This Land of Blue Mirrors, with many lakes reflecting elegant snowy mountains that shadow native forests, has a number of activities for travelers. Whether you are interested in the great outdoors or history and culture, you will not be disappointed in the lakes district.

The hiking and trekking in Conguillío, Huerquehue, Vicente Pérez Rosales and other national parks is perhaps the biggest draw of the region. Many come to Pucón to climb active Volcán Villarrica to gaze into its glowing crater. The area is also a fly fisher’s paradise. And winter sports fans will be eager to hit the slopes of the region’s premier ski centers, manyof which are on the slopes of the district’s mighty volcanoes. Not only can you go downhill skiing (esquí alpino), but you can also ski cross country (esquí de fondo) or even try alpine trekking (esquí randonée). These activities, along with snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice fishing make the lakes district an exciting cold weather destination.

The rich and complex history of Valdivia, Temuco and other cities will hold the attention of history buffs. Reenactments in period costumes are performed at the Spanish fortresses near Valdivia. The German culture is also striking throughout the Lakes District, in both architecture and gastronomy. The best place to soak in this atmosphere is in Puerto Varas and in the other villages ringing Lago Llanquihue. The Mapuche presence here is also quite strong, so be sure to save time to visit their cultural centers in Temuco, Curarrehue and other neighboring villages.