The Lake District & Chiloé
Volcanoes, lakes, and island legends 🌋
Important Safety Note: Travelers should exercise increased caution when driving through the Araucanía region (north of the Lake District) due to ongoing civil unrest. While major tourist hubs like Pucón and Puerto Varas are generally safe, stay on main highways and avoid traveling at night in remote conflict zones.
The Lake District and Chiloé offers a magical mix of adventure and folklore. The landscape is dominated by snow-capped volcanoes reflecting in deep blue lakes, reminiscent of the Alps but with native forests. In Pucón, families can enjoy the thrill of gazing at the smoking Villarrica Volcano. The area is packed with family adventures: easy rafting on the Trancura River, canopy zip-lines through the trees, and relaxing in the many geometric thermal hot springs that dot the volcanic valleys.
Further south, the city of Puerto Varas sits on the shores of Lake Llanquihue with a perfect view of the Osorno Volcano. A short drive away, the Petrohué Waterfalls churn through black volcanic rock, offering easy boardwalks for children. Crossing over to Chiloé Island feels like entering a different world. The island is famous for its myths of forest gnomes and ghost ships, which captivate children's imaginations. Families can visit the colorful palafitos (stilt houses) in Castro and explore the UNESCO World Heritage wooden churches. The island's cuisine, particularly the curanto (a seafood and meat stew cooked in a hole in the ground), is a cultural event in itself that families often enjoy watching being prepared.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Features world-class volcanic trekking and the unique temperate rainforests of Chiloé National Park. Peak summer (Jan-Feb) provides the only period with rainfall below 100mm; mid-winter (May-Aug) sees extreme precipitation exceeding 300mm, making trails impassable.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Features the UNESCO-listed wooden churches of Chiloé and the unique German-influenced architecture of Frutillar. Summer is the peak for outdoor cultural exploration and vibrant local markets, while the persistent, heavy winter rains make urban walking tours uncomfortable for families.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Home to world-class thermal springs and luxury eco-lodges integrated into the natural forest. While hot springs are enjoyable in the rain, the peak months provide the pleasant 20°C+ temperatures and low humidity required for a premium, comprehensive wellness experience.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The Seven Lakes circuit is scenic but the region's extreme rainfall (210mm+ even in peak summer months Jan-Feb) severely undermines the road trip experience. Excellent road trip destinations (Iceland's Ring Road, NZ South Island, Pacific Coast Highway) offer more reliable weather windows and greater scenic variety. Very_good more accurately reflects the weather constraint.
Winter sports, ski resorts, snow activities
Features a unique international experience of skiing on active volcanoes like Villarrica and Osorno with high-quality boutique lodges. Peak season (Jul-Aug) aligns with the highest precipitation for reliable snow cover; summer months are entirely unsuitable as snow recedes from the skiable slopes.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Exceptional terrain for fly-fishing, white-water rafting, and mountain biking around Puerto Varas. Peak conditions occur during the drier summer window (Jan-Feb); high river levels and intense rain from autumn through spring limit technical sport access.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Significant opportunities for learning about volcanology, Jesuit history, and traditional stilt-house (palafito) engineering. Summer offers the best access to guided historical tours and outdoor archaeological sites; winter closures and heavy rain restrict many educational programs.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Hosts the internationally recognized 'Semanas Musicales' in Frutillar and authentic Chiloé folklore festivals during the summer. These cultural events are highly seasonal, occurring almost exclusively in January and February to take advantage of the milder weather.
Attractions (81 total)
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Castillo de la Pura y Limpia Concepción de Monfort de Lemus
Valdivia
A well-preserved 17th-century Spanish coastal fortress offering panoramic bay views and fascinating colonial history exhibitions.
Visit website →Church of San Francisco, Castro
Castro
A UNESCO World Heritage wooden church famous for its vibrant yellow and violet exterior and unique neo-Gothic Chiloé architecture.
