- The right destination
Andean Lakes: a fascinating destination for all seasons
Discover the charms of traveling to the Andean Lakes at any time of year with children and teenagers
By Claudine Blanco
The Andean Lakes, a scenic and enchanting region spanning areas of Chile and Argentina, is a perfect refuge for families seeking outdoor adventures, rich culture, and varied landscapes. This region not only transforms with the changing seasons but also offers distinct and equally fascinating experiences in both summer and winter. Whether for January or July school holidays, the Andean Lakes provide an unforgettable trip for families with children and teenagers.
Where are the Andean Lakes located and what does the region encompass?
Located in Patagonia, the Andean Lakes region spans areas around the large lakes Llanquihue, Todos los Santos, and Ranco in Chile, and lakes Nahuel Huapi and Lácar in Argentina. This region is known for its spectacular landscapes, with pointed volcanoes, lush forests, and waters of various shades of blue. The main cities that serve as bases for exploring the region include Puerto Varas and Frutillar in Chile and San Carlos de Bariloche and Villa La Angostura in Argentina.
Puerto Varas, with its German-influenced architecture and panoramic views of Osorno Volcano, is one of the gateways to the region. Frutillar is known for its cultural charm, with the famous Teatro del Lago and its picturesque houses. San Carlos de Bariloche, in Argentina, offers a combination of natural beauty and urban amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and adventure activities.
Andean Lakes in summer
In summer, the Andean Lakes transform into a paradise of crystal-clear waters and verdant forests. With milder temperatures between 59 °F and 77 °F and long days, this is the ideal time to enjoy natural beauty and practice ecotourism activities, with a greater offer of outdoor activities. The region offers a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and rafting, that don’t require submersion, as well as various other land activities, such as trails leading to viewpoints of impressive scenic beauty.
Summer is also the best time to make the Andean Lakes crossing, known as “Cruce Andino.” This crossing, despite not being the fastest route between Chile and Argentina, is one of the most scenic, providing views of lakes, mountains, volcanoes, and waterfalls from privileged angles. The trip can be made in both directions, but the route from Puerto Varas to Bariloche is particularly recommended, as it allows taking advantage of daylight to appreciate the Petrohué Falls and volcanoes in all their splendor. The crossing is available year-round, but in autumn and winter, the weather is more unpredictable, with rainy and cloudy days that usually hinder volcano visibility. Therefore, there are agencies that only market the tour in summer.
The Andean Lakes region also offers intense cultural programming in summer that pleases the whole family. Music festivals, such as concerts at Teatro del Lago in Frutillar, bring a vibrant and enriching atmosphere. The bars, restaurants, and shops of charming Puerto Varas and Bariloche are even more in demand during the warmer months of the year. For families wanting to know the rich culture, there’s the possibility of exploring some villages around the lake, participating in regional festivals, and savoring traditional cuisine.
With so many leisure, culture, and gastronomy options, summer in the Andean Lakes guarantees a complete and unforgettable experience for families from various parts of the world. Since this corresponds to high season, everything becomes more crowded and reservations need to be made well in advance to guarantee the best accommodations.
Andean Lakes in winter
In winter in the Andean Lakes, although it rarely snows in the cities, the landscape in the mountains and volcanoes surrounding them, at higher altitudes, gains white coverage, creating a picturesque scenery. At this time, the cities offer welcoming charm, with their European-style constructions and cozy fireplaces in cafés and restaurants, providing a perfect atmosphere to relax after a day of adventures.
Despite the cold, you can do practically the same ecotourism activities as in summer, with the advantage of them being less disputed. Cities like Puerto Varas, Puerto Montt, and Frutillar maintain their cultural and gastronomic activities, with bars, restaurants, and shops providing welcome and entertainment for tourists. Accommodation and activity prices are significantly lower than in the summer high season, making winter an attractive option for those who want to explore the region thoroughly with more economy.
The exception to lower prices is Bariloche, Argentina, as the city houses the region’s most famous ski resort, Cerro Catedral, which becomes one of the most sought-after points by winter sports lovers throughout the continent. In Chile, families who want to enjoy the snow but escape the crowds find their refuge at Antillanca Ski Resort and the small Volcán Osorno ski resort. These resorts offer a more tranquil and less competitive experience, ideal for having fun with children without great sporting pretensions.
