In the heart of Chile’s Patagonia, 65km from Puerto Varas, is Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Founded in 1926, it spans 251,000 hectares and is perfect for outdoor lovers. But why should you visit? Let’s explore the top attractions and adventures in this beautiful part of Chile.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the park’s centerpiece, Lago Todos los Santos, and its Saltos de Petrohué waterfalls
- Hike through the park’s Patagonia trails and witness the towering Osorno, Tronador, and Puntiagudo volcanoes
- Embark on a thrilling Petrohue River rafting adventure or take in the Andean mountain vistas
- Ski the slopes of Volcán Osorno and enjoy breathtaking views
- Discover the unique wildlife and indulge in berry picking during the season
Exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Location and Highlights
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is a gem in southern Chile. It’s about 40 miles from Puerto Varas and spans 251,000 hectares. Here, you’ll find beautiful landscapes like Lago Todos los Santos, the stunning Saltos de Petrohué waterfalls, and tall volcanoes like Osorno, Tronador, and Puntiagudo.
Since 1926, this park has been a protected area. It’s Chile’s oldest national park. It lets visitors experience the country’s natural beauty, from glaciers to ancient forests.
Entrance Fees and Operating Hours
The park welcomes visitors every day, with hours changing with the seasons. From December to February, it’s open from 8:30am to 8pm. From March to November, it’s open from 8:30am to 6:30pm.
Visiting the Saltos de Petrohué waterfall costs $4 for adults and $3 for kids. There’s also a CONAF center near the park entrance. Here, you can get maps, guides, and more info.
| Season | Operating Hours | Entrance Fees |
|---|---|---|
| December to February | 8:30am to 8pm | $4 for adults, $3 for children (Saltos de Petrohué) |
| March to November | 8:30am to 6:30pm | $4 for adults, $3 for children (Saltos de Petrohué) |
Boat Rides on Lago Todos los Santos
One of the top things to do in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is a boat ride on Lago Todos los Santos. Companies like Turismo Peulla and Cruce de Lagos offer trips from Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas. These take you to Peulla on the lake’s far side.
You can also go on a day trip to Margarita island in the lake’s middle. Or, you can head to Bariloche, Argentina, via the Cruce de Lagos ferry. The ferry ride is split by short bus trips as you move from one lake to another.
The boat trip from Petrohué to Peulla is about 35 km long and takes two hours. You’ll see Volcán Osorno along the way. The trip goes up about 195 meters, giving you a stunning view of the lake.
The Cruce Andino option is more scenic but costs a lot more. It’s about seven times the price of the bus from Puerto Varas to Bariloche, Argentina. This trip includes both boat and bus rides, covering different distances and taking five hours longer than the bus.
For those wanting to see Lago Todos los Santos and its area, boat tours are a great choice. They’re easy on the wallet and let you see Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park’s beauty. Just watch out for higher prices in peak season and think about joining group tours to save money.
| Excursion | Distance | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrohué to Peulla boat ride | 35 km | 2 hours | $6.75 USD per person |
| Puerto Varas to Bariloche bus | – | 7-8 hours | $33-$41 USD |
| Cruce Andino (boat and bus) | Various segments | 12 hours | $280 USD |
Boat tours on Lago Todos los Santos are a great way to see Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park’s beauty. You can visit towns like Peulla or go to Cruce de Lagos and Andina del Sud. Whether it’s a day trip or the full Cruce Andino experience, the views and calm waters will impress you.
Hiking Trails and Adventures
Step into Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and discover its beautiful hiking trails. The Saltos de Petrohué Trail is a top choice, taking you to stunning waterfalls. You’ll walk on a wooden path, seeing the green waters of Río Petrohué flow through lava channels. These channels were made after the 1850 eruption of Volcán Osorno.
Saltos de Petrohué Trail
For those who love a challenge, the park has longer trails for backpacking and multi-day treks. The Ruta de los Jesuitas map shows trails that go all the way to Lago Rupanco and Puerto Rico. These trails let you dive deep into the park’s varied landscapes.
Backpacking and Multi-Day Treks
A 1-night/2-day trek to the Termas del Callao thermal baths is a favorite. You can take a boat to get there, either by hiring a private boat for up to 6 people at $50 or joining a guided tour with Expediciones Petrohué. They provide gear, meals, and a guide for your stay at a rustic cabin near the springs.