Museo Colonial Alemán de Frutillar
Frutillar
An open-air museum showcasing restored 19th-century German settler architecture and beautiful gardens overlooking Lake Llanquihue.
Visit website →Castillo San Pedro de Alcántara de Mancera
Valdivia
An island fortress featuring 17th-century ruins and a colonial church, accessible via a scenic ferry ride through the Valdivia estuary.
Fuerte San Antonio
Ancud
The final Spanish fortification in Chile, this 18th-century site features historic cannons and defensive walls with views of the Chacao Channel.
Ski Resort / Winter Sports Center
Corralco Mountain & Ski Resort
Malalcahuello
1,480-2,400m, 29 runs, 25km pistes, June-October season, notable for its long season and high-quality snow on the slopes of Lonquimay Volcano.
Visit website →Ski Pucón
Pucón
1,400-2,100m, 20 runs, 30km pistes, July-September season, featuring natural half-pipes and volcanic gullies on the Villarrica Volcano.
Visit website →Las Araucarias Ski Center
Vilcún
1,550-1,950m, 10 runs, 15km pistes, July-September season, unique resort located on the Llaima Volcano surrounded by ancient Araucaria forests.
Visit website →Antillanca Ski Resort
Puyehue
1,040-1,500m, 18 runs, 14km pistes, June-October season, located within Puyehue National Park on the slopes of Casablanca Volcano.
Visit website →Volcán Osorno Ski Center
Ensenada
1,240-1,670m, 12 runs, 10km pistes, July-September season, offering world-class views of Lake Llanquihue and the surrounding Andes.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Frutillar Bajo
Frutillar
A lakeside historic village featuring perfectly preserved German colonial timber architecture and the stunning Teatro del Lago.
Visit website →San Francisco de Castro Church
Castro
An iconic yellow and purple UNESCO World Heritage wooden church that serves as the centerpiece of Chiloé's capital city.
Visit website →Chonchi Historic Village
Chonchi
Known as the 'City of Three Floors,' this historic area features steep streets, 19th-century timber mansions, and a grand UNESCO church.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Frutillar Bajo Beach
Frutillar
A charming lakeside beach area known for its German-inspired architecture, calm waters, and panoramic views of the Osorno Volcano.
Muelle de las Almas
Cucao
A legendary wooden pier overlooking the rugged Pacific cliffs of Chiloé, offering breathtaking views of the wild coastal landscape.
Playa Grande
Pucón
A popular black sand beach on the shores of Lake Villarrica offering stunning views of the active Villarrica Volcano and safe swimming for families.
Playa Cole Cole
Cucao
A pristine, secluded beach within Chiloé National Park reached via a scenic coastal trail, perfect for families who enjoy hiking and nature.
Visit website →Playa Blanca
Caburgua
Famous for its uniquely white sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach on Lake Caburgua is a favorite for families seeking a picturesque swimming spot.
Playa de Niebla
Valdivia
The most popular beach in the Valdivia area, featuring dark volcanic sands and proximity to historic Spanish colonial fortifications.
Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Fundo Playa Venado
Puerto Varas
An interactive dairy farm where visitors can watch Jersey cows being milked, feed calves, and sample artisanal manjar and cheese.
Visit website →Abeja Maya
Frutillar
An educational apiculture park where visitors learn about the honey-making process and the importance of bees through interactive tours.
Agroturismo Coñico
Castro
A UNESCO-recognized agricultural heritage site offering authentic Chiloé rural experiences including traditional farm chores and livestock interaction.
Granja Educativa Don German
Pucón
A charming rural attraction near Pucón where children can interact with local livestock and learn about traditional Chilean farming practices.
Granja Educativa Tierraviva
Puerto Montt
A popular family-oriented petting zoo featuring a wide variety of farm animals, interactive feeding sessions, and nature trails.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve
Neltume
A world-class ecotourism destination offering families diverse activities including canopy tours, hiking trails, and the chance to see unique volcano-shaped hotels in a lush forest.
