All Inclusive Adventure Hotel AWA in Chile

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I’ve stayed in my share of all-inclusives. Buffets, bracelets, watered-down cocktails in plastic cups—you know the drill. But Hotel AWA, set on the pristine shores of Chile’s Lake Llanquihue, rewrites the all-inclusive script. It trades the bottomless piña coladas for glacier-fed rafting trips, guided volcano hikes, and cultural deep dives with local artisans. You won’t find tacky pool games or towel animals; instead, there are panoramic views of the snow-capped Osorno Volcano, homemade empanadas fresh from the oven, and more than two dozen thoughtfully curated outdoor adventures.

The Setting

view of volcano from Hotel Awa — The snow-capped Osorno Volcano is visible from nearly every vantage point in the hotel. Photo Credit: Jennifer Simonson

Hotel AWA sits along the quiet southern shore of Lake Llanquihue, about 20 minutes from Puerto Varas, a charming town known for German-inspired architecture, lakeside cafés, and vibrant artisan markets. The area, part of Chile’s breathtaking northern Patagonia and famed Lake District, is defined by lush forests, snow-capped volcanoes, and sapphire-blue lakes carved by glaciers. Just across the water, the symmetrical peak of Osorno Volcano dominates the horizon creating a striking backdrop visible from nearly every vantage point. This region is a gateway to some of Patagonia’s most unforgettable landscapes.

What the All-Inclusive Actually Includes

This is where AWA flips the script. Instead of an open bar and buffet lines, your stay includes:

Daily curated excursions with a private guide
Three meals a day at the hotel restaurant (think local trout ceviche and handmade pastas)
Airport transfers and transport to excursion sites
Access to the hotel spa, indoor pool, and kayaks”

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Accommodations

The rooms at Hotel AWA overlook Chile’s Lake Llanquihue. Photo Credit: Hotel AWA

At first glance, the hotel looks sculptural and striking, all concrete, glass, and steel—a dramatic contrast to the natural tranquility around it. Step inside, and it softens into understated warmth: native wood, crackling fireplaces, and expansive windows framing uninterrupted views of sapphire water and volcanic peaks.

Originally designed as a private family home by renowned Chilean architects Mauricio Fuentes and Jimena Hernández, AWA still feels personal, intimate, and handcrafted. With just 25 guest rooms, each thoughtfully designed with soaking tubs, plush king beds, and private fireplaces, the hotel encourages lingering. You’ll drift to sleep watching clouds gather around the volcano and wake gently to the rhythmic lapping of lake waves.

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Dining

Meals at AWA are as thoughtful as the excursions. Much of the produce is sourced from AWA’s own greenhouse and local farmers, a reflection of its commitment to sustainability and community. The wine cellar holds over 120 Chilean labels, and staff are eager to recommend perfect pairings. The hotel’s culinary program leans into Chilean terroir, balancing elegance and comfort. There’s no dress code here—just panoramic views of the lake and Osorno Volcano from your dinner table. Each meal feels intentional, highlighting flavors deeply rooted in Patagonia—perfectly seared lamb, seasonal produce from the hotel’s greenhouse, and carefully selected local wines, all enjoyed against a cinematic backdrop of lake and volcano.

Amenities

Views from a tub at Hotel AWA — Tub views at Hotel AWA. Photo Credit: Hotel AWA

AWA offers a full suite of thoughtful amenities to match its luxurious, low-key vibe. Guests have access to a glass-walled indoor pool, dry sauna, fitness center, and full-service spa. Kayaks are available for paddling along the lake, and the cozy library and bar lounge are ideal spots to unwind between excursions.

What’s Nearby

view of volcano from highway — Volcanoes line the highway near Puerto Varas. Photo credit: Jennifer Simonson

AWA is located just outside Puerto Varas, a charming town known for its German-style architecture, lakeside promenade, and artisan markets. Nearby, guests can visit Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, the oldest in Chile, or take day trips to see the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes, Petrohué Falls, and the island of Chiloé.

Safety Features

Hotel AWA prioritizes guest well-being with features like 24-hour reception, on-site medical support, in-room safes, and keycard access. Excursions are led by certified local guides, and weather-related safety is built into the daily planning process to ensure guests enjoy their adventures with peace of mind.

Accessibility and Sustainability

AWA isn’t just beautiful. It’s also thoughtful. The hotel is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, wide hallways, and ADA-compliant rooms. Sustainability is built into everything: geothermal heating, locally sourced food, and partnerships with conservationists preserving Patagonia’s landscapes and cultures.

So, Why Is It Called Hotel AWA?

Boating through Todos los Santos Lake is one of the 30 outdoor options Hotel Awa provides. Photo Credit: Jennifer Simonson

Because “awa” means “water” in Mapudungun, the language of the Mapuche people. And you are never far from water here. Between the lake, rivers, and volcanic hot springs, the name fits.

What Makes Hotel AWA Special?

It feels personal. Like someone designed this place for people who are burned out and craving both quiet and wonder. The architecture, the food, the excursions—everything is intentional.

Is It Environmentally Sustainable?

Yes. From construction to operations, AWA was built to be low-impact and high-integrity. That includes eco-conscious infrastructure, waste management, and the championing of cultural preservation.

Is It Accessible?

Yes. The hotel is fully accessible to guests with mobility issues, and the staff is happy to customize activities accordingly.

What Outdoor Activities Can You Do?

Fishing boat in Petrohué River. Photo Credit: Jennifer Simonson

The all-inclusive hotel includes more more than 30, including:

Rafting the Petrohué River
Hiking Osorno Volcano
Visiting traditional artisans
Biking
Sea kayaking
Fly fishing
Soaking in thermal baths
Horseback riding

Getting There

Hotel AWA is located just over 20 minutes from the Puerto Montt Airport (PMC), the main gateway to Chile’s Lake District. From there, the hotel arranges a scenic private transfer that hugs the lakeshore and winds past volcanoes and forests. I appreciated having someone else navigate the rural roads while I soaked in the view—rolling green hills, grazing sheep, and the occasional glimpse of Osorno Volcano appearing through the clouds.