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Puerto Varas is a pretty little town with a lovely feel and a stunning setting.

Experiencing Varas

Curving around the southern shore of Lake Llanquihue, with breathtaking views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes, Varas has a wonderful range of top restaurants and hotels but is small enough to be a very relaxing and friendly place to stay, as well as being ideally placed for numerous trips and sights. Puerto Varas is also well-known for the plentiful and fragrant roses that bloom all over the town from December to March.

Surrounding area

The town lends itself perfectly to those wishing to explore the pretty little towns, turquoise lakes and acres of national park, as well as the fascinating island of Chiloé, all within a day’s reach.

The Lake District

Osorno Volcano, Puerto VarasThis picturesque region of Chile that is known as the Lake District is filled with huge snow covered peaks and clear blue lakes, fishing ports and quaint little villages steeped in nationalistic pride and rural traditions. The Lake District has a tranquil landscape created by violent natural forces, as earthquakes, volcanic explosions and melting icebergs from millions of years ago gave life to the fertile valleys, lakes and rivers that you see today.

The fast flowing rivers are enjoyed by fishermen and rafting enthusiasts perhaps the most famous of which is the Biobio, which was once the region's natural frontier and the boundary between the Mapuche territory and the Spanish.

Heritage

The Mapuche Indians are native to the area and still survive there today. Many have been moved onto "reservations" although they do maintain their language and strong cultural heritage. The European settlers established themselves there in the late 19th century. Much of the architecture and ambience reflects the region's past and the prominence of the German settlers in particular.

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who's been there
Audley Travel specialist Nick

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Puerto Varas by contacting one of our Chile specialists

Suggested itineraries featuring Puerto Varas

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Puerto Varas, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Puerto Varas

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Puerto Varas

    Our expert guides to exploring Puerto Varas

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Puerto Varas, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Puerto Varas at its best.

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      A church in southern Patagonia, Chile

      What to do in Chile: our highlights guide

      What to do in Chile: our highlights guide

      Chile is a land of geographical contrasts, from the arid Atacama Desert to the peaks and glaciers of Patagonia. Cultural differences are equally stark as Spanish-built wooden churches on Chiloé Island vie for the visitor’s attention along with the incongruous and mysterious stone statues on Easter Island.

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    • Self-drive holidays in Chile: 3 wilderness road trips
      Driving between Balmaceda and Lago General Carrera

      Self-drive holidays in Chile: 3 wilderness road trips

      Self-drive holidays in Chile: 3 wilderness road trips

      When it comes to driving trips in Chile, you’ll find the most fulfilling journeys are to be had in the Lake District and Chilean Patagonia, says Audley Chile specialist Chloe. Just make sure you allow time to stop and explore.

      7 min read

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    Accommodation choices for Puerto Varas

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Puerto Varas. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.