Backpacking in Puerto Varas
🏆 Top picktown ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 11, 2026

Your first real fork in Puerto Varas is this: do you treat it as a cozy base for lakes-and-volcano adventures, or just a pretty layover between Bariloche and Chiloé? That choice matters, because it changes how many nights you give it and how much gear, time, and money you commit to side trips. Puerto Varas sits in Chile’s Los Lagos Region, on the southwest shore of Lago Llanquihue, with Volcán Osorno looming like a screensaver that actually smells of wet earth and woodsmoke. For backpackers, it’s more launchpad than destination city: great for day hikes, rafting, biking the lake road, or quick hops to Frutillar, Petrohué, and eventually Chiloé. The center is compact and walkable, buses roll in easily from Puerto Montt and Osorno, and you’ll find enough hostels and cafés to feel social without the party pressure of Pucón. It’s safe, mid-range in cost, scenic, and a bit polished—more relaxed than Puerto Montt, more practical than tiny lakeside villages.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Chile Travel Guide.

Best time to go: September - May
Population: 43,000
Daily cost: USD25 to 50 [chile.travel]

Get your Chile guide

120 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (471 pages)

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 town in ChileReasons people choose to visit here

Backpackers flock to Puerto Varas for its strategic location as a gateway to Chile’s stunning Lake District. The town’s walkable streets are lined with charming guesthouses and small-scale hostels, making it easy to find a cozy spot to rest your head after a day of adventure. The local food scene is a treat; savor fresh seafood and hearty Patagonian dishes that fuel your hikes.

From here, you can easily access breathtaking hikes in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park or relax on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, perfect for solo travelers or those in small groups looking to connect. Many backpackers linger a few days, soaking in the scenic views and vibrant local culture.

While it’s not a nightlife hotspot, the town offers a warm social vibe, ideal … read more 👉

Backpackers flock to Puerto Varas for its strategic location as a gateway to Chile’s stunning Lake District. The town’s walkable streets are lined with charming guesthouses and small-scale hostels, making it easy to find a cozy spot to rest your head after a day of adventure. The local food scene is a treat; savor fresh seafood and hearty Patagonian dishes that fuel your hikes.

From here, you can easily access breathtaking hikes in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park or relax on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, perfect for solo travelers or those in small groups looking to connect. Many backpackers linger a few days, soaking in the scenic views and vibrant local culture.

While it’s not a nightlife hotspot, the town offers a warm social vibe, ideal for slow travelers who appreciate a balance of exploration and relaxation. Puerto Varas isn’t just a stop; it’s a place to breathe, recharge, and embrace the beauty of the Chilean outdoors.

Want to include Puerto Varas in your Chile route?
Create a personalized Chile itinerary that includes Puerto Varas and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Plaza de Armas (Plaza de Puerto Varas) — The town’s social heartbeat: green benches, bands, vendors and a perfect spot to people-watch while you plan the rest of the day.
Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús — A graceful wooden church on the lakeshore: neat example of the German-colonial ecclesiastical architecture that defines the town’s look and history.
Costanera and the Muelle (lakefront promenade and pier) — Walking here at sunrise or sunset gives unbeatable views of Lago Llanquihue and Volcán Osorno; it’s where locals brew mate, jog, and launch small boats.
Museo Pablo Fierro — Quirky, compact, and full of oddball sculptures, antiques and stories; more of an artist’s cabinet than a formal museum, and entertainingly local.
Casa Kuschel (Museo de Sitio) — A preserved German-settler

