Puerto Varas , Chile

Cochamo Hike Day trip.

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(2 reviews)

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About this experience

This day hike is offered to people that enjoys walking in the forest while and enjoys a bit of an adventure for the type of terrain.These trails were used on old days to smuggler cattle between Chile and Argentina and is one of the most important trails used by the locals who live in the valley of Cochamo.

Available options

Cochamo Hike Day trip.

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Box lunch. Sandwich, fruit, snack. We cater special diet. Please ask.

Detailed itinerary

Cochamo Valley is located in southern Chile, east of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas cities, the road is tarmac for most of the drive going across Ensenada town, and reaching the mouth of the Puelo Valley into the Estuary of Reloncavi. West of the Argentinean border and Bariloche, in the heart of the Patagonian Andes. The trails where originally opened by gauchos and local people travelling between the two countries when borders where not clear among Chile and Argentina. Also history and legends say that Buch Cassidy and Sundance kid used come this way to smuggle cattle to sell in Chile. I wouldn’t recommend this hike for people with vertigo since a hanging bridge must be crossed which can be a bit tricky. The drive is one of the most scenic in the region with mountains, rivers, lakes Valdivian forest and sea.Start and ends: 8.30 am.Puerto Varas or Pto Montt. 7 pm.
Location: Cochamo Valley. Lake District, South of Chile.

Duration:9 hours. 1,20 hour drive from Pto Varas. Walk: 6 hours.

Difficulty level: Easy/Medium. Terrain: Trails with muddy and slippery sections. In the shade of unforgettable forest with sunny sections. Mostly flat but some uphills too.
Equipment to bring: Warm clothes according to weather and time of the year. Trekking poles , shoes, rain jacket, sun and skin protection (sunglasses, hat).Snack, water 1 lts. Guide: English, Italian and Spanish is spoken, with WFR first aid certificate and expert in native flora and fauna.

Safety: Emergency equipment and first aid kit. Need to cross a hanging narrrow bridge. Not suitable for people with vertigo. Ask for alternatives in case the river is low enough.

Included: Private transportation.Entrance fee to the parking, box lunch, private guide with Widlernes First Responder Certificate and knowledgeable in native flora and fauna.

Stop 2 Pass by

We will see amazing views of Volcano Osorno and Calbuco.

What's not included

Bottled water

Seguro de viaje

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

People with vertigo. Because we need to cross a hanging bridge by foot.

About Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is a picturesque city in southern Chile, known for its stunning views of the Osorno Volcano and the tranquil Llanquihue Lake. Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, it offers a blend of German-influenced architecture, outdoor adventures, and local culture.

Top Attractions

Osorno Volcano

The iconic Osorno Volcano is a stunning stratovolcano with a perfectly symmetrical cone. It offers incredible views and various adventure activities.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to expensive, depending on the activity

Llanquihue Lake

Llanquihue Lake is the second-largest lake in Chile and offers beautiful views, water sports, and relaxing activities.

Nature/Relaxation A few hours to a full day Free to moderate

Puerto Varas German Museum

This museum showcases the German heritage of Puerto Varas, with exhibits on immigration, traditions, and local history.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Curd de Queso

A traditional Chilean dessert made with fresh cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, often served with meringue or whipped cream

Dessert Contains dairy, can be made gluten-free

Chorrillana

A hearty dish consisting of thick-cut fries topped with onions, ground beef, and sometimes hot dogs and eggs

Dinner Contains beef and pork, can be made vegetarian

Kuttrigen

A traditional German-Chilean dish made with a mix of meats (pork, beef, and chicken) cooked in a rich sauce with potatoes and onions

Dinner Contains pork, beef, and chicken, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Skiing Paragliding Boat tours Spa treatments Lakefront walks

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

12°C to 25°C 54°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: German, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

GMT-4 (Chile Standard Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere

Puerto Varas is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and accommodations

Getting there

By air

El Tepual International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from Puerto Varas

By bus

Puerto Varas Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro (City Center) Puerto Chacao Ensenada

Day trips

Petrohué Waterfalls

30 km (19 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day to full day

The Petrohué Waterfalls are a stunning series of cascades and rapids on the Petrohué River, offering breathtaking views and various adventure activities.

Frutillar

20 km (12 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day to full day

Frutillar is a charming town known for its German heritage, beautiful architecture, and cultural festivals.

Puerto Octay

15 km (9 miles) from Puerto Varas • Half day

Puerto Octay is a historic town with a rich German heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Festivals

German Festival (Fiesta Alemana) • January Puerto Varas Rose Festival (Fiesta de la Rosa) • October Patagonian International Film Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Osorno Volcano for stunning views and adventure activities, such as hiking, skiing, and paragliding
Explore the Petrohué Waterfalls and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park for breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures
Experience the region's German heritage by visiting historic towns like Frutillar and Puerto Octay, and attending cultural festivals and events
Enjoy the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, hearty meats, and traditional German-Chilean dishes like Kuttrigen and Curanto
Take a boat tour of Llanquihue Lake to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife, and visit nearby islands and attractions