Explore the stunning landscapes of the Chilean Lake District with our selection of Petrohue Waterfalls tours. Choose from half-day river rafting adventures to full-day excursions visiting the Osorno Volcano and nearby towns like Frutillar and Puerto Varas.
Free Cancellation Discover Petrohué Waterfalls and Frutillar on a guided shore excursion with Chilean wine, empanadas, and volcano views.
Free Cancellation Raft and swim through the clear waters of the Petrohué River on this half-day trip from Puerto Varas.
Free Cancellation Explore volcanoes, rivers, and native forests while tracing the region’s indigenous and German heritage.
Free Cancellation Explore the symmetrical Osorno Volcano and the turquoise Petrohué Waterfalls in Chile's Los Lagos Region.
Free Cancellation Explore the volcanic rapids of Petrohué, the high-altitude viewpoints of Osorno Volcano, and the heritage of Puerto Varas.
Free Cancellation Visit Osorno Volcano and Puerto Varas for scenic views, a traditional empanada picnic, and a stop to see local llamas.
Free Cancellation Explore the region with convenient pickup directly from your centrally located hotel.
Free Cancellation Visit Petrohué Falls, Puerto Varas, and Frutillar on a guided day trip through the Chilean Lake District.
Free Cancellation Explore the turquoise waters of Petrohué Falls and view the snow-capped Osorno Volcano on this guided nature tour.
Free Cancellation Explore the Lake District's volcanoes, waterfalls, and colonial towns with traditional Chilean and German snacks.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Petrohue Waterfalls — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour to the Petrohué Waterfalls (Saltos del Petrohué) offers a front-row seat to one of Chile's most striking natural wonders. Located in the country's oldest national park, you will witness powerful turquoise waters surging through ancient, dark volcanic rock, all set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Osorno Volcano.
Marvel at the incredibly vibrant, turquoise-colored chute waterfalls. The river pushes an average of 270 cubic meters of water per second through narrow lava rock channels.
Enjoy picture-perfect views of the perfectly symmetrical Osorno Volcano. Its snow-capped cone provides a dramatic backdrop to the dark basaltic rocks of the falls.
Walk through lush, dense evergreen forests on trails like the Carilemu loop. The surrounding Valdivian temperate rainforest is teeming with unique native flora.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including the impressive Torrent Duck. These native birds can often be seen skillfully navigating the intense, fast-moving rapids.
Many full-day tours combine the falls with visits to nearby historic towns. You'll likely explore the German-influenced architecture of Puerto Varas or Frutillar.
For thrill-seekers, specialized half-day tours offer the chance to raft down the Petrohué River. Experience the clear waters and surrounding scenery right from the riverbed.
Planning your trip to the Petrohué Waterfalls is straightforward, but knowing the logistics of the local tour operators and park rules will ensure a seamless experience.
Pay close attention to your pickup location. Several tours are dedicated shore excursions departing directly from the Puerto Montt cruise port, while others strictly depart from Puerto Varas hotels and explicitly exclude cruise passengers.
The national park entrance fee is 7,000 CLP (approx. $10 USD) for adult foreigners. While some premium tours and shore excursions include this in the ticket price, many standard day tours require you to pay this separately.
The shoulder months of October to December and March to April are ideal, offering great weather and fewer crowds. January and February are peak season and bring large crowds, as well as 'tábanos' (large biting flies) that can be a nuisance.
The site is highly accessible. The main viewpoints feature well-maintained wooden boardwalks and ramps suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. There are even sensory stations for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.
The region receives about 4,000 mm of rain annually, and the falls generate constant mist. Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip, as the boardwalks can get slippery.
Most guided tours are full-day experiences (6-10 hours) that bundle the waterfalls with nearby attractions like the Osorno Volcano Ski Center, Lake Todos los Santos, or the towns of Frutillar and Puerto Varas.
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park has strict conservation rules. Drones are entirely prohibited without a professional CONAF permit, pets are not allowed, and lighting fires can result in immediate expulsion from the country.