Visit website →Parque Oncol
Valdivia
A protected rainforest park offering zip-lining and educational nature walks with lookouts that provide views of both the Andes and the Pacific Ocean.
Visit website →Bosque Aventura
Pucón
An outdoor adventure park specializing in zip-lining and canopy circuits designed for various skill levels in the beautiful forests near Villarrica Volcano.
Visit website →Canopy Chile
Ensenada
An activity center offering thrilling zip-line experiences with panoramic views of the Osorno Volcano and the emerald waters of Lake Llanquihue.
Visit website →Parque Futangue
Riñinahue
A expansive nature park perfect for active families, featuring high-quality hiking trails, suspension bridges, and kayaking on pristine mountain lagoons.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Iglesia de San Francisco de Castro
Castro
A striking yellow and purple UNESCO World Heritage wooden church that serves as the centerpiece of Chiloé's architectural history.
Osorno Volcano
Puerto Varas
A perfectly symmetrical snow-capped volcano known as the 'Mount Fuji of South America' and a primary landmark of the Lake District.
Villarrica Volcano
Pucón
One of Chile's most active and iconic volcanoes, offering families a majestic backdrop for photography and guided summit treks.
Palafitos de Gamboa
Castro
Iconic colorful wooden houses built on stilts over the water, representing the unique urban heritage of the Chiloé Archipelago.
Castillo de Niebla
Valdivia
A historic 17th-century Spanish colonial coastal fortification featuring stone walls and original cannons overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Visit website →Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
Puerto Varas
A beautiful red and white wooden church inspired by German architecture that dominates the hillside skyline of Puerto Varas.
Teatro del Lago
Frutillar
An internationally acclaimed performing arts center known for its stunning wooden architecture and scenic position on the shores of Lake Llanquihue.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Jardín Botánico de la Universidad Austral de Chile
Valdivia
A premier scientific and aesthetic garden on Isla Teja featuring an extensive collection of native and exotic species along the riverbanks.
Visit website →Museo Colonial Alemán de Frutillar Gardens
Frutillar
These meticulously landscaped formal gardens surround historic German colonial buildings, offering stunning views of Lake Llanquihue and Osorno Volcano.
Visit website →Jardín Botánico de Chiloé
Ancud
A specialized conservation center near Ancud showcasing the unique plants and ecosystems of the Chiloé Archipelago through educational forest walks.
Visit website →Jardín Botánico Pucón
Pucón
A peaceful educational garden dedicated to the conservation of native Chilean flora with scenic trails suitable for all ages.
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
MAM Chiloé (Museo de Arte Moderno Chiloé)
Castro
Housed in a distinctive wooden building, this museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary Chilean art within a beautiful park setting.
Visit website →Casa del Arte Diego Rivera
Puerto Montt
The city's primary cultural center, featuring multiple galleries that host diverse fine art exhibitions and local artisan works.
Visit website →MAC Valdivia (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo)
Valdivia
Set within the historical ruins of a riverside brewery, this museum offers a unique industrial backdrop for rotating national and international art exhibitions.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Monumento Natural Islotes de Puñihuil
Ancud
A unique wildlife sanctuary where visitors can see both Humboldt and Magellanic penguins nesting on rocky islets off the coast of Chiloé.
Visit website →Fauna Andina
Villarrica
An educational wildlife center dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of native Chilean species like the pudú and Andean cat.
Visit website →Huilo Huilo Deer and Wild Boar Center
Neltume
Large wildlife enclosures within the famous Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve featuring elevated walkways for observing red deer and wild boar in a rainforest setting.
Visit website →Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Northern Carretera Austral (Route 7)
Puerto Montt
Approx 205km to Chaitén, requiring 2-3 days including ferry wait times. Mix of paved and gravel sections. This world-famous route starts in Puerto Montt and winds through temperate rainforests, passing Alerce Andino National Park, the Reloncaví Estuary, and the spectacular Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park.