… read more 👉

Plaza de Armas (Plaza de Puerto Varas) — The town’s social heartbeat: green benches, bands, vendors and a perfect spot to people-watch while you plan the rest of the day.
Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús — A graceful wooden church on the lakeshore: neat example of the German-colonial ecclesiastical architecture that defines the town’s look and history.
Costanera and the Muelle (lakefront promenade and pier) — Walking here at sunrise or sunset gives unbeatable views of Lago Llanquihue and Volcán Osorno; it’s where locals brew mate, jog, and launch small boats.
Museo Pablo Fierro — Quirky, compact, and full of oddball sculptures, antiques and stories; more of an artist’s cabinet than a formal museum, and entertainingly local.
Casa Kuschel (Museo de Sitio) — A preserved German-settler house that shows how early families lived; small but solid on context if you want a feel for the colonial domestic life.
Mercado Municipal / Feria Artesanal — Fresh fish, smoked salmon, local cheeses and wool crafts; great for a quick budget meal and to pick up genuine regional souvenirs.
Cerro Philippi (Mirador Philippi) — Short, doable climb from town to a viewpoint that delivers panoramic shots of the lake, volcano and Puerto Varas rooftops — low effort, high payoff.
German-architecture walk (Vicente Pérez Rosales & Antonio Varas) — A stroll down these streets shows off the town’s timber houses, ornate eaves and cafés — good for architecture nerds and casual walkers alike.
Cementerio Municipal — More than graves: it’s a compact history lesson with German surnames, carved stonework and quiet views over the lake; useful for those who like offbeat cultural spots.
Kuchen and bakery crawl (local pastelerías) — Trying local kuchen (German-style cakes) at family bakeries is a cultural experience here — cheap, delicious and a direct link to the town’s settler roots.

A few nearby day-trip highlights: Petrohué Falls and the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, the Osorno Volcano/Ensenada area, and the lakeside town of Frutillar — Petrohué Falls is my personal favorite.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Chile

Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 120 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is a charming lakeside town that offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a prime spot for backpackers. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best experience.

Centro: This is the heart of Puerto Varas. You’ll find vibrant cafés, local markets, and the iconic church with its wooden spires. The vibe is lively, perfect for those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere. Walkability is excellent, with everything within a few blocks. It’s ideal for short stays, as you can easily explore on foot. Nightlife is casual, with bars that offer local brews and live music.

Costanera: Stretching along the lake, this area is all about stunning views and tranquility. The scent of fresh pastries wafts from bakeries, and the sunsets are breathtaking. It’s quieter than Centro, making … read more 👉

Puerto Varas is a charming lakeside town that offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a prime spot for backpackers. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best experience.

Centro: This is the heart of Puerto Varas. You’ll find vibrant cafés, local markets, and the iconic church with its wooden spires. The vibe is lively, perfect for those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere. Walkability is excellent, with everything within a few blocks. It’s ideal for short stays, as you can easily explore on foot. Nightlife is casual, with bars that offer local brews and live music.

Costanera: Stretching along the lake, this area is all about stunning views and tranquility. The scent of fresh pastries wafts from bakeries, and the sunsets are breathtaking. It’s quieter than Centro, making it suitable for longer stays or those seeking peace. You can stroll along the waterfront or rent a bike. Transport access is decent, but you’ll want to walk to soak in the scenery.

Las Quemas: A bit further out, this neighborhood is where you’ll find more budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. The atmosphere is laid-back, attracting a mix of travelers. It’s less walkable, so consider renting a bike or using local transport. This area is great for longer stays, especially if you want to connect with other backpackers and share stories around a campfire.

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas, with its charming wooden architecture and stunning views of Lake Llanquihue, feels like a slice of Europe dropped into the heart of Chile. The air is crisp, often carrying the scent of fresh rain and wood smoke from cozy cafes. This town is a gateway to adventure, but it also offers a rich tapestry of local culture and history that’s worth exploring.

Start your morning at Café de la Plaza, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of homemade pastries. Grab a slice of kuchen, a traditional German cake, and take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the town square. After fueling up, stroll along the lakeshore. The early light dances on the water, and the view of the Osorno Volcano in the distance is breathtaking.

In the afternoon, head to … read more 👉

Puerto Varas, with its charming wooden architecture and stunning views of Lake Llanquihue, feels like a slice of Europe dropped into the heart of Chile. The air is crisp, often carrying the scent of fresh rain and wood smoke from cozy cafes. This town is a gateway to adventure, but it also offers a rich tapestry of local culture and history that’s worth exploring.

Start your morning at Café de la Plaza, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of homemade pastries. Grab a slice of kuchen, a traditional German cake, and take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the town square. After fueling up, stroll along the lakeshore. The early light dances on the water, and the view of the Osorno Volcano in the distance is breathtaking.

In the afternoon, head to the less-traveled neighborhood of Colonia Río Sur. Here, you’ll find the Museo Pablo Fierro, a quirky, colorful space filled with local art and history. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the stories told through the exhibits are captivating, and the owner’s passion is infectious. Afterward, wander through the lush gardens of Parque Philippi, where the sounds of nature create a serene backdrop.