For those visiting the Chilean side of the Andean Lakes in winter, it’s important to note that the region is not widely recognized as an international ski destination. The resorts there end up having more appeal as an additional charm to the location, not being the main focus of the trip. The true proposal of exploring the Andean Lakes in winter is to extend the family’s trip through Chile, taking advantage of its different landscapes and connection with nature.
It’s true that winter brings more probability of rain, but this region has precipitation distributed throughout the year, and there’s a great possibility of beautiful and sunny days, even at this time. Of course, nobody wants to encounter bad weather, but there’s so much to do there that not even rain will disturb the indescribable beauty of this place — and tour options won’t be lacking.
How to get to the Andean Lakes?
Getting to the Andean Lakes is relatively easy, which makes the region frequently associated with other destinations in the same itinerary.
In Chile, Puerto Montt Airport, located about 30 minutes by car from Puerto Varas, is the main entry point, with regular flights from major Chilean cities. From Santiago to Puerto Montt is less than 2 hours flight and the easy access and high frequency of daily flights, both in winter and summer, facilitate logistics and make this destination an excellent option for families to consider visiting year-round.
In Argentina, San Carlos de Bariloche Airport is the main gateway, with daily flights from various cities in the country. During the winter season, there are even companies that usually offer direct flights from São Paulo, since the destination is popular among Brazilians.
The distance between Puerto Varas and Bariloche is approximately 186 miles, and the trip can be made by car or bus in about 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Another option is the tour of the already mentioned Andean Lakes crossing, which combines bus and boat routes, taking travelers through a scenic route that passes through lakes, mountains, and forests, and lasts about a day.
How to make the Andean Lakes crossing and how much does Cruce Andino cost
The Andean Lakes Crossing, also known as Cruce Andino, is one of the region’s most iconic experiences. This tour connects Chile and Argentina through a series of boat crossings and land trips, passing through some of Patagonia’s most impressive scenery. The crossing can be made throughout the year, but summer is the best time to enjoy mild weather and views in their splendor.
The crossing cost varies depending on the time of year and type of package chosen, but generally ranges around $300 to $500 per person. Cruce Andino offers different package options, including one-day trips or longer itineraries that allow exploring landscapes calmly. For those wanting to make the round trip, the ideal is to consider 3 days and 2 nights.
Best experiences and activities for families
Outdoor exploration
The Andean Lakes region is a paradise for nature enthusiasts of all fitness levels. There are options for walks on well-marked trails, ranging from light strolls to more challenging adventures.
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, in Chile, is one of the highlights, with trails leading to waterfalls and impressive views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Its main postcard, the Petrohué Falls, is unmissable. These turquoise-colored waterfalls, formed by the waters of the Petrohué River, which descend from the slopes of Osorno Volcano, are a natural spectacle that marvels visitors of all ages.
In Argentina, Nahuel Huapi National Park offers equally spectacular landscapes, with trails around the lake and views of Cerro Catedral. Boat trips on Lake Todos los Santos and Lake Nahuel Huapi are activities that provide a unique perspective of the scenery.
Cultural activities
In Frutillar, Chile, a good family program is visiting the German Colonial Museum and Teatro del Lago, where concerts and cultural events frequently occur. In Bariloche, Argentina, visits to the Civic Center and Patagonia Museum offer insights about local history and culture. Cooking workshops that teach preparing traditional Chilean and Argentine dishes are an excellent opportunity for parents and children to learn together.
Gastronomy
Local cuisine is an attraction apart in the Andean Lakes region, combining fresh and authentic ingredients with European culinary influences. In Puerto Varas and Frutillar, Chile, and in Bariloche and Villa La Angostura, Argentina, restaurants offer dishes that are true gastronomic masterpieces. Fish and seafood, such as salmon, stand out, as well as local specialties like kuchen (German cake), curanto (a traditional Chilean dish of seafood, meat, and potatoes), and famous asados (Argentine barbecues). Many restaurants have menus adapted for children, ensuring the whole family enjoys the experience.
