Villarica National Park:
A 60,000 hectare park 8 km south of town. The impressive Volcán Villarica (2840 meters) attracts numerous visitors to this park. The snow capped, active volcano has erupted violently in recent years, and restrictions on park access have been imposed for safety purposes. Apart from the volcano, the park is a tranquil and lush paradise for fishing, hiking, and camping. In winter a ski resort operates on the slopes of the volcano. The centerpiece of the park is the smoldering cone of Volcán Villarrica. This picturesque peak offers more than a wonderful view from the surrounding area and Lake Villarrica below. It is also a popular climbing destination and has a modest ski resort on its slope. Other volcanic peaks are included in the park along with Volcán Villarrica. Two noted peaks are the inactive volcanoes of Quetrupillán (2,360 meters) and the 3,745 meter Lanín on the Argentine border. The most recent volcanic activity in the park occurred as recently as 1971, when Villarrica erupted and a massive river of lava 200 meters wide flowed 15 kms. It makes for an interesting sight, the gray-black of the relatively recent flow cutting through the verdant green of the ancient forests that blanket the area around the volcano. Parque National Villarrica is located in the Lakes Region of Chile and has altitudes ranging from 900 to 3,741 meters (2,900 to 12,300 ft). Temperatures range from a high of 20 to 23 degrees C (70 F) in the summer to a low of 4 degrees C (40 F) in winter. The park´s flora is primarily southern beech and monkey puzzle (araucaria). Fauna found in the park includes foxes, eagles, condors, woodpeckers and black necked swans. ATTRACTIONS: The most popular activity in the park is to hike to the summit of the smoking Volcán Villarrica. This is not a technical climb, though it requires a good physical condition, equipment for hiking in snow (plastic boots, ice axe, and possibly crampons) and a knowledge of the route. In the town of Pucón there are many companies that offer guided trips, transport to the park, and equipment rental for around US$40. The entire hike takes somewhere between 7 and 9 hours. The summit offers a fantastic view of the numerous volcanoes, lakes and extensive forests in the surrounding area. It is a great hike for those folks that have not climbed many mountains but want to try. Other treks in the park include one that encircles the southern part of the volcano and ends at the Thermas de Palguín. From the Thermas there is another hike to the Argentine border. If you plan on visiting the park, it is best to check in at the CONAF ranger station in Pucón where complete information on the area is available. The rangers have all trekking information as well as material on the flora, fauna and geological history of the park. SERVICES: The CONAF office is located in Pucón. For accommodation, there is a refugio with beds at the ski area, though this is usually only open in winter. The beauties of backcountry camping are available throughout the park. HOW TO GET THERE: There is regular transport from Temuco (on the Panamerican Highway) to Pucón, 120 kms away, via the lakeside city of Villarrica. From Pucón there is no public transport to the park. Options include getting together with friends and sharing a taxi, which will cost US$4-5 per person, or arranging transport with one of the tour companies leading trips to the park from Pucón.

Lago Villarica:
This is Pucón’s main attraction. A gorgeous and grand lake, it is ideal for fishing, boating, and windsurfing. A long black sand beach stretches along the shore in town. Be wary of walking this beach in barefeet--it can be extremely hot.

Río Trancura:
Pucón is the place to find the best trips down the Río Trancura, whether in kayak or raft. The excellent places to raft are a mere 40 minutes from town. Contact our travel agency for more information.

Huerquehue National Park:
Lago Verde, Lago Chico, and Lago Toro are the three gems of this park. Horses and boats can be rented. Ask the park Warden for details. For more information about this magnificent park, loaded with Araucaria and beech forests, waterfalls and canyons, visit the page dedicated to it in the National Parks section. Located 37 kms from Pucón.

Lago Caburgua:
A large, pristine volcanic lake located 24 Kms northeast of Pucón. Bountiful forests line the lake and there are several incredible black sand beaches to picnic on. Impressive water falls nearby on the road to the lake. A large hosteria (Inn) called Salto del Carileufu (same name as the waterfall) offers fine German-style lodging and food for those wishing to stay.

Termas de Huife:
Hostería Termas de Huife. Well known, luxurious hot springs resort.
Approx. 20 km NE of Pucón.

Termas de Quimaico:
Camping allowed, cabañas and hosteria. Pleasant baths. Approx. 25 km NE of Pucón.

Termas de Palguín:
Comparable to Termas de Huife resort. 36 km SE of Pucón.

Termas de Panqui:
Although blessed with abundent pools of hot thermal waters, they are simply a part of the all around body & mind healing that goes on here. Bilingual courses in Yoga, massage, Tai-Chi, Herbal Studies and more. Vegetarian foods prepared daily. Truly holistic in focus. Lodging in Sioux-style Tipis. Trails to ancient forests. Cost: Entrance US$10 per person/day. US$20/night in hotel, US$10 in tipi.