Puerto Montt (Chile)

Puerto Montt  is a port city on Chile's Pacific Ocean coast, located to the north of Chilean Fjords. The town was established in mid-19th century by German colonists, which explains its alpine village type architecture. The picturesque fishing port has a large market selling local crafts, including handmade boots, ponchos, woollens (wool-made clothes), copper artworks. The town has population around 130,000.

Located amid fjords, lakes, snow-capped Andes peaks and forested hills, Puerto Montt is among Chilean Patagonia's most popular resort vacation destinations. Among the best known tourist attractions are the city's oldest building (built in 1856), Iglesia Cathedral, Regional Museum, Campanario (San Francisco Javier school's bell tower). Travel destinations nearby are Angelmo (fishing port), Isla Tenglo, Lahuen Nadi (CONAF / 200 hectares nature park).

Puerto Montt is also gateway to Chile's Lake District. From here, cruise ship tourists can travel to Puerto Varas, Osorno Volcano, Petrohue, then by boat across Lake Todos Los Santos to Peulla. The amazing scenery features lakes, rivers, waterfalls and mountains.

The first German colonists arrived here in 1852 and remain a small, but influential part of the citizens. Since 1985, the city is experiencing considerable development, fueled by salmon farms, in addition to commercial fishing, other major industries are forestry and services. The town has numerous restaurants, cafes, hotels and shops.

Puerto Montt cruise terminal