Puerto Montt, perched at the head of the Reloncaví Sound, is the perfect springboard into Chile’s Lake District. Towering volcanoes, mirror‑calm lakes, and emerald forests lie within easy reach once you have four wheels beneath you. For visitors from the United States, the freedom to set your schedule, pause for an impromptu photo or linger over a lakeside lunch makes every kilometre more memorable than any coach tour could offer. In this guide, you will find detailed descriptions of three spectacular driving routes, essential planning advice, handy local tips, and a dedicated section on renting a car in Chile. Let’s begin with why driving is the best way to take in everything this unforgettable region has to offer!
Public transport does operate in southern Chile, but it rarely follows the scenic shores of Lake Llanquihue or reaches the ancient alerce forests in Alerce Andino National Park. Renting your own car gives you the freedom to take scenic detours through forest trails, stop at breathtaking viewpoints, and enjoy the quiet of a lakeside picnic. You decide when to hit the road—whether it’s early morning to catch the mist rising off the water or evening to watch the sun set behind Volcán Osorno. You skip the hassle of crowded buses, fixed timetables, and long waits at bus stops. Instead, you travel in comfort, with your own music, climate control, and room for snacks and drinks. It’s also easier to pack everything you need—like hiking boots, waterproof gear, and camera equipment—without having to carry it around.
Before you hit the road, planning can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Start by reviewing a detailed map of the Los Lagos region and marking key spots like the scenic route around Lake Llanquihue, the hiking trails in Alerce Andino, and the drive through Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to Petrohué.
Remember that the roads are winding and the views are tempting, so driving will likely take longer than you expect. Be ready for changing weather—even in summer, you might encounter mountain mist or sudden rain. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for walking in the forest. It’s also smart to download offline maps on your phone or GPS before leaving areas with mobile service. Check out local events happening during your visit—like Puerto Montt’s markets, concerts in Frutillar, or the trout festival in Ensenada—for a taste of local culture.
The road circling Lake Llanquihue is a jewel in southern Chile’s crown. From Puerto Montt, you head north along Ruta 5 for a dozen kilometres before cutting west towards Frutillar. Here, German colonial architecture nestles against a backdrop of volcanic peaks. The lakeside Teatro del Lago often hosts free lunchtime concerts in summer—an unexpected delight.
Continuing southwest, you pass small villages such as Los Dones, where family‑run cafés serve freshly smoked trout and local kuchen. Pull off at any of the marked viewpoints to capture the perfect reflection of Volcán Osorno on the glassy lake surface. As you complete the loop, the road hugs the shoreline so closely that you can almost dip your hand in the water as you drive. Allow four to five hours for the full circuit, including time for coffee, photos, and a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant in Frutillar.
A fifty‑minute drive west from Puerto Montt brings you to the entrance of Alerce Andino National Park, home to the world’s oldest living trees outside of Australia. These alerce (Fitzroya) specimens can exceed 2,000 years in age, their colossal trunks cloaked in mosses and ferns. The forest road climbs steadily, cutting through bamboo thickets and stands of coihue. Your first stop is the Lenca Trailhead, where a gentle one‑kilometre walk leads to an ancient grove.
Listen for the distinctive trills of the Chilean tapaculo and watch for the pudú, the world's smallest deer. As you continue the route, you'll come across the Cascada de Los Cántaros, a stunning waterfall that drops 30 metres over volcanic rock. A short, well‑marked path delivers you to its misty base. Round‑trip driving and walking take about four hours, but many choose to linger, picnic beneath the canopy, or explore side tracks leading to hidden tarns.
Chile’s oldest national park stretches from the Petrohué waterfalls to the serene waters of Lago Todos los Santos. The drive begins at Petrohué, where the river roars through black lava steps, its turquoise waters sculpted by last century’s volcanic flows. From there, the road climbs and winds along the lake’s northern shore, framed by dense rainforest and glimpses of Volcán Tronador.
