Puerto Montt Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the scenic Region Los Lagos of Chile, the city of Puerto Montt serves as a gateway to the southern part of the country, presenting travelers with an amalgam of cultural richness and natural splendor. This bustling port city is not only a hub for commerce and fishing but also a starting point for adventurers seeking to explore the Chilean fjords, Patagonia, and the Chiloé Archipelago.
Puerto Montt's waterfront is a testament to its maritime heritage, where the Angelmó fish market stands out as a culinary hotspot. Visitors are encouraged to savor the fresh seafood, including the traditional curanto, a hearty stew that embodies the local flavors. The market is also a place to find handcrafted goods and woolen items, reflecting the skill and artistry of the region's inhabitants.
The city's architecture bears witness to its colonial past, with the Cathedral of Puerto Montt, built in a neo-classical style, dominating the central square. The nearby Museo Histórico Juan Pablo II provides a glimpse into the region's history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city's development and the cultural fusion of indigenous and European influences.
Just outside Puerto Montt, nature enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities and sights. The Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, home to the majestic Osorno Volcano and the Petrohué Waterfalls, offers hiking, kayaking, and stunning vistas that are sure to captivate any visitor. The park is a prime example of the pristine wilderness that makes this part of Chile an outdoor paradise.
For a more serene experience, the nearby Lake District boasts crystal-clear lakes like Llanquihue and Todos los Santos, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. These tranquil settings are perfect for boating, fishing, or simply unwinding amidst nature's splendor.
Puerto Montt Attractions - What to See and Explore
Puerto Montt offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral, Plaza de La Dignidad Puerto Montt, Tenglo Island, Isla Tenglo. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Puerto Montt – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Puerto Montt, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Petrohué Waterfalls (Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park), Osorno Volcano (Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park), Calbuco Volcano (Llanquihue National Reserve).
Best Time To Visit Puerto Montt
Learn when is the best time to travel to Puerto Montt weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Ceviche
Ceviche, also known as cebiche, seviche, or sebiche, is a cherished Latin American seafood dish with origins in either Peru or Ecuador. This refreshing dish features fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices—typically lemon or lime—and is seasoned with chili peppers...
Dish
Chupe
Chupe is a beloved South American dish renowned for its hearty and flavorful stews. These stews can be made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, red meat, lamb, beef tripe, fish, shrimp, crayfish, shellfish, and vegetables such as potatoes or yuca.
Paila
A paila is a versatile piece of cookware that is a staple in many Spanish-speaking South American kitchens. It's typically a large, shallow metal pan or an earthenware bowl, ideal for both cooking and serving food. When made from clay, these pailas are excellent at...
Curanto
Curanto is a delightful traditional dish from the Chiloé Archipelago that has also gained popularity in southern Chile and Argentina. This culinary tradition dates back an astonishing 11,525 years.
Food
Completo
The "completo" is a cherished hot dog variation in Chile, celebrated for its generous toppings and larger size compared to its American counterpart. This delectable treat typically comes loaded with chopped tomatoes, avocados, mayonnaise, sauerkraut, salsa Americana...
Los Lagos