Pucón

A picturesque lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Villarrica with stunning views of the active Villarrica Volcano, Pucón is the adventure capital of the region. It offers hiking, skiing, water sports, and excellent restaurants in a charming mountain setting.

Things to do

• Villarrica Volcano Trek — Climb the active 2,847m volcano for panoramic views of Lake Villarrica and the surrounding landscape, typically a full-day guided excursion departing from town.
• Lake Villarrica Water Sports — Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the clear glacial waters of Lake Villarrica during the summer months.
• Ojos del Caburgua Waterfalls — Visit a series of stunning turquoise waterfalls fed by underground springs about 30km from Pucón, accessible via a scenic hiking trail.
• Villarrica National Park Exploration — Hike through pristine forests and alpine meadows in this protected area offering trails of varying difficulty with views of multiple volcanoes.
• Pucón Downtown and Lakeside Promenade — Stroll through the charming town center with artisan shops, galleries, and enjoy the waterfront views and beach access.
• Winter Skiing at Villarrica Ski Center — During Chile's winter (June-August), ski or snowboard on the slopes of Villarrica volcano with stunning mountain views.

Food to try

• Trucha a la Mantequilla — Fresh locally-caught lake trout prepared simply with butter, lemon, and herbs, showcasing the region's excellent freshwater fish.
• Curanto — A traditional southern Chilean stew cooked in a pit with seafood, meat, potatoes, and vegetables, reflecting Mapuche culinary heritage.
• Murtilla Desserts — Sweet treats made from murtilla berries, a native Patagonian fruit, commonly found in pies, jams, and liqueurs throughout local restaurants.
• Valdiviano Cheese — A creamy, mild cheese from the Los Ríos region often served at local markets and restaurants, perfect with fresh bread and local wines.
• Wild Mushroom Dishes

Local customs & good to know

• Book Adventures in Advance — Popular activities like volcano climbs and waterfall tours require advance reservations, especially during peak summer season (December-February).
• Respect Mapuche Heritage — The region is traditional Mapuche territory; visit local artisan markets to support indigenous communities and learn about their culture respectfully.
• Cash Still Matters — While cards are accepted in town, many smaller restaurants, markets, and adventure operators prefer or only accept Chilean pesos in cash.
• Summer Season Peak — Pucón is significantly busier and more expensive during December-February; consider visiting shoulder seasons (November or March) for better prices and fewer crowds.