Visit website →Ruta Interlagos (Lakes & Volcanoes Scenic Route)
Victoria
A massive 1,920km network of interconnected scenic roads (can be driven in segments over 7-14 days). Primarily paved with some well-maintained gravel. It connects 22 lakes and 17 volcanoes across the Araucanía, Los Ríos, and Los Lagos regions, passing through Pucón, Villarrica, and the Huilo Huilo Reserve.
Visit website →Chiloé Wooden Churches Route (Ruta de las Iglesias)
Castro
Variable distance coastal driving route (1-3 days) on paved roads connecting the 16 UNESCO World Heritage wooden churches. The most scenic section runs from Castro through Dalcahue to the islands of Quinchao and Achao, featuring rolling green hills and views of the Inland Sea.
Visit website →Lake Llanquihue Loop (Circuito Lago Llanquihue)
Puerto Varas
186km paved loop around Chile's second-largest lake, typically completed in 1 day. This iconic drive offers constant views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Key stops include the German colonial town of Frutillar, the historic village of Puerto Octay, and the turquoise Petrohué Falls.
Visit website →Seven Lakes Route (Ruta de los Siete Lagos)
Panguipulli
Approx 230km loop (1-2 days) on paved and gravel roads through the Los Ríos region. This route connects Panguipulli, Calafquén, Riñihue, Pullingue, Pellaifa, Pirihueico, and Neltume lakes. Highlights include the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve and the Mocho-Choshuenco volcano views.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Saltos del Petrohué
Ensenada
Powerful turquoise waterfalls that cascade through chutes of volcanic rock with the backdrop of the Osorno Volcano.
Visit website →Chiloé National Park
Cucao
A wild coastal park on the Big Island of Chiloé featuring dunes, evergreen forests, and the famous Muelle de las Almas.
Visit website →Conguillío National Park
Melipeuco
Known as the 'Jurassic' park of Chile, it features the Llaima Volcano, vast lava fields, and millennial Monkey Puzzle tree forests.
Visit website →Huerquehue National Park
Pucón
A stunning park famous for its 'Three Lakes' trail, ancient Araucaria trees, and high-altitude Andean lagoons.
Visit website →Water Park / Splash Park / Aquatic Centre
Termas Geométricas
Coñaripe
A stunning architectural thermal complex featuring seventeen slate-lined pools connected by vibrant red wooden walkways through a misty, fern-filled mountain ravine.
Visit website →Aquaventura Park
Pucón
A recreational water park featuring multiple outdoor swimming pools, multi-lane water slides, and extensive green spaces for family activities near the Villarrica Volcano.
Visit website →Termas del Sol
Cochamó
A premium aquatic retreat offering diverse thermal pools constructed from local stone with panoramic views of the Andes mountains and the Puelo River valley.
Visit website →Termas Huife
Pucón
A well-appointed thermal park located along the Liucura River, featuring several outdoor pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and family-friendly amenities in a beautiful mountain setting.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Puerto Varas
Chile's oldest national park features the turquoise Petrohué Waterfalls and the iconic, perfectly conical Osorno Volcano.
Visit website →Villarrica National Park
Pucón
A stunning landscape centered around the active, snow-capped Villarrica Volcano, offering family-friendly hiking trails and volcanic caves.
Visit website →Puyehue National Park
Entre Lagos
A lush forest sanctuary renowned for its natural thermal springs, dramatic waterfalls, and views of the Puyehue and Casablanca volcanoes.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Villarrica Traverse
Pucón
80km challenging 5-stage trek traversing Villarrica National Park across volcanic landscapes and monkey puzzle forests. 3,500m elevation gain. Equipment rental: TravelAid Pucón (travelaid.cl)
Visit website →Vuelta al Lago Llanquihue
Puerto Varas
165km moderate 2-3 day cycling route circling Chile's second largest lake with constant views of Osorno Volcano. 1,200m elevation gain. Bike rental: Cassis Bike (cassis.cl)
Visit website →Muelle de las Almas Trail
Cucao
5km easy-to-moderate round trip hike to a famous wooden art installation overlooking the Pacific cliffs. 200m elevation gain. Typical duration: 2 hours.
