Estuario Reloncavi Nature & Culture in Cochamo & Puelo

Puerto Varas , Chile

Estuario Reloncavi Nature & Culture in Cochamo & Puelo

Active

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a unique adventure through the "Reloncaví Estuary: Nature and Culture in Cochamó and Puelo". From Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas, skirt the rugged Pacific coast along the Carretera Austral, exploring towns such as Piedra Azul and Quillaipe. In Caleta La Arena, enjoy the landscape as you cross the estuary by ferry, admiring mountains and marine fauna.

Discover Puelo, where the river merges with the estuary between native forests and calm lakes. Then, explore Cochamó, a picturesque town surrounded by the Valdivian jungle, with crystalline rivers and views of the Osorno and Calbuco Volcano from Lake Llanquihue. It ends with Route 225 back to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, on a day of natural and cultural discoveries in Chilean Patagonia.

Available options

Private Transportation

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Full Day Experience

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 approximately.

We will explore the picturesque town of Puelo, at the mouth of the river of the same name in the Reloncaví Estuary. Surrounded by native forests and lakes, this place offers tranquility and natural beauty, along with an opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions.

We will head towards Cochamó, a charming town surrounded by the Valdivian jungle and temperate rainy coastal forests. It is famous for its stunning natural landscapes that include crystal clear rivers, majestic mountains and lush forests.

We will cross the Reloncaví Estuary from Caleta La Arena to Caleta Puelche on a ferry, enjoying spectacular views of mountains and local marine fauna. We will then skirt the estuary, exploring its natural landscape and serenity.

Finally, we will return along Route 225, passing through Ensenada, until we reach Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, thus concluding a day full of discoveries, natural beauty and unforgettable experiences.

We will navigate the Petrohué River to Lake Llanquihue, with panoramic views of the Osorno and Calbuco Volcano, creating a spectacular combination of calm waters and imposing volcanic peaks.

What's not included

Entrance Fee

Lunch and Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Museum and 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