The Chilean Lake District

The Chilean Lake District

The Bio Bio River bisects Chile’s Pacific coast, dividing north from south and marking the traditional frontier. North of this natural barrier, Spanish colonizers established cities, ports, and farms. To its south, the mighty Mapuche people tirelessly resisted outside rule—first by the Inca and then by the Spanish—for over five hundred years. The Mapuche homeland is cool and green, cloaked in pasture and ancient forest. Rivers cascade into sparkling lakes, and volcanic cones are crowned with ice. Now known as the Lake District, this region is celebrated for its stunning vistas, active outdoor pursuits, and fine resorts.

Temuco & Conguillio National Park

The city of Temuco is the principal arrival point in the northern portion of the Lake District and the gateway to Conguillio National Park and the lakeside towns of Villarrica and Pucon. The park is known for its ancient Araucaria forests, volcanic landscapes, and glacial lakes. The park’s centerpiece is the active Llaima Volcano, with a snowcapped summit that reaches to 10,250 feet. The Conguillo National Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking, photography, and nature immersion.

Pucon and The Villarrica Volcano

Pucon is one of Chile’s top adventure tourism destinations, set on the shores of Lake Villarrica, with Villarrica Volcano as a dramatic backdrop. Pucon is often rightly compared to Jackson Hole or Banff. Activities include volcano climbing, white-water rafting, fly fishing, lake kayaking, horseback riding, and trekking in nearby national parks. Nearby, hot spring resorts offer a soothing finish to the day’s adventures.

Southern Lake District: Puerto Varas

The southern Lake District is anchored by Puerto Montt, the principal port on the Bay of Ancud. Just north of Puerto Montt is Chile’s second largest lake—Llanquihue, a 330-square-mile mirror reflecting three majestic volcanoes: Volcan Osorno, Calbuco, and Tronador. Puerto Varas sits on the shores of Lake Llanquihue and is known for its boutique hotels and lakeside dining. Outdoor activities include kayaking, fly fishing, hiking in nearby parks like Vicente Pérez Rosales, and excursions to Chiloé Island. 

Our Favorite Hotels

What to do in Chile’s Lake District

Among other activities, visitors to the Lakes District can enjoy:

• Stargazing
• Via Ferrata
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Climbing
• Biking
• White Water Rafting
• Visits to German-settled Towns
• Exploring Vicente Perez Rosales National Park
• Helicopter Rides
• Kayaking
• Stand-up Paddleboarding
• Birdwatching
• Sailing
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Visits to Huaso Rodeos

November and December are prime fly-fishing months, but the dry fly season extends through April. June to August is ski season.

Crossing the Andes

Bariloche, Argentina lies directly east of Puerto Varas, on the opposite side of the Andes. Crossing the Andes is possible via a series of land and lake passages—a journey filled with fine views of peaks, valleys, and lakes. From September to the end of April, the crossing can be arranged as a full-day or leisurely two-day experience, with overnight accommodations in the alpine village of Peulla. In winter, between the months of May and August, the crossing is a two-day affair.

What is the Weather Like?

Chile’s Lake District is cool and comfortable year-round, making it a refreshing retreat in any season. Sweaters are essential, as temperatures remain mild but crisp. From September to April, warmer, drier days bring highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. The cooler months of June through August see highs around 50ºF, with nighttime temperatures near 40ºF. Rain is a possibility, but monthly precipitation rarely exceeds 6.5 inches, allowing for ample opportunities to explore the region’s lush forests, crystalline lakes, and snowcapped volcanoes.

No matter when you visit, the weather in this area can surprise you. Mist and rain can be present at any time of the year. These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

Temuco and Puerto Montt, are the gateways to Chile’s Lake District. Both are well connected by air with daily flights to and from Santiago in just one hour and 40 minutes. Puerto Montt also has direct flights with Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales making it easier to connect with the Torres del Paine area. Transportation time to the Chilean Lakes District to the Argentinian Lakes District is approximately six hours.

Start your journey today