Visit website →Sendero Cole Cole
Cucao
16km moderate day hike along the rugged Pacific coast of Chiloé National Park to a secluded beach and viewpoint. 400m elevation gain. Typical duration: 6 hours.
Visit website →Sendero de Chile: Quetrupillán to Puesco
Curarrehue
35km challenging 2-day section of the national trail system passing between the Quetrupillán and Lanín volcanoes. 1,100m elevation gain.
Visit website →Huerquehue Lakes Trail (Los Lagos)
Pucón
13km moderate-to-challenging day hike through ancient Araucaria forests to a series of high-altitude alpine lakes. 800m elevation gain. Typical duration: 6-7 hours.
Visit website →Paso Desolación
Petrohué
12km moderate day hike on the slopes of Osorno Volcano offering panoramic views of Lake Todos los Santos. 600m elevation gain. Typical duration: 5-6 hours.
Visit website →Theme Park / Amusement Park
Chiloé Mythological Trail
Ancud
A folklore-themed park showcasing large wooden sculptures and legends of Chiloé's unique mythology in a natural forest setting.
Pleistocene Park
Osorno
An educational theme park within Parque Chuyaca featuring life-sized replicas of extinct Ice Age megafauna discovered at the nearby Pilauco site.
Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Fundación Chiloé Silvestre
Ancud
A dedicated coastal conservation and rescue center where families can participate in guided educational tours to see rehabilitated penguins, sea birds, and local fauna.
Visit website →Acuario del Lago Puyehue
Entre Lagos
As the largest freshwater aquarium in Latin America, this educational center showcases the diverse fish species and aquatic ecosystems found in the lakes and rivers of Southern Chile.
Visit website →Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Museo Pleistocénico de Osorno
Osorno
An engaging museum for families featuring life-sized prehistoric animal sculptures and fossils found at the nearby Pilauco archaeological site.
Visit website →Museo de la Exploración Rudolph Amandus Philippi
Valdivia
A beautifully preserved mansion displaying the 19th-century scientific collections and botanical sketches of naturalist Rudolph Philippi, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Visit website →Museo de los Volcanes
Neltume
An impressive wooden museum dedicated to vulcanology and geology, showcasing the fiery history of the Andes through minerals and interactive exhibits in a rainforest setting.
Visit website →Natural Hot Spring / Thermal Bath / Historic Bathhouse
Termas Menetúe
Pucón
A thermal park set in 40 hectares of Patagonian landscape. It features five thermal pools (both indoor and outdoor) with waters rich in mineral salts. The facility includes a dedicated mud bath area and specialized mineral water treatments in a standalone park environment.
Visit website →Termas Vergara
Coñaripe
A standalone thermal facility near Villarrica National Park featuring six outdoor pools and a covered pool. The water is naturally heated by the nearby volcano, and the site includes a famous thermal waterfall for natural hydro-massage.
Visit website →Termas Aguas Calientes
Puyehue
Located within Puyehue National Park, this facility offers large indoor and outdoor pools filled with natural mineral water. The waters are known for their therapeutic properties, and the site is surrounded by the pristine Valdivian temperate rainforest.
Visit website →Termas de Huife
Pucón
Large thermal complex featuring three outdoor pools with temperatures reaching 40°C. The water is rich in minerals such as lithium, potassium, and calcium. Located on the banks of the Liucura River, it includes hydro-massage facilities and a focus on natural relaxation.
Visit website →Termas Los Pozones
Pucón
A rustic, natural thermal experience consisting of seven natural stone pools of varying temperatures (30°C to 45°C). Situated directly alongside the Liucura River, it is famous for its simple, unadorned atmosphere and its popularity for nighttime bathing under the stars.
