Premium Full Day Shared Tour Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls

A Perfect Day with Nature, History, and a Touch of Chilean Charm

Imagine spending a full day exploring two of the most iconic sights in Chile’s Los Lagos region — the spectacular Saltos del Petrohue and the majestic Osorno Volcano — all wrapped up in a comfortably small group. For $230 per person, this Premium Full Day Shared Tour offers roughly 7 to 8 hours of carefully curated sightseeing from Puerto Varas, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Led by knowledgeable guides like Jaime, who many reviews praise for his friendliness and expertise, the tour promises a blend of nature, culture, and excellent local food.

What we love about this experience is how intimate the journey feels despite being a shared tour — with a maximum of 12 travelers, you get a personal touch, attention to detail, and a chance to ask endless questions. Plus, the all-inclusive meal and drinks make it a hassle-free day: just bring your camera and curiosity. On the flip side, a minor consideration is the optional ski lift at Osorno, which isn’t included in the price, so if you’re eager to take that ride, you’ll need to budget extra. This trip suits those who want a comprehensive, relaxed, but engaging day out, especially if you value personalized guides and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and comfort.
• All-inclusive food and drinks simplify planning and keep you energized.
• Expert guides like Jaime elevate the experience with local knowledge.
• Diverse stops offer a mix of waterfalls, forests, and volcanic views.
• Flexible options at Osorno, including optional chair lifts or walking on volcanic sand.
• Ideal for nature lovers and those keen on learning about biodiversity and geology.

Exploring the Best of Chile’s Los Lagos: Osorno Volcano and Petrohue Falls

If you’re visiting Puerto Varas and looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, local culture, and some easy walking, then this tour hits all the right notes. It’s designed to be all-inclusive, meaning you don’t need to worry about extra costs, parking, or organizing transport — just show up and enjoy.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Highlights

The day begins at 9:30 am, when you’re picked up from your hotel or designated meeting point. Expect a friendly, small-group vibe, with a maximum of 12 travelers, which makes for better conversations and a more relaxed pace. The first stop at Saltos del Petrohue is a chance to stretch your legs and marvel at the power of nature. You’ll wander along the Enamorados trails and the Saltos trail, walking through centennial trees like Coigues, Mañios, and Tepu, surrounded by lush greenery. As a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the guides’ explanations of the local biodiversity and ecosystem — a touch that elevates the visit from just sightseeing to learning.

This part of the tour, which lasts about an hour and a half, includes admission tickets to the park, so no worries about extra costs. The highlight is the view of the Petrohue River waterfalls, crashing down with a roar that makes for great photos. Several reviews praise Jaime’s knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna, describing him as “exceptional” and “full of good information.” One reviewer noted how the group was made up of just four people plus the guide, creating a more intimate experience than larger bus tours.

Next, the tour heads to Osorno Volcano, one of the most recognizable symbols of southern Chile. You’ll reach the ski center area at 1254 meters, where the views are jaw-dropping. On clear days, you might glimpse the Pacific Ocean from the volcanic slopes, a moment many travelers find breathtaking. Here, the group can opt for a chair lift ride or simply take a walk on the volcanic sand. This flexibility means you can choose between a leisurely stroll or a more active adventure, depending on your interests. The visit to Osorno lasts around three hours, including free time for a lunch break before heading back.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers lunch, snacks, drinks (including beer, pisco sour, soft drinks, wine), and desserts — an impressive array that keeps everyone energized. The entrance to the national park is included, which takes care of the main scenic stops. However, if you want to experience the ski lift at Osorno, you’ll need to pay extra, so plan accordingly.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from past travelers echoes the high value of this trip. One reviewer highlighted that “instead of a large tour bus, we were comfortably taken in a small van, which made it easier to hear our guide and talk,” emphasizing the comfort and personal touch. Others mention Jaime’s friendly and knowledgeable approach, noting that he shared both historical and botanical insights that made the day more meaningful.

Several reviews mention how the tour is perfect for families or solo travelers — the small group size creates a convivial atmosphere. One traveler remarked, “Jaime called to our attention the biodiversity of the area, which was saved by making all of these lands National Parks,” illustrating the educational aspect. The inclusion of local food and drinks also adds a taste of regional culture and hospitality.

The Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The tour uses modern, air-conditioned vans, with seats for up to 12 people. This means you avoid the fatigue and noise of larger buses, and the small group makes it easier to speak with the guide and enjoy the scenery freely. The timing is well-planned to maximize your experience, with the day starting at 9:30 am and returning by late afternoon.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Beyond the beautiful scenery, what makes this tour special is the combination of expert guides, local insights, and the all-inclusive approach. The focus on sustainability and biodiversity adds depth to your understanding of the region, and the flexibility at Osorno with optional chair lifts or walking paths means you can tailor your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience will appeal most to nature enthusiasts, families, and solo travelers eager for a well-rounded day in Chile’s stunning landscapes. If you’re interested in learning about local flora, volcanic geology, and biodiversity, this tour delivers. It’s also great if you prefer small groups and personal attention, rather than large, crowded bus tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a fantastic way to see two of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning all the logistics yourself. The small group size and knowledgeable guide elevate what could be a standard sightseeing day into a memorable, educational experience. The all-inclusive meals and drinks make it feel like a proper treat, and the flexibility at Osorno means you can choose your activity level.

For travelers who value authentic experiences, comfort, and expert insights, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation — perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who enjoy a bit of learning along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pick-up from your location in Puerto Varas, using a comfortable, small van with a maximum of 12 travelers.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning later in the afternoon, offering ample time at each stop.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch, snacks, drinks (including soft drinks, wine, beer, pisco sour), and desserts, making it a hassle-free experience.

What are the main sights visited?
You will see Saltos del Petrohue, walk through rich biodiversity-rich forests, and visit Osorno Volcano, with its panoramic views and optional activities.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely — the small group size, flexible activities, and engaging guides make it ideal for families and travelers of all ages.

Do I need to pay extra for activities at Osorno?
The chair lift is not included in the price, so if you want to ride it, you will need to pay separately.

This tour combines stunning scenery, expert knowledge, and authentic regional flavors into a memorable day — perfect for those wanting a deep dive into the natural wonders of southern Chile.