Lakes Region Travel and Tourism Information
About Lakes Region – Chile
This is the green region of Chile, due to its vegetation and climate, very similar to the countries of northern Europe. It is a very volcanic region and the lava prints on the soil, are proof of past eruptions, giving to this territory, the shape and form of what it is today, fill with a rugged land and many natural lakes.
The landscape combine, rivers, more or less tumultuous, lakes of different dimensions, volcanos with perpetual snow, and flourishing valleys. Many activities can be practiced on the area, nautical sports such as kayak or rafting, fishing, trekking or horseback riding.
In the cultural aspect, the Mapuche indians, are always present in this region, being this the oldest territory of their ancestors, and the last tribe to surrender to the spaniards during the colonization period. The Mapuche culture, its about 800.000 representatives (half of them living on reserves). They live mainly from the land and the agriculture, most of the time, you will be able to see them on streets, plazas or market places selling their products.
Another group with a strong presence in this part of the country, are the German, who came here during the XIX century to colonize these lands. Cities like Frutillar or Puerto Varas are very similar to Baviera in Germany.
The traditional habits of these people are always present in events similar to Oktoberfest and German dances.
The island of Chiloé, located further south, is the place where the tourist must pay a visit. It is the largest island on the south american continent and offers interesting places with their old constructions and harbors. The chilotes (islanders), live mainly from the sea and their products. They were fierce hunters of sea lions and were great sailors among the Patagonian channels and fjords.
Fishing off Puerto Montt waters is widely spread, it is very rich in shellfish and crustaceous, the latter years, the aquaculture business is growing and numerous salmon farms can be seen. The main cities on the island are on the east side of the island, to protect themselves from the winds off the Pacific Ocean.
The city of Castro, is well known for their colorful constructions above water (called Palafitte). The colors of the city and the painted cathedral (orange and light brown), give an elegant aspect when the sun shines on. We recommend to stay, at least, 4 days in this region, to have time to discover the richness and wonderful places on the Region de Los Lagos.