Private Full-Day Tour: Llanquihue Lake & Waterfalls Experience

Puerto Varas , Chile

Private Full-Day Tour: Llanquihue Lake & Waterfalls Experience

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About this experience

This private experience invites you to discover the hidden natural beauty and cultural charm of Chile’s Llanquihue Lake region.

Departing from your hotel in Puerto Varas, you’ll travel through picturesque landscapes toward the Puerto Octay Waterfalls, where a short 40-minute walk leads you to one of southern Chile’s most beautiful and peaceful spots — a true masterpiece of nature.

Continue to the charming town of Puerto Octay, known for its colorful wooden architecture and German heritage. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch and a stroll through the central square to take in the relaxed atmosphere of this lakeside community.

The journey continues to Frutillar, a lakeside gem famous for its black sand beaches, views of the Osorno Volcano, and its elegant Teatro del Lago. Walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy the tranquil scenery, and don’t miss the chance to taste one of Frutillar’s traditional German pastries, a beloved local tradition.

Available options

Private Full-Day Tour: Llanquihue Lake & Waterfalls Experience

Pickup included

What's included

professional Tour Guide

Entrance Fee To The Waterfall Park

Private transport

Professional driver

Detailed itinerary

We’ll begin this adventure with pick-up from your hotel in Puerto Varas, heading north along the scenic road that borders Llanquihue Lake. Our first destination is one of the hidden treasures of southern Chile — the Puerto Octay Waterfalls.

After a short and scenic 4-kilometer walk, you’ll reach a spectacular cascade surrounded by lush native forest and volcanic landscapes. Take time to breathe in the fresh Patagonian air, admire the balance of nature, and capture unforgettable photos of this peaceful setting in the Los Lagos Region.

We’ll continue toward the charming lakeside town of Puerto Octay, known for its colorful wooden architecture and colonial charm. Enjoy a local lunch featuring traditional southern Chilean cuisine, then take a relaxed walk through the town square to explore its atmosphere and culture before continuing to Frutillar.

Our final stop is the enchanting town of Frutillar, located on the western shore of Llanquihue Lake with panoramic views of the Osorno Volcano. Walk along its tranquil waterfront and black sand beaches, admire its German-style houses, and visit landmarks such as the German Colonial Museum and the Teatro del Lago, a renowned cultural and architectural icon of southern Chile.

Before returning, enjoy free time to relax and taste one of Frutillar’s famous kuchen (German-style cakes) in a local café — a sweet ending to your day of discovery.

What's not included

Lunch

Snacks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time is included on the Total Tour duration

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