With some of the country’s most picturesque natural environment, Chile’s lake district is a prime destination for adventure tourists, history buffs and nature lovers.
Named after its many lakes, the Los Lagos region is known for having some of the country’s most beautiful natural sights. Trek along its vast network of hiking trails and discover the proud heritage of the Mapuche indigenous people, who still live in reservations in the area.
Los Lagos is the place for adventure. A dramatic landscape of volcanoes, lush forests, rivers and many lakes provides excellent opportunities for mountain biking, climbing, rafting and kayaking and just about any outdoor activity you can imagine. Make the small town of Pucón your base for exploring the region.
Hike to the top of the Villarrica Volcano during summer or ski on its slopes in winter, which lasts from June through August. For more skiing, head to the Antillanca ski resort at the base of the Casablanca Volcano and enjoy its 18 prepared slopes or the surrounding backcountry skiing opportunities.
The more relaxed traveler will be perfectly at home as well, with excellent conditions for fly-fishing along the beautiful and calm Río Petrohue. Walk along the trails in the Pumalin Park and Las Vertientes national parks.
The region is home to the Mapuche, an indigenous people that fought off the Inca and went on to partially resist Spanish colonization for 350 years. This fierce resistance has made Mapuche ancestry a badge of honor and one of the best ways to understand their culture is with a visit to Budi Lake. Sleep in a traditional hut with handmade furniture, kayak on the lake and dine on traditional food as part of your experience of staying with the Mapuche people.
To learn about the area’s more recent history, visit the city of Osorno and experience the architectural and culinary influences of German settlers. A soak in the nearby hot springs before a lavish dinner at one of the many restaurants here is the perfect way to relax after your adventures.
To get to Los Lagos, take a bus from SantiagoOpens in a new window or fly into Pucón Airport. Regular flights arrive from Santiago only during summer.
