Petrohué Falls
Witness the breathtaking emerald waters of Petrohué Falls cascading over volcanic rock, with the iconic Osorno Volcano as a dramatic backdrop.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Petrohué Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the breathtaking emerald waters of Petrohué Falls cascading over volcanic rock, with the iconic Osorno Volcano as a dramatic backdrop.
"The falls were stunning, and the view of Osorno Volcano was awesome!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet and slippery, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential for safe exploration.
🧥 Dress for Cool Weather
Even in warmer months, the mist from the falls can make it feel cool. A decent coat is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Emerald River Rapids
Main viewing areas
Witness the stunning, vibrant emerald-colored river cascading over volcanic rock formations.
Osorno Volcano Backdrop
Panoramic viewpoints
Marvel at the majestic Osorno stratovolcano providing a dramatic, iconic backdrop to the falls.

Volcanic Rock Formations
Along the paths
Explore the unique, dark volcanic rocks shaped by ancient lava flows, creating a rugged landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There Smartly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet and slippery, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential for safe exploration.
🧥 Dress for Cool Weather
Even in warmer months, the mist from the falls can make it feel cool. A decent coat is recommended.
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Parking is generally easy, and the paved paths make it accessible for most visitors.
🐝 Beware of Bees
Large bees can be present, especially during peak season. Be mindful if you have allergies.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be wet and slippery, especially near the falls. Good grip is essential for safe exploration.
🧥 Dress for Cool Weather
Even in warmer months, the mist from the falls can make it feel cool. A decent coat is recommended.
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Parking is generally easy, and the paved paths make it accessible for most visitors.
🐝 Beware of Bees
Large bees can be present, especially during peak season. Be mindful if you have allergies.
🚌 Affordable Bus Travel
Local buses from Puerto Varas are a cost-effective and scenic way to reach the falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Petrohué Falls for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant emerald river and the majestic Osorno Volcano backdrop. The accessible paths and ease of access from Puerto Varas are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors noted the presence of bees and the potential for slippery surfaces, especially closer to winter.
"The petrohue waterfalls is a beaultifull place. There are 3 paths for you walk and see the pretrohue vegetarion, the waterfalls, the beaultifull river with esmerald color. There are publics bathrooms, restaurants and suvenir shops."
Anderson Vidal
"Was nice with lots of beautiful views and it was not busy at all most likely because it was closer to winter time not peak tourist season here. It was a little cool but a decent coat will keep you warm a decent pair of boots too. It was wet and cool so some slippery surfaces especially near the waterfall."
Synterra
"We had a fantastic time at the falls. What an awesome view is Sorono Volcano and the falls were stunning. We did this as a last stop before leaving Chile and it was one of our favorites! Parking was easy, cost was low, food and beverage available, path was paved. Perfect except for the large bees swarming the area. Highly recommended this attraction"
Charles StClair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Petrohué Falls from Puerto Varas by car (about a 1-hour drive) or by taking a local bus. The bus is an affordable and scenic option, offering views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, many tours from Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt include Petrohué Falls as a stop. This is a convenient option if you prefer guided transportation and a structured itinerary.
Petrohué Falls is located approximately 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) from Puerto Varas, typically taking around an hour to drive.
Yes, driving is a popular option. The route is well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Parking is available at the site.
While buses are the primary public transport, some organized excursions might offer different modes of transport. For independent travel, buses are the most common and recommended public option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is generally low, making it an affordable attraction. You can purchase tickets online via pasesparques.cl or in person at the site.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official park website or local tourism information for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays or off-peak seasons.
Yes, tickets can be purchased on-site. However, buying in advance online might save time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Parking is usually included or has a minimal fee associated with the park entrance. Information regarding parking fees should be available at the entrance or on the park's official website.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or students. It's advisable to inquire about potential discounts when purchasing your tickets or check the park's official website for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk along several well-maintained paths to view the falls and the vibrant emerald river. Enjoy the stunning views of Osorno Volcano and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
The main paths are paved and generally well-maintained, making them accessible for most visitors, including families with strollers.
The water is famously a striking emerald green color, a result of minerals from the volcanic rock.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted directly at the falls due to the strong currents and rocky terrain. The focus is on viewing the cascades.
While the primary attraction is the falls and volcano, you might spot local birdlife in the surrounding national park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually restaurants and souvenir shops available near the falls, offering snacks and meals for visitors.
Picnic areas may be available within the park. It's a good idea to check park regulations regarding outside food and designated picnic spots.
Expect typical tourist fare, including snacks, light meals, and beverages. Local Chilean dishes might also be on offer.
Options can vary. It's best to inquire directly at the food establishments about their menu and any specific dietary accommodations.
Prices at tourist attractions can be higher than in town. Bringing your own snacks or planning a meal in Puerto Varas might be more budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points. Look for spots that capture both the falls and the Osorno Volcano in the background.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the vibrant colors and dramatic scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views including the volcano, while a telephoto lens can help isolate details of the falls.
During peak times, it can be challenging. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can help you get clearer shots. Patience is key!
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain visitor experience. Always check park regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Emerald Waters of Petrohué
This natural phenomenon makes Petrohué Falls a photographer's dream. The contrast between the vivid green water, the dark volcanic rocks, and the often snow-capped peak of Osorno Volcano creates breathtaking scenes. Visitors often spend considerable time simply admiring the dynamic beauty of the river and its powerful cascades. The accessibility of the viewing points allows everyone to appreciate this natural wonder up close.
Volcano Views and Natural Landscapes
The surrounding area is characterized by lush native forests and the vast, serene Todos los Santos Lake, which feeds the Petrohué River. Visitors can explore various trails that wind through the park, offering different perspectives of the falls, the river, and the volcano. The combination of the powerful waterfalls, the vibrant river, and the majestic volcano creates a diverse and unforgettable natural experience. Many visitors describe the overall scenery as immensely beautiful and a highlight of their trip to the region.
Adventure Activities Around Petrohué
Furthermore, the region is part of the Cruce Andino (Andean Crossing) route, a popular multi-modal journey connecting Chile and Argentina. This route often includes a boat trip across Todos los Santos Lake and bus segments that pass by Petrohué Falls, making it a scenic way to travel between Puerto Varas and Bariloche. For those looking for more exploration, hiking trails in the national park offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the Patagonian wilderness.
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