Salmon, especially, is a star on Andean Lakes destination tables. Coming from the cold and crystalline waters of local lakes and rivers, the region’s salmon is known for its tender meat, delicate flavor, and high nutritional value. The combination of natural factors, such as water purity and healthy feeding, contributes to a superior quality final product. Salmon dishes are unmissable, whether grilled, smoked, or prepared traditionally. In many restaurants, salmon is the protagonist, offered in various preparations that highlight its incomparable flavor and texture.
In Puerto Varas, restaurants like Casa Valdés, which specializes in seafood, and La Marca, which offers delicious grilled meats, stand out. In Frutillar, Se Cocina, with its seasonal menu, and Kuchenladen, famous for its German cakes, are mandatory stops. In Bariloche, restaurants like Alto el Fuego, known for its meats, also stand out for grilled salmon dishes, and Butterfly, a gourmet restaurant that presents salmon in sophisticated recipes. In Villa La Angostura, Tinto Bistrô, with its innovative cuisine, and El Mercado, which combines rustic and modern, are unmissable gastronomic destinations for savoring salmon in varied preparations.
Well-being and relaxation
For moments of tranquility, the region offers various spa and hot spring options. Parents can relax in natural thermal waters while children participate in supervised activities or explore the surrounding nature. These relaxation moments are perfect for recharging energies after a day of adventures.
How many days to explore the Lakes Region?
For a complete experience (Chilean and Argentine sides), it’s recommended to dedicate at least seven days to explore the Lakes Region. This period allows exploring main attractions and participating in various activities, from hikes and boat trips to cultural visits and relaxation in hot springs.
What you can’t miss in the Lakes Region?
When visiting the Lakes Region, there are several unmissable activities and attractions:
- Explore Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park: known for its trails, waterfalls, and views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.
- Visit Frutillar: known for its cultural charm and Teatro del Lago.
- Take boat trips on Lake Todos los Santos and Lake Nahuel Huapi: providing incredible views of surrounding landscape.
- Enjoy local cuisine: try typical dishes like kuchen, curanto, and asados.
- Relax in hot springs: take advantage of natural thermal waters to recharge energies.
Family hotels in the Andean Lakes
The Andean Lakes region offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and profiles. From charming bed and breakfasts to sophisticated boutique hotels, there are accommodations that meet each family’s needs. Many properties are adapted to receive children, with specific activities and services that guarantee comfort and fun for little ones.
For families wanting the very best, we recommend Hotel Awa in Puerto Varas. This sophisticated boutique hotel is the right choice for families seeking a luxury experience with personalized services and high-quality gastronomy. In this same edition 10 of Family Trip Magazine, there’s a complete article about Awa Puerto Varas, detailing its amenities, leisure options, and excellence in service, guaranteeing a memorable stay for everyone.
Minimum recommended age to travel to the Andean Lakes
To make the most of the Andean Lakes experience, the minimum recommended age for children is about five years old. At this age, children can participate in outdoor activities, such as light hikes, boat trips, and cultural visits, without significant difficulties. Teenagers and young adults will find a wide range of exciting adventures that maintain the whole family’s interest.
Why are the Andean Lakes a good choice for families?
The Andean Lakes combine the best of nature, culture, and adventure in an inspiring setting. The region offers an authentic and less explored experience, away from the crowds of more popular tourist destinations. The contrasting landscapes, with serene lakes and imposing volcanoes, ensure that each travel day is full of new discoveries.
Additionally, the warm hospitality of local residents, high-quality tourist infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability make the Andean Lakes an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable and enriching trip. Each family member will find something to love, whether the serenity of natural views, cultural richness, or outdoor adventures.
The Andean Lakes, with their combination of diversified landscapes, rich culture, and varied activities, are a surprising destination that deserves a place on any family’s travel wish list. Whether exploring scenic trails, enjoying cultural activities, or simply relaxing in an impressive natural setting, the Andean Lakes offer unforgettable experiences for all ages, both in summer and winter.
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