At Ensenada, a tiny settlement halfway along the lake, you can board a ferry for the final leg to Peulla, a remote mountain lodge accessible only by water or foot. If you prefer to stay on four wheels, the return journey via the same lakeside road still rewards with ever‑changing lights on the water. Plan for a full day—six to eight hours—so you can savour a boat trip, enjoy a fresh rainbow trout lunch in Ensenada and perhaps try trout fishing from the shore.
Renting the perfect car is essential for enjoying your Lake District road trip, and at Finalrentals, we make it easy. Our fleet offers everything from compact cars for solo travelers to spacious SUVs designed for gravel roads and forest detours. With transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and customer-focused service, we ensure you have a stress-free experience. Every rental includes full insurance, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 roadside assistance—giving you peace of mind as you explore from the moment you start your journey.
You can conveniently pick up your vehicle in Puerto Montt, allowing you to hit the road as soon as you arrive. Booking online is quick and easy—select your travel dates, add any extras you need, like a GPS or child seat, and confirm your reservation with a credit card. If your plans change, flexible cancellation is available up to 48 hours before pickup. Customers rave about the spotless cars, helpful staff, and prompt support when needed. With Finalrentals, you'll enjoy a reliable vehicle, transparent pricing, and the peace of mind to focus on exploring Chile’s stunning lakes, forests, and volcanoes.
Driving in southern Chile is relatively easy but requires local knowledge to ensure a smooth journey. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be prepared for a safe and enjoyable drive through the stunning landscapes of southern Chile.
Depart Puerto Montt first thing and head north toward Lake Llanquihue. Stop in Frutillar to wander the manicured German gardens and taste a slice of traditional kuchen. Continue south along the lakeshore, pulling off at scenic viewpoints whenever the vista of Volcán Osorno reflected in the water beckons. Return via the shoreline road as evening light shimmers across the lake.
Rise early and drive west into the foothills of Alerce Andino National Park. Follow the Lenca Trail into stands of 2,000‑year‑old alerce trees, then continue to the Cascada de Los Cántaros for a mist‑cooled picnic. In the afternoon, take some detours to discover hidden lagoons, then head back to Puerto Montt to enjoy fresh seafood at the waterfront market.
Set out for Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where the Petrohué Falls thunder over black volcanic rock. From there, follow the lakeside road to Ensenada and catch the ferry across Lago Todos los Santos to Peulla. Spend the night in this mountain lodge, savouring the crisp air and forested surroundings.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Peulla or Ensenada, then drive back toward Puerto Montt. Stop at family‑run trout farms to sample locally raised fish or browse artisan workshops selling hand‑woven textiles. Allow unexpected side roads to lead you to peaceful villages and scenic shoreline views before returning to your base.
Dedicate your final day to the city itself. Stroll through the colourful stalls of the Angelmó fish market, where you can taste ceviche and curanto. Visit the regional museum to learn about Mapuche culture and local history. Finish with a hearty curanto stew in an earth oven at a nearby seafood restaurant before preparing for your journey.
The main roads around Puerto Montt and through the national parks are well maintained, so a compact SUV or sedan is usually sufficient. However, an SUV with higher clearance may provide added confidence if you explore remote forest tracks or travel in early winter.
Make sure to check local weather forecasts before setting out.
Yes, most rental agreements allow cross-border travel into Argentina via the Cardenal Samoré Pass. However, confirm this with your rental provider and carry any additional documentation they may require. Border formalities are usually simple, but they may take longer during busy periods.
Driving yourself through the lakes and forests near Puerto Montt transforms a holiday into an adventure shaped entirely by your own choices. Each road leads to new panoramas—volcanic cones mirrored in glassy water, primeval forests cloaked in emerald moss, and cascading waterfalls hidden in mountain gorges. With thoughtful planning, simple preparations, and the right vehicle secured through Finalrentals, you can savour every moment on your schedule. The Lake District’s splendour unfolds at the pace you choose.
Ready to explore? Rent a car in Chile with Finalrentals and begin your self‑drive journey through one of the world’s most enchanting landscapes.
