Palafitos de Castro
A row of colorful wooden houses on stilts standing on the bay, which look as if they float on the water at high tide. It is the most iconic scenery of Chiloé Island.
The palafitos are the traditional homes of Chiloé fishermen. Their front doors face the street, and their back doors open directly onto the sea so boats can be moored. Four sections survive in Castro. The viewpoint in the Gamboa district lets you photograph rows of colorful houses across the river, and the Pedro Montt district has the longest stretch along the coast. Many stilt houses have been converted into boutique guesthouses, cafés and restaurants where you can stay. The tide can rise and fall several meters, so the view changes with the tides. Try to see it both morning and evening. It is about a 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Church of San Francisco, Castro
- Feria Lillo
- Church of Nercón
- Museo de Arte Moderno Chiloé (MAM)
- Church of Vilupulli
- Chonchi
- Lemuy Island Churches
- Church of Rilán