Most tour operators offering trips to Petrohué Waterfalls provide a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| Shore Excursions (Puerto Montt) | Full-Day Volcano & Falls Combo | Petrohué River Rafting | Private Day Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours | 8 - 10 hours | 5 hours | 7 hours |
| Best for | Cruise ship passengers docking in Puerto Montt | Travelers staying in Puerto Varas wanting to see the main highlights | Adventure seekers and active travelers | Families or groups wanting a flexible, personalized pace |
| Includes | Port pickup, guide, sometimes snacks/drinks and park fees | Hotel pickup, transport, guide (entrance fees often excluded) | Rafting gear, snacks, private transport | Private transport, bottled water, park entrance fees |
| Price from | $66 - $85 | $43 - $90 | $58 | $250 |
Petrohué Waterfalls is located inside the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, which is generally open 365 days a year. However, operating hours vary slightly depending on the season:
Note: The last entry is typically permitted 1 hour before the park closes. Hours may be slightly reduced on major holidays like Christmas and New Year's Day.
The falls are located about 55 kilometers east of Puerto Varas. There are several ways to reach the site depending on your budget and travel style:
The best months to visit the Petrohué Waterfalls are during the shoulder seasons: October to December and March to April. During these times, the weather is relatively pleasant, and you will avoid the massive summer crowds.
Months to Avoid: January and February are the peak tourist months. Not only is the site extremely crowded, but it is also the prime season for tábanos (large biting flies) which are highly active and attracted to dark clothing.
Time of Day: If visiting independently, try to arrive before 10:00 AM to beat the large tour buses and cruise ship groups that usually arrive mid-morning.
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park has made significant efforts to ensure the Petrohué Waterfalls are accessible to all visitors:
The visitor center at Petrohué Waterfalls offers basic amenities to ensure a comfortable visit:
To protect the delicate ecosystem of Chile's oldest national park, several strict rules are enforced:
It depends on the specific tour. Some premium shore excursions include the 7,000 CLP (approx. $10) entrance fee, while many standard day tours from Puerto Varas require you to pay this separately at the gate.
Yes, but you must select a specific 'Shore Excursion' departing from Puerto Montt. Many standard tours departing from Puerto Varas explicitly state they are not suitable for cruise passengers due to timing and pickup logistics.
Usually, yes. The stunning color is a natural feature of the river. However, after heavy volcanic activity or severe rainstorms that cause mudslides (lahars), the water can temporarily turn brown with silt.
Yes, during the peak summer months of January and February, large biting flies called 'tábanos' are very active. Standard bug spray doesn't deter them well, so it's recommended to wear light-colored clothing, as they are attracted to dark colors.
No, swimming at the waterfalls is strictly prohibited. The water flow averages 270 cubic meters per second, creating extreme currents and highly dangerous conditions among the volcanic rocks. If you want to get in the water, consider booking a guided rafting tour instead.
Yes, the main viewing platforms and the Carilemu trail are equipped with well-maintained wooden boardwalks and ramps, making it highly accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and visitors with limited mobility.
Yes, it is highly recommended to bring Chilean Pesos in cash. Card machines in this rural area can be unreliable due to poor signal, and you may need cash for the 500 CLP parking fee, small snacks, or the park entrance fee.
No, the use of drones is strictly prohibited within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to protect wildlife and visitor privacy. You can only fly a drone if you have prior professional authorization from CONAF.
The walking is very manageable. The average visit to the falls lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, and the main trails, like the Carilemu loop, are under 1 kilometer long, flat, and easy to navigate.
Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. The region receives high annual rainfall, and the mist from the waterfalls can make the boardwalks damp and chilly, even on sunny days. Sturdy walking shoes are also a must to avoid slipping.
