Most of Chile's 55 active volcanoes are located in the Lake District of northern Patagonia-it's part of the "ring of fire" that encircles the Pacific Ocean and includes New Zealand , Japan, Hawaii and Chile. The area's geographic features are some of the most stunning in Chile, making northern Patagonia a major destination for visitors to Chile and even Argentina.

The Pan-American Highway, Carretera Austral, cuts through the region, with steep Andean peaks on one side and the vast Pacific Ocean on the other. The region derives its name from its exceptionally beautiful lakes, ranging in color from deep blue to emerald green that are very prominent throughout the landscape.

The European influence of the mid-1800s is evident in the region's architecture and even cuisine, with Bavarian style buildings and hotels, and a plethora of coffee shops serving kuchen, a typical German tart most commonly filled with berries. The best months of the year weather-wise are the summer months of December to February, though there are activities year-round in this region.

Highlights of a trip to the northern Patagonia, from north to south, include stopping in the city of Temuco, which juxtaposes tradition and modernity, alive with both Mapuche culture and the hustle and bustle of Chilean commerce. Mapuche history is alive and well in this city, with earlier history well-preserved at the regional museum.

Pucon, southeast of Temuco on Lago Villarica, is known as one of the finest resort towns in all of Chile for its luxurious accommodations, excellent international cuisine, classy shops, and stunning geography. The variety of activities available in the area is endless and includes skiing and snowboarding, trekking, biking, and relaxing in hot springs pools.

Chile's city of rivers, Validivia is rich with history of the area's struggle for independence from the ruling Spanish empire. This makes a river trip to Niebla, home to colonial-era forts, one of the most popular activities. Located west of Pucon, almost on the Pacific coast, Valdivia is an excellent place to stop and explore.

Further south is the small town of Frutillar. Frutillar's picturesque setting on the Chilean Patagonia's largest lake, Lago Llanquihue, makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to relax at the water's edge, stroll around the tranquil gardens, or enjoy the German-inspired architecture and Chilean hospitality. If you're staying in Puerto Varas of Puerto Montt, further south, Fruitillar makes a great day trip.

Nearby Puerto Varas is up-and-coming, with charming shops, cafes and architecture. It's also an amazing place to visit if you're looking for a river adventure like rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing. Other activities in the area include horseback riding excursions, guided photo treks, helicopter rides, bke trips, and canyoning and repelling.

The infamous Lake Crossing to Argentina departs from Puerto Varas and head east toward San Pedro de Bariloche, Argentina. The crossing takes passengers over emerald lakes, stopping a few times so passengers can explore waterfalls, mountains, and panoramic views.

Puerto Montt is one of the Lake District's most vibrant cities. It's also the hub for adventure travel including a nearby national park, and boat excursions to glaciers, hot springs, and volcanoes. The city itself is a great place to find handicrafts from around the region, and inarguably some of the best seafood in the world.

From 18 miles south of Puerto Montt, you can access the Island of Chiloe, separated from the mainland by the Chacao Strait to the north, and the Gulfs of Ancud and Corcovado to the east. Chiloe's rich local culture includes its unique architecture, historic folklore, and handicrafts that represent the vibrant culture the island's inhabitants.

With the variety of outdoor adventure activities, natural wonders ranging from mountains to lakes to waterfalls to steaming volcanoes, and German-inspired architecture and cuisine amidst the thriving Chilean culture, the Lake District is worth exploring for several days at least.

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 Northern Patagonia

  Towns and Cities:
  Puerto Montt
    Puerto Montt Dining

  Pucon
    Highlights
    Sports Activities
    Lodging
    Dining
    Shopping

  Puerto Varas
  Validivia
  Temuco

  Highlights:
  Chiloe
  Frutillar
  Alerce Andino Park
  Laguna San Rafael
  Lake Crossing

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