Things To Do
in La Unión
La Unión is a small city and commune in southern Chile, located in the Los Ríos region. It sits amid a lush, river-filled landscape shaped by farming and forests. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring rural valleys and nearby natural reserves, with a relaxed pace and scenic river views.
Life here centers on markets, agriculture, and friendly local exchanges that invite slow travel and discovery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local cafe, savoring fresh pastries and strong Chilean coffee. After breakfast, explore the town's vibrant market, where you can find local handicrafts and fresh produce. The morning sun shines brightly, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photos of the town square.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to nearby Lago Ranco, where you can enjoy water activities like kayaking or simply relax by the lakeshore. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the breathtaking landscapes. The afternoon light reflects beautifully on the water, creating a serene atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
As the sun sets, return to La Unión and dine at a traditional restaurant, trying local specialties such as pastel de choclo. After dinner, take a leisurely walk down the cobbled streets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance as the town lights begin to twinkle. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Wake up and enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out to trek in the stunning Puyehue National Park. The morning air is crisp and fresh, perfect for an invigorating hike through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and take in the breathtaking views from the park's viewpoints.
After an adventurous morning, enjoy a packed lunch in the park surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the park's trails, or consider going for a dip in one of the natural hot springs nearby. The warm water is incredibly relaxing and offers a well-deserved respite after your hike.
Return to La Unión in the early evening and unwind at your accommodation. Later, head out for dinner at a local grill, where you can enjoy succulent grilled meats and fresh salads. As the day winds down, reflect on your adventures while enjoying traditional Chilean music in the background.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Restaurant meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🚍Local transit ticket (one-way) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or light snack | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, small-town feel with easy access to nature
- River landscapes and nearby reserves offer great outdoor experiences
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Limited nightlife and few big-city amenities
- Public transport options can be infrequent in rural areas
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable in shoulder seasons
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in La Unión
Visit one of these nice places.
Open, tree-lined riverbank with golden hour light and reflections; a great place for calm landscape and street photography.
Quiet streets, local architecture, and the main square offer charming, everyday scenes perfect for candid and architectural shots.
Wetland scenery with boardwalks, waterfowl, and expansive horizons ideal for nature and wildlife photography.
Food in La Unión
La Unión Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Handheld pastries filled with seasoned beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled egg, widely available in bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
A comforting chicken or beef stew with corn, potatoes, squash, and greens, perfect for cool evenings.
A corn-based pie with meat and a light sugar crust, representative of southern Chilean comfort food.
Creamy seafood chowder featuring fish, shellfish, and cheese, commonly found in coastal-inspired eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh fish, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling regional flavors and picking up ingredients.
Casual kiosks along the waterfront serve empanadas, sopaipillas, mote con huesillo, and other simple Chilean bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite hello and a handshake. Use formal address (usted) with strangers, and make eye contact during conversations.
Respect personal space and modest dress when visiting churches or religious sites; bargaining is more common in markets but done politely.
Wait to be seated in casual eateries; say please and thank you, and try a little of each dish when sharing with companions.
Safety
Tipping in La Unión
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if not already included in the bill. Round up taxi fares and carry cash for tips where needed. Most places accept cards, but having some cash (CLP) is convenient for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Days are longer and temperatures are mild to warm; occasional showers occur. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a light layer for cooler evenings.
Foliage changes color in nearby valleys; comfortable temps with a mix of sunny and damp days. Great for scenic drives and photography.
Rains are more frequent; temperatures are cooler but rarely freezing. Bring rain gear, waterproof footwear, and a warm layer.
Milder days with renewing vegetation; showers possible. An ideal time for outdoor walks and market visits.
La Unión at Night
Hiking in La Unión
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails along wetlands and river edges with birdwatching opportunities; suitable for a half- to full-day hike.
Gentle to moderate hillside trails offering valley views and photo opportunities of the southern landscape.
Short climbs with panoramic views of the surrounding river systems and farmlands.
Airports
How to reach La Unión by plane.
Valdivia’s regional airport offering domestic flights; about 1–1.5 hours by car to La Unión depending on conditions.
A larger southern gateway with broader connections; travel time to La Unión is longer by road.
Regional hub in central-southern Chile; longer drive but provides additional flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People who live in La Unión's town center, often involved in commerce, services, and agriculture.
Families and workers connected to farms and orchards in the surrounding countryside.
A presence of Mapuche communities in the broader region, contributing to cultural diversity and traditional knowledge.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Chile, with local matches and community leagues in towns like La Unión.
Angling in nearby rivers and reservoirs is a common activity for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Unión.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable-forward cazuelas, salads, empanadas with cheese or spinach, and pasta dishes; communicate preferences in Spanish (por favor, sin carne).