Full Day Castro & Dalcahue Chiloe Island

Puerto Varas , Chile

Full Day Castro & Dalcahue Chiloe Island

Active

(7 reviews)

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the magic of Chiloé on a full-day tour from Puerto Varas!
Join us to explore the customs and traditions of this enchanting island, whose isolation has given birth to fascinating myths and legends that are still alive today.

Through the Isla Grande tour, you’ll travel beyond the usual routes to visit the charming towns of Ancud, Castro, and Dalcahue. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, rich local culture, and captivating stories that make Chiloé one of Chile’s most mystical destinations — an experience you simply can’t miss!

Available options

Castro & Dalcahue

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Full Day Experience

Ferry Navigation

Hotel pickup and drop-off (centrally located hotels only)

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

We will begin the pick up in Puerto Varas, around 08.00 am.

We will continue pick up in Puerto Montt until 8:45 AM, later continue the traveling along the famous Pan American Route to the town of Pargua, where we will embark on a ferry that will take us to Chacao.

From this place we will board a ferry to navigate through the Chacao Channel, which separates the mainland from the Isla Grande de Chiloé. During the navigation (45 minutes) we will be able to observe sea lions, pelicans and marine birds typical of this region.

We will dock at Chacao town, is one of the oldest on the island, founded in 1567. It has a Plaza de Armas where we can appreciate typical larch wood constructions and also see the church of San Antonio de Chacao.

Arrival in Quemchi, where we can visit its beautiful Costanera, which the writer Francisco Coloane baptized as the commune of 1000 landscapes. Later we will go to a wonderful place; Aucar, the Island of Navigating Souls that we can enter through a 430-meter wooden bridge.

Later we will head towards Dalcahue (a city located in front of the Isla de Quinchao) and that on its waterfront has a gastronomic and handicraft market with a spectacular view. We will visit the Fair and walk to the Nuestra Señora De Los Dolores Church, a typical Chilote construction that is part of the World Heritage Site.

Later we will continue our trip to the city of Castro, capital of the Isla Grande de Chiloé; making a stop to take pictures in the Palafitos (houses where the pillars are arranged on the water), we will visit the San Francisco Church in front of the city Square and its Craft Market.

In the afternoon, after this incredible visit, we will return to Puerto Varas at approximately 6 PM.

What's not included

Entrance Fee

Port Taxes

Lunch and Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Churches closed on monday

This service is not valid for cruise passengers. These excursions or transfer have a special operation and rate.

Important notes

We suggest you to confirm the booking details with us prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sat from 9 to 18 Hs and Sundays from 10 to 19 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)

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