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This full-day shore excursion explores the Chilean Lake District, following the shores of Lake Llanquihue with views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. The itinerary includes a visit to the Petrohué Waterfalls in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and stops in the historic German-settled towns of Frutillar and Puerto Varas. All national park entrance fees are included in the price. Led by a local guide and professional driver, the tour includes a tasting of regional Chilean wine, a traditional pisco sour, and a fresh empanada prepared the same morning. We use fully authorized vehicles with all required permits and insurance, timing the route specifically to ensure a reliable return to the port before your ship departs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This half-day trip takes you onto the Petrohué River to experience its clear waters and surrounding scenery. You will spend the morning or afternoon rafting through the river's various sections, with opportunities to stop and swim in the calmer stretches along the way. The tour is based near Puerto Varas and includes all the necessary gear for the water. It is a straightforward way to see the local landscape from the river while getting active outdoors.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Italian, French, Spanish
This full-day excursion takes you through the diverse landscapes of southern Chile, featuring native forests, rivers, and active volcanoes. It is designed for families who want to spend a full day outdoors exploring the natural terrain of the lake district. Along the way, we look into the area's complex history. You will learn about the ancient indigenous cultures that first inhabited these lands and the later influence of German settlers who shaped the local architecture and traditions. Please note that this tour is not intended for cruise ship passengers due to timing and logistics. It is best suited for travelers staying locally who have a full day available for exploration.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This tour visits two of the most recognizable natural sites in Southern Chile: Osorno Volcano and the Petrohué Waterfalls. You will travel toward the volcano, which is noted for its near-perfect conical shape and sits prominently above Llanquihue Lake. The drive provides close-up views of the volcanic landscape and the surrounding peaks of the Andes. The second part of the trip takes you into Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to see the Petrohué Waterfalls. Here, the Petrohué River cuts through basaltic lava flows, creating powerful rapids and clear turquoise pools. Together, these locations offer a direct look at the geological forces that shaped the Lake District.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
The tour begins in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park at the Petrohué River rapids. These unique rock formations were carved out of basaltic lava following an ancient eruption of the Osorno Volcano and are now surrounded by dense evergreen forest. You will then travel up the slopes of the Osorno Volcano, which stands at 2,650 meters. The vehicle follows a paved road to a ski center and cafeteria at the 1,200-meter mark. On clear days, this vantage point offers views across Lake Llanquihue and the Andes Mountains. For a higher perspective, chairlifts are available to reach an altitude of 1,400 meters. The trip also includes time in Puerto Varas, a lakeside city known for its blend of German colonial architecture and Chilean traditions. It serves as a central hub for the region, offering a relaxed atmosphere and direct views of the surrounding volcanoes and landscapes.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
German, Portuguese, English, Italian, Spanish
After meeting your guide at the cruise port or your hotel, you will head toward the Osorno Volcano ski resort. From the summit area, you can see across Llanquihue Lake to the Calbuco Volcano. For those who would rather not walk the trails, the ski lift runs year-round to reach the higher viewpoints. Lunch is a picnic of Chilean baked beef empanadas served with red and white wine. From the volcano, the tour moves to Puerto Varas to see the town's German-style architecture and rose gardens. If there is enough time on the return trip, the group will stop to visit and feed a nearby herd of llamas and alpacas.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour begins with a direct pickup from hotels located in the city's central district. We provide a seamless start to your day by meeting you at your accommodation, ensuring you can begin your journey without the need to find a separate meeting point. Please note that this service is specifically for hotel-based guests. We do not offer pickups from the cruise ship terminal or the Puerto Montt port area.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This trip covers three of the Lake District's most recognizable locations: Petrohué Falls, Puerto Varas, and Frutillar. You will start at the falls within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to see the river flow over volcanic rock. The tour then stops in Puerto Varas, where you can see the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes across the water. The final part of the day is spent in Frutillar on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Known for its German heritage, the town features unique wooden architecture and the Teatro del Lago. Your guide will explain the local history and you will have the chance to try traditional regional food, such as German-style kuchen.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour takes you into Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park to visit two of southern Chile’s most recognizable landmarks. You will start at the Petrohué Falls, where the river carves through ancient basaltic lava formations. The bright turquoise water creates a sharp contrast against the dark volcanic rock and the surrounding native forest. While walking the trails around the falls, you will have a direct view of the Osorno Volcano. Known for its symmetrical cone and permanent glaciers, the volcano provides a constant backdrop as you explore the area. The excursion focuses on the natural geology of the region, allowing time to walk the paths and observe the force of the river at your own pace.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Spanish
This full-day shore excursion covers the primary highlights of the Lake District, starting with the volcanic landscapes of Petrohué Falls at the base of Osorno Volcano. You will then visit Puerto Varas to see its German-influenced architecture and local markets before ending the day in the lakeside town of Frutillar, home to the wooden Teatro del Lago theater. The tour includes traditional local food at two stops. In Puerto Varas, you will be served Chilean empanadas and wine. Later, in Frutillar, you will try German-style kuchen with tea or coffee, reflecting the region's colonial heritage. We coordinate all timing with your ship’s schedule to ensure a prompt return to the pier. Transportation and all mentioned tastings are included in the price.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish