Foodie Adventure in the Chilean Lake District

Day 1: Welcome to Puerto Varas; Dinner @ Espacio Patagón

Arrive at Puerto Montt airport, where you’ll meet your guide for a transfer to your hotel in Puerto Varas. Once checked in, set out on foot to explore this delightful lakeside town. As you stroll through streets lined with charming wooden architecture, you’ll take in sweeping views of Llanquihue Lake and the imposing Osorno Volcano, delving into the local history that shapes this vibrant community.

Tonight’s welcome dinner will be hosted at Espacio Patagón, led by renowned Chef Cristóbal Donoso. Set in a 5,000 m² park, Espacio Patagón offers an enchanting atmosphere with its Laboratory Kitchen, Game Room, Barbecue Area with Dining Terrace, a cosy fire pit, and a pool table for post-dinner relaxation.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Cumbres (or equivalent), in Puerto Varas

Day 2: Petrohué Falls Hike; 100K Culinary Experience in Frutillar

After breakfast, you’ll set off for an hour’s drive along the southern shore of Lake Llanquihue, heading into Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Here, you’ll visit the stunning Petrohué River waterfalls and enjoy a short interpretative walk through the temperate rainforest, immersing yourself in the sounds, scents, and sights of this lush ecosystem. Admire the perfect cone of Osorno Volcano as it frames the falls, offering a great backdrop for photos.

Following this exploration, you’ll return for lunch at the charming La Jardinera, where a sommelier will enhance the experience with carefully chosen wine pairings to complement your meal. In the afternoon, you’ll journey into the countryside between the towns of Frutillar and Puerto Octay. Here, you’ll experience the German-Chilean heritage of the area, with time to stroll through the gardens and even pick fresh vegetables with the spectacular Llanquihue Lake in view.

During this unique culinary workshop, guided by a local chef, you’ll harvest your own ingredients to create traditional dishes using produce sourced within a 100-kilometre radius. This hands-on workshop offers an authentic, sustainable connection to the local land and culture, creating lasting memories amid stunning natural surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Cumbres (or equivalent), in Puerto Varas

Day 3: Chiloé Island; Penguins and Curanto Lunch with María Luisa

Today’s adventure takes you to the enchanting island of Chiloé. Start early with a 30-minute ferry ride, arriving in the small village of Chacao. From here, you’ll head northwest to the rich waters of the Humboldt Current for a boat excursion to witness the only breeding colony of Humboldt and Magellanic penguins in the southern hemisphere—a truly unique wildlife experience.

Next, you’ll enjoy a traditional island meal: the famed curanto. This delicious dish is cooked in a pit dug into the ground and heated by hot stones. Get ready to take part in this cooking tradition and meet your warm host, María Luisa, who will guide you through the process.

After lunch, stroll through Castro on a walking tour, where you’ll see the famous palafitos—colourful houses on stilts—and browse the lively local market.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Palafito 1326, Chiloé

Day 4: Mystical Trails of West Chiloé; Gastronomy Experience @ El Cazador

This morning, you’ll explore the captivating western side of Chiloé Island, starting with a gentle hike to the mystical Muelle de las Almas (Dock of Souls). Perched above the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs, this wooden structure invites contemplation and offers breathtaking coastal views. You’ll then enjoy short, scenic hikes within nearby Chiloé National Park.

The day’s grand finale is a remarkable experience in Central Chiloé. You’ll travel to a rural setting to meet your host, Mauricio, at El Cazador. More than just a meal, this is an intimate, gastronomic journey. Mauricio, a renowned chef, will prepare an exquisite lunch showcasing the finest local ingredients and paired with exceptional Chilean wines, all within the cosy ambience of his home.

It’s a meal to remember, celebrating the authentic flavours and cultural richness of Chiloé.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Palafito 1326, Chiloé

Day 5: Transfer to Puerto Montt Airport

After breakfast, you will take a transfer from Castro back to Puerto Montt Airport for your onward travel. Daily flights to Santiago take just 1.5 hours or 2 hours to Puerto Natales.

Meals: Breakfast