Best Places to Visit in Los Lagos | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Los Lagos Travel Guide
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Welcome to Los Lagos, Chile! Located in the southern part of the country, Los Lagos is a region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its picturesque landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, this region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Los Lagos is also home to several charming towns and cities, such as Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, sample delicious seafood dishes, and explore historical landmarks. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a relaxing getaway surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Los Lagos has something for everyone.
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Best Places To Visit in Los Lagos
1. Puerto Varas : Located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, Puerto Varas is a picturesque town known for its German architecture and stunning views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing, as well as exploring the town's many restaurants and shops.
2. Chiloe Island : Chiloe Island is a unique destination known for its distinctive architecture, folklore, and cuisine. Visitors can explore the island's many churches, which are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as its colorful palafitos (stilt houses) and traditional markets.
3. Castro : The capital of Chiloe Island, Castro is a charming town known for its colorful houses and bustling waterfront. Visitors can explore the town's many artisan markets, sample local seafood dishes, and visit the nearby Chiloe National Park.
4. Puerto Montt : The largest city in the Los Lagos region, Puerto Montt is a bustling port town known for its seafood and stunning views of the Andes Mountains. Visitors can explore the town's many museums and galleries, as well as take a boat tour of the nearby fjords.
5. Frutillar : Located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, Frutillar is a quaint town known for its German architecture and cultural events. Visitors can attend the annual Frutillar Music Festival, which features classical and folk music performances, as well as explore the town's many museums and galleries.
6. Osorno : Located at the foot of the Osorno volcano, Osorno is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike in the nearby Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, ski at the Osorno Ski Center, or take a scenic drive along the Osorno Volcano Road.
7. Ancud : Located on the northern coast of Chiloe Island, Ancud is a historic town known for its fortifications and museums. Visitors can explore the town's many colonial-era buildings, as well as visit the nearby penguin colonies and sea lion colonies.
8. Puyehue National Park : Located in the Andes Mountains, Puyehue National Park is a stunning destination known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the park's many natural wonders, as well as stay in one of its many lodges and cabins.
9. Valdivia : Located on the banks of the Calle-Calle River, Valdivia is a charming town known for its historic architecture and cultural events. Visitors can explore the town's many museums and galleries, as well as take a boat tour of the nearby wetlands and islands.
10. Futaleufu : Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, Futaleufu is a popular destination for adventure sports such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, and hiking. Visitors can explore the town's many outdoor activities, as well as stay in one of its many lodges and cabins.
Hotels Map Of Los Lagos
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Tours And Activities In Los Lagos
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Food & Drinks To Try In Los Lagos
1. Curanto: This traditional dish from Los Lagos is a must-try. It consists of a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetables cooked in a hole in the ground covered with leaves. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a unique and delicious meal.
2. Congrio: Congrio is a type of fish found in the waters of Los Lagos. It has a delicate and flaky texture, and its flavor is often described as sweet and buttery. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, baked, or fried, and is commonly served with a side of rice or potatoes.
3. Cazuela: Cazuela is a traditional Chilean soup that is popular in Los Lagos. It is made with a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, or pork, along with vegetables like potatoes, corn, and pumpkin. The broth is rich and flavorful, and it is often served with a side of rice or bread.
4. Curanto en Hoyo: Similar to curanto, curanto en hoyo is a dish that is cooked in a hole in the ground. However, the main difference is that curanto en hoyo is prepared using only seafood, such as clams, mussels, and fish. The seafood is layered with potatoes, onions, and seasonings, and then covered with leaves and cooked slowly over hot stones.
5. Chilean Empanadas: Empanadas are a popular snack in Chile, and they come in various flavors. In Los Lagos, you can find empanadas filled with seafood, such as shrimp or crab, as well as traditional meat fillings like beef or chicken. They are typically baked until golden and crispy, and make for a delicious on-the-go meal.
6. Chilean Wine: Chile is known for its excellent wine production, and Los Lagos is no exception. The region is home to several vineyards that produce a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and roses. Take the opportunity to visit a local winery and sample some of the region's finest wines.
7. Mote con Huesillo: Mote con huesillo is a traditional Chilean drink that is especially popular during the summer months. It is made with dried peaches, cooked wheat, and sweetened water. The result is a refreshing and sweet beverage that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
8. Cerveza Artesanal: Craft beer has gained popularity in Chile in recent years, and Los Lagos is home to several breweries that produce their own unique and flavorful beers. Take the opportunity to try some locally brewed craft beers and discover new flavors and styles.
9. Merken: Merken is a traditional Chilean spice blend that is commonly used in cooking. It is made from smoked chili peppers, coriander seeds, cumin, and salt. The smoky and slightly spicy flavor of merken adds a unique twist to dishes and is a staple in many traditional Chilean recipes.
10. Chilean Sweets: Chile is known for its delicious sweets and desserts. In Los Lagos, you can find a variety of traditional treats, such as alfajores (dulce de leche-filled cookies), leche asada (baked milk custard), and kuchen (a type of fruit tart). Indulge your sweet tooth and try some of these delightful Chilean desserts.
Best Time To Visit Los Lagos
The best time to visit Los Lagos, Chile is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the region experiences warmer temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. Additionally, visiting during this time allows you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the snow-capped volcanoes and pristine lakes that the region is known for. However, it's important to note that Los Lagos can be crowded during the summer months, so if you prefer quieter and less touristy experiences, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) or fall (March to May).
Flight Calendar For Los Lagos
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Transportation To Los Lagos
There are several transportation options to Los Lagos, Chile.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Los Lagos is El Tepual International Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Los Lagos.
2. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities in Chile, such as Santiago, to Los Lagos. The journey can take several hours, depending on the starting point.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the Pan-American Highway (Route 5) south to Los Lagos. The journey from Santiago takes approximately 10-12 hours.
4. By Ferry: If you are coming from the island of Chiloe, you can take a ferry from Chacao to Pargua and then drive to Los Lagos.
Once you arrive in Los Lagos, there are local transportation options such as taxis and buses to get around the town and explore the surrounding areas.