Getaways in Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is one of those cities in southern Chile that can be enjoyed day and night at any time of year. Dynamic and charming, it maintains close ties with  Puerto Montt, the main commercial port in the area, and is one of the most popular destinations in the Los Lagos Region. Its fame is based on its urban identity, shaped by German immigration, its heritage architecture, its cuisine, and a spectacular natural environment of lakes, valleys, volcanoes, and bays. For this reason, in addition to stopping in the city, we suggest you escape to the outskirts to discover its geography and landscapes.

Horseback riding in Ralún

One option is to go horseback riding in Ralún, a small village that can be reached via the coastal road to Ensenada, turning off a few kilometers before onto a secondary road to the right of the route. Along the way, you will cross glacial valleys covered with the lush vegetation of the Valdivian rainforest and enormous cliffs that help identify the place, since “Ralún” in the Mapuche language means “boxed valley.”

On horseback, you can reach natural hot springs along the Petrohué River, at approximately kilometer 77. The route passes by several campsites, inns, and German-style guesthouses offering delicious regional cuisine. It is recommended to do this activity with local guides, especially in winter, when some sections may experience adverse weather conditions.

Wonderful Emerald

Lake "Todos los Santos" has been renamed and is popularly known as “Esmeralda” (Emerald) due to the extraordinary color of its waters. Here, you could spend hours taking photos because, in addition to the crystal-clear waters, the forests of coihues, ulmos, and olivillos, and the presence of the Osorno, Puntiagudo, and Tronador volcanoes create a picture-perfect setting.

Beyond its beauty, Lake Todos los Santos was the scene of a well-known search for a border route, in which Jesuits, indigenous people, and adventurers participated, eager to find the legendary City of the Caesars, a mythical place full of riches that, according to legend, was located near Lake Nahuel Huapi.

To navigate it, you must reach the port located at the mouth of the Petrohué River, within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where the area's visitor center is also located. Boat trips include half-day trips to Margarita Island and full crossings to the border town of Peulla, with the possibility of connecting to Bariloche via the Andean Crossing.

Rio Pescado and its surroundings

Another attractive option is to visit the Pescado River area, a clear watercourse surrounded by native vegetation that originates in the Calbuco volcano and flows into Lake Llanquihue. Nearby is the fish farm, although public access may vary depending on the season. This area is highly valued for sport fishing, hiking, and relaxing in the midst of nature.