Explore the breathtaking Chilean Lake District on a 5-day self-drive adventure. From the airport in Puerto Montt, you’ll journey to the charming Hotel Puelche, your base for uncovering natural wonders. With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to discover snowcapped volcanoes, picturesque lakes, and quaint towns at your own pace. Indulge in local folklore and create memories that will captivate your senses. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this stunning region.
Key Points

-
Explore the stunning natural wonders of the Chilean Lake District, including crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped volcanoes, on a 5-day self-drive experience.
-
Enjoy 3 nights at Hotel Puelche and 1 night at Hosteria Castro, with free parking and car rental coverage for unlimited kilometers and local taxes.
-
Discover the charming town of Castro and the breathtaking Laguna Verde during the 3-night stay at Hotel Puelche.
-
The rental car package includes a Hyundai Accent or similar vehicle, with CWD, PAI, and SACA insurances, and GPS navigation.
-
The non-refundable tour is designed to maximize time in the picturesque destination, with pickup at Puerto Montt Airport and return at the same location.
Highlights of the Chilean Lake District

Although the Chilean Lake District offers an abundance of natural wonders, the region’s standout highlights include its stunning lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and charming German-influenced towns.
Visitors can explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Llanquihue, surrounded by the majestic Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. The quaint town of Puerto Varas, known as the "City of Roses," boasts colorful Germanic architecture and stunning views of the lake and mountains.
Further south, the island of Chiloé captivates with its palafitos (stilted houses), centuries-old churches, and rich Chilote folklore and mythology.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Puerto Montt
Lodging and Accommodations

The 5-day self-drive experience in the Chilean Lake District includes 3 nights’ accommodation at the Hotel Puelche, which offers a buffet breakfast, and 1 night at the Hosteria Castro. The hotels provide free parking, and the tour package includes 5 days of car rental, with unlimited kilometers and local taxes covered. Guests must be at least 25 years old with a valid driver’s license and passport, and a major credit card is required for insurance purposes. Travelers should also bring rainwear, as the area is known for frequent rainfall.
| Hotel | Nights | Included Meals |
| — | — | — |
| Hotel Puelche | 3 | Buffet Breakfast |
| Hosteria Castro | 1 | – |
Rental Car and Insurance Details

The 5-day self-drive experience includes a 5-day car rental with a Hyundai Accent or similar vehicle in the Category C range.
The rental includes:
Unlimited kilometers, local taxes, CWD, PAI, and SACA insurances, and GPS tracking for the scenic self-drive experience.
-
Unlimited kilometers and local taxes.
-
CWD, PAI, and SACA insurances to provide coverage during the trip.
-
GPS tracking to help navigate the scenic routes.
Drivers must be 25 or older with a valid driver’s license and passport, and a major credit card is required for the insurance.
With the frequent rainfall in the area, travelers are advised to bring appropriate rainwear.
Itinerary and Recommended Activities

With a well-designed itinerary, travelers can fully experience the natural beauty of the Chilean Lake District during their 5-day self-drive adventure.
The trip begins with a pickup at Puerto Montt Airport, followed by a scenic drive to the Hotel Puelche for a 3-night stay. From there, guests can explore the region, including visits to the charming town of Castro and the stunning Laguna Verde.
On the final day, travelers will stay at Hosteria Castro before returning the rental car at the airport. This carefully curated itinerary ensures travelers make the most of their time in this picturesque destination.
Traveler Requirements and Preparation
To ensure a seamless self-drive experience in the Chilean Lake District, travelers must meet specific requirements.
Drivers must be at least 25 years old and possess a valid driver’s license and passport. Plus, a major credit card is required for insurance purposes.
Lastly, it’s essential to bring rainwear due to the frequent rainfall in the area.
By adhering to these guidelines, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free journey through the stunning landscapes of the Chilean Lake District.
The self-drive experience offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, creating an unforgettable adventure.
- Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Petrohué Waterfalls Excursion From Puerto Montt
- Private Day Tour Petrohue Falls, Osorno Volcano & Puerto Varas
- Private Tour: Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Vicente Peres Rosales National Park
- Puerto Montt: Full Day Chiloé Island Visiting Penguins in Puñihuil
- Private Shore Excursion Tour to Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Frutillar
- Cruise Shore Excursion Osorno Volcano & Petrohué Waterfalls
Meeting and Pickup Logistics

Travelers pick up the rental car at the Puerto Montt Airport rental office. They have the option to head directly to the meeting point or request pick-up service. The end point for the tour is the meeting point in Puerto Montt, Los Lagos, Chile.
| Convenience | Options |
| :— | :— |
| Pick-up at Airport | ✓ |
| Direct to Meeting Point | ✓ |
| Pick-up Service | ✓ |
| End Point: Puerto Montt | ✓ |
The tour includes all necessary logistics, making it a hassle-free self-drive experience in the Chilean Lake District.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Customers receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. This self-drive tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are given for cancellations.
Booking confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. This self-drive tour is non-refundable, and no refunds for cancellations.
Additionally:
-
Drivers must be 25 or older, have a valid driver’s license, and present a major credit card for insurance.
-
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
-
This is a private tour, and only your group will participate.
The tour is supplied by Signature Tours, so travelers should review their booking and cancellation policies carefully before confirming their reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Temperature During the Tour?
The average temperature during the tour is not provided in the given information. The tour takes place in the Chilean Lake District, which has a temperate, rainy climate, but the specific temperature range is not specified.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Rental Car?
Drivers must be 25 or older and have a valid driver’s license. The rental car is a Category C vehicle, typically a Hyundai Accent or similar. There are no other specific restrictions on the type of rental car.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can be customized to include additional activities. Travelers can work with the tour provider to tailor the itinerary to their interests, such as adding guided excursions or visits to specific attractions in the Chilean Lake District.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can work with the tour provider to add extra nights and days to the itinerary to explore the region further. Additional activities can also be incorporated upon request.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, there are discounts available for group bookings. Travelers can save up to 10% when booking the Self Drive Experience with 3 or more people. Contact the tour operator for details on group rates and availability.
The Sum Up
This self-drive journey through the picturesque Chilean Lake District promises an unforgettable adventure. Travelers will enjoy stunning natural landscapes, explore charming towns, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region. With the freedom of a rental car, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to create cherished memories at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or outdoor exploration, this 5-day experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
More Private Tours in Puerto Montt
- Around Llanquihue Lake Private Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt
- Patagonia Charter Chile, Private Tour 6 Pax 5 Days on a 65 Yacht
- Private Tour: Puerto Montt Sightseeing
- Private Day Tour Frutillar, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt
- Private Shore Excursion Tour to Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Frutillar
- Private Tour: Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Vicente Peres Rosales National Park
More Tours in Puerto Montt
More Tour Reviews in Puerto Montt
- Around Llanquihue Lake Private Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt
- 5-Day Tour Chile & North Patagonia
- 4 – Days Discovery Lake Region & Puerto Varas
- Shared Full Day Tour in Chiloe Island With Pickup
- Puerto Montt Airport Arrival Transfer to Hotel in Puerto Varas
- Puerto Montt: Full Day Chiloe Island Visiting Ancud – Caulin – Lacuy
