Shock! 🚨 A friend had the audacity to suggest that Mao Dan become a beauty blogger 😂
Initially, when Mao Dan started writing travel guides, it was purely out of a need to compensate for a forgetful mind (let’s just say, not the sharpest tool in the shed) 😂. The idea was to keep a diary of all the places visited, so they wouldn’t be forgotten. Little did she know, so many people would come to love her travel diaries! ❤️ Thank you all for your support! ❗
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First, the bottom line: focus on spending quality time in Puerto Varas, make it your base, and set aside half a day for Puerto Montt to indulge in seafood and see the “most abstract statue in South America.”
🚌【By Bus】🚖
Mao Dan’s travel philosophy is all about maximizing value.
Flying from Santiago to Puerto Montt, you’ll find plenty of official buses at the airport exit (check picture 11). For just 3000 pesos, you can get to Puerto Montt. Before boarding, show the driver your map to confirm the route. The bus will drop you off at the central bus station. After exploring, you can catch another bus directly to the heart of Puerto Varas. For other times, simply use a popular ride-hailing app.
🦀【Puerto Montt】🗿
In Puerto Montt, hop in a taxi and head straight to Angelmo Fish Market. Here, you can truly savor the freedom of seafood, including king crab for an unbelievable 100 yuan! 🦀 (See picture 5). If your stomach is up for it, try the local Ceviche (a cold mixed seafood dish with various types), or even barnacles if you’re feeling adventurous.
At the entrance of the market, you’ll find some charming handicrafts; if you’re looking for fridge magnets, this is the place to buy them. Finally, if you’re intrigued, take a taxi to Plaza de Armas Puerto Montt to see the most “abstract” statue. If not, return to Terminal Buses Pto. Montt and catch a bus to Puerto Varas, which departs once full.
【Puerto Varas】
For accommodation in Puerto Varas, backpackers are advised to stay in the central area, as shown in picture 12. It’s vibrant and brimming with excellent dining options. For a more budget-friendly option, consider a homestay. If you’re driving, you have the flexibility to choose, and the lakeside views are breathtaking.
Upon arriving in Puerto Varas, you’ll be struck by its charm (see pictures 6-7). The town has a European small-town vibe, especially when the sun is shining, making the sky seem even clearer.
【Sightseeing in Puerto Varas】
Monte Calvario, a small hill, offers a stunning view of the iconic volcano on a clear day, reminiscent of Chilean Mount Fuji (picture 8, though it rained when Mao Dan visited). Spend half a day strolling through the town and sign up for some one-day tours. Mao Dan joined a one-day volcano tour for 25000 pesos, which was very affordable (remember to bundle up).
Recommended restaurants in Puerto Varas:
– **La Olla**: Known for its excellent seafood, especially the seafood platter.
– **Mesa Tropera**: The most famous pizzeria with a lake view, celebrated for its scenic dining experience.
– **Izakaya Yoko**: Offers Japanese cuisine. While the ramen is average, the eel sushi is quite good, and the warm meal experience is worth it.
– **Helados Pudú**: Highly recommended! The ice cream is chewy and not overly sweet—simply delightful.
