From Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt: Chiloé Island Tour

Chiloé Island is the largest island in Chile, and it’s known for its unique architecture, local traditions, and stunning landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty and culture of Southern Chile. If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, you absolutely must visit Chiloé Island. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to plan a tour to Chiloé Island from Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt.

Experience

The Chiloé Island Tour is a full-day excursion that will take you from Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt to Chiloé Island. During this tour, you will:

– Travel to Chiloé Island through the Chacao Channel
– See numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island
– Get beautiful views of the region’s rugged landscape

Highlights

Some of the main highlights of the Chiloé Island Tour include:

– A boat tour down the Chacao canal, where you will spot a wide variety of birds
– A visit to the village of Chacao, where you will see its square and church
– A stop in Castro for lunch, where you can try some of the local cuisine at your own expense
– A visit to the typical stilted houses in the Gamboa district
– A visit to the Nercón Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national monument
– A stop in Dalcahue, where you can take in the beautiful natural landscape and visit the local artisan market and museum
– A visit to the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and national monument

Full Description

The Chiloé Island Tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, depending on the option you select. From there, you will travel to the town of Pargua, where you will board a ferry to cross the Chacao Channel. During this 30-minute boat ride, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of seabirds, including seagulls and pelicans.

Once you arrive in Chacao, you’ll have some free time to explore its square and church, which are both important historical and architectural landmarks.

From there, you’ll travel to Castro, the capital of Chiloé Island, where you’ll have the option to try some of the local cuisine for lunch (not included in the tour price). During your visit to Castro, you’ll see the typical stilted houses in the Gamboa district, the main square, and the Nercón Church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national monument. This church is particularly noteworthy for its colorful wooden architecture and unique design elements.

After lunch, you’ll continue your journey to Dalcahue, a charming coastal town with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the local artisan market and museum, where you can learn about the traditional crafts and customs of the area. You’ll also visit the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and national monument. This church boasts a stunning blue façade and intricate woodcarvings that are sure to impress.

At the end of the day, you’ll be taken back to your hotel in Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt, depending on the option you selected.

How to Book the Tour

To book the Chiloé Island Tour, you can visit the following link: book the tour here. This link will take you to a third-party website where you can select your preferred tour date and time, as well as the pickup location (Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt). The tour costs approximately $106 USD per person and includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and all entrance fees. We recommend booking this tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

Visiting Chiloé Island is a must-do activity for travelers visiting Southern Chile. The Chiloé Island Tour from Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt is an excellent option for those who want to explore the island’s natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. With its stunning views, fascinating architecture, and delicious cuisine, Chiloé Island is truly a hidden gem of South America. We hope this blog post has helped you plan your visit to Chiloé Island and inspired you to book the Chiloé Island Tour today!

An Insider’s Guide to Puerto Montt

Are you looking for a unique travel experience in Chile? Puerto Montt, a charming port city located in the Los Lagos region, is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your visit to Puerto Montt:

Local Attractions

While the famous Angelmó Market and the Osorno Volcano are must-visit places, Puerto Montt has many hidden gems that only the locals know. One such place is the fairytale-like German village of Frutillar, located about an hour’s drive from the city. Here, you can enjoy the scenic views of Lake Llanquihue, explore the colonial-era architecture, and attend cultural events such as the Frutillar Musical Week.

Another unique attraction is the Tenglo Island, which can be reached by ferry from Puerto Montt. This tranquil island boasts picturesque beaches, local fishing villages, and a lighthouse that offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Dining Spots

Puerto Montt’s cuisine is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and German influences, resulting in a diverse and delicious food culture. One popular local dish is the “curanto,” a traditional seafood stew cooked in a pit with hot stones. You can try this specialty in restaurants such as La Olla in Angelmó Market or La Esquina de Reyen in La Arena.

For dessert, try the “kuchen,” a German cake made with fruits and dough. You can find the best kuchen in the charming town of Puerto Varas, just a short drive from Puerto Montt.

Cultural Experiences

Puerto Montt and the surrounding area have a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. If you’re interested in art, visit the Museo Antonio Felmer, which showcases contemporary Chilean artists. For music lovers, attend the “Canto a lo Poeta,” a traditional singing competition held annually in Puerto Montt in honor of the city’s rural musicians.

Don’t miss the “Fiesta de la Candelaria,” a colorful festival held in February in the nearby town of Dalcahue, where locals honor the Virgin Mary with lively dances, costumes, and food.

Local History

Puerto Montt has a fascinating history that spans from the Spanish colonization to the German immigration. One intriguing story is that of Vicente Pérez Rosales, a Chilean statesman who played a crucial role in the country’s territorial expansion. Visit the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to learn more about his legacy and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

Another historic site is the Casa del Arte Diego Rivera, a beautifully preserved mansion that showcases the art and lifestyle of the wealthy aristocracy in the early 20th century.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Want to experience something different and off-the-beaten-path in Puerto Montt? How about a horseback riding tour in the Andes mountains, led by local gauchos? Or a kayaking excursion to the pristine Puelo River, where you can observe the region’s flora and fauna up close?

For a truly unique experience, visit the “Laguna de los Cisnes” (Swan Lake) in the nearby town of Puerto Octay, where you can witness the majestic swans migrating from the Northern Hemisphere in April and May.

Puerto Montt is a city that has something to offer for everyone, from nature lovers to foodies, from history buffs to adventure seekers. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have a memorable and authentic travel experience.