In southern Chile, the Lake District recalls in some ways the landscapes of the European Alps, but with a very South American ingredient: active volcanoes dominating the horizon. At the centre of this region lies Pucón, a small town that has become the capital of Chilean adventure tourism.
The Villarrica volcano, an active giant
The Villarrica volcano, one of the most active in Chile, dominates the town's skyline with its perfectly conical shape and a permanent plume of smoke. Climbing to its crater, often glowing with lava at night, is one of the most sought-after excursions in the area, requiring a good level of fitness and, in winter, crampons and an ice axe due to the snow covering its slopes.
Between lakes, hot springs and adventure
Pucón sits on the shore of Lake Villarrica, ideal for water sports and relaxing beach days, while the surrounding area offers dozens of natural hot springs, waterfalls and hiking trails within Huerquehue and Villarrica National Parks. For adrenaline lovers, the area also offers rafting, canyoning and mountain biking, making Pucón one of the most complete adventure destinations in all of Chile.