The bustling port city of Puerto Montt serves as your perfect base for exploring Chile’s Lake District. The best tours start at Petrohué Falls, where crystal-clear waters cascade over ancient volcanic rocks, and continue to the snow-capped Osorno Volcano. My favorite day trips include stops in Puerto Varas and Frutillar, two charming lakeside towns showcasing the region’s German heritage. For the best value, choose multi-day tours that combine natural landmarks with visits to local villages and beaches. I especially recommend tours featuring the area’s therapeutic hot springs – they’re less crowded and more authentic than the popular spots. Let’s explore the top-rated tours that showcase the region’s highlights.
Good To Know
- Private day tours from Puerto Montt offer personalized exploration of natural wonders like Petrohué Falls and Osorno Volcano, with 100% traveler recommendation.
- Immersive day tours highlight the German-inspired architecture and culture of Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt, catering to wheelchair users and families.
- Multi-day group tours from Puerto Montt showcase the diverse landscapes of Chile’s Lake District and North Patagonia, including lakes, volcanoes, beaches, and port villages.
- Shore excursions from Puerto Montt cover historical sites and German-inspired architecture, with round-trip transport, bottled water, and a local guide.
- Specialty tours and excursions offer experiences like visiting Osorno Volcano, thermal springs, and Cochamó, with advance reservations recommended due to weather conditions.
Private Day Tour Petrohue Falls, Osorno Volcano & Puerto Varas
This private day tour offers travelers a captivating exploration of some of southern Chile’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Beginning with seamless round-trip transfer from the Puerto Montt cruise port, the tour takes visitors on a personalized journey to the stunning Petrohué Falls, the iconic Osorno Volcano, and the charming town of Puerto Varas.
With 29 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable private guides who offer insights into the local culture, traditions, and geography.
Highlights include hiking to the peak of Osorno Volcano for panoramic vistas, scenic walks at the Petrohué Falls, and discovering the picturesque town of Puerto Varas, all while enjoying a traditional Chilean lunch.
Travelers can explore at their own pace without the crowds, while the wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly transportation ensures a comfortable experience.
With the national park entrance fee, bottled water, and lunch included, this tour is an excellent value for those seeking a comprehensive and personalized introduction to the natural wonders of southern Chile.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour Petrohue Falls, Osorno Volcano & Puerto Varas Review
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Private Shore Excursion Tour to Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Frutillar
Offering travelers a captivating overview of the region, this private shore excursion takes visitors on a journey through the charming towns of Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, and Frutillar.
Exploring Puerto Montt’s historical cathedral and main square, guests then venture to the picturesque Puerto Varas, known for its German-inspired architecture and stunning views of snow-capped volcanoes.
The tour culminates in the lakeside town of Frutillar, where visitors can sample local pastries and learn about the city’s fascinating history.
Inclusive of round-trip transport, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide, this excursion is an ideal option for first-time and family travelers seeking a rundown of the area.
While food and gratuities aren’t included, the tour offers the flexibility of an optional German Museum ticket.
With positive reviews highlighting the scenic beauty and varying experiences with tour guides, this private shore excursion provides a well-rounded immersion into the cultural and natural wonders of the region.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion Tour to Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Frutillar Review
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Puerto Montt, Chile Lake District Tour From Cruise Ship Port
Travelers disembarking from their cruise at the Puerto Montt port can embark on an immersive full-day tour showcasing the stunning Lake District of Chile. This private excursion provides an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and history.
The tour includes visiting the captivating Petrohue Waterfall, gazing upon the majestic Osorno Volcano, and enjoying a boat ride on the serene Todos Los Santos Lake, accompanied by a delectable Chilean barbecue picnic.
Guests will be transported from the cruise terminal by a private vehicle, accompanied by a multilingual guide who’ll provide valuable insights throughout the day. The tour also includes entrance fees, bottled water, and digital photographs to capture the memorable moments.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as infant seats available, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers. On top of that, the tour is more affordable than cruise line private tours, making it an excellent value proposition for guests seeking an authentic Lake District experience.
