Between Temuco and Puerto Montt, Chile is at its most beautiful - the emerald lakes, green forests and  snow-capped peaks provide a setting unequalled elsewhere in South America. This region is popular for “self-drive” itineraries, allowing you to stop as frequently as another extraordinary panorama catches your eye. Traffic is tolerable and if you like driving and can drive a manual transmission, this itinerary provides you the best possible. You can fly or take the overnight train to Temuco where you pick up your car and begin your self-drive journey, finally dropping your car off in Puerto Montt before departing.

Here's LADATCO's suggested "self-drive" itinerary through the higholights of the Chilean Lake District.   We can also arrange a car, driver and guide if you prefer to sit back and relax rather than do the driving yourself.

SUGEST "SELF-DRIVE" ITINERARY:

DAY01: Arrive Temuco. Meeting and delivery of rental car. Then you’ll drive approximately 73 miles to Pucon, on the shores of Lake Villarrica and a popular resort area, for two-night stay at the Hotel Antumalal.

DAY02: Explore the area at your own pace.

DAY03: Today you’ll make your way just a short 77 miles to Valdivia, founded in 1552 and with a distinct German flavor. Overnight at the Villa del Rio Hotel.

DAY04: Drive further south to Osorno & then head west to Lago Puyehue for a 2-night stay at the well known Termas de Puyehue.

DAY05: Plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

DAY06: Head south again passing along the shores of Lake Llanquihue to Puerto Varas for 3-night stay at the Cabanas del Lago.

DAY07: Plenty of charming villages and national parks to visit in the area.

DAY08: You might want to drive to the port and take the ferry over to Chiloe, or drive to Petrohue to visit the falls.

DAY09: At the appropriate time, your guide will meet you and go with you to return the car and transfer you to the airport for departure.

Driving distances: