Pucón & Villarrica

Pucón sits on the eastern shore of Lago Villarrica, under the volcano of the same name, one of the most active in South America, whose summit smokes over the town. Around it lie lakes, rivers, hot springs in the forest and the araucaria groves of the Parque Nacional Huerquehue; the Mapuche presence is strong throughout the region.

Two or three nights are the usual. The ascent of the Villarrica, a long guided day with crampons and ice axe, is the reason many come, when the volcano allows it; the rest of the time goes on the trails of Huerquehue, rafting on the Trancura, and an evening in the hot springs. From Argentina, Pucón is reached across the Mamuil Malal pass, under the Lanín, from San Martín de los Andes; from here journeys continue to Huilo Huilo and south to Puerto Varas.

December to March is the main season, warm and dry enough for the volcano. Winter brings snow to its slopes and a small ski season.