A southern Chilean city at Llanquihue Lake's edge, founded by German settlers in 1853. With over 100,000 residents, it's the world's southernmost city of its size.
Puerto Montt, situated at the northern end of the Reloncaví Sound in southern Chile, serves as an entry point to Patagonia and the Chilean Lake District. This port city has strong connections to the sea and is close to ancient forests and active volcanoes. In Puerto Montt, you can buy fresh seafood at the Angelmó market, take a boat to nearby Tenglo Island, or use the city as a starting point for trips to Alerce Andino National Park.
A Brief History of Puerto Montt
German immigrants officially established Puerto Montt in 1853, but people have lived in this area for much longer. About 35 kilometers south of the city lies Monte Verde, an archaeological site that has altered our understanding of human migration in the Americas. Excavations here have revealed signs of human habitation from 14,600 years ago, making it one of the oldest known settlements in the Americas.
Exploring Alerce Andino National Park
You'll find Alerce Andino National Park about 45 kilometers northeast of Puerto Montt. The park protects alerce trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old. You can walk through dense Valdivian temperate rainforest and see these massive trees up close. The park has several trails for different fitness levels, where you might spot animals like pudús (small deer) or chucao birds.
Puerto Montt's City Center
In downtown Puerto Montt, you'll notice both modern buildings and older structures with German influences. Begin your visit at the Plaza de Armas, the main square. Next to it stands the Cathedral of Puerto Montt, a wooden church built in the 1850s. For more information about local history, visit the Juan Pablo II Museum near the square.
Angelmó Market
Angelmó market is central to Puerto Montt's food culture and traditions. Here, you can find stalls selling just-caught fish and shellfish, locally made crafts, and wool products. Try traditional dishes like curanto, a stew of seafood and meat cooked in a hole in the ground, or caldillo de congrio, a soup made with conger eel.
Tenglo Island
A short boat ride takes you to Tenglo Island. From here, you can see Puerto Montt and the mountains behind it. You can walk around the island, visit small fishing villages, and eat fresh seafood at local restaurants. The island also has several beaches where you can spend time by the water.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Puerto Montt has cool weather and frequent rain throughout the year. Summers (December to February) are mild with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F), while winters (June to August) are cool with temperatures around 7°C (45°F). January and February usually have the least rain, making summer the busiest time for visitors. If you don't mind some rain, visiting in October-November or March-April means fewer tourists and colorful autumn or spring landscapes.
Getting Around Puerto Montt
El Tepual Airport connects Puerto Montt with other Chilean cities and some international destinations. In the city, you can use buses and taxis. To visit national parks or nearby towns, consider renting a car. Puerto Montt is also a key transport point for southern Chile, with ferries leaving for Chiloé Island and other places in Patagonia.
