Day 1: Begin your adventure by departing from Santiago and arriving in the charming city of Puerto Montt. From there, board a ferry to Chacao Port on the enchanting Chiloé Island. Once you arrive, make your way to Castro, the vibrant capital of Chiloé Island, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 2: Spend the day exploring the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Chiloé Island. Discover its unique architecture, local traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 3: Rise early and bid farewell to Castro as you take the ferry back to Puerto Montt via Chacao. Upon arrival, drive to the picturesque town of Puerto Varas for a delightful city tour. Enjoy the scenic views and the charming atmosphere of this lakeside gem.
Day 4: Embark on a scenic journey around Lake Llanquihue. After leaving Puerto Varas, turn right and marvel at the majestic Osorno Volcano. Continue your journey to the quaint town of Frutillar, and finally, head straight to Puerto Montt, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Day 5: Wake up early, return your rental car, and catch a flight back to Santiago, bringing with you a treasure trove of memories from your unforgettable trip.
Tips:
Transportation: Renting a car in Puerto Montt is highly recommended. We rented a 5-seater SUV from the early morning of the 18th to the early morning of the 22nd, which cost us 200,000 pesos. This provided us with the flexibility to explore at our own pace.
Dining: The region is well-known for its developed tourism industry, so finding delicious meals won’t be a problem. However, if you’re looking for local specialties, a bit of research will go a long way. The restaurants we visited were generally excellent in terms of food, ambiance, and service. Here are some recommendations:
– Chiloé Island: Travesía restaurant, famous for its pot-style curanto, chapalele, and other island delicacies; El Mercadito de Chiloé, a cozy spot with average dishes.
– Puerto Varas: Santo Fuego, offering a variety of fresh fish dishes, including a fantastic grilled octopus; Mesa Tropera, a lakeside restaurant with a great vibe, known for its self-branded beer, spicy pizza, and mixed toast.
– Lake Llanquihue: Espantapájaros, a restaurant with stunning views between Puerto Octay and Frutillar, serving mouthwatering roasted lamb and pan-fried salmon.
Accommodation: Throughout the trip, we opted for homestays, which added a personal touch to our experience. On Chiloé Island, expect to pay around 170 RMB per person per night, while the following three nights averaged just over 100 RMB. In the southern region, heating is often provided by stoves, and on the island, these may require wood. Be sure to learn how to use them from your host [laughing-crying emoji]—otherwise, you might find yourself shivering during the chilly September nights!
Clothing: During the Chilean National Day period, the southern region can still be quite cold, with strong winds and frequent rain. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers for outdoor activities.
Sightseeing: For attractions like the Soul Pier, which involve walking, be prepared for challenging paths if it rains, as shown in the fourth picture. For the stilt houses, timing is key—catch the high tide for the most picturesque views. As for Osorno Volcano, clear skies are essential to see the snow-capped peak, and during this season, the roads up the mountain might be icy.
In conclusion, travel can be a mix of challenges and delights. Embrace the unexpected, and let each moment enrich your journey.
I hope each of you experiences fewer regrets and many more delightful surprises.
