Osorno, Commercial city in Los Lagos Region, Chile
Osorno sits where the Rahue and Damas rivers meet, 945 kilometers south of Santiago in an area known for dairy production. Roads run from here north toward Temuco and south across the border into Argentina.
Garcia Hurtado de Mendoza founded the settlement in 1558 as Villa de San Mateo de Osorno, but Huilliche people destroyed it completely in 1602. Refounding came only in the late 18th century after Spain sent troops back to the area.
German settlers in the 19th century introduced recipes, building techniques, and dairy farming methods that remain visible today in farms and shops around town. On weekdays you can meet farmers selling local dairy products at markets and serving cakes at inns using old family recipes.
Travelers heading to southern Chile or Argentina often pass through this town as several intercity buses and car rental stations operate here. In winter it helps to check road conditions, especially for trips toward the mountain pass.
The Cardenal Antonio Samore Pass near town remains open all year and provides the only continuous land route linking central Chile and Patagonia in Argentina. Trucks and buses use this route even in winter when other passes close.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
