Lakes and volcanoes in Chile

History

The history of the lake district dates back to pre-Spanish times. The area was originally inhabited by the indigenous Mapuche people. In the 16th century, the area came under the control of Spanish explorers. During the colonial period, the Mapuche and the Spaniards frequently clashed, particularly as the Spaniards established settlements scattered across the region. In the 19th century, more European immigrants arrived in the Lake District, mainly Germans, who settled in towns such as Frutillar and Puerto Varas. They brought with them culture, architecture and agricultural techniques, which are still evident in this region today.
The Lake District is now a major tourist region in Chile, attracting visitors from all over the world every year.

Climate

The lake district has four seasons. Spring runs from September to November. During these months, temperatures are mild and there can be regular showers. In spring, nature comes into its own, with colourful flowers and beautiful, green landscapes.
Summer runs from December to February. It can get pleasantly warm, making it a perfect season for tourists. Thanks to the sunny, warm days, visitors can enjoy many activities in the region, but water sports are particularly popular.
Autumn in the Lake District falls between March and May, bringing with it cooler temperatures. The leaves on the trees turn beautiful colours, with various shades of red, orange and yellow. This creates stunning landscapes. Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season in the Chilean Lake District.
In winter, from June to August, it can get cold in the Lake District. Snowfall is not uncommon in the higher-altitude areas. In winter, the Lake District is transformed into a ski destination, where people can enjoy a variety of winter sports in the mountains.

The Mapuche

The Mapuche are an indigenous people who live mainly in the Lake District (primarily in Araucanía, Biobío and Los Lagos). They have a deeply rooted cultural identity. They have a strong connection to their land and lead a traditional way of life that is closely linked to nature. The Mapuche are known for their resistance against the Spanish colonisers. Fortunately, despite the long-standing conflicts and the formation of independent Mapuche communities, they have managed to preserve their culture and associated traditions, such as their religion, language, ceremonial practices and local crafts. Although there are several Mapuche communities, they all speak the same language, Mapudungun, which is not an officially recognised language in Chile.
Today, the Mapuche form an important part of society, with a focus on preserving their cultural heritage and rights as an indigenous people. They play an active role in (local) politics and continue to fight for land rights, recognition and cultural autonomy.

Driving through Chile’s Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is ideal for a road trip, especially if you prefer to cover shorter distances each day. Drive past lakes, through dense forests and take in the views of impressive mountain peaks covered in eternal snow. Along the way, you can stop off in picturesque villages or take part in outdoor activities. During stops in places such as Puerto Varas, Frutillar and Pucón, you can enjoy local cuisine, visit craft markets or explore some historical sights.
Generally speaking, the roads in the Lake District are well maintained, particularly the access roads to the most popular attractions.
A popular route is the “Ruta de los Siete Lagos” (The Route of the Seven Lakes). This route takes you past picturesque lakes as you wind your way through dense forests. The Carretera Austral, the legendary route that takes you through the wilderness of Patagonia, also starts in the Lake District.

Towns in the Lake District

The lake district is home to several villages and towns that are well worth exploring:

Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas, also known as the ‘city of roses’, is a charming little town situated on the shores of Lake Llanguihue. Its German-style architecture and colourful flower gardens add to the town’s charm. The views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes from Puerto Varas are stunning.

Pucón
The town of Pucón is situated on the shores of Lake Villarrica, at the foot of the Villarrica volcano of the same name. There is a lively atmosphere with cosy cafés and restaurants. At the craft markets, you can enjoy local dishes and buy traditional souvenirs. In summer, it’s lovely to visit the beautiful beaches by the lake to relax or take part in water sports.

Frutillar
Like Puerto Varas, this picturesque village has many German influences; for example, it is home to the ‘Museo Colonial Alemán’. There are many historic buildings well worth visiting. Frutillar is known for the famous Teatro del Lago, a modern cultural centre surrounded by mountains and water. All sorts of concerts, plays and festivals are organised here throughout the year. Frutillar is also a great destination for food lovers, with local specialities such as kuchen (a German speciality) and seafood dishes served at various venues.

Places of interest

The Chilean Lake District is vast, and there are numerous stunning sights scattered throughout the region. We have listed some of these sights for you:

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

This is Chile’s oldest national park and is also situated in the Regíon de los Lagos. Covering an area of over 2,000 km² and boasting a varied landscape of impressive waterfalls, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes, it is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, offering numerous walking and trekking opportunities to explore the unspoilt natural environment. The Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is also home to two major attractions: the Osorno volcano and the Petrohué waterfalls.

Petrohué Waterfalls

The Petrohué Waterfalls are formed by the Petrohué River as it carves its way through a gorge of volcanic rock, creating a series of rapids and waterfalls. The river’s turquoise-blue water contrasts with the dark rock, creating a magnificent spectacle of colour and movement. There are well-maintained paths leading to viewing points, so you can enjoy the waterfalls up close.

Villarrica National Park

This National Park is situated in the Araucanía Region and is named after the Villarrica volcano, which is located within the park. The Villarrica volcano is one of Chile’s most active volcanoes and occupies a prominent place in Villarrica National Park. The 63,000-hectare park is home to a diverse ecosystem, featuring native flora and fauna. The Araucaria tree (also known as the monkey tree) is one such example.

Thermal baths

The region is home to various thermal baths with naturally heated waters. These thermal baths are wonderful for relaxation and are said to have healing properties. Examples of these thermal baths include the Termas Geométricas, Termas de Puyehue and Termas de Pucón.

Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve

The Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve is a remarkable area best known for its rainforests and unique biodiversity. The area covers more than 100,000 hectares and is one of Chile’s best-preserved ecosystems. It is home to native animals such as the rare Andean condor, pumas and puyen (an endemic species of fish). The area is also widely known to the general public for its unique accommodation options, of which the Montaña Magica Lodge is the best known. The Nothofagus Hotel & Spa also features a distinctive architectural style.

Chiloé

Strictly speaking, Chiloé is not located in the lake district, but the archipelago is certainly a nearby attraction. Chiloé is best known for its various wooden churches and its unique indigenous culture. Read more about the island of Chiloé here .