Expediciones also offers more adventures like rafting, 4×4 safaris, climbing, fly-fishing, and canyoneering in the park.
“Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining in the stunning Lakes District of Chile.”
Volcán Osorno Ski Resort
The Volcán Osorno Ski Resort sits on the western slope of Volcán Osorno. It has 600 hectares (1,482 acres) of terrain. This includes two chairlifts and a T-bar. It’s not as big as Valle Nevado or Portillo, but it has great views and runs for all skill levels from mid-June to early October. Prices for lift tickets range from $20 for students to $32 for adults all day.
The high winds on this side of the lake make the snow challenging. But, the resort also offers Patagonia skiing tours on Volcán Osorno. These tours take you to untouched powder and amazing views. They start at $160,000 Chilean pesos for a group of 1 person.
These tours can have 1 to 9 people. You’ll have a guide for every 3 customers. If you want to go even further, try to summit the Osorno volcano.
This hike is about ±14 km round trip and reaches up to 2,652 meters high. It costs $250,000 Chilean pesos to start. But, groups and those who get there on their own can get discounts.
Whether you’re an expert or just starting, the Volcán Osorno Ski Resort gives you a special Patagonia skiing experience. It’s in the stunning natural beauty of Chile.
Driving from Puerto Varas to Bariloche
Looking for a different way to get from Puerto Varas, Chile to Bariloche, Argentina? Try driving the international highway. This route takes you through the high Andes at your own pace. You’ll see stunning views and make unforgettable stops.
Don’t miss Termas de Puyehue, a famous hot spring resort in the Andes. Then, visit the charming village of Villa la Angostura. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and lake views. The drive ends with a view of Lago Nahuel Huapi before reaching Bariloche.
This drive is longer than the Cruce de Lagos route but offers a deeper experience. You get to see the Andes up close. Car rental places in Puerto Varas can help with the paperwork for crossing the border. Or, use a service like LS Travel to plan the whole trip for you.
Whether you drive yourself or have a service do it for you, the trip from Puerto Varas to Bariloche is unforgettable. You’ll see amazing landscapes, visit charming towns, and relax in Termas de Puyehue. This route is perfect for adventurous travelers.
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
In the heart of Chilean Patagonia, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers many outdoor activities and stunning natural sights. You can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the turquoise Lago Todos los Santos or hike to the stunning Saltos de Petrohué waterfalls.
The park is famous for the Osorno Volcano. It’s perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. If you’re up for a challenge, try a multi-day trek to see the park’s varied landscapes and wildlife.
- Sail across the stunning Lago Todos los Santos
- Hike to the breathtaking Saltos de Petrohué waterfalls
- Ski or snowboard at the Osorno Volcano ski resort
- Embark on thrilling backpacking and multi-day treks
- Witness the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia
Looking for a day trip or a longer Patagonian adventure? Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park has it all. With its wide range of activities and breathtaking views, it’s a top spot in Patagonia.
| Activity | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Boat Ride on Lago Todos los Santos | $40,000 pesos (around $50 USD) for 4 people | 30-60 minutes |
| Hike to Saltos de Petrohué Waterfalls | Free with park admission | 2-3 hours round trip |
| Skiing/Snowboarding at Osorno Volcano | Varies by season and package | Half-day or full-day |
| Multi-Day Backpacking Treks | Varies by route and duration | 2-5 days |
“The hike to the Saltos de Petrohué was absolutely breathtaking. The cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools were unlike anything I’ve ever seen.”
Staying in Petrohue
If you’re planning a trip to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Petrohue has some places to stay. The top choice is Hotel Petrohue, a beautiful wooden building on a hillside. It overlooks the stunning Lago Todos los Santos. This hotel is a great place to stay to see the park’s natural beauty.
For those who like a simpler stay, there are guesthouses and campsites on the other side of Río Petrohué. These spots are more affordable and let you really feel like you’re in nature. They don’t have as many comforts as Hotel Petrohue, though.
Hotel Petrohue
Hotel Petrohue is the top place to stay in Petrohue. It’s right by the lake, offering amazing views and a cozy spot for your adventures. The hotel’s design matches the area perfectly, making your stay feel like part of the landscape.
