Tours and Activities:

Petrohue: A River with Steps

Nature in its purest state and air filled with fragrances create the setting in which the Petrohué Waterfalls unfold all their power and beauty.

One of the classic tourist routes near Frutillar leads to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and the Petrohué River, renowned for its waterfalls with an intense, constant roar. Reaching this destination requires skirting much of Lake Llanquihue, enjoying along the way some of the most representative landscapes of the region.

From our cabin in Frutillar, we set off by car toward the town of Llanquihue, following the lakeshore. It was our first close encounter with that immense body of water and with Osorno Volcano, whose silhouette accompanied us throughout the day. In this peaceful town of green meadows, we joined the Pan-American Highway South to continue to Puerto Varas.

In this emblematic city, we took a walk along the waterfront, always lively and frequented by both locals and visitors. A short stroll through its streets revealed European-inspired architecture, meticulously maintained gardens, and an abundance of flowers. We then returned to the shore to take the road to Ensenada, leaving the urban setting behind and gradually entering the Valdivian rainforest.

Along the way, we took the opportunity to stop at several lake beaches, such as Niklitschek and Playa Hermosa, each with its own particular charm. A few kilometers later, we crossed a bridge and, to the right, found an area where boats and canoes are rented, providing access to La Poza, a spring nestled in lush vegetation that shelters the small Loreley Island at its center.

A few kilometers farther on, we passed Playa Venado, known for its fine, light-colored sand. We then crossed the Pescado River, a meeting point for sport fishing enthusiasts, especially those seeking salmonids. We stopped to take photographs in front of a chapel clad in alerce wood shingles and, very close by, an old water mill that was once used to grind wheat.

When we finally reached the Petrohué Waterfalls, we stood captivated for long minutes by the constant roar of the water, which seemed never to run out. The cascades are formed by a series of basalt rock steps, created by ancient eruptions of Osorno Volcano, through which the waters of Lake Todos los Santos flow into the Petrohué River. These formations emerged during the cooling of lava flows, giving rise to the characteristic volcanic surfaces.

All around, lush vegetation frames the course of the river, whose volume increases especially during periods of heavy rainfall. The natural spectacle is truly impressive and confirms that every kilometer traveled is worthwhile to discover one of the most iconic landscapes of southern Chile.

See also: Hotels in Frutillar and other accommodation venues