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| Image: Cámara de Comercio Turismo y Servicios de Saavedra |
Situated 83 km west of Temuco, on the coastal edge of the La Araucanía Region near the Pacific Ocean, Lake Budi is surrounded by communities belonging to the ancestral Mapuche-Lafkenche people. Covering 56.2 km², its basin is home not only to a rare saltwater lagoon in South America, but also to one of the ten most stunning landscapes in Chile, according to The Guardian.
When is the best time to visit Lake Budi?
The best time to visit Lake Budi is in summer, when the water is warmer and you can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, diving, yoga, walking, running and cycling, as well as the tranquility of the lake and its surroundings. The weather in the area changes constantly at any time of the year, so it is advisable to bring rain gear.
Tourism in Lake Budi
- Visit the Mapuche community: Learn about the Mapuche-Lafkenche cosmovision and stay overnight in a Lafkenche ruka for a unique experience.
- Bird Watching: The wetlands surrounding the lake are ideal for observing wild birds, such as black-necked swans.
- Boating: You can tour the lake by boat to appreciate its surroundings and natural beauty.
- Swimming, Diving, Yoga, Hiking and Biking: Recreational activities such as swimming, diving, yoga, hiking, running and biking are popular in the area.
- Enjoy the tranquility: The lake is ideal for those looking for a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
- To access Budi overland, travelers typically pass through the regional capital Temuco, traversing Cholchol, Nueva Imperial, Carahue, and Puerto Saavedra. Puerto Saavedra, ravaged by a colossal earthquake and tsunami in 1960, remains etched in memory, bearing witness to humanity's largest recorded seismic event, registering a magnitude of 9.5. Despite the cataclysmic event, Puerto Saavedra, now home to nearly 15,000 residents, has transformed into a pivotal tourist hub within the La Araucanía Region. Here, visitors can glean insights into the region's entirety and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Mapuche culture, represented by over a hundred communities in the vicinity.
Around the lake, you can enjoy activities such as sailing, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, excursions to Isla Llepo in the middle of the lake, and more. There are cabins and traditional restaurants available. You can also interact with and actively participate in the rituals and customs of the Mapuche people.
- In summary, Lake Budi is not just a destination — it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in nature and ancestral culture, offering an unforgettable journey far from conventional tourism.
✅ Quick Answers for Curious Travelers
Lake Budi is located in the coastal area of the Araucanía Region in southern Chile, near Puerto Saavedra, between the communes of Saavedra and Teodoro Schmidt.
Lake Budi is one of the few saltwater (brackish) lakes in Chile. Unlike most lakes in the country that were formed by glaciers, Lake Budi has a natural connection to the Pacific Ocean, creating a distinctive ecosystem.
The most convenient way to reach Lake Budi is by car from Temuco, approximately a two-hour drive. Travelers usually pass through Nueva Imperial and Carahue before arriving near Puerto Saavedra. Public transportation is available but may require connections.
Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, kayaking, small boat excursions, photography, and peaceful walks along the lakeshore. The area is also known for cultural experiences with Mapuche-Lafkenche communities.
Summer months (December to March) offer warmer temperatures and better conditions for outdoor activities. However, the lake can be visited year-round for nature observation and cultural tourism.
Yes. Lake Budi is ideal for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations in Chile, especially those interested in nature, birdlife, and authentic indigenous culture.
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