Other Accommodation Options
There are other ways to stay in Petrohue too. You can camp by Lago Todos los Santos or stay at one of the few guesthouses on the other side of Río Petrohué. These spots are more budget-friendly. They let you enjoy the park’s beauty without the fancy amenities of Hotel Petrohue.
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost | Amenities | Proximity to Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Petrohue | $100-$200 per night | Scenic lake views, comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant | Located within the national park, close to Petrohue Falls and Lago Todos los Santos |
| Guesthouses | $50-$100 per night | Basic amenities, opportunity for immersion in nature | Located across the Río Petrohué, slightly farther from main attractions |
| Camping | $10-$20 per night | Rustic, back-to-nature experience, access to lake and hiking trails | Along the shores of Lago Todos los Santos, within the national park |
Wherever you choose to stay, the Petrohue area is perfect for exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. You can see the amazing Petrohue Falls and the peaceful Lago Todos los Santos from here.
Visiting Petrohue Falls
One of the top sights in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is the Petrohue Falls, also called Saltos de Petrohué. These waterfalls are near Lago Todos los Santos and are fed by the Río Petrohué. This river flows through lava channels created by the 1850 eruption of Volcán Osorno.
To get to the Petrohue Falls, there’s a short hike and a wooden walkway. These paths offer amazing views of the green waters and the tall volcano on clear days. The sound of the water and the peaceful setting make it a magical place.
When you get closer to the falls, you’ll be amazed by the Río Petrohué’s power. The water’s blue color and the volcanic landscape around it are unforgettable. Take your time to find the best spot to take a photo of this natural beauty.
| Attraction | Location | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Petrohue Falls (Saltos de Petrohué) | Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile | 200 meters (656 feet) |
At the Petrohue Falls, let the sound of the water and the view of the Osorno Volcano take you away. This place is a must-see for anyone visiting Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
“The Petrohue Falls are a true testament to the power and beauty of nature. Standing in awe of these cascading waters, surrounded by the majestic Osorno Volcano, is an experience that will stay with you long after your visit.”
Exploring Lago Todos los Santos
Lago Todos los Santos is a gem in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. It’s perfect for those who love nature. You can cross the lake by boat, kayak, or walk along its shores.
Kayaking and Camping
Kayaking on the lake gives you a unique view of the mountains. Near Peulla, you can camp right by the lake. This lets you enjoy the peace of nature fully.
As you paddle, enjoy the beautiful views. Then, camp by the lake to soak in its beauty. Whether it’s a day trip or a longer stay, Lago Todos los Santos is a must-see in the park.
“Exploring Lago Todos los Santos by kayak is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural splendor.”
| Activity | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kayak Rental | Half-day | $40 USD |
| Camping Permit | Per night | $15 USD |
Wildlife and Berry Picking
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park in Chile is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor fun. But, it’s also a great place to see wildlife. Near the Petrohué Falls, you might spot foxes and other small animals. The park is full of berry bushes, perfect for picking blackberries and other Patagonian wildlife during your visit.
The park is home to many animals like guanacos, pumas, and Andean condors. Seeing these animals is not sure, but if you’re quiet and watchful, you might see them. It’s a chance to see some of the world’s most beautiful creatures up close.
There’s also a lot of berry bushes in the park. In summer, you’ll find blackberry, raspberry, and currant bushes along the trails. It’s a great way to enjoy the park’s beauty and taste something sweet.
“The park’s diverse flora and fauna make it a true haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.”
Visiting Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is a chance to see wildlife and enjoy berry picking. It’s a special experience in the Patagonian region of Chile.
Conclusion
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park in Chile’s Patagonia is a true gem. It offers natural wonders and outdoor adventures for visitors. From the turquoise waters of Lago Todos los Santos to the Saltos de Petrohué waterfalls, it has something for everyone.
Looking for a day trip or a longer adventure in Patagonia? This park is a must-see. It shows off the beauty and magic of southern Chile. You can hike, boat, ski, or watch wildlife, making it perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Planning a trip here? Consider visiting during the off-season for better deals on places to stay and things to do. Use travel planning tools to make the most of your time and money. With its beautiful views, cultural experiences, and friendly locals, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park will make your trip unforgettable.
