Things to do in Puerto Varas, Chile (South America)

Puerto Varas is home to the Osorno Volcano which is one of the most incredible attractions of the region. Depending on the season, skiing and other sports activities on the mountain is an option, along with guided tours. The city is surrounded by Lake Llanquihue, a perfect spot for hitchhiking around, according to many backpackers. Although I didn't have the opportunity due to time constraints, it's something I highly recommend.

I arrived in Puerto Varas without any plans or accommodations booked which taught me a lesson; never travel without somewhat of a solid plan. Having at least a place to lay your head at night is essential. Everything else can be figured out upon arrival.

Recommended amount of time: 2-3 days (at least one full day touring the volcano and/or waterfalls)

1. Place of stay

2. Activities

   1. A secret tip from Chelsey

   2. Advice

3. The Best Cafe

   1. Argentine pastry must try

1. Place of stay:

   1. Casa Azul: A perfect 10 out of 10! The owner, originally from Germany, infuses the hostel with a charming German-inspired decor and ambiance. Upon arrival, you're greeted with a fortune cookie on your bed, setting the stage for a restful night's sleep. The owners reside in the back and are always available to assist you. The wife, a Chilean, crafts her own kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi, and more. I indulged in their fresh kombucha and kimchi daily. Buddha statues dot the premises, alongside a serene garden, a friendly house cat, and a welcoming front patio—all enclosed within gated surroundings. I felt incredibly safe and at ease throughout my stay.

2. Activities

a. A secret tip from Chelsey:

• Joining The Travel Squad group on Facebook and especially the South American group on WhatsApp is a must for anyone traveling in South America.

  • I reached out to the group seeking company in Puerto Varas and was fortunate to connect with a local named Miguel. Despite my post-W-trek pain, Miguel generously cleared his schedule for the entire day to show me around the area. He picked me up from my hostel, treated me to coffee in a nearby small town called Frutillar, and then took me to the top of the volcano, all the while sharing our mutual love for sparkling water as we stopped at a bakery and market along the way.

  • Reach out to Miguel for inside information on Puerto Varas and a good person to take a beer with... You must say Chelsey sent you for him to respond: @miguelestebanmoreira

b. Lesson 2: Initially, meeting strangers can feel daunting, but trusting your instincts, especially on solo journeys, can lead to incredible opportunities. The Travel Squad group chat is a treasure trove of advice and travel tips, and sometimes, you'll find someone in the group chat who's exactly where you are, ready to connect and explore together.

• Volcano Tour: Your hostel can arrange this excursion for you. Depending on the season, you may even have the option to ski on the volcano.

• Explore the Town and Waterfront

• Kinefit Massage: If you're nursing any post-W-trek injuries, or seeking an incredible massage, consider visiting Kinefit Massage. I went there to address my own aches and pains, opting for two massages. Regardless of your condition, the therapist provides exceptional care and tailors each session to your specific needs. If you're here to rest and recover like I was, a massage here is highly recommended.

• Frutillar: This nearby city, as described by my local guide Miguel, is where the wealthy retire. Spend a few hours wandering the charming streets, indulging in coffee and pastries. The waterfront is stunning, and the town exudes a vibrant and wholesome atmosphere.

3. The Best Cafe

• Cassis Cafe: Loaded with not only gigantic portions of cafe and pie but also a spot where the locals gather. It is THE spot.
  

a. Must try: Brazo de Reina (the pastry in the photo above)

Next stop: Santiago via a night bus

Xoxo,

Chelsey