Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Day Trip from Puerto Montt: Lakes, Falls and Snow-Capped Views
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short uphill walks and standing at viewpoints
Overview
This full-day excursion from Puerto Montt links the snow-capped cone of Osorno Volcano with the turquoise leaps of the Petrohué River in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Expect dramatic views, short walks, and practical tips for making the most of the 10‑hour trip.
Osorno Volcano and Petrohué Day Trip from Puerto Montt: Lakes, Falls and Snow-Capped Views
Select participants and date
You step off the van at Ensenada and the air changes — cool, clear, the kind that sharpens the edges of distant ridgelines. In front of you, Osorno Volcano rises like a folded cone, snow streaking its upper slopes and glaciers catching the light. To your left, Llanquihue Lake lies flat as a sheet of pewter. Later the Petrohué River will demand attention with a turquoise so bright it almost seems deliberate, jumping through bands of hardened lava at the Saltos del Petrohué.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Weather changes quickly near the volcano — bring a warm mid-layer and a waterproof shell for wind and possible showers.
Bring cash for lunch
Some mountain kiosks and local restaurants accept only cash for snacks, coffee, or chairlift fees.
Wear grippy shoes
Boardwalks around Saltos del Petrohué can be wet and slippery; hiking shoes or trail runners are recommended.
Allow extra time for photos
Stops at viewpoints and the lakeshore are frequent — give yourself time to soak in the vistas without rushing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
History
Conservation
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Montt
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden wind and rain at higher elevations.
Hiking shoes or trail runners
Provide traction on wet boardwalks and uneven lava rock trails.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)
Keeps you comfortable near the summit where temperatures drop.
Camera with polarizer filter
A polarizer deepens the turquoise of the river and reduces reflections on the lake.