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Things to Do in Puerto Montt

Things to Do in Puerto Montt

Puerto Montt The Lakes District, Chile Travel Guide

Outdoor Pursuits

The region's natural beauty serves as a backdrop for diverse outdoor activities.

Hiking Trails

Parque Nacional Alerce Andino

Sendero Arrayán (Easy): A short, accessible walk. Sendero Alerce Milenario (Moderate): A longer trail (4-5 hours return) to see the ancient Alerce tree; may be muddy, proper footwear helps.

Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales

Sendero Los Saltos del Petrohué (Easy): Short, well-maintained paths around the falls. Volcán Osorno (Moderate to Challenging): Hiking on lower slopes; summit ascents require guides and specialized gear.

Other Trails

Many shorter, local trails exist around lakes and forests in the broader Lakes District, suiting various fitness levels. Inquire locally for maps and current conditions.

Water Activities

  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Available on Lago Llanquihue, Lago Todos los Santos, and in the Reloncaví Estuary. Rentals and guided tours are common.
  • Rafting: Popular on the Petrohué River, with Class III-IV rapids. Trips typically organize from Puerto Varas.
  • Fishing: Fly fishing for salmon and trout is popular. Guided trips are available for anglers.
  • Boat Tours: Excursions through the Reloncaví Estuary or across Lago Todos los Santos to Peulla.

Adventure Sports

  • Ziplining/Canopy Tours: Available in adventure parks near Puerto Varas.
  • Climbing/Mountaineering: Guided ascents of Volcán Osorno (for experienced climbers).
  • Challenges for mountaineering enthusiasts.
  • Adrenaline-filled experiences.

Wildlife Viewing

  • Birdwatching: Rewarding in Maullin River Wetlands or Alerce Andino.
  • Marine Life Tours: Some Chiloé Island tours may present chances to see dolphins or sea lions.
  • Diverse bird species reside in wetlands.
  • Natural habitat observation.

Cycling Routes

  • Lake Llanquihue Loop: A long-distance route (approx. 180 km).
  • Passes through Puerto Varas, Frutillar, and Ensenada.
  • Complete in sections for scenic views.
  • Forest Trails: Designated mountain biking trails in national parks.

Safety Advisory for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions before embarking on outdoor adventures, especially hiking or water sports. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Carry appropriate gear and water, and consider engaging professional guides for challenging activities like volcano ascents or rafting. Safety first for all excursions!

Cultural Connections

Connect with the local culture through various experiences, delving into the region's unique heritage.

Local Traditions

  • Workshops & Classes: Less common for short-term visitors in Puerto Montt.
  • Cultural Performances: Traditional Chilean folk music (cueca, tonada) and dances appear at local festivals or specific cultural events.
  • Community-based Tourism: Initiatives like Ruta de las Caletas connect with coastal communities.
  • Language Learning: No prominent schools for short-term visitors. Basic Spanish phrases are recommended.

Learning & Festivals

Artisan Workshops

The Angelmó Handicraft Market extends insight into traditional weaving, wood carving, and other crafts, allowing observation of artisans at work.

Cultural Centers

Casa del Arte Diego Rivera occasionally hosts workshops and cultural events. Check their local listings.

Cultural Festivals

Fiesta Costumbrista Chilota celebrates Chiloé culture (music, dance, food). Aniversario de Puerto Montt in mid-February features city-wide celebrations.

Artisan Workshops

Observe traditional craftspeople at work at Angelmó Handicraft Market, creating woolen goods, wood carvings, and leather products.

Community Tourism

Explore Turismo Rural opportunities in the surrounding rural areas to experience farm life and local hospitality.

Special Performances

Check the schedule at Casa del Arte Diego Rivera for theater, dance shows, or musical acts.

Relaxation & Rejuvenation

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amidst the natural beauty of the region.

Wellness Centers

  • Some larger hotels in Puerto Montt and especially in nearby Puerto Varas have spa facilities.
  • These include massages, saunas, and hot tubs for unwinding.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats are not commonly found directly in Puerto Montt.
  • Some private lodges in more tranquil, natural settings in the wider Lakes District might have retreats.

Natural Hot Springs

Termas del Sol

A beautiful, modern hot springs complex near Cochamó, accessed by boat, with multiple pools set in nature. This requires a full-day trip from Puerto Montt.

Termas de Puyuhuapi

Further south in Patagonia, this is a remote and luxurious hot springs resort, accessible via a multi-day ferry trip or flight, ideal for an extended retreat.

Traditional Healing Practices

Opportunities for engaging with traditional Mapuche or Huilliche healing are very limited for general tourists, requiring specific cultural connections.

Beach & Urban Retreats

Playa Pelluco

The main local beach in Puerto Montt, popular for swimming in summer and leisurely strolls along the shore. No formal beach clubs operate here.

Hotel Pools

Hotels with indoor or sometimes outdoor pools extend relaxation opportunities for guests.

Urban Parks

Parque Philippi offers a quiet escape within the urban area, with city and bay views.

Evening Entertainment

Puerto Montt has options for evening entertainment, notably in the city center.

Live Entertainment

  • Live Music Venues: Some bars and restaurants in the city center have live music, especially on weekends.
  • Genres range from rock to local folk music. Inquire locally for schedules.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: Casa del Arte Diego Rivera occasionally hosts theater, dance, and musical acts.
  • Nightclubs and Dancing: A few nightclubs (discotheques) are present in the city center, notably along the waterfront.

Nightlife & Bars

Bar Districts

The area around Antonio Varas and the waterfront in the city center has several bars and pubs that become lively in the evenings.

Casino Entertainment

The Enjoy Puerto Montt Casino has gaming, restaurants, and often live shows or events for late-night entertainment.

Local Pubs

Discover local pubs for a casual drink and socializing after dark.

Casino & Shows

Enjoy Puerto Montt Casino extends gaming, dining, and live entertainment options for evening recreation.

Waterfront Bars

Explore bars along the waterfront that become lively in the evenings for drinks and socializing.

Local Pubs

The city center has several pubs, good for an evening out, especially on weekends when live music may feature.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Traditional Markets
  • Angelmó Handicraft Market: Main spot for traditional crafts.
  • Feria Artesanal Angelmó: Adjacent to the fish market, filled with stalls.
  • Feria Modelo Chinquihue: Less touristy, a mix of produce and artisanal goods.
Local Crafts
  • Woolen Goods: Ponchos, sweaters, and hats made from local wool.
  • Wood Carvings: Miniatures of Chilote churches, mythical creatures, or local animals.
  • Lapislázuli Jewelry: Chile's national stone, often set in silver.

Final Shopping Note

Support local artisans directly at markets. Look for products made from sustainably sourced materials. Be mindful of purchasing items made from endangered species, which is illegal and unethical.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Adventure Checklist

  • Identify hiking trails that align with your fitness level.
  • Consider guided water sports or fishing trips.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for variable weather.
  • Arrange transport for national park excursions.

Cultural & Leisure Pursuits

  • Visit Angelmó market for crafts and local life.
  • Check local listings for cultural performances or festivals.
  • Explore city center bars for evening entertainment.
  • Find opportunities for relaxation at local hotels or nearby hot springs.