The area of ​​Lakes and Volcanoes are characterized by thick vegetation, lush forests, many rivers and lakes, surrounded by beautiful snow-capped volcanoes and mountains that are in a dynamic landscape in the eyes of the beholder and with undeniable ecological significance.

This zone is composed of the regions of Los Rios and Los Lagos respectively.

These lands were the home of Huilliches, one of the most important cultures of Chile. Later came European settlers, especially Germans, with their customs pervade the area, keeping to the present architecture, crafts, food, education and even the language.

In this area are located the cities of Valdivia, Panguipulli, Osorno, Frutillar, Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt, in addition to many towns and villages with beautiful surroundings.

Just 20 km from the sea, Valdivia is one of the busiest cities in southern Chile due to its university atmosphere, nightlife, restaurants and breweries. In 1552 was founded by Pedro de Valdivia, who gave his name to the current capital of Region of Los Rios.

While the city of Osorno maintains the traditions and cuisine of the German settlers. Towards the coast is the most famous native reservation Chile; Mapu Lahual is a haven for live Huilliche culture, the people who protect this reserve.

The regional capital of Los Lagos, Puerto Montt, is the starting point for exploring the deep south of Chile and Patagonia. A few miles to the north, Puerto Varas, Frutillar, Ensenada and Puerto Octay around the huge lake Llanquihue. This area, inhabited by Huilliche people, was discovered by Pedro de Valdivia in 1552, but it was really settled in the late 19th century by German immigrants. His influence is still felt in the bakery, the craft beer and sausages.

Famous for their beauty are the lakes Ranco, Puyehue and Rupanco, and the rivers that drain or leaving them. Ideal in summer if water sports and fishing, from September to April.

Around the lakes Llanquihue and Todos los Santos is the best experiences of living with nature and outdoor adventures, but always entertaining near cities to discover the Southern culture and the warmth of its people.

One evening in natural hot springs (more than ten in this area), a walk through the monumental Petrohue Falls and a breathtaking view of the volcanoes Osorno and Puntiagudo make this region an exquisite corner of Chile.

How to get there

By plane. Every day there are flights from Santiago to Valdivia, which takes just over an hour and Osorno, which takes about an hour and a half. From the airports of both cities, there exits shared transfers or taxis.

In Bus buses depart daily from Santiago and Valdivia toward several companies (12 hours) and Osorno (13 hours).

By Car. From Santiago, modern Route 5 south is reached Valdivia (841 km) and Osorno (923 km). Both cities have car rental service.

Activities

In Valdivia you can sail the Calle Calle River through catamarans and boats, watch the sea lions in the middle coast and discover the history of German settlers in the various museums.

A few miles away in Niebla, Corral and Mancera Island, you can visit the fortifications erected by the Spanish conquistadors in the 17th century to defend against pirate attacks.

To enjoy this exuberant nature is necessary to visit the Oncol Park, nearly an hour of Valdivia to the coast: ideal for camping, trekking and canopy to reach the top of the hill, from where you can contemplate the sea and the mountains. Near to the argentinian border in Osorno, Puyehue National Park offers one of the best spas in the south and fascinating trails near the border with Argentina.

These sites also have routes already established as the Path of the Boar, on the outskirts of Panguipulli, the Seven Lakes, coming to Argentina, and the Route of Health, which includes a variety of spas.

Finally, the cuisine is one of the highlights of these latitudes. Not only for the renowned restaurants on the banks of the different lakes, but also for markets that are in the great cities of the area. In that sense Angelmo Market on the waterfront of Puerto Montt, is considered a benchmark in gourmet seafood, salmon trout, and other delicious fishes in exquisite seafood dishes prepared and served by the owners.