Los Lagos - Discovering Chile

Travelling to Los Lagos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Los Lagos, a pretty good destination in Chile (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Los Lagos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Los Lagos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Chile, here's everything to know about Los Lagos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Los Lagos

Los Lagos is a region in southern Chile known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. It is home to dozens of lakes and rivers, as well as numerous national parks, forests, and volcanoes. The main cities in the region are Puerto Montt, Osorno, and Castro, and the local economy is largely based on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Visitors to Los Lagos can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, and whitewater rafting, or simply relax in the natural hot springs and take in the breathtaking scenery. Additionally, the local cuisine is known for seafood and dishes made with the region's fresh produce, such as potatoes and vegetables.

What to visit in Los Lagos

Here are some of the top tourist attractions of Los Lagos, Chile: 1. Chiloe Island - This is the largest island in Chile and is known for its colorful houses on stilts known as palafitos. It is also home to 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including a network of wooden churches. Visitors can explore the island's unique culture, enjoy the fresh seafood, and visit local crafts markets.
2. Llanquihue Lake - This is the second-largest lake in Chile and is located in the heart of the Lake District. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The lake is also surrounded by several charming towns like Puerto Varas and Frutillar, which offer stunning views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.
3. Osorno Volcano - One of Chile's most active volcanoes, Osorno Volcano is an imposing sight rising 8,730 feet into the sky. Visitors can hike up the volcano and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Lake District.
4. Vicente Perez Rosales National Park - This is one of the oldest national parks in Chile and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Andean deer and the pudu, the world's smallest deer. Visitors can hike to the Petrohue Falls, explore the Todos los Santos Lake or take a dip in the natural hot springs.
5. Puyehue National Park - This is a vast area of protected wilderness that covers more than 200,000 hectares. Puyehue National Park is famous for its hot springs, hidden waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and camping in the park's beautiful natural surroundings.
6. Alerce Andino National Park - This is one of the last remaining reserves of the ancient alerce tree, an endangered species that can live up to 3,000 years. The park is home to several hiking trails that lead through forests of giant alerce trees, as well as beautiful lakes and mountains.
7. Puñihuil Penguin Colony - Located on the northern part of Chiloe Island, this is the only place in the world where the Humboldt and Magellanic penguins breed side by side. Visitors can take a tour to see the penguins in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect these endangered species.
Overall, Los Lagos is a beautiful region that offers stunning landscapes, unique culture, and a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Chile, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Los Lagos

The best time to visit Los Lagos in Chile is during the summer months (December to February). The temperatures are mild (ranging from 11°C to 22°C) and the days are long, with up to 16 hours of daylight. This is an ideal time to take advantage of the area's outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming. However, it is also the peak tourist season so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer quieter surroundings, then the fall months (March to May) are also a good choice as the weather is still mild and the crowds have started to thin out.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Los Lagos

To get to Los Lagos in Chile, you can take a flight to Santiago International Airport (SCL), which is the largest airport in the country. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Puerto Montt or Osorno, the two main cities in the Los Lagos region.
Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Santiago to Puerto Montt or Osorno, which is a more economical option. The bus journey takes around 10 to 12 hours and there are several bus companies that operate on this route.
Once you reach Puerto Montt or Osorno, you can take a local bus or taxi to your final destination in Los Lagos.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Los Lagos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Los Lagos

Los Lagos is a region in Chile that offers a great variety of delicious foods that are a must-try for anyone visiting the region. Some of the typical foods of Los Lagos are: 1. Curanto: This is a typical Chilean dish that originated in Chiloé, an archipelago in Los Lagos. It consists of a variety of seafood, such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and king crab, cooked with potatoes, vegetables, and meat in a hole dug in the ground lined with hot stones covered with nalca leaves.
2. Machas a la parmesana: This dish is a baked dish made with razor clams, onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese and butter. It is a popular appetizer and is often served in Chilean restaurants.
3. Sopaipillas pasadas: Sopaipillas are a traditional Chilean dish that are made from a savory pumpkin dough that is fried in oil. Sopaipillas pasadas are particularly popular in Los Lagos, where they are served with a sweet syrup made from sugar, cinnamon, and orange peel.
4. Arroz con mariscos: Translating to "rice with seafood," this dish is a mouthwatering blend of rice and seafood that typically includes shrimp, mussels and squid. It is a staple in Chilean cuisine and is particularly popular in Los Lagos.
5. Cazuela: A hearty stew made with beef or chicken, vegetables, and potatoes. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for cold, rainy days in Los Lagos.
6. Chapaleles: These are delicious dumplings made with grated potatoes that are mixed with flour and shaped into small balls. They are then cooked in water and served with a side of meat, such as beef or chicken.
7. Merluza a la jardinera: Merluza is the Spanish word for hake, a popular white fish in Chilean cuisine. Merluza a la jardinera is a dish that is prepared with hake fillets cooked in a vegetable and tomato sauce. It is frequently served in restaurants in Los Lagos. Overall, Los Lagos’ cuisine is rich in seafood, due to its location by the Pacific Ocean, and combines various unique flavors and ingredients.
You can find general info about typical foods in Chile here.

