In November, I spent three unforgettable weeks traveling through Chile’s stunning Lake District. My goal? To visit a few scenic towns and experience as many day hikes as possible in this breathtaking part of the world. Chile is known for its dramatic landscapes, and this trip more than lived up to the hype.

I hope the articles below help you discover these beautiful places and offer practical tips on how to find hikes and activities that rely on local transportation, don’t break the bank, and still provide deeply fulfilling adventures.

My first stop was Pucón, a lively adventure town nestled between a glistening lake and the snowcapped Villarrica Volcano. The views alone were jaw-dropping, and the town’s energy made it a fun base for exploring. We spent our days walking around town, soaking in the views, and hiking in Huerquehue National Park—a true highlight with its pristine lakes and forested trails.

From Pucón, we continued south to Puerto Varas, another gem of the Lake District. With its German-influenced architecture and easy access to nearby towns like Llanquihue and Frutillar (a favorite for a lakeside dinner), it was a perfect place to slow down and explore. Puerto Varas is also close to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, home to some of the most incredible scenery we saw all trip—lush trails, towering peaks, and serene lake views.

Before heading back to Santiago, we squeezed in a short visit to Chiloé Island, staying in the quirky fishing village of Castro. Even though the weather wasn’t perfect, wandering the colorful streets, seeing the iconic palafitos (houses on stilts), and getting a feel for the island’s unique culture made it totally worth it.

We wrapped up the trip with a couple of nights in Santiago, and even there, nature wasn’t far. We hiked through Parque Metropolitano, with panoramic city views and cactus-lined trails right in the heart of the capital.

This trip left me in awe—of the welcoming people, the well-kept national parks, and the sheer natural beauty of Chile. I left already dreaming of a return, this time to venture deeper into Patagonia.