We headed out of Bariloche to drive the 787kms to Chile’s adventure capital Pucón, dominated by the imposing Volcán Villarrica. The journey took around 10 hours including the fifth crossing of the Argentina / Chile border of the Dragoman journey and the ninth land border crossing so far on our South American journey.  It being just after Easter, the border crossing was particularly busy and slow.

Pucón, nestled in Chile’s scenic Lake District, offers a gateway to outdoor adventure and breathtaking landscapes. Volcán Villarrica is one of Chile’s most active volcanoes and the town attracts nature lovers, hikers, and thrill-seekers year-round. The region is famous for its pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests, providing a stunning contrast to the often fiery temperament of Villarrica.

In Pucón we stayed at the Hostal Victor, a well-located hostel a short walk from all the bars and restaurants of the resort town of Pucón.

Volcan Villareal, Pucon, The Lake District, Chile

Pucón lies in the shadow of Volcán Villarrica, which rises to 2,847 metres (9,340 feet). The area is characterised by temperate rainforests, crystal-clear lakes such as Lago Villarrica, and fertile volcanic soil. Summers in Pucón are warm and ideal for trekking, kayaking, and exploring the great outdoors, while winters see snowfall in higher altitudes, turning the region into a skiing paradise.

The area around Pucón has long been inhabited by the Mapuche people, whose rich cultural heritage continues to influence the region. Pucón was officially founded in the late 19th century and has since transformed from a small frontier town into a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure sports.

Tourism is the backbone of Pucón’s economy, with activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting drawing visitors year-round. The surrounding agriculture benefits from the fertile volcanic soil, supporting local farms and food production, while the services sector caters to the influx of travellers.

Volcan Villareal, Pucon, The Lake District, Chile

Volcán Villarrica: A Thrilling Climb

Starting the Hike: Chair Lift to Base Camp

On a perfect Monday morning, under clear skies, our group set off to climb Volcán Villarrica. The hike begins at the base station where an old, rickety chair lift awaits. The chair lift, which wouldn’t pass European safety standards, has no safety barriers. We clung to the side poles as it carried us and our packs up the first 500 metres of the volcano. Though unnerving, this hour-long ride is worth it, sparing us from trudging through unremarkable terrain and allowing us to focus on the more interesting parts of the trek.

Chair Lift, Volcan Villareal, Pucon, The Lake District, Chile

The Ascent: Rocks and Zigzags

Once the chair lift deposited us at its end station, which bears scars of past eruptions, the real climb began. From here, we had to ascend 1,000 metres to reach the summit. The terrain became steeper, and loose volcanic rock made walking tricky. We zigzagged up the mountain to reduce the risk of slipping or causing rockfalls, with the views becoming more breathtaking as we climbed higher.

Volcan Villareal, Pucon, The Lake District, Chile

Into the Ice: Crampons and Ice Picks

After climbing about 400 metres, we reached the snow line. It was time to put on our crampons and ice picks for better traction. The sun glistened off the solid ice underfoot, making the snowy ascent as beautiful as it was challenging. Again, we zigzagged upwards, making good use of our ice picks for stability at every switchback. The physical challenge here was intense, but the reward of seeing the brilliant snow and ice fields stretch out before us was well worth it.

Volcan Villareal, Pucon, The Lake District, Chile

The Final Push: Gas Masks and Sulphur

With only 100 metres left to the summit, we left our backpacks behind, removed our crampons, and put on jackets and gas masks. The sulphur fumes from the crater, a constant presence at the top, were overpowering without protection. Reaching the summit felt surreal. We stood on the edge of a massive crater, looking down at an active lava lake about 300 metres below. The colours were extraordinary—vivid yellows and greens caused by the sulphur deposits, contrasting sharply with the barren, grey landscape around us. But our time at the top was limited to 20 minutes to minimise exposure to the noxious gases.

The Descent: Tobogganing Down

The descent was a thrilling adventure in its own right. After picking up our backpacks, we swapped into waterproof trousers and a special “diaper” for the slide down the snow. A series of toboggan runs carved into the ice made for an exhilarating ride. It felt like we were part of an Olympic luge team, sliding down the mountain’s icy tracks with speed and excitement.

Once we left the snow line, the remaining descent through loose lava gravel was far easier on the knees, compared to other treks we had completed. The soft ground made walking downhill less jarring, allowing us to appreciate the stunning views as we descended.

Safety and Group Management

Our group of 12 trekkers was led by experienced guides who kept a close watch on our progress. They split us into two groups to accommodate different skill levels, ensuring that no one felt pressured to climb faster than they were comfortable with. The guides were strict about safety, and rightly so—Villarrica is an active volcano. The volcano last erupted in March 2015 and the mountain was closed for some time. The previous big eruption was back in 1971 when the upper chair lift, amongst other things, was destroyed and at least 15 fatalities recorded.

Volcan Villarrica, Pucón, Chile

The Beer and Food Scene in Pucón

After a long day of adventure, Pucón’s vibrant beer and food scene is a welcome retreat. The town has developed a thriving craft beer culture, with several local breweries offering a wide variety of ales. From classic lagers to adventurous IPAs, the breweries often experiment with unique ingredients from the region, creating beers that are as refreshing as they are distinctive.

Pucón’s culinary scene is also a highlight. Traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas, asado (barbecued meats), and curanto (a seafood and meat stew cooked in an earth oven) are widely available. Restaurants range from rustic Mapuche-inspired eateries to more modern establishments serving fusion cuisine. Given the town’s proximity to both the coast and fertile farmlands, the ingredients are always fresh, and seafood, in particular, is a local specialty.

Pucón, Chile

Pucón’s Adventure Haven

Beyond the volcanic climb, Pucón offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. The nearby lakes and rivers are perfect for water sports such as kayaking and rafting, while the surrounding forests and hills provide excellent trekking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting opportunities. For those seeking relaxation, Pucón is also known for its thermal springs, where you can soak in naturally heated waters, often with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Environmental Considerations

The Lake District’s natural environment is both a major attraction and a source of environmental concern. The region’s volcanic activity influences the local ecology, while the popularity of outdoor activities places pressure on natural resources. Sustainable tourism practices are essential to preserving the area’s pristine landscapes and biodiversity.

Final Thoughts

Pucón and the Chilean Lake District are a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. From climbing the mighty Volcán Villarrica to exploring the verdant forests and lakes, this region is as diverse as it is beautiful. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or simply want to relax in a stunning natural setting, Pucón has something for everyone.

Dates 01/04/2018 to 04/04/2018 – Dragoman Days 29 to 32