As evening approaches, make your way back to the waterfront for dinner at La Gringa. The seafood is fresh, and the views of the sunset over the lake are nothing short of magical. Try the local salmon, perfectly grilled, and pair it with a glass of Chilean wine.

End your day with a leisurely walk along the lake, where the stars begin to twinkle above. The cool breeze and the gentle lapping of the water create a perfect close to a day filled with discovery. In Puerto Varas, every moment feels like a reward, and every corner invites you to explore a little deeper.

Turn your Puerto Varas visit into an Chile adventure
Build a complete Chile route with Puerto Varas, hidden gems, must-see destinations, and realistic travel times included.

Generate my trip

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

Weather: Puerto Varas sits in Chile’s Lake District, where rain is a regular visitor. The driest months are January and February, with less than 50mm of rain, making trails and outdoor cafes more inviting. Winter (June to August) brings cold, damp days, often below 5°C (41°F), which can turn hikes into slippery challenges.

Temperature: Summer highs hover around 20-22°C (68-72°F), perfect for lake swims and volcano treks without overheating. Winters dip to 0-5°C (32-41°F), so if you’re not into bundling up, avoid those months.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15 hours, giving you more time to explore before dusk. Winter days shrink to about 9 hours, squeezing your window for daylight adventures.

Crowds: Peak season in summer means more tourists, especially around the

… read more 👉

Weather: Puerto Varas sits in Chile’s Lake District, where rain is a regular visitor. The driest months are January and February, with less than 50mm of rain, making trails and outdoor cafes more inviting. Winter (June to August) brings cold, damp days, often below 5°C (41°F), which can turn hikes into slippery challenges.

Temperature: Summer highs hover around 20-22°C (68-72°F), perfect for lake swims and volcano treks without overheating. Winters dip to 0-5°C (32-41°F), so if you’re not into bundling up, avoid those months.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15 hours, giving you more time to explore before dusk. Winter days shrink to about 9 hours, squeezing your window for daylight adventures.

Crowds: Peak season in summer means more tourists, especially around the lakes and national parks. If you prefer quieter trails and local vibes, shoulder seasons like late spring (November) or early autumn (March-April) offer a sweet spot.

Seasonal Activities: Summer unlocks kayaking, hiking, and open-air markets. Winter invites cozy cafés and nearby ski resorts, but some trails close due to snow. Plan accordingly if you want to mix adventure with downtime.

Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and tours spike in summer. Booking in shoulder seasons can save you 20-30%, plus you’ll dodge the tourist rush without sacrificing much on weather.

Pro-tip: Aim for late November or early March—days are long, rain is manageable, and you’ll catch the town waking up or winding down, with fewer crowds and better deals.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

Centro is the heartbeat for backpackers in Puerto Varas. It’s where the pulse of the town is strongest—streets lined with cafés, artisan shops, and the scent of fresh bread mingling with lake air. Staying here means you’re never far from the waterfront, where the light plays off the water in a way that makes early mornings feel like a secret only locals and savvy travelers know. It’s safe, walkable, and buzzing enough to meet fellow backpackers without the chaos of a party town. Hostels cluster here, offering communal spaces that invite stories over shared meals or maps spread out on worn tables. … read more 👉

Centro is the heartbeat for backpackers in Puerto Varas. It’s where the pulse of the town is strongest—streets lined with cafés, artisan shops, and the scent of fresh bread mingling with lake air. Staying here means you’re never far from the waterfront, where the light plays off the water in a way that makes early mornings feel like a secret only locals and savvy travelers know. It’s safe, walkable, and buzzing enough to meet fellow backpackers without the chaos of a party town. Hostels cluster here, offering communal spaces that invite stories over shared meals or maps spread out on worn tables. The vibe is relaxed but social, perfect for solo travelers who want connection without pressure.

Step a little east toward the Costanera neighborhood, and you get a quieter, more residential feel with easy access to the lake’s edge. It’s less crowded but still close enough to Centro’s energy. This area is ideal if you want to recharge after a day of trekking or kayaking, with hostels that often feel more like a home base than a transient stop.

Compared to the outskirts or newer developments, these two areas keep you in the thick of Puerto Varas’s character—safe, social, and soaked in the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger longer.

