Puerto Varas: Full Day Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls

The stunning natural beauty of Chile’s Lake District is on full display during the full-day tour from Puerto Varas to Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Falls. Travelers can expect breathtaking panoramic views, from the snow-capped peak of the Osorno Volcano to the thundering cascade of Petrohué Falls. Venture into the heart of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where the emerald waters of Todos los Santos Lake provide a serene contrast to the rugged landscapes. With a range of activities and exploration opportunities, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. What secrets does this captivating region hold, waiting to be discovered?

Good To Know

• This full-day tour from Puerto Varas takes visitors to the stunning Osorno Volcano and the majestic Petrohué Falls in the Chilean Lake District.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a bilingual guide, providing a seamless and informative experience.
• Highlights include scenic views of Llanquihue Lake, Calbuco Volcano, and opportunities to explore the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park.
• Visitors can access higher elevations at the Osorno Ski Center and witness the breathtaking landscapes from different vantage points.
• The tour is suitable for a minimum of 2 people, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour from Puerto Varas, Chile, takes visitors to explore the captivating Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Falls.

Over 6 hours, the tour provides scenic views of the Chilean Lake District, including Llanquihue Lake and Calbuco Volcano.

Visitors can spend around an hour at the Osorno Ski Center, situated at an elevation of 3,937 feet, to enjoy panoramic vistas.

The tour then continues to Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, where travelers can hike through evergreen forests and visit Todos los Santos Lake and Petrohué Falls.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a bilingual guide, though meals and drinks aren’t specified.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, with transportation provided by car or minibus.

A bilingual guide fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese accompanies the group.

While gratuities for the driver and guide are optional, meals and drinks aren’t specified in the inclusions.

The tour requires a minimum of 2 people to operate, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at 9:30 AM from Puerto Varas, known as "The City of Roses." Travelers will then drive along Llanquihue Lake to Osorno Volcano. Spending approximately 1 hour at the Osorno Ski Center, participants can enjoy scenic sightseeing and photo opportunities. An optional coffee or sandwich may be available, and visitors can choose to access higher altitudes via the lifts, reaching Primavera Station at 1,450 m or Glaciar Station at 1,750 m for additional breathtaking views.

Stop	Duration	Elevation
Osorno Ski Center	1 hour	1,240 m
Primavera Station	Optional	1,450 m
Glaciar Station	Optional	1,750 m

The tour then explores Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, where travelers can hike through evergreen forests and visit Todos los Santos Lake and Petrohué Falls.

Traveler Experience and Feedback

Travelers have shared an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars for this tour, based on 15 reviews.

Many highlight the stunning views of Osorno Volcano and the surrounding lakes as tour highlights. Reviewers praise the friendliness and helpfulness of the guides.

However, some travelers experienced issues contacting the tour provider for pickup information.

The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, bilingual guides, and scenic stops through the Chilean Lake District contribute to its positive reception.

While the majority of travelers enjoyed the experience, a small number encountered logistical challenges, underscoring the importance of clear communication between the provider and participants.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The price for this tour varies depending on the group size, with a lowest price guarantee available.

Booking is flexible, as travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. This allows them to secure their tour while maintaining the ability to cancel with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour provider offers this policy to provide customers with the convenience and peace of mind they need when planning their trip to the stunning Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls in the Chilean Lake District.

Scenic Views of the Chilean Lake District

Traversing the scenic roads of the Chilean Lake District, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the region’s captivating landscapes. The tour route showcases the majestic Llanquihue Lake, its tranquil waters reflecting the towering presence of the Calbuco Volcano nearby. As the journey continues, glimpses of the iconic Osorno Volcano come into view, its snow-capped peak standing tall against the azure sky.

Region	Highlights	Elevation
Llanquihue Lake	Serene waters, Calbuco Volcano	180 m
Osorno Volcano	Snow-capped peak, panoramic views	2,652 m
Todos los Santos Lake	Emerald-green waters, dense forests	178 m
Petrohue Falls	Cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation	200 m

This breathtaking scenery sets the stage for the upcoming exploration of the volcanic landscapes and natural wonders that await.

Exploration of Vicente Perez Rosales National Park

Venturing deeper into the breathtaking landscapes, the tour takes visitors to Vicente Perez Rosales National Park.

This protected area boasts an array of natural wonders, including:

• Lush, evergreen forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna
• The serene Todos los Santos Lake, reflecting the majestic Osorno Volcano
• The thundering Petrohue Falls, where cascading waters carve through volcanic rock
• Hiking trails that wind through the picturesque park, offering panoramic vistas

Travelers can enjoy the park’s serene atmosphere, explore its natural beauty, and witness the powerful Petrohue Falls up close.

This portion of the tour provides a deep connection to the stunning Chilean Lake District and its protected wilderness.

Optional Activities and Facilities at Osorno Ski Center

At the Osorno Ski Center, visitors have the opportunity to access higher elevations for breathtaking panoramic views.

From the Primavera Station at 1,450 m and the Glaciar Station at 1,750 m, guests can take chairlifts to enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding lakes and volcanoes.

Although not included in the tour price, visitors can purchase optional coffee or sandwiches at the ski center’s facilities.

The higher viewpoints provide an excellent vantage point to appreciate the natural wonders of the Chilean Lake District and capture memorable photographs.

These optional activities allow travelers to enhance their experience and deepen their connection with the stunning mountain landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Osorno Volcano?

The best time to visit Osorno Volcano is during the summer months of December to March when the weather is mild and sunny, allowing for optimal views and hiking opportunities. Crowds are also generally lower during this period.

Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private or customized tour of Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls. Some tour providers offer private tours that can be tailored to the traveler’s preferences and schedule for an additional cost.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals and beverages are not included in the tour price, so participants should plan accordingly if they wish to bring their own provisions.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Hike?

There are no age or fitness requirements for the hike. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but the hike through the evergreen forests may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to check with the tour provider for any specific requirements.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?

Yes, you can likely extend the tour to include additional destinations. The tour provider may be able to customize the itinerary for an additional fee, depending on your interests and logistics. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour company.

The Sum Up

The full-day tour from Puerto Varas to Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Falls offers an unforgettable experience in Chile’s picturesque Lake District. Travelers can enjoy stunning panoramic views, explore Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, and marvel at the thundering Petrohué Falls, making it an ideal adventure for nature enthusiasts. With a range of inclusions and logistics provided, this tour is a convenient and engaging way to discover the natural beauty of the region.