Attention, adventure tourism lovers! We know that you love to discover new places and live unforgettable experiences that take your life to the extreme. On this occasion, we are heading to one of the most visited destinations by adventurers and tourists from all over the world: The Villarrica Volcano!
It is one of the most active volcanoes and with the longest historical records in South America. We find it located to the Southeast and Northeast of Lakes Villarrica and Calafquén respectively, in the southern Andes Mountains. Specifically, The Villarrica Volcano It is located in Chile, on the border of the provinces of Cautín (Araucanía region) and Valdivia (Los Ríos region).
This Chilean stratovolcano is about 2847m high (2450m, counting from its base), and its greenish conical formation is a work of nature, almost perfect in its shape, and so emblematic that it is perfectly recognizable from a distance. The ascent to the volcano is a journey of 15 minutes. Villarrica Volcano It has become one of the most popular adventure tourism activities recommended by mountaineers around the world, both beginners and experts.
If you are interested in learning a little more about this great Chilean adventure, we invite you to continue reading and find out a little more about the unforgettable experience of climbing The Villarrica Volcano, in Chile!
What is the ascent to the Villarrica Volcano like?
The ascent to the Villarrica Volcano This is a medium difficulty trek, as it is classified as a medium mountain trek. Its duration is approximately 6 to 8 hours depending on the pace maintained during the journey to the maximum height of the volcano.
The journey promises incredible panoramic views of the other volcanoes in the area and the lakes on their sides, as well as the green forests of the national park. Villarrica. This place offers an incredibly wide natural variety in one place: snow, ice, rock and volcanic sand and even lava depending on the volcanic activity of the massif! An incredible sensation from wherever you look. There is really no doubt that it is one of the most impressive volcanoes in the Andes mountain range and also one of the most active in the South American volcanic chain. It is not for nothing that Villarrica Volcano It has become one of the favorites for locals and adventurous tourists alike. Every year, thousands of people choose to climb it and enjoy this unforgettable experience.
THE EXPERIENCE OF CLIMBING THE VILLARRICA VOLCANO
We leave very early in the morning when we have not yet seen the first ray of sunlight, and that is why a good rest the night before is so important before setting out on our way to the top of the mountain. Villarrica Volcano.
Here begins the adventure, one of the best you can do in Pucón, recognized as one of the The world's most exciting adventure tourism activities. Is In fact one of the activities most requested by foreign tourists. No experience or specialist skills are required. More than technique, a good physical condition is required as a minimum, as well as hiring the services of companies specialized in this climbing, certified to accompany you in carrying out the activity.
The route goes from less to more intense, first in inclination and second in temperature, which decreases as we approach the summit. We leave the land behind and encounter its white, powdery snow.
It is possible to save energy and at least two hours of climbing by taking a cable car, which is part of the sk centerYo (and it works all year round) but the truth is that trekking to the top is a crucial part of the experience, and is highly recommended.
And reaching the top feels like a success after a long day of traveling to the summit of the Villarrica Volcano. The experience of climbing the mountain is the best, from start to finish. Of course, always taking breaks and strategic breaks for hydration, snacks and to recover some energy.
The beautiful mountain of Villarrica It is a mountaineering experience that you can enjoy safely and peacefully, as a couple, with friends or family, and also an excellent way to enjoy the beauty that this spectacular area of Chile offers us.
Once you reach the top, it is a bit difficult to breathe because of the gases from the volcano, but this is precisely what will make you feel like you are in front of an imposing work of nature, almost like a living and very active creature. It is one of the most impressive sensations you will feel, although if you go on a tourist route, those 6-8 hours of climbing will be worth 30-40 minutes on the top of the crater and you will want to enjoy every second of it. Don't be surprised if you find adventurers from all over the world, almost open-mouthed by the natural spectacle.
The crater is amazing to see and admire, and the photographs you take will last a lifetime. All of this makes the journey (perhaps long for the most inexperienced) completely worth it once you get to rest in the presence of so much natural beauty. And the snowy mountain landscapes are like those from a postcard that you have seen before, and now they become reality before your eyes.
And there's still the descent to go! Less intense and safe, it will seem more fun, because it offers some of the best snow slides that an adventure lover can slide down in the world. But as you know, if you go with your skis, the descent will be nothing more than an incredible opportunity to slide on them back to the base of the mountain.
The best thing about this whole experience is that tourism has become a priority in the area, so you will have many options of agencies that offer a complete guide to the top of the crater.
They are very useful if you want to live the tourist experience of the place and receive your entrance to the National Park directly, especially if you are a beginner. They usually offer all the necessary equipment, from round-trip transportation and a professional guide certified by “conaf” and the municipality of Pucón, to technical mountain equipment such as crampons, helmet, ice axe, gas mask, high mountain shoes, third layer of windproof clothing, and backpack.
Keep in mind that the rest of the necessary items will have to be brought by you. We are talking about some good ones. sunglasses, sunscreen, water, first layers of clothing, etc. However, there are many excellent agencies that also offer accommodation and camping areas so that your visit is complete and great from start to finish.
OTHER ACTIVITIES TO DO IN PUCÓN
Visit Pucón in Chile and climb the Villarrica Volcano It will be one of the most rewarding experiences you can be a part of. But it is not the only one! This incredible area of the country offers many tourism and adventure activities that you can add to your travel itinerary if you are on vacation in the area.You can also participate in:
- Excursions through the wooded areas of the area
- Rock climbing
- Trekking in the snow
- Horseback riding and horseback riding
- Climb the Quetrupillán Volcano
- Climb the Lanín Volcano
- Hikes and excursions in Villarrica National Park
- Hiking and excursions in Huerquehue National Park
- Climbing Via Ferrata
- Visit the El Cañi Sanctuary and even have fun hiking with snowshoes.
The truth is that trekking expeditions this interesting are ones you will never forget! If you are thinking of traveling to Chile on your next vacation, we recommend you sign up for this interesting adventure in the Villarrica Volcano.
