Introduction

The lake Laguna Cayutué can be found in the most southern part of the national park Vicente Pérez Rosales and can only be reached on foot, be it from the north (Lake Todos los Santos), the south (Ralún) or the east (Paso Vuriloche). Despite being relatively accessible from the south this lake has managed to stay quite isolated and undisturbed even in the summer months, meaning that visitors can enjoy the water and surrounding area in peace.

If you wish to reach the lake from the south you will have to walk approx. 1h along a well-marked and on the whole flat trail; the straightforward nature of the route means that it is a great activity for families with small children.

Appropriate season

The route can be completed all year round, although ideally between November and April as the sky clearer for you to enjoy the view and the water is warmer for bathing. In January there may be many insects along the route (different kinds of flies and horseflies). In winter the trail tends to becomes wet and muddy.

Access

Private Transport

From Puerto Varas follow Route 225 heading east to the village of Ensenada, located at the foot of the Volcano Osorno (45km; 45-50min). From there, continue south (right) to the village Ralún, the headwaters of the estuary Reloncaví (31km; 20-30min). Cross the bridge over the river Petrohué and continue for 1.5km (5min) along the road to Cochamó until reaching the first turning on the left (north), a gravel road which leads towards the lake Laguna Cayutué (11km; 25-30min). At the end of the road you will see a sign with a map of the Paso Vuriloche route See photo 1.

There is also the possibility of continuing a little further by car, this depending on the amount of water flowing in the estuary (in summer it is usually dry). If you are able to, cross the riverbed and join the road leading into the forest. After a couple of hundred metres the road becomes narrower and you will see a few houses – you can park here and start the trail. The start of the route is not well signposted, so you will have to ask one of the locals. From Puerto Varas to the start of the route should take around 2h by car.

Public Transport

There are local buses that run regularly between Puerto Varas and Ralún.

Two well-known companies that offer this service are:

• Trans – HAR: Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Ensenada, Ralún, Cochamó, Río Puelo.
• Transportes Río Puelo: Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Ensenada, Ralún, Cochamó, Río Puelo.
• For both these services there is contact information on the official website for the Puert Montt bus terminal: http://www.terminalpm.cl/companias-de-buses/

From Ralún to the end of the gravel road, you will have to hire a private vehicle or continue on foot (11km).

Permits / Prices

No entry fees or permits are necessary.

Accommodation / Facilities

There is no accommodation, but you are allowed to camp on the edge of the lake.

There are no toilets or rubbish points, so you should protect the environment as much as possible and take all your rubbish with you to throw away when you reach a proper recycling-waste point.

Recommendations

• On sunny days in summer time, take a swimsuit with you as the water in the lake is warm enough to swim.
• The lake is famous for fly fishing. Ask in Ralún for a fly fishing guide.

Gear

• Trekking boots or high-ankle boots.
• Water bottle
• Sun protection

Schedule

1. Puerto Varas – Laguna Cayutué – Puerto Varas