Puerto Varas Outdoors

• Arrival at El Tepual Airport (Puerto Montt). Transfer to a charming hotel located in the heart of Puerto Varas, right in front of Lake Llanquihue, the second-largest lake in Chile.

• After a brief rest, our first adventure begins: a bike ride along Chile’s longest dedicated bike path, which follows the lakeshore and offers spectacular views of Osorno Volcano. We depart from the hotel toward Ensenada, heading to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, the oldest national park in Chile and South America.

• After exploring the park and its remarkable natural landscapes, we continue our journey to Termas de Cochamó, a set of rustic hot springs surrounded by ancient forests. This peaceful stop allows us to relax in thermal waters, immersed in the sights and sounds of the southern wilderness.
• In the evening, we return to Puerto Varas. A gourmet dinner awaits us at one of the town’s renowned lakeside restaurants.

• After breakfast, we head to Petrohue, located at the source of the Petrohue River, fed by the Todos los Santos Lake. The surroundings are lush with temperate rainforests featuring native species such as coigües, notros, arrayanes, and tepas.

• We begin our trekking journey through the renowned Paso Desolación, a 6 to 7-hour adventure through contrasting landscapes: dense vegetation, volcanic lava fields, and stunning views of Todos los Santos Lake and the Osorno, Calbuco, and Puntiagudo volcanoes.

• This trek takes place in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, the oldest national park in South America, providing a truly historic and breathtaking backdrop for our hike. The creation of this park was inspired by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. In 1913, during his visit to Chile, Roosevelt advocated for the conservation of the country’s unique landscapes and wildlife. His vision played a crucial role in the establishment of Chile’s first national park, Vicente Pérez Rosales, which set a precedent for the protection of the country’s natural heritage.

• Along the way, we may spot condors, foxes, and various species native to the southern forests.

• We ascend to a saddle at the foot of the Osorno Volcano, then descend towards Cerro La Picada, where our transportation will be waiting to take us back.

• Dinner in at one of the town’s renowned restaurants.

• After breakfast and check-out, we head to the Maullín River for a 4-hour kayaking adventure. We paddle through calm waters, surrounded by native vegetation such as ulmos, canelos, and arrayanes, while observing wildlife including herons, kingfishers, and, with luck, the elusive huillín, a native and protected otter species.

• We enjoy a pack lunch on a secluded riverbank, and at the end of the kayaking experience, we drive to the picturesque town of Frutillar, a gem in southern Chile with a strong German heritage. Founded in 1856 by German immigrants, Frutillar is renowned for its traditional wooden architecture, well-maintained gardens, piers, and its tranquil waterfront with views of Osorno Volcano. The town is a hub for artistic expression, home to the Theatre of the Lake and the prestigious Musical Weeks Festival, a classical music event held every summer since 1968.

• We check-in at Hotel Ayacara, a boutique hotel by the lake, and in the afternoon, we relax at Cancagua, an open-air thermal spa nestled in the forest, perfect for rejuvenating body and mind.

• The day ends with dinner at “Se Cocina” restaurant, where the concept is as flavorful as it is authentic: open kitchen, seasonal, locally sourced dishes, with chefs preparing meals in front of guests in a warm, intimate, and family-friendly atmosphere.

• Early transfer to the airport for a 7:00 AM flight to Puerto Natales, where the Patagonian adventure continues.End of the program.