Don't be scared off by the city's traffic jams, clouds of diesel smoke and shopping malls. While Puerto Montt is very much a commercial city, it does retain some local charm. Right on the waterfront, the Museo Juan Pablo II has a variety of exhibits ranging from natural history and archaeology to weapons, religious iconography and local history. The eclectic museum is a good first stop to get a sense of the city's history and culture. From there, wander down Angelmo Avenue, where you'll encounter enthusiastic street vendors selling everything from smoked mussels to strange trinkets. At the end of the avenue, you'll reach the quaint fishing port of Angelmo, a good place to stop for crafts and fresh seafood. Back in town, head to the central plaza to admire Puerto Montt's cathedral, a 19th century building made entirely of local alerce wood.
While many of the alerce forests in the vicinity of Puerto Montt were cut down to build the city's characteristic wooden buildings and feed its shipping industry, Parque Nacional Alerce Andino is a rare opportunity to see the area's lush, old-growth forests. Among the rolling hills of pines and ferns, nature enthusiasts may catch a glimpse of everything from eagles and grey foxes to pudues, a small deer-like animal typical of the area. The park, located about 12 miles south of Puerto Montt, includes several nature trails and campgrounds. Visitors access the park via a small ranger station and must pay a daily entrance fee.
The Reserva Nacional Llanquihue is a natural reserve situated about 10 miles east of Puerto Montt. The park covers over 80,000 acres of forest wilderness and includes characteristic species like the tall Araucaria pines. The park's claim to fame, however, is the majestic snow-capped Calbuco Volcano. For avid hikers, the park includes trails to summit the volcano. Less active travelers can use the spectacular mountain scenery as a backdrop for pictures. Visitors pay a daily entrance fee at the park's small information center.
Approximately 8 miles north of Puerto Montt are the lakes that make the region famous. Whether taking a boat tour or admiring them from the shore, Llanquihue and Todos los Santos Lakes are unmissable destinations. The deep emerald blue waters of the lakes -- set between lush forests and snow-capped volcanoes -- offer dramatic panoramas. For a cultural experience, head to tranquil Frutillar on the shores of Llanquihue Lake. This small town preserves the architecture and customs of Chile's German immigrants while serving up delicious baked goods and fresh jams produced by local artisans.
