Chile Southern Lakes
Day 1: Temuco
The best way to travel to Temuco is a direct flight from Santiago. Once you have landed in Temuco a representative from the region will transfer you to your hotel for the night. In native tongue Temuco means Tamu water which is a native tree in the area. We have started this journey in Temuco, the last bastion of the Mapuche people upon the arrival of the white man. This may be appreciated in its historical and regional museums, among which the Monkey-puzzle Tree Regional Museum stands out. Its doors are an invitation to learn all the secrets of this singular region. Depending on what time you arrive in to Temuco we recommend having a wonder around this town, visiting the local museums and if you have time visiting the local markets in the downtown area. [B]
Day 2 & 3: Pucon
This morning a representative will meet you at your hotel for a private transfer to the bus terminal for you to board the local coach to Pucon, this journey is two hours along the Pan American Highway. Pucon is a beautiful resort village and is located below the looming volcano of Villarica and on the shore of Lake Villarica. We have put aside 2nights in Pucon as the activities are endless in this area. In Pucon there are the following attraction options to fill in your days as you please;
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Skiing/snowboarding
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Golf
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Horse riding at Antilco horse farm
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Hiking
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White water rafting
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Fishing
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Visiting the volcanic caves of Villarica
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Bathing in the nearby thermal springs
The activities are endless, it all just depending on how adventurous you are, we will be able to arrange it for you before you go. (Activities are not included) [B]
Day 4: Valdivia
After having two full days in Pucon you are now ready to embark on your next adventure, this morning you will need to make your own way to the coach terminal to catch your local bus down to Valdivia, this journey is just over 2hours. When you reach Valdivia you will need to make your own way to your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure.
Valdivia is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the lakes district. This city is located on the Valdivia River and is in close proximity to the ocean which has a few very small secluded beaches in the area. Valdivia was destroyed by a 9.5 magnitude earthquake in 1960 and since then has been beautifully rebuilt to represent the culture and modern day world. [B]
Day 5: Puyehue
This morning your journey continues with a local coach from Valdivia through Osorno to Puyehue which is approximately 3hours. Puyehue is now well known for its volcanic eruption mid 2011 but there is more to offer in this area that just the volcano that stopped the nation. The National Parks in the area are breath-taking and are home to many thermal baths. Just out of Puyehue is surrounded by native woods and also an area where many farms grow their crops the soil is very rich in this area. [B]
Day 6 & 7: Puerto Varas
This morning your journey continues with your last local coach journey to Puerto Varas which is just under 3 hours. Puerto Varas is on the shore of Lake Llanquihue and is one of Chile’s finest towns with a strong German inference since it was founded in 1854. This city has a superb hotel infrastructure and spectacular landscapes, a modern casino, lake beaches and many other open air activities such as sailing, rowing, rafting and thermal baths to only name a few. We have included two nights in Puerto Varas to unwind from your journey through the southern lakes and to soak up the Patagonian atmosphere Puerto Varas and the scenic beauty has to offer. [B]
Day 8: Puerto Montt
This morning it’s only a short coach ride to Puerto Montt where your Southern Lakes Adventure comes to an end. Puerto Montt is located in front of the reclusive bay and is protected by the Tenglo Island. [B]
There are many options for your onward journeys like flying from Puerto Montt to Punta Arenas to travel through Patagonia to explore Torres del Paine National Park and Moreno Glacier or enjoy the scenic splendour on a 4 night Cruise from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia.
There flights from Puerto Montt to Santiago for travel to other parts of Chile or to Peru, Bolivia or Argentina for example.
These are just a few of the many options available to you. Your Travel Specialist will be only too happy to assist you with your arrangements.
Onward journey suggestions: