Chile: Huilo-Huilo - the most famous hotel?

If you want to surprise your partner, here's a golden rule: make sure your friends are sworn to secrecy about the plan! Haha. A funny example? Luis and I were out for a drink with his friend C, and out of the blue, she asked, “Where are you two traveling next? Is it Huilo-Huilo?” Luis's jaw dropped, and I couldn’t help but burst out laughing.

Huilo-Huilo has always been on my list of dream destinations in Chile. It’s a place Luis has been raving about since the very first day we met.

Now, let me share some basic details and then later on, we can talk about why this destination is so special...

HOW TO GET THERE?

From the North, like Santiago, you can fly to Temuco and then take the bus.

From the South, you can fly to Valdivia, and then bus.

For us the best bus is ETM and the tickets can be bought on www.reccorido.cl.

We went by bus from the island Chiloe to Valdivia (about 6 hours). The bus stopped in Puerto Montt. Price was about 20 euros. ETM bus had huge seats, with curtains, great for sleeping.

From Valdivia, you can take a private taxi or you can go by public bus to Panguipulli (5 euros, 2 hours). From Panguipulli to Huilo-Huilo another bus was 5 euros, 1 h 30 min drive, or with the private taxi 35 euros and 1 hour. The last two buses were a bit uncomfortable, as they are smaller. 

TOTAL PRICE BY BUS: 30 euros one way, about 8-9 hours.

Other option is RENTING A CAR (for example, in Valdivia). I’m not sure about the exact prices, but I can say that having a car in this area is definitely convenient. Without one, you’ll either need to do a lot of walking or try hitchhiking (if you choose to hitchhike, always be cautious and responsible). Also, take care while driving. We noticed some drivers speeding and even crossing the double line, so staying alert is important for your safety.

On the way, you’ll come across some nice views, especially during the last hour of the drive. The landscapes are pleasant and worth enjoying as you get closer to your destination.

ACCOMMODATION

The Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve and its unique hotels, such as the Montaña Mágica Lodge and Nothofagus Hotel & Spa, are a significant draw for visitors to the region.

There are also other accommodation options - like cabins... you can check hotels there (and also in other countries) and book it through LOOKTrip , I see that prices are good.

The Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve:

3 main buildings are: Montana Mágica, Reino Fungi, Nothofagus.

Price per night is between 200-300 euros.

We stayed for 2 nights. The first night in Reino Fungi, and the second in Montana Mágica. The reason behind it was that Luis wasn’t sure if I’d be able to travel, so he couldn’t book the trip well in advance (which is often necessary). By the time he could make the reservation, there was only one night available. Luckily, when we arrived, they informed us that another room had just become available, so we could stay for an additional night! The hotel is unique! We loved distinctive architecture, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding Patagonian rainforest.

Reino Fungi room was quite big, with a balcony, and huge windows.

Montana Mágica was a small room, small windows, more intimate, as if we are in a fairytale. 

In both rooms there was a bath, and hot water. Reino Fungi room was warmer.

We liked both rooms, but maybe a bit more Montana Mágica.

SPA: The hotel has SPA center, swimming pool, jacuzzi, playroom for children, table tennis, etc.

FOOD: Brekfast was great! It had a lot of different options, from salami, cheese, granola bowls to cakes and fruits. Bread (especially dark) was delicious!

If you are staying in the hotel Huilo-Huilo Reserva Biologica, you don't have to pay entrance fee for "portals" (places in the nature). You will pay only for additional things like zip line, night tour, private tours.

SHOPS:

Hotel: In the area of the hotel you have few gift shops. We got some informative cards about plants and birds (around 2-3 euros), and a t-shirt with Martin Pescador (about 15 euros).

Puerto Fuy: It is not very far. About 5 min by car or 45 min walk. Around the village you will find people selling beautiful souvenirs on the street, from 1 euro on... 

However, besides the hotel, the reserve itself is also a major attraction. Many people travel to Huilo-Huilo for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, pristine forests, and diverse wildlife. Adventure activities such as hiking, canopy tours, and hot springs also make it a popular destination.

RESTAURANTS and ACTIVITIES:

For places to eat and activities check my other post and instagram highlights .

Inside the ETM bus

Room in Montana Mágica

Room in Reino Fungi