Heading south through string-bean Chile, the colors become increasingly vibrant. Deep blue lakes, stark white snow-capped volcanoes, and lush green Araucaria forests compose a spectacular landscape. A stronghold of the native Mapuche people and home to thousands of colonial German immigrants, the Lakes District is an area rich in culture – festivals, artisan craft, and traditional food. Chilean hospitality is at its absolute finest here, and the pace of life is slower than in Santiago, making the area a popular destination for city-dwellers looking for a relaxing vacation. But don’t get too comfortable; the Lake District has some of the best outdoor activities in Chile. From trekking to rafting, climbing to biking, soaking in hot springs to scaling active volcanoes, there is no shortage of exhilarating adventures to be had.