The shores of the 336-square-mile (870-square-kilometer) lake share a German heritage, noticeable in the architecture and food, yet each attracts visitors for a different reason. Puerto Varas is the Lake District’s adventure capital, while Frutillar on the western banks of the lake largely appeals to Chilean tourists unwinding on summer vacation. The charming Bavarian-style town of Puerto Octay offers remote accommodations on the north shores of the lake; and rustic Ensenada on the eastern banks sits at the entrance to Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, home of the Petrohué Waterfalls.
Multiple tour operators provide single- and multi-day trips around the Lake District, which typically include visiting the Petrohué Waterfalls, rafting on Lake Llanquihue, and trekking on Osorno Volcano, typically leaving from Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas. This is a great option if you don't feel confident making the trip independently—it’s also a good way to skip the hassle of driving.
From Puerto Montt, it takes around 25 minutes by car or public bus to Puerto Varas on the southern shore of Lake Llanquihue. From there, it takes around 60 minutes to drive to Osorno Volcano; there is no public transportation, so if you don’t have a car, your best bet is to join a tour.
For the most pleasant weather conditions, the best time to visit the Lake District is during the southern hemisphere’s summer (December through March), however this is peak season. It's worth considering a spring visit if you want to beat the crowds, but temperatures will be cool during this time.
A highlight for many summer visitors to the Lake District is attending a concert at the Teatro del Lago (Lake Theater) in Frutillar. The theater hosts the annual Frutillar Musical Week from late January to early February. The theater presents around 40 classical music concerts from Chilean and international musicians in its concert hall, amphitheater, and other areas.
