Tours and Activities:

Flying amidst Volcanoes

The number of craters visible from the air reveals the volcanic origin of this paradisiacal territory, although many of them no longer show visible signs of activity.

In Puerto Varas, we let our desire to see the world from above take control. When we found out that the local aerodrome organized introductory flights, we decided to take the plunge.

“You'll get a clearer idea of the landscapes of this southern part of Chile, with its forests, lakes, estuaries, and islands. It's a geography where the birth of volcanoes and the abrasive force of water and wind converge,” said pilot Santiago Vidal shortly before we boarded the plane to fly over the volcanoes.

We boarded a twin-engine plane with a capacity for 5 to 7 passengers, and as soon as everything was ready, we began taxiing. In a few seconds, the aircraft lifted its nose and we were airborne. At first, we could clearly see cultivated fields and Lake Llanquihue. The cities of Puerto Varas, Frutillar, and Ensenada passed beneath us, and soon Puerto Montt and the blue sea with its boats and fishermen took center stage. It was fantastic to see the Reloncaví Sound, the island of Chiloé, and the mouths of the main rivers.

While Santiago was driving, he pointed out volcanoes such as Calbuco and Yate, Cerro Puntiagudo, Chapo, and Todos los Santos Lakes, and Alerce Andino and Peréz Rosales National Parks. We also saw the source of the Petrohué River and spotted some of its waterfalls. Further away, we could make out Puyehue National Park and, across the Argentine border, the Tronador and Catedral mountains. Suddenly, an immense white mass emerged on the horizon: the Lanín volcano seemed to rule the airspace with its imposing altitude.

There was another moment of wonder when our host turned the plane around and we faced the Osorno volcano. Dark green and black in color, with its white summit and snow extending arms on either side, we were struck by its volume and tonal variation. Photos, photos, and more photos were necessary to capture that moment. We circled it to appreciate every detail and were mesmerized by its magnetism. Hearing our comments, Santiago expressed his pride in a volcano that so well represents this area of his country, Chile.

Minutes later, we landed in Puerto Varas with the feeling of having experienced a once-in-a-lifetime moment. We thanked the pilot for the ride and his explanations, and knowing that this is one of his favorite flights, we felt enormous excitement. Together with him, we enjoyed the best of the majesty of Chile's southern volcanoes.

See also: Hotels in Puerto Varas and other accommodation venues