Sailing the Andean Lakes: Catamaran Journey from Puerto Varas to Bariloche
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Low-moderate; you should be able to sit for long periods and manage short 20–40 minute shoreline walks.
Overview
Cross untouched Andean water on a full-day catamaran trip from Puerto Varas to Bariloche — a 12-hour voyage through volcano-framed lakes, rainforest inlets and border crossings. Here’s how to prepare and what you’ll see.
Sailing the Andean Lakes: Catamaran Journey from Puerto Varas to Bariloche
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The catamaran slips away from Puerto Varas under a chill sky; mountains unroll along the horizon like slow-moving walls. On deck, the air smells of pine and cold water, and the first volcano — Osorno — raises a perfect cone through a scatter of clouds. For the next 12 hours you cross an archipelago of freshwater, river passages and forested shorelines that stitch Chile and Argentina together by route and memory.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Carry Passport and Originals
Border formalities happen mid-route when crossing Río Frías — have passports and any required visas ready to present.
Layer for Variable Weather
Pack a warm midlayer and a waterproof outer shell; wind on the open lake can be much colder than shore temps.
Bring Motion-Sickness Aid
The catamaran is stable but narrow river sections and wakes can cause discomfort — take medication before boarding if you’re sensitive.
Download Offline Maps
Cell signal drops across the national park; download maps and any confirmation details beforehand.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- South Andean deer (huemul) — rare but possible sightings
History
The lake corridor has long been used by Mapuche and Pehuenche peoples; 19th-century European settlers later established the towns and routes that became today’s tourist connections.
Conservation
Much of the route crosses protected parkland; follow park rules, avoid disturbing wildlife and pack out all trash to minimize visitor impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Varas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Shields you from wind and spray during open-lake crossings.
Binoculars
Helps spot condors, otters and distant glacier faces from deck.
Passport & travel documents
Required for the Chile–Argentina border crossing handled en route.
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for short forest trails and rocky shore landings at Blest or Peulla.