Located in the Los Lagos region, Puerto Montt is a city that combines the natural beauty of southern Chile with the warmth of its people and a rich local culture. This destination, considered the gateway to Patagonia, offers a variety of plans that delight nature, gastronomy and adventure lovers. If you are planning to visit this southern gem, here is a guide with the best plans to make the most of your stay.
1. Walk through the center of Puerto Montt and Angelmó
Downtown Puerto Montt is a great place to start your exploration. A must-see is the Plaza de Armas , where the Puerto Montt Cathedral stands out. It was built in 1856 and is made entirely of alerce, a wood typical of the region. From there, you can walk to the Juan Pablo II museum , which offers a tour of the history of the city and the region.
Just a few minutes from downtown, the Angelmó neighborhood is an icon of Puerto Montt. This picturesque place is known for its craft markets and its restaurants where you can try typical dishes such as curanto, salmon and fresh seafood. It is also a great place to buy handmade souvenirs, such as woolen fabrics or wood carvings.
2. Explore Tenglo Island
Off the coast of Puerto Montt lies Tenglo Island , a peaceful paradise perfect for lovers of trekking and photography. You can get there by boat from Angelmó on a short trip that is an experience in itself. On the island, the main attraction is its viewing point, from where you will have spectacular views of the city, the Osorno volcano and the Reloncaví Sound.
In addition, Tenglo Island is an ideal place to connect with nature and enjoy a relaxing walk along its trails surrounded by native vegetation. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the landscape.
3. Visit the Alerce Andino National Park
For lovers of hiking and ancient forests, the Alerce Andino National Park is a must-see. This park is located about 50 kilometers from Puerto Montt and protects one of the most important reserves of alerces, trees that can be more than 3,000 years old.
The park has well-marked trails that will take you through lush forests, crystal-clear rivers and hidden lagoons. Some popular routes are the one that leads to the Chaiquenes lagoon and the one that leads to the Triángulo lagoon. Get ready to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
4. Sailing through the Reloncaví Inlet
The Seno de Reloncaví is the natural gateway to Chilean Patagonia and offers incredible opportunities for boat trips or kayaking. Sailing through its waters is a magical experience, as you will be surrounded by mountains, volcanoes and landscapes that seem straight out of a painting.
Some tours include visits to small coastal towns such as Caleta La Arena or Cochamó , known for their authenticity and beauty. In Cochamó, don't miss the Cochamó Valley, also called the "Chilean Yosemite" for its imposing granite walls and unique biodiversity.
5. Taste the local cuisine
Food is a fundamental part of the Puerto Montt experience. The town is famous for its fresh seafood and salmon, but there are other dishes that you can't miss. Curanto , a traditional preparation that combines meat, seafood, potatoes, and chapaleles cooked in a hole in the ground, is a unique culinary experience.
At Angelmó Market, as well as trying local food, you can watch dishes being prepared in open kitchens, adding an authentic touch to your visit. It's also worth visiting some of the city's most refined restaurants, where Chilean cuisine is mixed with modern techniques to offer innovative flavours.
6. Travel along the Carretera Austral
Puerto Montt is the starting point of the famous Carretera Austral , a scenic route that runs for more than 1,200 kilometers through southern Chile. Although traveling the entire highway can take days or weeks, you can enjoy short stretches from the city.
Nearby highlights include Hornopirén , a town surrounded by national parks, and the region's fjords. If you have time, consider renting a car or joining a tour to explore this route, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
7. Getaways to Chiloé
From Puerto Montt, it's easy to reach the Chiloé Archipelago, one of the most fascinating areas of Chile. Ferries from Pargua (about 45 minutes from Puerto Montt) will take you to the larger island of Chiloé, known for its World Heritage-listed wooden churches and colorful stilt houses.
In Chiloé, you can visit towns like Ancud , Castro and Dalcahue , each with its own particular charm. You can also explore national parks and reserves like the Chiloé National Park , where the local flora and fauna will surprise you.
8. Enjoy the beaches and the sea
Although Puerto Montt is not known for its beaches, there are several nearby that are worth visiting. Pelluco and Chinquihue are popular choices among locals, ideal for relaxing walks along the sea. If you are looking for something more exclusive, Metri Beach is perfect for those who want tranquility and a landscape surrounded by nature. In addition, many of these beaches are starting points for water activities such as diving or recreational fishing. If you like sports, do not hesitate to check out the offers of specialized tours in the area.
9. Discover the Route of the Churches of Calbuco
Just 30 minutes from Puerto Montt, the commune of Calbuco is known for its route of heritage churches. These buildings, many of them made of wood and with centuries of history, reflect the cultural and religious influence of the region.
A walk around Calbuco is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy views of the archipelago of the same name and taste local dishes in small family restaurants. This destination is ideal for a day trip from Puerto Montt.
10. Adventures in the Osorno Volcano and Lake Llanquihue
Although Osorno Volcano is most associated with Puerto Varas, its proximity to Puerto Montt makes it an accessible, must-do excursion. You can drive or take a tour to the base of the volcano, where you'll find ski slopes in the winter and hiking trails in the summer.
Lake Llanquihue , the second largest lake in Chile, offers opportunities for boating, kayaking and outdoor activities. Its calm waters and view of the Osorno Volcano make it one of the most iconic landscapes in the region.
If you plan to visit this jewel of southern Chile, don't hesitate to immerse yourself in its rich culture, enjoy its delicious cuisine and explore the landscapes that make it a magical place. Puerto Montt awaits you with open arms!