Best hostels in Chile

Best quality hotels in Chile

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

Puerto Varas moves at the pace of the lake’s gentle waves—unhurried but purposeful. The air carries a crispness, tinged with pine and the faint smoke of wood stoves, grounding you in a rhythm that’s neither frantic nor lazy. Here, schedules exist but bend to the flow of the day, shaped by locals who know the value of timing without tyranny. You’ll find that getting around isn’t about racing the clock but syncing with the town’s pulse: a blend of reliable routines and flexible intuition. This balance is your key to unlocking Puerto Varas without the stress of rigid timetables or chaotic guesswork.

Walking: The heart of Puerto Varas is compact and flat, making walking the most natural way to explore. Stroll along the waterfront at dawn when the light softens the Andes’ silhouette, or wander

… read more 👉

Puerto Varas moves at the pace of the lake’s gentle waves—unhurried but purposeful. The air carries a crispness, tinged with pine and the faint smoke of wood stoves, grounding you in a rhythm that’s neither frantic nor lazy. Here, schedules exist but bend to the flow of the day, shaped by locals who know the value of timing without tyranny. You’ll find that getting around isn’t about racing the clock but syncing with the town’s pulse: a blend of reliable routines and flexible intuition. This balance is your key to unlocking Puerto Varas without the stress of rigid timetables or chaotic guesswork.

Walking: The heart of Puerto Varas is compact and flat, making walking the most natural way to explore. Stroll along the waterfront at dawn when the light softens the Andes’ silhouette, or wander cobblestone streets lined with German-style houses. Walking costs nothing, offers unmatched sensory immersion, and lets you pause for the scent of fresh bread or the chatter of a local market vendor.

Local Buses (Micros): These small, colorful buses run frequently from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until about 10:00 PM. A single ride costs roughly 500-700 CLP (less than $1 USD), making them the budget traveler’s go-to for reaching neighborhoods or nearby towns like Frutillar. They’re not luxurious—expect tight seats and standing room during peak times—but they’re fast, frequent, and a direct line into everyday life.

Shared Taxis (Colectivos): Colectivos operate on set routes but leave only when full, blending flexibility with efficiency. They’re pricier than buses (around 1,000-1,500 CLP) but faster and more comfortable, with door-to-door service within town and to nearby spots. Perfect if you want to save time without breaking the bank, especially during off-peak hours when buses slow down.

Bicycle Rentals: Renting a bike is a smart move if you want to cover more ground while staying active. Daily rentals run about 8,000-12,000 CLP. The town’s flat terrain and scenic bike paths along the lake make this a refreshing way to explore beyond the center, especially in the golden afternoon light when the air cools and the volcano’s shadow stretches long.

Boat Transfers: For trips across Llanquihue Lake to spots like Ensenada or Petrohué Falls, boats run on a loose schedule, mostly mid-morning to late afternoon, with prices around 5,000-7,000 CLP. These rides are less about speed and more about soaking in the lake’s vastness and the Andes’ looming presence—a transit option that doubles as a scenic detour.

👛 Costs (as of 19 January 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Puerto Varas

Backpacking in Puerto Varas, Chile, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm, but knowing the daily costs helps you plan smart and stay flexible.

Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around $10 to $20 USD per night for a bed in a shared dorm. Hostels here are clean and often come with kitchen access, which is a big plus for saving on food. The vibe is relaxed, with views of the lake or volcanoes sometimes just outside your window.
Meals: Eating out can range from $5 to $12 USD for a basic meal at local cafés or small restaurants. Street food and bakeries offer empanadas or sopaipillas for $1 to $3, perfect for quick, flavorful bites. Cooking your own meals with fresh market produce can cut costs further and connect you to local flavors.
Local Transport: Buses and shared taxis are

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Puerto Varas, Chile, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm, but knowing the daily costs helps you plan smart and stay flexible.

Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around $10 to $20 USD per night for a bed in a shared dorm. Hostels here are clean and often come with kitchen access, which is a big plus for saving on food. The vibe is relaxed, with views of the lake or volcanoes sometimes just outside your window.
Meals: Eating out can range from $5 to $12 USD for a basic meal at local cafés or small restaurants. Street food and bakeries offer empanadas or sopaipillas for $1 to $3, perfect for quick, flavorful bites. Cooking your own meals with fresh market produce can cut costs further and connect you to local flavors.
Local Transport: Buses and shared taxis are the go-to options, typically costing $0.50 to $1.50 per ride within town or to nearby spots. The system is straightforward but expect some waiting during off-peak hours. Walking is also a great way to soak in the town’s lakeside charm without spending a dime.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Many natural attractions like the lakeshore and parks are free, but guided tours or entry to museums usually cost between $5 and $15. Renting a bike or kayak for a few hours can run about $10 to $20, giving you a hands-on way to explore the stunning surroundings.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Budget around $2 to $5 for essentials like bottled water, snacks, or a local SIM card top-up. Small extras add up, so keep a little buffer for unexpected treats or necessities.

