into Temuco, the main gateway to Chile’s Lake District. Depending on where you’re flying from, you may connect through Santiago.
Transfer to Pucón (2.5 hours): From Temuco, take a private transfer or bus to Pucón, a charming town located on the shores of Lake Villarrica, surrounded by volcanoes and lush forests.
Afternoon: Explore Pucón:
Lake Villarrica: Stroll along the lakefront or enjoy a boat ride to take in views of Volcán Villarrica.
Hike around the town: Visit Ojos del Caburgua, two beautiful waterfalls just outside Pucón.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner in one of the town’s cozy restaurants, offering fresh local trout and salmon from the nearby rivers.
Day 2: Villarrica Volcano & Huerquehue National Park
Morning: Villarrica Volcano Tour:
For the adventurous, spend the morning hiking Volcán Villarrica (if open to the public). The trek is challenging but rewarding with views of the crater and the Lake Villarrica below.
Alternatively, you can go for a skiing or snowboarding adventure in winter months (June-September), or take a volcano tour to the lower slopes.
Afternoon: Huerquehue National Park:
After lunch, head to Huerquehue National Park for a beautiful hike (about 3-4 hours) through ancient forests of Alerce trees, crossing over scenic lakes and waterfalls. The Laguna Toro hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Return to Pucón in the evening to rest.
Day 3: Termas (Hot Springs) & Travel to Puerto Varas
Morning: Relaxing at Hot Springs:
On your last morning in Pucón, visit one of the region’s famous hot springs, such as Termas Geométricas or Termas Los Pozones. Spend a few hours soaking in the hot pools surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Afternoon: Travel to Puerto Varas (4 hours drive):
In the afternoon, head to Puerto Varas, a beautiful lakeside town on Lake Llanquihue, with views of Volcán Osorno and Volcán Calbuco.
Upon arrival, you can take a brief walk around town, known for its German architecture and beautiful gardens.
Evening: Dinner at one of the town’s lake-view restaurants, offering Patagonian lamb or fresh seafood.
Day 4: Osorno Volcano & Petrohué Falls
Morning: Visit Osorno Volcano:
Head to Volcán Osorno, one of Chile’s most iconic volcanoes, for a scenic drive (or optional hike) to the summit (1,240 meters). You can take a chairlift ride up to the Osorno ski center for spectacular views of the lake below.
Afternoon: Petrohué Falls:
In the afternoon, explore the stunning Petrohué Waterfalls in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The falls are set against the backdrop of Osorno Volcano, and you can take an easy walk along the well-maintained trails.
Visit Todos Los Santos Lake, a bright turquoise lake surrounded by forests and snow-capped mountains.
Evening: Return to Puerto Varas for dinner, and enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake.
Day 5: Travel to Chiloé Island
Morning: Ferry to Chiloé Island:
In the morning, take a ferry from Pargua (near Puerto Varas) to Chiloé Island. The journey takes about 30 minutes and offers beautiful coastal views.
Afternoon: Castro & Surroundings:
Visit Castro, the colorful island capital, known for its palafitos (stilt houses) and vibrant wooden churches. Explore the Palafito de Gamboa and the Church of San Francisco, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Take a drive through the island’s lush countryside to explore Muelle de las Almas and enjoy the wild, rugged coastline.
Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner in Castro or nearby towns, with dishes featuring curanto (a traditional stew made from shellfish, meats, and vegetables).
Day 6: Chiloé National Park & Quiloño
Morning: Chiloé National Park:
Head to Chiloé National Park, located on the western coast of the island. The park features stunning landscapes of rainforests, beaches, and coastal cliffs. Enjoy a hike along the Cucao Lake or the Chepu River, which is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Explore the Penguin Colony at Puñihuil (seasonal, usually October-March), where you can see Magellanic and Humboldt penguins.
Afternoon: Visit Quiloño Village:
Take a trip to the quaint village of Quiloño, known for its traditional wooden churches and the countryside with scenic coastal views.
Enjoy the tranquility of this less-visited area and engage with the local culture.
Evening: Return to Castro or Achao for another delicious dinner with local ingredients and fresh seafood.
Day 7: Ancud & Return to Puerto Varas
Morning: Visit Ancud:
Head to Ancud, a town located in the northern part of the island. Visit the Fort of San Antonio, where you can learn about the island’s history, including its indigenous roots and Spanish colonial past.
Explore Museo Regional de Ancud to learn more about the history, art, and culture of Chiloé Island.
Afternoon: Ferry back to mainland:
After lunch, take the ferry back to Puerto Varas.
Evening: Enjoy your last night in Puerto Varas, perhaps taking a scenic evening stroll along the lakefront, or indulging in a gourmet meal at a lakeside restaurant.
Day 8: Departure or Extra Day in the Lake District
If you have more time, you can take an extra day to explore nearby Lake Llanquihue, go kayaking, or hike in Alerce Andino National Park to see ancient Alerce trees.
Alternatively, take a flight from Puerto Varas back to Santiago or your next destination.
