The heart of southern Chile: Adventure on Lake Llanquihue
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
Itinerary through Puerto Varas and the majestic Osorno Volcano
2 DAYS
Embark on a fascinating journey around Lake Llanquihue. This two-day itinerary will take you from the charming architecture of Puerto Varas, with its strong German heritage, to the exciting summit of Volcán Osorno. Prepare for an experience that combines culture, local gastronomy, and adventure in one of the most spectacular landscapes in southern Chile.
DISTANCIA
192 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
2 days
DESTINOS
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
City tour of Puerto Varas
Your trip begins in Puerto Montt, from where you will travel about 20 minutes to reach Puerto Varas, a city that will captivate you with its unmistakable German heritage. Located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, this beautiful city welcomes you with unique architecture and an unparalleled southern atmosphere.
Dedicate the day to exploring its main attractions, such as the Pablo Fierro Museum, the Molino Machmar Art Center, and the iconic sculpture of Princess Licarayén, located on the waterfront. In addition, the city offers exquisite local cuisine, where German and Chilean flavors merge in unmissable dishes.
It is advisable to have dinner and rest early, as tomorrow a very early start awaits you to begin the ascent to the impressive Osorno Volcano.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
City tour of Puerto Varas
Your trip begins in Puerto Montt, from where you will travel about 20 minutes to reach Puerto Varas, a city that will captivate you with its unmistakable German heritage. Located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, this beautiful city welcomes you with unique architecture and an unparalleled southern atmosphere.
Dedicate the day to exploring its main attractions, such as the Pablo Fierro Museum, the Molino Machmar Art Center, and the iconic sculpture of Princess Licarayén, located on the waterfront. In addition, the city offers exquisite local cuisine, where German and Chilean flavors merge in unmissable dishes.
It is advisable to have dinner and rest early, as tomorrow a very early start awaits you to begin the ascent to the impressive Osorno Volcano.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Ascent to the imposing Osorno Volcano
Prepare for one of the most iconic mountaineering adventures in southern Chile: the ascent to Volcán Osorno, which rises 2,652 meters above sea level.
The expedition departs at 5:00 a. m. from Puerto Varas. The hike begins at the volcano’s ski center, crossing a terrain of volcanic rock until reaching the glacier. At this point, you will equip yourself with technical mountain gear—helmet, harness, crampons, and ice ax—to continue the ascent safely with your guide.
After between 5 and 7 hours of ascent, you will reach the summit of the Osorno Volcano, where spectacular views of Lake Llanquihue, the surrounding volcanoes, and the mountain range await you. Finally, a descent of 3 to 5 hours awaits you, which requires as much or more concentration than the ascent, before returning to Puerto Varas for a well-deserved rest.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Ascent to the imposing Osorno Volcano
Prepare for one of the most iconic mountaineering adventures in southern Chile: the ascent to Volcán Osorno, which rises 2,652 meters above sea level.
The expedition departs at 5:00 a. m. from Puerto Varas. The hike begins at the volcano’s ski center, crossing a terrain of volcanic rock until reaching the glacier. At this point, you will equip yourself with technical mountain gear—helmet, harness, crampons, and ice ax—to continue the ascent safely with your guide.
After between 5 and 7 hours of ascent, you will reach the summit of the Osorno Volcano, where spectacular views of Lake Llanquihue, the surrounding volcanoes, and the mountain range await you. Finally, a descent of 3 to 5 hours awaits you, which requires as much or more concentration than the ascent, before returning to Puerto Varas for a well-deserved rest.
What you should know
How to get there by air
From the Santiago Airport (SCL), take a flight to El Tepual Airport, in Puerto Montt (PMC). From there, a transfer or bus will take you to Puerto Varas in approximately 30 minutes, where you can begin your itinerary.
How to get there by land
Puerto Varas is located only 25 km from Puerto Montt, the nearest main city. You can arrive in less than 30 minutes by bus or colectivo. To get around the area, you can rent a vehicle or coordinate transfers with local agencies. To get to the Osorno Volcano, you will need to coordinate transportation with your guide.
Climate and clothing
The climate in the area is changeable, with mild summers and cold, rainy winters. It is recommended to dress in layers. For the ascent to the volcano, it is essential to wear technical mountain clothing and footwear, as well as sun protection and warm clothing, even in summer.
Must-Know Tips
The ascent to the Osorno Volcano is of high difficulty. Book your excursion with certified guides in advance, especially in summer. It is not an activity suitable for those who do not have physical preparation or previous experience in the mountains.