Read our full review: Puerto Montt, Chile Lake District Tour From Cruise Ship Port Review
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Private Day Tour Frutillar, Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt
Providing an immersive exploration of the Lake District’s charming towns, the private day tour from Puerto Montt showcases the captivating destinations of Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt.
This highly-rated tour, with a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, offers a personalized experience for up to the quoted group size at a price starting from $320 per person.
The tour begins with a meet-and-greet at the Puerto Montt cruise terminal, where a knowledgeable guide will greet you.
Highlights include entrance to a museum, a delicious lunch, and bottled water provided throughout the day.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller options, as well as infant seats available.
Positive reviews praise the guide’s excellent English and informative commentary, ensuring a truly memorable day exploring the stunning Lake District.
The tour ends back at the original meeting point, providing a convenient and seamless experience from start to finish.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour Frutillar, Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt Review
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Frutillar & Llanquihue Private Tour From Puerto Montt
Embarking on a captivating half-day journey, the Frutillar & Llanquihue Private Tour From Puerto Montt immerses visitors in the picturesque landscapes surrounding Llanquihue Lake.
Priced from $326.91 per person, this private tour provides a personalized experience with a professional guide, exploring the charming towns of Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt. Hotel pickup and drop-off service are included, along with private transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.
The tour kicks off at 8:30 AM, ensuring an early start to maximize the day’s activities. Travelers are advised to indicate their hotel details for a convenient pickup, as the tour’s pickup service is limited to centrally located hotels.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, this private tour offers a delightful way to discover the natural beauty of the Llanquihue region.
However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, so cancellations aren’t permitted.
Read our full review: Frutillar & Llanquihue Private Tour From Puerto Montt Review
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Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Petrohué Waterfalls Excursion From Puerto Montt
This comprehensive excursion from Puerto Montt takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s dramatic landscapes at the foothills of the Andes.
Highlights include visiting the picturesque German town of Frutillar, the “City of Roses” Puerto Varas, and the striking Petrohué Waterfalls.
With a maximum group size of 200, travelers can expect a guided experience complete with included entrance fees, transportation, and a hearty Chilean empanada and glass of wine.
The tour’s Badge of Excellence and 4.2-star rating from 411 reviews speak to its quality.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as recommendations for comfortable attire, ensure a seamless experience for all.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides and the stunning vistas of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes, making this excursion a must for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Montt.
Read our full review: Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Petrohué Waterfalls Excursion From Puerto Montt Review
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Osorno Volcano Tour + Petrohue Falls / Cruises / Spanish
Visitors seeking to enjoy the grandeur of Puerto Montt’s natural wonders can embark on the Osorno Volcano Tour + Petrohue Falls excursion. This full-day tour, priced from $68.00 per person, provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the area’s stunning landscapes.
Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with a Spanish-speaking guide, and enjoy a delicious lunch as well as activities like navigating Lake All Saints and exploring the Petrohue Falls.
While the tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers, reservations made less than 12 hours prior are subject to confirmation. Reviews highlight the beautiful locations, but also caution that weather conditions and temporary access restrictions can impact the experience.
The host has acknowledged these social contingencies and provided explanations about their pickup policy. The Osorno Volcano Tour + Petrohue Falls offers a comprehensive and picturesque way to discover the natural wonders of Puerto Montt.
Read our full review: Osorno Volcano Tour + Petrohue Falls / Cruises / Spanish Review
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Termas Del Sol and Cochamó Excursion / Termas Del Sol and Cochamó
What does the Termas Del Sol and Cochamó Excursion entail? This full-day tour starts at 8:00 am in Puerto Montt, Chile and can accommodate up to 15 travelers.
The excursion includes air-conditioned transportation and a private tour, as well as a provided lunch. Guests will be picked up and dropped off at a selected meeting point.
Despite the overall positive feedback, one previous traveler reported negative experiences with the tour’s organization and the impact of weather conditions on the experience. The tour operator has acknowledged that weather is beyond their control, but maintains that 99% of passengers enjoy the activity.