All told, a realistic daily budget for backpacking in Puerto Varas falls between $25 and $50 USD. This range covers the basics without cutting corners, letting you enjoy the crisp lake air and volcanic views without stress. Planning ahead on meals and transport can tip the balance toward the lower end, while splurging on a guided hike or local craft might push you higher—but it’s worth every penny.

source: chile.travel

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

Puerto Varas is a backpacker’s dream base, nestled between the stunning Lake Llanquihue and the majestic Osorno Volcano. The town’s charm is palpable, with its wooden architecture and the scent of fresh bread wafting from local bakeries. From here, you can easily access a variety of day trips that pack in adventure and beauty without the hassle of overnight stays.

Osorno Volcano
A hike up Osorno Volcano is a must. The trail winds through lush forests, leading you to breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the base from Puerto Varas, and the hike itself can take 4-6 hours round trip. Expect to spend around $20 on transportation and park fees. Early morning is the best time to start, as the light on the volcano is magical at dawn. A common … read more 👉

Puerto Varas is a backpacker’s dream base, nestled between the stunning Lake Llanquihue and the majestic Osorno Volcano. The town’s charm is palpable, with its wooden architecture and the scent of fresh bread wafting from local bakeries. From here, you can easily access a variety of day trips that pack in adventure and beauty without the hassle of overnight stays.

Osorno Volcano
A hike up Osorno Volcano is a must. The trail winds through lush forests, leading you to breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the base from Puerto Varas, and the hike itself can take 4-6 hours round trip. Expect to spend around $20 on transportation and park fees. Early morning is the best time to start, as the light on the volcano is magical at dawn. A common mistake is underestimating the weather; pack layers, as conditions can change rapidly.

Petrohué Falls
Just a short bus ride away, Petrohué Falls offers a stunning display of nature’s power. The turquoise waters cascade over volcanic rock, creating a mesmerizing sight. It’s about a 30-minute ride from Puerto Varas, and the entrance fee is around $10. Spend a couple of hours here, soaking in the views and snapping photos. Late afternoon is ideal for fewer crowds and softer light. Many first-timers rush through; take your time to explore the surrounding trails for a more immersive experience.

Frutillar
A trip to Frutillar is like stepping into a postcard. This quaint town is known for its German heritage and lakeside promenade. It’s a quick 30-minute bus ride, costing about $5. Spend the day wandering through charming cafes and visiting the Museo Colonial Alemán. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the flowers bloom and the atmosphere is lively. A common oversight is skipping the local pastries; don’t miss out on the kuchen!
👉 Explore Frutillar

Chiloé Island (Day Trip)
While Chiloé Island is often seen as an overnight destination, a day trip is entirely feasible. Take an early ferry from Pargua, about an hour from Puerto Varas, and spend the day exploring the colorful palafitos (stilt houses) of Castro. The round trip can cost around $30, and you’ll want to leave early to maximize your time. The island’s unique culture and stunning landscapes are worth the effort. Many visitors overlook the local markets; dive into the fresh seafood offerings for a true taste of Chiloé.
👉 Explore Chiloé Island

Want to know what more Chile offers?
The Chile Travel Guide describes 120 highlights, from cities to national parks, from beaches to hikes

Get the Travel Guide -

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

Puerto Varas is generally safe, but like any place, a little awareness goes a long way. The waterfront area is lively, especially at dusk, but keep your wits about you when wandering alone after dark. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid quiet corners; a little common sense can enhance your experience.

Scams are rare, but watch for overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help. Politely decline and trust your instincts. Street vendors can be persistent, so if you’re not interested, a firm “no, gracias” works wonders.

When it comes to everyday annoyances, the occasional stray dog may approach you, but they’re usually harmless. Just give them space. Carry a small amount of cash for local markets, as some places may not accept cards. Embrace the rhythm of the town, and you’ll find that a … read more 👉

Puerto Varas is generally safe, but like any place, a little awareness goes a long way. The waterfront area is lively, especially at dusk, but keep your wits about you when wandering alone after dark. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid quiet corners; a little common sense can enhance your experience.

