Saltos del Petrohué Guide
Witness the Power of Nature at Saltos del Petrohué Waterfalls Guide
Saltos del Petrohué, or Petrohué Waterfalls, are a series of powerful cascades located within Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, near Puerto Varas. These impressive waterfalls are formed by the Petrohué River as it rushes over volcanic rock formations, creating a spectacular display of natural force and beauty. The vibrant turquoise waters and the backdrop of the Osorno Volcano make this a truly unforgettable sight. The Petrohué River's course has been shaped by volcanic activity over millennia. The lava flows from past eruptions of Volcán Osorno have created the unique rock formations that define the waterfalls. The river's name, "Petrohué," comes from the Mapuche language and means "place of mosquitoes," although thankfully, the mosquito population is usually manageable. Visitors to Saltos del Petrohué can enjoy a variety of activities. Well-maintained trails lead to several viewpoints offering different perspectives of the waterfalls. You can also take a boat trip on the Petrohué River for a closer look at the cascades. The surrounding national park offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the native forests. There's also a visitor center with information about the park's flora, fauna, and geology.
Transportation
Buses regularly depart from Puerto Varas to Ensenada, and from Ensenada, you can take another bus or a taxi to Saltos del Petrohué. Look for buses heading towards Petrohué or the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours from Puerto Varas.