Family-Friendly Adventures in , Los Lagos!

Calbuco Volcano

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Calbuco Volcano, located in the stunning Lake District of Chile. Ideal for families seeking a mix of nature, excitement, and education, this adventure will provide lasting memories.

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Montt

- Start your journey by flying into El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt.

- Rent a car at the airport for a scenic 50-minute drive to the town of Ensenada, the gateway to Calbuco Volcano.

- Check into a family-friendly lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening preparing for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Hike Calbuco Volcano

- After an early breakfast, drive to the Volcano"s base, about 30 minutes from Ensenada. The trailhead is well-marked, and parking is available.

- Embark on a guided hike up Calbuco Volcano. The trail is challenging but manageable, with about 4-6 hours required to reach the summit and return, covering a distance of approximately 13km round trip. It"s crucial to have a guide as the volcano is active, with its last eruption in 2015, which added exciting new landscapes.

- Along the hike, learn about the local flora and fauna. The area is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and the views from the summit are breathtaking, overlooking Llanquihue Lake and the surrounding peaks.

- Return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Explore Surrounding Natural Beauties

- Visit the nearby Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, 20 minutes from Ensenada. Explore the Petrohué Waterfalls and enjoy a leisurely walk along the river. These falls are famous for their vibrant blue waters and the stunning backdrop of Osorno Volcano.

- Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, engaging in bird watching or simply relishing the peaceful natural surroundings.

- Return to Puerto Montt in the evening for your departure the next day, filled with beautiful memories of the majestic Calbuco Volcano.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation ideal for a family looking to explore one of Chile"s most dramatic landscapes.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Llanquihue Lake

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Varas

- Morning: Fly into El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt, then take a scenic 30-minute drive to Puerto Varas, a charming town on the shores of Llanquihue Lake. Check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with views of the Osorno Volcano.

- Afternoon: Explore the town of Puerto Varas. Visit the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, an iconic landmark with stunning architecture inspired by the Marienkirche of Black Forest, Germany. Stroll along the lakefront promenade and enjoy the local crafts market.

- Evening: Have dinner at a lakeside restaurant, trying local dishes like curanto or salmon ceviche.

Day 2: Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Falls

- Morning: Drive 1 hour to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Ascend Osorno Volcano by car and then take a chairlift for spectacular views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes.

- Afternoon: Visit the nearby Petrohué Falls, a stunning set of cascades set against the backdrop of the volcano. The easy trails are perfect for families.

- Evening: Return to Puerto Varas and relax by the lake, perhaps renting a pedal boat for a gentle ride on the water.

Day 3: Frutillar and Cultural Visit

- Morning: Drive 30 minutes to the picturesque town of Frutillar. Visit the German Colonial Museum to learn about the area’s European heritage and explore the beautifully maintained gardens.

- Afternoon: Enjoy a performance at the Teatro del Lago, an impressive modern theatre with a glass facade offering unobstructed lake views. Check their schedule for family-friendly shows.

- Evening: Have an early dinner at a quaint café, tasting German desserts like kuchen or strudel.

Day 4: Departure

After breakfast, take a leisurely morning walk along the lake or visit a local café before driving back to Puerto Montt for your departure.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lake Todos los Santos

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your adventure at Lake Todos los Santos, a breathtaking glacial lake nestled in Chilean Patagonia. Arrive in Puerto Montt, and then take a scenic 96 km drive to Petrohué, passing lush landscapes and the impressive Osorno Volcano. Upon arrival, check into one of the cozy lakeside lodges or cabins.

Day 2: Boating and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Start your day with a boat tour of Lake Todos los Santos, known for its emerald waters. The tours usually depart from Petrohué and allow you to experience the lake"s serene beauty up close. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including a variety of birds and possibly even a deer along the shores.

After the boat tour, spend the afternoon exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Hike the easy trails that offer stunning views of waterfalls, such as the famous Saltos del Petrohué, and learn about the local flora and fauna. The park is a great place for families to enjoy nature and have a picnic by the lake.

