Chile’s Lake District is famed for its inspiring contrasts of lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, vast larch forests and its wealth of outdoor and city activities. The district spans two of Chile’s regions - La Araucania and Los Lagos - stretching from the Pacific to the Andes, and has an excellent tourism infrastructure.
The cities of the region have much to offer in terms of culture and heritage, but the real draw to the Lake District is its natural splendour. The Seven Lakes district is home to the Catafquen, Rinihue and Panguipulli lakes, commonly considered the most outstanding in the area by locals and tourists alike. Osorno is home to Chile’s most popular national park, Puyehue, dominated by the Osorno volcano.
The Mapuche Indian and German settlers in the region have both left their distinct and diverse marks through architecture, art and food. Temecu, the gateway to the Lake District, has a strong Mapuche heritage, with many shops selling local silver and wood crafts. Remains of Spanish forts can still be seen in the city of Valdivia, with Germanic influences noticeable in the architecture of the town.
Highlights
Fish market of Angelmo: not surprisingly, this region has much to offer in the way of fresh fish thanks to its surrounded waters. The fish market of Angelmo offers some of the best examples of seafood and you will also find a large handicraft market here.
Puerto Montt: a town with great views of the bay, options for daytrips to surrounding national parks, waterfalls and lakes abound, complemented by lots of lodging places, restaurants and shops selling local handicrafts. It is also the departure point for cruises to the fjords and a gateway to Antarctica.