The Termas Del Sol and Cochamó Excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the natural wonders of the Puerto Montt region.
With comfortable transportation, a delicious lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a comprehensive way to experience the area’s thermal springs and stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: Termas Del Sol and Cochamó Excursion / Termas Del Sol and Cochamó Review
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Puerto Montt: Half Day Osorno Volcano Excursion
Departing from Puerto Montt, this half-day excursion offers travelers an opportunity to explore the captivating Osorno Volcano. The 4-hour small-group tour includes hotel pickup and a scenic drive to the Osorno Ski Center, situated at an impressive 3,937 feet (1,240 meters).
Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of Llanquihue Lake and the majestic Calbuco Volcano. At the ski center, you can embark on a walking tour to soak up the atmosphere.
For an additional cost, you can opt for a chairlift ride to either Station Primavera or Station Glaciar, offering stunning views from higher altitudes. However, please note that the chairlift may be out of service, as indicated by previous reviews.
While the tour promises an immersive experience, it’s essential to have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. The Osorno Volcano excursion provides a chance to witness the natural wonders of Chile’s stunning landscape.
Read our full review: Puerto Montt: Half Day Osorno Volcano Excursion Review
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Austral / Hornopiren Road Tour
The Austral / Hornopiren Road Tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the breathtaking landscapes of southern Chile. Operated by Angelmo Tours, this full-day excursion departs from Puerto Montt at 8:00 am, allowing a maximum of 15 participants to explore the region’s natural wonders.
The tour includes private transportation, a delicious lunch, and alcoholic beverages, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Pickup options are flexible, with the possibility of hotel or Airbnb pickup if arranged 24 hours in advance.
Confirmation details, including the specific meeting time and location, are provided in an email sent 15 days prior to the excursion. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, after a day of discovering the stunning Austral and Hornopiren roads.
Suitable for most travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller friendly, and service animals are allowed. With confirmation received at the time of booking, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of Chile’s southern region.
Read our full review: Austral / Hornopiren Road Tour Review
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5-Day Tour Chile & North Patagonia
A 5-day group tour in Chile and North Patagonia starts in Puerto Montt, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.
The tour covers a diverse itinerary, including visits to lakes, monuments, port villages, volcanoes, craft stores, islands, beaches, and coastline. Experienced guides handle the logistics, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for a maximum of 40 travelers.
The tour includes accommodation, airport transfers, and most meals, with the exception of flights, personal expenses, entrance fees, and unspecified meals.
Excursions are available in Spanish or English, catering to a wide range of travelers. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s situated near public transportation.
Rated 5.0 out of 1 review, this tour is praised for its excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking views of snow-capped volcanoes.
It’s an ideal choice for those looking to learn about the local history and culture of Chile and North Patagonia.
Read our full review: 5-Day Tour Chile & North Patagonia Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion Osorno Volcano & Petrohué Waterfalls
Though the Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Waterfalls are renowned natural wonders, this cruise shore excursion offers visitors a chance to explore them at a leisurely pace. Rated 5.0 out of 10 reviews, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and includes private transportation, bottled water, lunch, and coffee or tea.
The tour is available from May 1, 2024, to February 9, 2026, with pickup and drop-off times between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
While a moderate level of physical fitness is required, infant seats are available.
Booking is easy, with confirmation within 48 hours, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and a lowest price guarantee. Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
This comprehensive cruise shore excursion ensures a seamless and memorable exploration of two of Chile’s most stunning natural attractions.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Osorno Volcano & Petrohué Waterfalls Review
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Tagua Tagua Lake and Wild Patagonia Tour
Embarking on a captivating journey, the Tagua Tagua Lake and Wild Patagonia Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Priced at $133.34 per person, this 15-passenger tour departs at 8:00 am from the meeting point in Puerto Montt, Chile.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and gratuities, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Travelers should note that the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or during pregnancy, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Confirmation is received upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the wild beauty of Patagonia, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the breathtaking Tagua Tagua Lake and the surrounding natural wonders.
