Discover pristine lakes, ancient forests, and unforgettable adventures in Chile’s Northern Patagonia.
In the heart of the Araucanía Andina, a destination for outdoor escape near the border of Argentina, Northern Chilean Patagonia offers a dreamscape of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This region, located in the northern part of Chile’s Lake District, is a tapestry of volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and evergreen forests that beckon explorers. Among its many treasures is the area near Lonquimay Volcano, where ancient Araucaria Monkey trees (some over a thousand years old) stand as living testaments to time.
Welcome to the first part of a six part series in 2025 as we explore the Americas and expand our horizons beyond the Sierra Nevada in California. For me, this story carries a personal connection. In today’s story, we will share a property for visitors to enjoy on any stay in the region. The owner of a stunning property in this remarkable area is an old friend, Pier, who was a foreign exchange student during my junior year of high school. Back then, Pier brought an infectious enthusiasm for life and adventure—a spirit now reflected in his love for the outdoors in his home country of Chile.
Over the years, we’ve stayed in touch, trading stories about our respective outdoor adventures. Pier, who now enjoys, hiking, exploring and snowshoeing with his family in the Patagonian wilderness, has followed Sierra Rec Magazine and often remarked how much our stories mirror the activities he treasures in his corner of the world. Recently, Pier extended an invitation for my family to visit and experience Chile’s natural wonders firsthand—a journey we’re now planning with great excitement.
The Lake District – Chile
Lying about 400 miles south of Santiago, the capital of Chile, and in the foothills of the Andes mountains is the storied Lake District, one of the most beautiful regions in all of Chile. A haven for adventure lovers, you can trek among monkey-puzzle trees or ancient temperate rainforests, relax under the sun by beautiful lakes, experience the thrill of rafting through river rapids, climb volcanoes, and discover the rich and mixed heritage of Mapuche, Spanish, and German cultures that have merged here for centuries.
The northern part of the district, in the Araucanía Region, is located in the heartland of the indigenous Mapuche people. Contemporaries of the Incas, the Mapuche people halted that great empire’s southward expansion just a bit to the north of this region, and it’s here that you can still find a few communities who maintain their traditions and share them with tourists.
This is one of the few places in Chile where you can see forests of the native and endangered monkey puzzle tree, called pehuen in the local indigenous language (Mapudungun) or araucaria in Spanish. Its seeds, known as piñones, are a significant ingredient in the regular diet of the Mapuche peoples.
For fishing enthusiasts, the rivers and lakes of Araucanía Andina offer an angler’s paradise. The pristine waters teem with trout, making it an ideal destination for both fly-fishing and wade-fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner, these waters promise an exhilarating experience. Pier recommends connecting with expert local guides to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Forests, Trails, and Comforts
The landscape surrounding Pier’s property is a haven for nature lovers. Evergreen forests blanketed with ñirres and araucarias invite exploration, with trails perfect for scenic walks, horseback riding tours, or camping under the starlit sky. For those who prefer comfort over roughing it, the local hospitality is unmatched—home-cooked meals, cozy accommodations, and warm welcomes await.
When Pier described his property and the surrounding area, it was clear that he’s found his own slice of heaven. With landscapes that rival some of the Sierra’s most beloved spots and a lifestyle steeped in the outdoors, his family has created a sanctuary that reflects the vibrant spirit I remember from our high school days.
“Pier’s recommendations for must-visit destinations include hiking the legendary W in Torres del Paine National Park, embarking on the breathtaking Carretera Austral scenic drive, and exploring the wonders of Chile’s Lake District, home to his stunning cabins—don’t forget to Google Conguillío National Park for a glimpse of its extraordinary beauty.”
Stay in Cozy Patagonian Cabins
Pier’s property is an incredible base camp for exploring Northern Patagonia. The newly built cabin is situated near a ski center, mountain biking and hiking trails, hot springs, and breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by a natural forest of ñirres and araucarias, the cabin is nestled beside a picturesque stream with partial views of the Lonquimay Volcano.
The Cabin
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat features a spacious open-concept design with a fully equipped American-style kitchen, dining space for eight, and a cozy living room. A large, cantilevered terrace overlooks the stream, inviting you to relax to the soothing sound of flowing water while enjoying a BBQ with family and friends. Sunlight streams through expansive north-facing windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere—even in winter.
Unlike many properties in this volcanic region that rely solely on generators, this cabin is connected to an underground power supply, ensuring comfort and reliability. Additional amenities include central gas heating, high-speed internet, cable TV, and a private hot tub for six.
A Journey to Explore Northern Patagonia
This journey through Northern Patagonia is more than just an escape—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with old friendships, discover new adventures, and share the wonder of nature with family. Whether you’re casting a line in the tranquil waters of the region’s lakes, hiking the trails of Conguillío National Park, or marveling at the volcanic landscapes shaped by millennia of eruptions, the Araucanía Andina promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Pier’s invitation has sparked excitement in my family to experience this remarkable section of the world for ourselves—and I hope it inspires you to do the same. If you are interested in visiting Piers is also offering a Friends and Family discount to all our readers of 15% discount if you let them know you read it the this article.
All images in the Above galley courtesy of Pier Z
