Petrohué Falls

Saltos del Petrohué

Dramatic waterfalls cascading through a narrow gorge with brilliant turquoise water, easily accessed from Puerto Varas and offering short scenic walks. The striking landscape and accessibility make it one of the region's most photographed natural features.

Things to do

• Main Falls Viewpoint Walk — A short 10-minute paved trail leads to the primary viewing platform directly facing the turquoise cascade where the Petrohué River drops through the narrow basalt gorge.
• Gorge Trail Hike — A moderate 45-minute round-trip trail follows the river canyon downstream, offering multiple vantage points of the falls and surrounding volcanic rock formations.
• Photography at Sunset — The late afternoon light illuminates the turquoise water and basalt walls differently than midday, making the golden hour ideal for capturing the falls' distinctive color and drama.
• Kayaking on Petrohué Lake — Guided kayak tours launch from near the visitor area to explore the calmer lake waters upstream, offering a different perspective of the volcanic landscape.
• Picnicking by the River — Designated picnic areas near the falls allow visitors to enjoy local provisions while surrounded by the sound and mist of the cascading water.
• Botanical Walk — The surrounding temperate rainforest includes native southern beech and arrayán trees; interpretive signs along some trails identify local flora.

Food to try

• Fresh Trout from Local Rivers — Nearby restaurants in Puerto Varas source trucha from the Petrohué and neighboring rivers, typically served simply grilled or with local butter and herbs.
• Curanto — This traditional Chiloé stew of shellfish, meat, and potatoes cooked in a ground pit is common in the Los Lagos region and available at regional restaurants near the falls.
• Milcao — A local potato pancake made from grated and mashed potatoes mixed with pork, often served as a side dish at countryside cafés near Puerto Varas.
• Empanadas de Queso y Champiñones — Handmade pastry pockets filled with local cheese and wild mushrooms from the surrounding forest are sold at small vendors and cafés in the area.
• Merkén-Spiced Seafood — Local restaurants use merkén, a smoked chili powder from the region, to season fresh salmon and other seafood in creative preparations.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit Early or Midweek — Petrohué Falls is extremely popular with tour groups from Puerto Varas; arriving early morning or on weekdays significantly reduces crowds and improves the photography and experience.
• Respect Private Land Access — The falls are located on private property with an entrance fee; stay on marked trails and respect all signage, as access depends on the owner's goodwill and conservation efforts.
• Dress for Mountain Weather — The Los Lagos region's climate is unpredictable with frequent rain and wind; locals recommend layering and waterproof gear even on clear-looking days.
• Learn About Mapuche Heritage — The landscape around Puerto Varas and the falls is ancestral Mapuche territory; some local guides share indigenous perspectives on the land and its spiritual significance.