Andean Lakes Crossing Journey

From$493
11 hours
Puerto Varas, Chile

About this activity

Embark on a scenic 11-hour journey from Puerto Varas, Chile, to Bariloche, Argentina, crossing stunning Andean lakes and experiencing the natural beauty of Patagonia.

Highlights

  • Cross picturesque Andean lakes
  • Experience Chilean and Argentine landscapes
  • Guided tour with local insights
  • Seamless border crossing assistance
  • Comfortable transportation provided

Full description

Set off on an unforgettable 11-hour adventure from Puerto Varas, Chile, to Bariloche, Argentina. This journey takes you across the breathtaking Andean lakes, offering panoramic views of Patagonia's pristine landscapes. With a knowledgeable guide, you'll navigate the serene waters, learn about the region's rich history, and enjoy seamless border crossings. Comfortable transportation ensures a stress-free experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this unique route. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this excursion promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided boat tour across Andean lakes
  • Transportation from Puerto Varas to Bariloche
  • Scenic views of Patagonia's landscapes
  • Meals and personal expenses

Itinerary

1

We will depart from our office in Puerto Varas by bus to Petrohué, passing by Lake Llanquihue in Chile.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

During this experience we will enjoy the impressive views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Then, we'll visit the Saltos del Petrohué and appreciate the volcanic rock formations, bathed beautiful emerald green waterfalls.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
3

We'll continue sailing to Peulla, navigating across Lake Todos los Santos. If the weather permits, different and breathtaking views of the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes and Cerro Tronador can be seen.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
4

We will arrive to Peulla, where we can find an ecological lodge sorrounding by paradise. Here we will have time to have lunch (not included).

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

We'll board the following bus destined for Puerto Frías, close to Chilean customs. We will stop to follow the necessary steps at the border.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Our trip continues sailing across Lake Frías for 20 minutes headed towards Puerto Alegre. Upon arrival to Puerto Alegre we'll take our third bus to Puerto Blest.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
7

Upon arrival to Puerto Pañuelo, we'll take a bus on the final leg of the journey towards Bariloche.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Check the availability of the tour on your preferred dates
  • Confirm the departure and arrival times to plan accordingly
  • Review the cancellation policy in case of changes to your itinerary

Know before you go

  • Dress in layers to accommodate varying weather conditions
  • Bring a valid passport for border crossing
  • Carry a camera to capture the stunning scenery

Cancellation policy

0

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Good to know

  • Passport name, number, expiration, occupation and country of residence is required at time of booking for all participants. The data of passengers will not be accepted less than 30 hours before the trip.
  • In case of Colombian passengers, the report is a valid number which is printed on the back cover of the passport, has 2 letters and 6 numbers
  • A maximum of 2 suitcases of 20kg each are allowed per passengers
  • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
  • This service is not valid for cruise passengers. These excursions or transfer have a special operation and rate.

Traveler reviews

4.3
8 reviews
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1

Great boat trip on a clear day, but not much to do at the end.

We took the boat from Petrohue to Puella and back. The trip to Puella was superb - we were blessed with good weather - but there is nothing much to say about Puella, and you are there for a long time unless you book the river bus trip.

Peter SFeb 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Beautiful views!

The views are beautiful! It’s a long day and the lunch at the hotel is quite expensive, but overall it’s a great experience and definitely a unique way of travelling!

luket66Jan 29, 2026TRIPADVISOR

It was a disaster of experience

Don't take that tour. If it wasn't a quasi-robbery, it was the closest thing 1.5 hours to reach the first catanaran 1.5 hours in customs 2 more hours bus. They left us waiting in Port Bles for three hours waiting for another group. They said the catamaran esrabs bad (navigator told me otherwise) In short, sailing on the lakes 3 or 4 hours And all at an astronomical cost. I think it's only fair to be reimbursed for my cost

Mauricio_MDec 3, 2025VIATOR

This route through the lakes is worth it

Excellent trip, exuberant nature, unfortunately the Osorno was covered that day, but I loved the route. The staff was very friendly, the guides' explanations were very adequate, I especially liked Petrohue and Peulla, the bus route to Argentina was well conducted by the driver and then the route through the lakes until reaching Bariloche, really beautiful. Everything very well organized, highly recommended.

Xavier1962Dec 28, 2023TRIPADVISOR

Great experience

Fabulous scenery, loved the lakes, drivers were safe and guides were great!! Great way to cross the Andes.

Jocelyn_CFeb 21, 2023VIATOR

Additional information

Passport name, number, expiration, occupation and country of residence is required at time of booking for all participants. The data of passengers will not be accepted less than 30 hours before the trip. In case of Colombian passengers, the report is a valid number which is printed on the back cover of the passport, has 2 letters and 6 numbers A maximum of 2 suitcases of 20kg each are allowed per passengers A current valid passport is required on the day of travel This service is not valid for cruise passengers. These excursions or transfer have a special operation and rate.