Is Los Lagos an expensive destination for tourists?

Los Lagos region in Chile is known for its breathtaking scenery and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists. While the cost of travel can vary depending on factors like seasonality, exchange rates, and your preferred style of travel, Los Lagos can be considered relatively expensive compared to other regions in Chile.
Accommodation, food, and activities can be slightly more expensive in Los Lagos due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, there are still a range of options to suit different budgets, from luxury resorts to budget hostels and guesthouses.
Overall, while Los Lagos may be slightly more expensive than other regions in Chile, it is still possible to have an enjoyable trip within your budget by doing your research and selecting your accommodations and activities wisely.

Where to find accomodation in Los Lagos

Los Lagos is a stunning region in Chile that is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including volcanoes, lakes, and forests. In terms of finding accommodation, there are a few areas that are particularly popular among visitors. One is the town of Puerto Varas, which is located on the shore of Llanquihue Lake and offers easy access to nearby national parks and other natural attractions. Another popular area is the island of Chiloé, where you can explore colorful fishing villages and see unique architecture. A third option is the town of Osorno, which is a good base for exploring the Osorno Volcano and other nearby mountains. Ultimately, the best area to stay in Los Lagos will depend on your specific interests and the activities you want to do during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Los Lagos here:
Booking.com

Is Los Lagos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Los Lagos in Chile is generally a safe place for tourists. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it is important to take common-sense precautions while traveling. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and staying in well-lit and populated areas at night. It's also recommended to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before your trip. Overall, Los Lagos is considered a safe and popular destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Chile here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Los Lagos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Los Lagos the most?

Los Lagos in Chile has something to offer for all types of travelers including couples, young people looking for fun, and families.
For couples, Los Lagos offers many opportunities for romantic getaways. The region has beautiful landscapes, scenic drives, and charming towns that make for a perfect place to relax and reconnect with your partner. There are also many outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and hot springs to enjoy together.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy surfing at the beaches of Pichilemu, exploring the nightlife of Puerto Montt, or skiing in the Andes. There are also plenty of adventures to be had like whitewater rafting, paragliding, and zip lining.
Families will also love Los Lagos as it offers a great mix of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Children can enjoy horseback riding, animal encounters, and alternative sports such as canopy and zip lining. There are also many family-friendly beaches, parks, and museums to visit.
Overall, Los Lagos has something for everyone and it's a great destination to visit regardless of your travel style.

How to get around Los Lagos

In Los Lagos (Chile), the most popular transportation options to move around include buses, vans, taxis, and rental cars. Buses are the most accessible and affordable way to travel between towns and cities within the region. Vans are also available and offer more flexible schedules and routes than buses, but they can be more expensive. Taxis are a convenient option for short trips within a city or town, and rental cars are ideal for exploring the region independently and at your own pace.

What to see around Los Lagos

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Los Lagos in Chile: 1. Petrohue Falls: Located within the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, these waterfalls are a spectacular and popular sight to see in the region.
2. Osorno Volcano: One of the most iconic landmarks of Chile, Osorno volcano is a great place to take scenic walks or hikes with panoramic views.
3. Lake Todos los Santos: A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering great opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
4. Puerto Varas: A picturesque town on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, with colorful architecture, cafes and restaurants, and stunning views of the volcanoes.
5. Frutillar: A charming town famous for its German influences, fine cuisine, and cultural events such as the Frutillar Music Weeks.
6. Chiloe Island: A unique and fascinating destination famous for its UNESCO World Heritage churches, curious wooden palafitos, and colorful gastronomy.
7. Puerto Montt: The regional capital of Los Lagos, Puerto Montt is a bustling port city known for its seafood markets, artisanal handicrafts, and stunning sunsets.
Each of these destinations can make for a great day trip from Los Lagos, depending on your interests and preferences.
For every travel information about Chile you can click here.

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