The Lakes District of Chile, one of the safest regions to travel in all of Latin America, is home to snow-capped volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, sky blue lakes and old-growth forests. Thanks to the Pan American Highway running down the middle of the country, this area is easily accessible by car or bus. Flights from Santiago, the nation’s capital, connect to airports in Temuco and Puerto Montt, increasing the region’s accessibility.

Chile’s Lakes District is generally located between the cities of Temuco at the northern part and Puerto Montt at the south, approximately four hours apart by car. The eastern part of this region is bordered by the stunning Andes Mountains along the Argentine border and to the west lies the mighty Pacific Ocean.

Within this 250 mile stretch of land lies Chile’s premier vacation destination. It’s strong European influence is evident not only in its architecture, but in its cuisine, appearance and hospitality.

While the tourism industry refers to the region as the Lakes District, you will hear locals referring to it as two distinct parts: La Araucania and Los Lagos, the northern and southern parts, respectively. Either way, this is Chile’s go-to region for outdoor recreation as well as the jumping off point for famously rugged and pristine Patagonia, which lies farther south.

This area truly is a photographer’s dream. Majestic landscapes provide ample opportunity around every corner. Small towns and villages dot the shorelines of the numerous lakes where you can spend hours, daily, working with your cameras.

Although the perfect climate is as subjective as art interpretations, Chile’s tourism base revolves around its climate. The summer months of January and February find the Lakes District full of international travelers as well as Chile’s nationals, as many Santiaguinos head south for their summer holiday. This is also Chile’s festival and concert season. If you enjoy summer heat, crowds, and higher prices, this is the time to visit.

The winter months of June, July and August bring on the second wave of tourism, as snow skiing becomes the main reason for living. Chile offers some of the best skiing in the southern hemisphere, and coincides perfectly with the grueling summers of the northern hemisphere.

The shoulder season of late March and early April can provide glorious weather. In addition, as the days become shorter and shadows longer, light quality improves dramatically, giving those photographs an added dimension.

As the name suggests, lakes abound in the area. Pablo Neruda once wrote of his native La Araucania that it was ‘the land where rain was born’. Because of the geography, Pacific moisture stacks up against the Andes, dropping copious amounts of rain throughout the area during June and July, the coldest and wettest months of the year.

For visitors living north of the equator, remember that Chile’s seasons are reverse of the northern hemisphere.

All roads in the Lakes District lead to adventure. Rafting, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, fly fishing, volcano expeditions, horseback riding, canopying, kayaking, canoeing, and of course photography will provide both the visitor and serious traveler ample opportunity for outdoor activities.

For the adventure traveler, the area is perfect for that wandering schedule. Spend hours at a waterfall, take a hike up Volcan Villarrica, or raft the white waters of the Petrohue´River. Thanks to the geothermal activities associated with the volcanoes, numerous hot springs dot the countryside, ranging from the basic cement tub in undeveloped (and unpopulated) areas, to the more popular

An added bonus to visiting the Lakes District is its close proximity to Chile’s famous wine country in the central valley. For those traveling by car, it’s highly recommended to add a couple of days on the front or tail end of your visit. You will not be disappointed, as numerous tours are available.

Inns, bed & breaksfasts, and numerous hotels are in the area, making for easy transitions from one winery to the next.

Regardless the season, you’ll find plenty to do in the Lakes District.  Summer and winter activities combine to provide that memorable outdoor vacation.  These are peak seasons, so you’ll have to book travel and lodging accommodations months in advance.  The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide the relaxed pace that many travelers prefer.   For photographers, this area can keep you busy for years.  Whenever you go, plan on a pleasant surprise.  Then plan your return visit.