The Best Day Trips from Puerto Montt in the Lake District

Puerto Montt, located in the heart of Chile’s stunning Lake District, is the perfect base for discovering some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Surrounded by lakes, forests, volcanoes, and charming villages, this region offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in hiking, relaxing by the lake, or exploring charming towns, Puerto Montt provides easy access to various exciting day trips.

If you want to make the most of your visit to the Lake District, renting a car in Chile is the ideal option. With your vehicle, you can travel at your own pace, stop at hidden gems, and visit lesser-known destinations. In this blog, we’ll take you through the best day trips you can enjoy from Puerto Montt, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.

Puerto Varas

Just a short drive from Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas is one of the most popular day trips in the Lake District. Puerto Varas, known for its charming German-inspired architecture, stunning lakeside views, and proximity to the majestic Osorno Volcano, is a must-see destination.

What to Do in Puerto Varas

• Lake Llanquihue: Puerto Varas sits on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, one of Chile’s largest and most beautiful lakes. You can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lake or take a boat tour to appreciate the surrounding views of the volcanoes and mountains.
• Osorno Volcano: Located just outside the town, Osorno Volcano is a dominant feature of the landscape. You can drive to the foot of the volcano and take a chairlift to the top for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. If you're feeling adventurous, there are hiking trails for all levels.
• Plaza de Armas: Puerto Varas' main square is home to several historical buildings, including the Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón, a beautiful wooden church with a stunning architectural design.

Frutillar

Another charming town to visit on a day trip from Puerto Montt is Frutillar, a small village on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Frutillar is known for its strong German heritage in its architecture, food, and culture.

What to Do in Frutillar

• Museo Colonial Alemán: This museum showcases the German influence on the town, with exhibits on local history, traditional German crafts, and the arrival of German immigrants. The museum is housed in a beautiful wooden building that is a testament to the town’s heritage.
• Teatro del Lago: One of Frutillar’s most famous landmarks is the Teatro del Lago, a stunning concert hall on the lake. The theatre hosts a variety of performances, including classical music concerts and local events. Even if you're not attending a performance, the architecture and location are worth a visit.
• Lake Views: Frutillar offers stunning views of Lake Llanquihue, with the towering Osorno Volcano as a backdrop. You can take a relaxing walk along the waterfront or enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Frutillar is 30 minutes from Puerto Montt by car, making it an easy day trip. A rental car lets you explore Frutillar’s lakeside views, historical sites, and beautiful gardens at your own pace.

Saltos de Petrohué

The Saltos de Petrohué (Petrohué Waterfalls) are one of the most popular natural attractions in the Lake District, and they make for an unforgettable day trip from Puerto Montt. These stunning waterfalls are located within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, just 60 km from Puerto Montt.

What to Do at the Saltos de Petrohué

• Hiking: Several walking trails around the waterfalls offer spectacular views of the water crashing against the rocks. The most popular trail takes you to the base of the falls, where you can get up close and feel the spray of the water.
• Boat Tour: You can take a boat tour along the Todos los Santos Lake, surrounded by the lush forests of the national park. The boat tour offers excellent views of the waterfalls and the stunning mountains that surround the area.
• Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park: The park surrounding the waterfalls is home to various wildlife, including native birds and lush forests. You can take short hikes through the park to enjoy the region's natural beauty.

La Ensenada

For those looking to experience a quieter, less touristy side of the Lake District, La Ensenada is a hidden gem located on the shores of Lake Todos los Santos, just 50 km from Puerto Montt. The area is known for its beautiful scenery, lush forests, and authentic local culture.

What to Do in La Ensenada

• Lake Todos los Santos: One of the best things to do in La Ensenada is to enjoy the views of Lake Todos los Santos. The lake, with its emerald-green waters and dramatic backdrop of volcanoes and forests, is one of the most stunning spots in the region.
• Hiking: Several hiking trails in the area lead you through dense forests, up to viewpoints, and along the lakeshore. The Volcán Osorno Trail is a popular hike for those who want to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Local Culture: La Ensenada is a small village and a great place to experience authentic Chilean culture. You can enjoy traditional food at local restaurants or visit the Lago Todos los Santos Visitor Centre to learn more about the region’s history and natural heritage.

Alerce Andino National Park

Alerce Andino National Park is a prime spot to explore Chile’s diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Located around 70 km from Puerto Montt, the park is home to ancient Alerce trees, over 3,000 years old.

What to Do at Alerce Andino National Park

• Hiking: The park offers a variety of well-maintained trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Laguna de Los Morros trail is a moderate hike leading you to a stunning lake surrounded by ancient forests and towering mountains.
• Wildlife Watching: The park hosts various wildlife, including native birds like the Andean condor and the Magellanic woodpecker. If lucky, you might spot deer, foxes, and other animals while you explore the park.
• Alerce Trees: The park's main attraction is the ancient Alerce trees, among the oldest living trees on Earth. Some of these trees are over 3,000 years old, and hiking through the park is a truly humbling experience.

Rent a Car in Chile

Renting a car in Chile is highly recommended to make the most of your day trips from Puerto Montt. With your vehicle, you’ll have the flexibility to visit multiple destinations in one day, stop at scenic viewpoints, and explore the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District at your own pace.

At Finalrentals, we offer numerous affordable and reliable vehicles to suit your travel needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for a solo adventure or a spacious SUV for a family trip, we have the perfect option. With our easy booking process and excellent customer service, you can rent a car and hit the road quickly. Book your car today and start exploring the Lake District with the freedom and comfort of a rental car.

Puerto Montt is the perfect base for discovering the best of Chile’s Lake District. From the charming towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar to the stunning natural beauty of Saltos de Petrohué and Alerce Andino National Park, there’s no shortage of incredible day trips. By renting a car, you can easily explore all these destinations and more, making the most of your time in this breathtaking region.