Tours and Activities:
Cochamó, One Place in the World
Chosen by fans of outdoor activities, whether including adventurenot, it is algo a place of relaxation where the trails invite you to hike, enjoy the silence, and connect with nature.
To get to know Cochamó, it is best to get up early and let yourself be guided by those who know the area perfectly. It is the best way to enjoy the day without rushing and without leaving anything to chance.
Route 225 runs along Lake Llanquihue under the imposing gaze of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. There we began the paved journey until the Petrohué River marked the beginning of the gravel road and the entrance to the Carretera Austral. To reach the commune of Cochamó, we traveled a total of 91 kilometers along very beautiful roads. The Reloncaví estuary brings life to this town of quiet streets, whose inhabitants subsist on their crops, livestock, and artisanal fishing.
The first activity of the morning was a boat trip in a small fishing boat adapted for tourism. As we moved forward, we observed the salmon farms that stretch along the coast. Our guide explained how the activity works throughout the year and how it has evolved. We noticed something special on some whitish rocks and, upon inquiry, learned that they were bivalve mollusk seeds. Given that mussels, cockles, and clams have become scarce in recent years, the artificial cultivation of these invertebrates has intensified and become a lucrative business for harvesters and breeding markets. We let ourselves be carried away by the estuary as we felt the wind on our faces and a very pleasant sense of tranquility.
"Time is not important here."
The message on a sign in a small shop stayed with us for the rest of the day. In keeping with that spirit, we took advantage of the sunshine and visited some hot springs to enjoy the natural warm water pools. We then continued sailing to a colony of dolphins and sea lions: the latter were resting on the rocks, indifferent to our presence. We got close enough to take pictures of their agile movements and dives before continuing our journey to Sotomó, where a traditional curanto al hoyo awaited us.
Set up on an elevated platform with a privileged view of the sea and mountains, the curanto was presented step by step. This typical Chilean dish is cooked underground on preheated stones and combines beef and pork, chorizo, potatoes, corn, and sweet potatoes. Everything is covered with nalca and pangue leaves to retain heat, along with earthen bread. After a long cooking process, it is accompanied by milcao, chapalele, and pebre. A profound, delicious, and authentic gastronomic experience.
After lunch, we boarded the boat again. On the way back, we visited the parish of San Luis, located on the coast, and when we arrived at the pier, we picked up some freshly harvested mussels and headed into Cochamó while the fishermen returned from their usual tasks. The Campo Aventura lodge awaited us to continue discovering the natural secrets of the valley. The tall neighboring forests, the constant presence of the sea, and the granite-walled hills for climbing make this place a much-appreciated paradise to spend more than a day. We returned to Puerto Varas that same day, but we were left with the desire to return and learn more about this small but very authentic and charming town.
Contact
Campo Aventura & Outsider
Tel: +56 65-2231056
Cel: +56 992894318
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