The tour ends back at the original meeting point, leaving participants with lasting memories of their adventure in this enchanting region.
Read our full review: Tagua Tagua Lake and Wild Patagonia Tour Review
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This 6-hour shared tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the captivating Calbuco and Millennial Forest regions, departing from Puerto Varas at 9:00 AM or Puerto Montt at 9:30 AM.
The tour includes shared transportation, a professional guide and driver, entrance fees, navigation, and a delicious lunch. Pickup is available from respective hotels in Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, with a maximum of 40 travelers.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants can be accommodated on laps with infant seats available. Most travelers can participate, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Priced from $190.00 per person, the tour offers confirmation at the time of booking and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Guests can reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient option for planning their Patagonian adventure.
Read our full review: 6 Hours Shared Tour in Calbuco and Millennial Forest Review
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Puerto Montt: Half Day Llanquihue and Frutillar City Tour
For those seeking to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of southern Chile, the half-day “Puerto Montt: Llanquihue and Frutillar City Tour” offers an immersive experience.
This excursion departs from Puerto Montt, allowing visitors to discover the picturesque cities of Llanquihue and Frutillar. Along the way, they’ll visit the Memorial to German Colonists and the colonial town of Puerto Octay, gaining insights into the region’s German influence.
The tour also provides breathtaking views of Llanquihue Lake and the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes. Plus, travelers may have the opportunity to encounter local wildlife during the adventure.
Priced at $44 per person, the tour includes a professional guide and transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Puerto Montt. While meals and drinks aren’t included, the optional museum entrance fee is approximately $3.
With a minimum of two participants required and a maximum of 15 travelers per group, this tour offers a personalized and flexible experience for visitors to the area.
Read our full review: Puerto Montt: Half Day Llanquihue and Frutillar City Tour Review
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Excursion and Journey Through Hidden Lakes of Llanada Grande
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Puerto Montt, the “Excursion and Journey Through Hidden Lakes of Llanada Grande” offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s untamed natural beauty.
Operated by Patagonia East River, this private tour takes visitors on an exhilarating adventure through the hidden lakes of Llanada Grande.
The tour begins with an early 5:30 am pickup from Tepual Airport, ensuring travelers make the most of the day. Throughout the excursion, guests will enjoy all-inclusive meals, including two breakfasts and two dinners, as well as private transportation.
The moderate physical fitness level required allows adventurous travelers to fully enjoy the stunning vistas.
With free cancellation up to six days in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides flexibility and convenience for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Whether seeking a serene escape or a thrilling outdoor adventure, the “Excursion and Journey Through Hidden Lakes of Llanada Grande” promises an exceptional journey through the heart of Puerto Montt’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Excursion and Journey Through Hidden Lakes of Llanada Grande Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book Transportation to the Tour Starting Point?
To book transportation to the tour starting point, visitors can contact the tour operator directly. They’ll typically provide information on recommended transportation options, such as taxi, shuttle, or public transit, to get to the designated meeting location.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t have strict age requirements, but they may recommend certain tours for specific age groups. It’s best to check with the tour company about any age restrictions or recommendations before booking.
What Should I Bring for the Outdoor Activities?
For outdoor activities, one should bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and any necessary personal items. It’s also a good idea to check with the tour operator for specific recommendations based on the planned activities.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, most tour operators allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your interests. They’ll work with you to create a personalized experience that aligns with your preferences and activity level. This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your tour.
Are the Tours Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?
Many tour companies offer wheelchair-accessible tours, allowing travelers with disabilities to fully experience the sights. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure the tour itinerary and transportation accommodate individual needs.
The Sum Up
Puerto Montt and the surrounding Lake District offer an array of captivating tours that showcase the region’s natural wonders. From the stunning Petrohue Falls and Osorno Volcano to the charming towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar, visitors can enjoy the beauty and culture of this remarkable part of Chile. These tours provide an exceptional opportunity to discover the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that make this destination so alluring.