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| Image: verticetv |
As you may know, Chile is administratively divided into 16 regions. The Lakes Region (Region de Los Lagos, also called the Tenth Region) is located in the south-central part of the country. It is bordered by the Región de Los Ríos to the north, the Región de Aysén to the south, Argentina to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
The regional capital is Puerto Montt, and the region consists of four provinces, listed from north to south: Osorno, Llanquihue, Chiloé, and Palena. According to the 2024 census, the region's population was 890,284.
The economy is driven by agriculture, forestry, livestock, fishing, salmon farming, the dairy industry, services, and tourism. These sectors thrive thanks to the region's stunning natural landscapes, traditional cuisine, folk music, and rich cultural heritage—especially in the province of Chiloe. German colonization, which took place primarily between 1850 and 1910, has left a lasting influence on many aspects of local life.
How to Get There
The Los Lagos Region is most commonly accessed by air through El Tepual Airport, located 16 km northwest of Puerto Montt, with flights coming from Santiago, Chile's capital, or Punta Arenas in the south.
Alternatively, numerous bus services connect to Puerto Montt's terminal. As the region's capital, Puerto Montt is the main hub for tours and activities. Below are the top tourist attractions in Chile's Tenth Region, Los Lagos:
Island of Chiloé
The "Isla Grande de Chiloé" (Greater Island of Chiloé) and its surrounding islets are among Chile's most iconic destinations. This enchanting archipelago is a unique gem in the Los Lagos Region, celebrated for its distinct culture, unique traditions, lively music, rich cuisine, and serene, captivating landscapes.
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| Image: iglesiasdechiloe.cl |
Top tourist spots include Ancud, the historic gateway to Chiloe founded by the Spanish in 1768; Castro, the provincial capital famed for its iconic palafitos (stilt houses) and the UNESCO-listed San Francisco Church; Dalcahue, a charming town 25 km north of Castro; and Chonchi, nicknamed "La Ciudad de los Tres Pisos" (The City of Three Floors) for its tiered layout on natural slopes.
The historic churches of Chiloe, 16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflect the island’s renowned "Escuela Chilota de Arquitectura en Madera" (Chiloe’s School of Wood Architecture). These architectural treasures are globally admired for their unique craftsmanship and cultural significance.
Discover more about Chiloe’s remarkable attractions here: Tourist places in Chiloe
City of Puerto Montt
Renowned for its picturesque waterfront, Puerto Montt serves as the northern gateway to the expansive Patagonian region and stands as the principal business hub of southern Chile. Key industries include tourism, salmon farming, aquaculture, agriculture, livestock, transportation, and telecommunications. During the high season (December to March), the city attracts thousands of tourists worldwide, drawn to its vibrant streets, inviting restaurants, and diverse attractions.
Puerto Montt boasts a robust commercial and tourism infrastructure, including a seaport, airport, bus terminal, extensive road connections, hotels, restaurants, and comprehensive services. These high-quality facilities cater to travelers, the tourism industry, and those attending conferences and conventions.
"Angelmo" Fishermen's Market and Tourist Center
Located just 3 km from downtown Puerto Montt, the small bay of Angelmó stands out as one of the city’s most iconic tourist destinations. This lively area is home to the Maritime Terminal, which provides connections to the province of Chiloe and the regions of Aysen and Magallanes. Visitors can also explore a bustling Craft Fair, a Fishing Terminal where local fishermen sell their fresh catch, and a lively Seafood Market featuring small restaurants serving delicious local dishes.
Vicente Perez Rosales National Park
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| Image: Villa Peulla |
Established in August 1926, this protected area is Chile’s oldest national park. Spanning over 253,000 hectares, it boasts breathtaking tourist attractions set against the majestic Andes Mountains, lush evergreen forests, and turquoise lakes—truly postcard-perfect landscapes.
Notable highlights include:
- Osorno Volcano: A true icon of the Los Lagos Region, admired for its "almost perfect" shape and striking colors.
- Todos los Santos Lake: One of Chile’s most photogenic spots, renowned for its serene turquoise waters.
- Petrohue Waterfalls: A stunning series of cascades formed by the Petrohué River as it flows over volcanic rock, a favorite for photographers.
- Laguna Verde: The park's gateway, named for the green hue of its waters caused by two suspended microalgae.
- Monte Tronador: A dormant volcano rising to 3,491 m a.s.l., marking the border between Chile and Argentina.
This park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Saltos del Petrohué: A Stunning Waterfall in the Heart of Patagonia
Located in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Saltos del Petrohué is a spectacular series of waterfalls formed by the Petrohué River. Set against the backdrop of the Osorno Volcano, the crystal-clear waters cascade over volcanic rocks, creating a breathtaking sight.
