Laguna Verde

A stunning emerald-green alpine lake nestled in the Andes mountains, accessible via scenic hiking trails through native forests. This remote and pristine destination rewards visitors with exceptional natural beauty and a true wilderness experience.

Things to do

• Laguna Verde Hiking Trail — Trek through native southern beech forests to reach the emerald alpine lake, a moderately challenging 8-10 hour round trip that rewards hikers with panoramic Andean views.
• Photography at Sunrise — Capture the lake's brilliant turquoise waters reflecting early morning light against snow-capped peaks, best attempted from the northern shore viewpoint.
• Camping by the Lake — Spend a night at designated campsites near Laguna Verde to experience the pristine wilderness and observe the night sky in one of Chile's darkest regions.
• Pucón Town Exploration — Visit the nearby adventure hub of Pucón, 30 kilometers away, to resupply, enjoy local restaurants, and arrange guided excursions to the lake.
• Wildlife Observation — Spot native Andean wildlife including pumas, huemul deer, and Magellanic woodpeckers while hiking through the protected forest surrounding the lake.
• Waterfall Trails — Explore scenic side trails that lead to cascading waterfalls fed by glacial melt, accessible during the hike to or from the main lake.

Food to try

• Trout from Local Rivers — Fresh-caught pan-fried or grilled trout from the crystalline Río Toltén and nearby streams, a staple at Pucón lodges and cabins near Laguna Verde.
• Empanadas de Maíz — Traditional Chilean corn pastries filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, commonly prepared by local guides and available at rest stops during hikes.
• Curanto — A traditional southern Chilean stew cooked in underground pits with shellfish, meat, and potatoes, typically found at family-run restaurants in nearby Pucón.
• Sopaipillas with Chancaca — Fried dough pastries served with warm spiced molasses sauce, a sweet treat sold by local vendors in Pucón before heading to the trail.
• Mote con Huesillo — A refreshing cold drink combining wheat grains and dried peaches, perfect for rehydrating after the demanding hike to Laguna Verde.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Wilderness — Carry all trash out of the park and stay on marked trails to preserve the pristine alpine ecosystem and respect local conservation efforts.
• Hire Local Guides — Local guides from Pucón provide essential knowledge about safe route navigation, wildlife behavior, and hidden natural features while supporting the regional economy.
• Weather Preparedness — Southern Andean weather changes rapidly; always pack rain gear and warm layers even in summer, as conditions can shift from clear to harsh within hours.
• Early Start Required — Begin hikes before dawn to complete the full round trip safely before dark, a standard practice respected by all visitors to Laguna Verde.