Puerto Varas, Chile

Iglesia Rural Camino a Ensenada, Puerto Varas, Chile
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Iglesia-CaminoEnsenada.jpg
Author: Marisa Garrido


Puerto Varas is a town in Llanquihue Province, Los Lagos Region, in southern Chile. The town covers 4,064 sq km (1,569 sq mi) and has a population of 33,000 people. Facing the southern shore of Lake Llanquihue, it is the biggest town in the Chilean Lake District.

Puerto Varas was founded in 1854 and was originally settled by German immigrants, during a policy of relocation that began with the arrival of nine families from Hesse, as recruited by colonization agent (and explorer) Berhard Eunom Philippi. Eventually some 6,000 families totalling between 30,000 to 40,000 Germans settled in various newly founded townships in Chile, including Frutillar, Puerto Octay, Puerto Varas, Faja Maisan and Puerto Montt.

Puerto Varas experiences a rainy temperate climate. As a result, the landscape is one of verdant forest land. The influx of German in the 19th century has influenced its local culture, with German cuisine and delicacies available in the restaurants and hotels of Puerto Varas and its surrounding towns.

Tejuela wooden house, Puerto Varas
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:DSCN1139.JPG
Author: Marisa Garrido


Today Puerto Varas is developing itself as a tourist town. Visitors to the town can register for the Heritage Trail (Paseo Patrimonial), a walking tour that takes you to 28 historic buildings in town.

Visiting Puerto Varas

Visitors to Puerto Varas arrive by way of Puerto Montt, just 20 km (12 mi) to the south. There are buses connecting these two cities. The nearest airport is also at Puerto Montt, with regular flights from Santiago.

Sights & Attractions in Puerto Varas

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