Visitors can explore well-maintained trails, take boat tours to get closer to the falls, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding lush forests and mountains. The Saltos del Petrohué is one of the most visited natural attractions in the Los Lagos Region, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in southern Chile.
Lago Llanquihue and Surroundings
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| Puerto Varas and Llanquihue Lake |
Lake Llanquihue, located 22 km from Puerto Montt, is Chile's second-largest lake. Its name, derived from the Mapudungun language, means "sunken place." A renowned tourist destination, its shores are dotted with picturesque towns and cities, framed by the majestic Osorno, Puntiagudo, Calbuco, and Tronador volcanoes.
Notable attractions include Puerto Varas, home to the striking Sagrado Corazon de Jesus Church, visible from every corner of the city. Frutillar Bajo’s waterfront is a must-visit, featuring the Teatro del Lago, an artistic center that hosts the annual "Semanas Musicales de Frutillar" festival. Ensenada, located on the eastern shore of the lake, offers breathtaking natural beauty and excellent tourist facilities. The charming town of Cochamó, nestled between the Reloncaví Estuary and the Argentine border, is a popular destination for ecotourism enthusiasts.
Puerto Varas: A Scenic Gateway to Southern Chile's Natural Beauty
Puerto Varas sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Llanquihue, just 20 km north of Puerto Montt. Known for its German-influenced architecture and stunning natural scenery, the town offers breathtaking views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.
Visitors can explore charming streets, enjoy local cuisine, and engage in outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. With its blend of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty, Puerto Varas is one of southern Chile’s most captivating destinations.
Frutillar: A Charming Lakeside Town with German Heritage
Frutillar, located in Chile’s Los Lagos Region, lies about 45 km north of Puerto Montt on the western shore of Lake Llanquihue. This charming tourist town is known for its German heritage, traditional architecture, and delicious kuchen (German-style cake). It is home to the renowned Teatro del Lago, a cultural hub hosting concerts and events.
Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Osorno Volcano, explore local museums, and relax by the waterfront. Frutillar’s blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery makes it a must-visit destination in southern Chile.
Parque Nacional Alerce Andino
Alerce Andino National Park, located about 40 km southeast of Puerto Montt in Chile’s Los Lagos Region, is a sanctuary for ancient Alerce trees, some over 3,000 years old. Covering around 393 km², the park features lush forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, spot diverse wildlife, and admire breathtaking landscapes. The park is part of the UNESCO-designated Temperate Rainforests of the Southern Andes, offering a unique glimpse into Chile’s natural heritage.
Created in 1982 to protect these natural relics, the park also shelters a variety of native species, including Coigue de Magallanes, Coigue de Chiloé, Lenga, Tenio, Mañio, and Canelo. Alerce Andino is open year-round, with the spring-summer season being the most suitable time to visit. The park offers trekking trails, but due to its rainy climate, visitors should be prepared for wet conditions.
Carretera Austral (Chile's Southern Road)
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| A view of the Carretera Austral Image: vialidad.cl |
The Carretera Austral, or Route 7, is undeniably one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. The rugged terrain of this part of Chile offers an array of postcard-perfect landscapes. Stretching nearly 1,300 kilometers from Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins, the road is continuously being expanded. While some sections are paved, many remain gravel, and certain stretches require ferry crossings. The following highlights some of the must-see places in the XIth Aysen Region.
Notable destinations include Hornopirén, the northern gateway to the Carretera Austral; Parque Pumalín, one of Chile’s largest and most significant private nature reserves, renowned for its stunning scenery; La Junta, the entry point to the Aysen Region; Parque Nacional Queulat, a favorite among travelers on Route 7; Laguna San Rafael National Park, the largest in the Aysen Region, home to the striking Northern Ice Field and its ancient glaciers; and La Catedral de Marmol (The Marble Cathedral), a captivating mineral formation of calcium carbonate in the deep blue waters of General Carrera Lake, with a series of awe-inspiring caves accessible by small boats.
The Futaleufú River basin, located in the Los Lagos region, is a renowned destination for fly fishing enthusiasts worldwide. Famous for its challenging Class V rapids, it's also a popular spot for rafting, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
Although remote and close to the Argentine border, the area boasts excellent infrastructure, offering a range of dining options and accommodations. Nearby Lake Espolón, a paradise for recreational fishing, features many scenic spots. Futaleufú also provides access to Argentina via the Trevelin International Pass.
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