Day 3: Osorno Volcano and Surrounding Activities

Drive to the nearby Osorno Volcano for a day of adventure. You can take the chairlift to the viewing station near the summit, providing spectacular views of the lake below and the surrounding peaks. For the more adventurous, guided trekking is available up the slopes of the volcano.

In the afternoon, consider a visit to the nearby thermal springs or kayaking on the lake, depending on the interests and energy levels of your family.

Day 4: Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning by the lake, soaking in the tranquil environment and the stunning views before heading back to Puerto Montt for your onward journey or flight home.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making Lake Todos los Santos a memorable destination for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Petrohué Waterfalls

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Petrohué Waterfalls Adventure

Morning: Arrival and Petrohué Waterfalls

Start your day early by driving from Puerto Varas to the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, about an hour"s journey. The drive itself is scenic, offering enchanting views of Lake Llanquihue and the imposing Osorno Volcano. On arrival, head straight to the Petrohué Waterfalls, one of Chile’s most iconic natural beauties. The entrance fee is a small price for the rich experience ahead.

The falls are easily accessible via a well-maintained wooden pathway, making it stroller-friendly if you’re traveling with little ones. The thunderous water cascading down volcanic rocks creates a magnificent view and is a great educational moment to explain the volcanic geography of the region to the kids. Keep your camera ready for the vibrant rainbows that often appear in the mist!

Lunch: Picnic by Lake Todos Los Santos

After exploring the falls, drive to the nearby Lake Todos Los Santos for a picnic lunch. The lakeshore offers serene views and a perfect spot to relax. The area has several picnic tables, or you can spread a blanket on the grassy areas. Enjoy a family meal surrounded by nature"s splendor.

Afternoon: Kayaking or Nature Walk

Post lunch, choose between renting kayaks to paddle on the emerald waters of Lake Todos Los Santos or take a leisurely hike on one of the surrounding trails, suitable for all ages. Both activities offer great ways to immerse in the stunning landscape and potentially spot local wildlife.

Evening: Return to Puerto Varas

Conclude your day by driving back to Puerto Varas. If time permits, a stroll along the lakefront of Puerto Varas is a peaceful way to end your day, with ice cream shops and local artisans displaying their crafts.

This well-rounded itinerary promises a blend of adventure, education, and relaxation, tailored to keep both parents and children engaged and enchanted throughout the day.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discovering Petrohué Falls and Lake Todos los Santos

Start your adventure at Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park by visiting the enchanting Petrohué Falls. Located just an hour’s drive from Puerto Varas, this spot offers easy access via Route 225. Begin at the visitor center where you can gather informative brochures and maps. The falls, set against the stunning backdrop of the Osorno Volcano, offer a spectacle with water cascading over volcanic rocks. Easy, well-marked trails make it perfect for children to explore safely.

After enjoying the falls, drive a short distance to Lake Todos los Santos. Immerse yourself in the emerald waters by renting kayaks or taking a leisurely boat tour to better appreciate the surrounding lush forests and towering mountains. It’s a great way for the family to relax and soak in the natural beauty.

Day 2: Hiking Osorno Volcano and Relaxing in the Thermal Springs

On your second day, gear up for a guided hike up the Osorno Volcano. Begin early and drive to the base where chairlifts can help ease the ascent for younger children. The views from the trail are breathtaking, and on a clear day, you can see across to the Pacific Ocean. Engage kids with fun facts: Osorno is one of the most active volcanoes in the Southern Andes but is monitored closely for safety!

Post-hike, unwind at the nearby thermal springs, about a two-hour drive from Osorno’s base. The naturally heated waters are not only relaxing but also reputed to have healing properties, perfect after a day of trekking.

Interesting Fact: Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, established in 1926, is Chile’s oldest national park. It was named after a prominent public figure who was instrumental in the colonization of the Llanquihue area.

This two-day itinerary offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, ideal for families looking to explore Chile’s natural wonders while making lasting memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.