Scams are rare, but watch for overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help. Politely decline and trust your instincts. Street vendors can be persistent, so if you’re not interested, a firm “no, gracias” works wonders.

When it comes to everyday annoyances, the occasional stray dog may approach you, but they’re usually harmless. Just give them space. Carry a small amount of cash for local markets, as some places may not accept cards. Embrace the rhythm of the town, and you’ll find that a relaxed demeanor often leads to genuine interactions.

Check Country Safety

Other Chilean towns near Puerto Varas

Explore more nearby:

Frutillar—Lake theater, gardens, pastry shops| 23 km away
Ancud—Coastal fort, penguin colonies, tidal flats| 93 km away
Chiloé (Castro)—Stilt houses, wooden churches, island markets| 145 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Chile including Puerto Varas and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all towns

Or checkout all Chile has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore Chile

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

Puerto Varas is a slice of Chilean charm, where the air is crisp and the aroma of fresh-baked kuchen wafts through the streets. The stunning views of Osorno Volcano are worth every uphill step. But be ready for the rain; it can be relentless. Pack a solid rain jacket and embrace the wet days. They add character to your adventure and make those sunny moments feel like pure magic.

✈️ When did I visit Chile?
I have visited Chile, together with Argentina, in September 2012.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Chile, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Chile🇨🇱 | townsPuerto VarasLakeside setting, German architecture, Osorno volcano | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Puerto Varas
🏆 Top picktown ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 11, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 town in ChileReasons people choose to visit here

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Things to do around Puerto Varas

Rafting rio Petrohue

Full-Day Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls Small-Group Tour

Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Waterfalls

Scenic Catamaran Tour on Llanquihue lake

Tour Guiado en Kayak por Rio Maullin / Medío dia en Pto. Varas

Puerto Varas: Full day Osorno Volcano and Petrohue falls

Chiloe Island - Puñihuil Tour

Shore Excursion Frutillar, Petrohue Falls and Puerto Varas

Todos los Santos Lake and Villa Peulla Tour

Llanquihue Lake Cirquit - Waterfalls

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Puerto Varas

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puerto Varas

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutChile Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

👛 Costs (as of 19 January 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Puerto Varas

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

Other Chilean towns near Puerto Varas

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Chile🇨🇱 | townsPuerto VarasLakeside setting, German architecture, Osorno volcano | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Puerto Varas🏆 Top picktown ranked #3By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 11, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecf9efa0')

✨ Why go?Ranked #3 town in ChileaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa018d')Reasons people choose to visit hereaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa0199')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa2217')Key sights and experiences for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa2221')

Things to do around Puerto Varas

Rafting rio Petrohue

Full-Day Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls Small-Group Tour

Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Waterfalls

Scenic Catamaran Tour on Llanquihue lake

Tour Guiado en Kayak por Rio Maullin / Medío dia en Pto. Varas

Puerto Varas: Full day Osorno Volcano and Petrohue falls

Chiloe Island - Puñihuil Tour

Shore Excursion Frutillar, Petrohue Falls and Puerto Varas

Todos los Santos Lake and Villa Peulla Tour

Llanquihue Lake Cirquit - Waterfalls

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa29e7')Neighborhood guide to Puerto VarasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa29ef')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa3239')1-day itinerary for Puerto VarasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa3243')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa3c99')Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa3ca1')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutChile Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa63d8')How to pick the right areaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa63e3')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa71fd')Transportation options and practical tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa720a')

👛 Costs (as of 19 January 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa7e80')Travel costs and budget guide for Puerto VarasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfa7e8b')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfb9502')Exploring the surroundingsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfb950d')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfb9e75')Staying Safe: What Travelers Should KnowaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfb9e7f')

Other Chilean towns near Puerto VarasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfbd33e')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfbd4f0')Parting advice and final tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfbd4f4')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfbd547')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a605ecfbd54a')

Backpacking in Puerto Varas
🏆 Top picktown ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 11, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 town in ChileReasons people choose to visit here

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Puerto Varas

⌛️ 1 day1-day itinerary for Puerto Varas

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

🚌 Getting aroundTransportation options and practical tips

👛 Costs (as of 19 January 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Puerto Varas

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

Other Chilean towns near Puerto Varas

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?