Did you know that Pucon sits at the base of one of South America’s most active volcanoes, Villarrica, which has erupted over 60 times since the 16th century? This adventure capital of Chile offers a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and natural beauty that attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. With its stunning lakes, towering volcanoes, lush forests, and numerous hot springs, Pucon has rightfully earned its reputation as Chile’s outdoor paradise.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
The closest airport to Pucon is La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO) near Temuco, about 1.5 hours away by car. Most international travelers will first fly into Santiago and then take a connecting flight to Temuco or an overnight bus directly to Pucon.
By Air
Flying is the fastest way to reach Pucon from Santiago. Low-cost airlines like JetSmart offer flights to Temuco starting at around $30 if booked well in advance. From Temuco, you can take a bus or rent a car to complete your journey to Pucon.
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By Bus
Overnight buses from Santiago to Pucon are comfortable and affordable, with tickets starting around $30. The journey takes approximately 10 hours, and buses are equipped with reclining seats. If you’re coming from Argentina, there are regular buses from San Martin de los Andes.
Once in Pucon, having your own transportation gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding national parks and attractions at your own pace. Consider booking a to make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Pucon experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors. The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for crowds.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds | Recommended Activities |
| Summer | December-February | Warm (70-85°F/21-29°C) | Very High | Lake swimming, hiking, rafting, volcano climbing |
| Fall | March-May | Mild (55-70°F/13-21°C) | Low | Hot springs, hiking, photography (fall colors) |
| Winter | June-August | Cold (40-55°F/4-13°C) | Moderate | Skiing, snowboarding, hot springs |
| Spring | September-November | Mild (50-65°F/10-18°C) | Low | Hiking, waterfall visits, hot springs |
For the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of March-April or November-December. January and February are the busiest months when prices are higher and attractions more crowded, though the weather is consistently sunny and warm.
Pro Tip: Most Chileans visit the beaches after 3 PM. If you want a more peaceful experience at Lake Villarrica, plan your beach time in the morning hours.
Getting Around Locally
Pucon is a relatively small town, and the center is easily walkable. However, to explore the surrounding attractions and national parks, you’ll need transportation.
Rental Cars
Having your own vehicle provides the most flexibility for exploring the region. Many of the best attractions, such as waterfalls and national parks, are located outside of town. Roads are generally well-maintained, though some attractions require driving on gravel roads.
Book your in advance to ensure availability, especially during the high season.
Local Buses & Tours
Regular buses connect Pucon to nearby attractions like Huerquehue National Park. For more remote destinations, joining organized tours is often the most practical option. Most hostels and hotels can arrange tours to popular sites like hot springs, waterfalls, and volcano hikes.
Explore the best available in Pucon to make your trip hassle-free.
Where to Stay
Pucon offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. From backpacker hostels to luxury lakeside hotels, you’ll find something that meets your needs.
Budget: Chili Kiwi Hostel
This popular backpacker hostel is located right on Lake Villarrica and offers stunning sunset views of the volcano. With its unique treehouse bar and mix of dorm and private rooms, it’s perfect for social travelers looking to meet other outdoor enthusiasts.
Mid-Range: Hotel Casa Solaria
Located in the heart of Pucon, this modern hotel offers a relaxing place to rest between adventures. You’ll be steps away from the lake and the hotel also offers free continental breakfast and parking.
Luxury: Hotel Antumalal
For a quiet, lakefront escape, this Pucon hotel is perfect. Soak in the beautiful lake views from the multiple swimming pools and jacuzzis. There is an onsite restaurant and it is a close drive to the center of Pucon.
Top 10 Things to Do in Pucon
Pucon is known as Chile’s adventure capital for good reason. From volcano climbing to relaxing in hot springs, here are the absolute must-do activities during your visit.
1. Climb the Villarrica Volcano
The number one thing to do in Pucon is climbing the Villarrica Volcano. This active volcano stands at 2,800 meters and offers an unforgettable adventure. The climb requires ice axes, crampons, and gas masks, making it a true test of physical strength and mental willpower. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort, and the descent is just as exciting – you’ll slide down on a plastic shovel sledge!
Safety Note: Volcano climbs are only permitted with authorized guides and when conditions are safe. Tours typically start early morning (around 7 AM) and take 4-5 hours to reach the summit.
2. Relax in Termas Geométricas Hot Springs
After a day of adventure, there’s no better way to relax than soaking in the stunning Termas Geométricas. These hot springs feature 17 different pools ranging from 38°C to 46°C, connected by a beautiful red wooden walkway that winds through a lush canyon. The contrast between the steaming pools and the surrounding forest creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
Located about 2 hours from Pucon, most visitors opt for an organized tour that includes transportation and entrance fees. The hot springs are open year-round, with a particularly magical experience during winter when snow may surround the steaming pools.
3. Explore Huerquehue National Park
Huerquehue National Park is a hiker’s paradise, featuring ancient Araucaria trees (monkey puzzle trees), crystal-clear lakes, and stunning waterfalls. The most popular trail is the Los Lagos route, which takes you past several beautiful alpine lakes with spectacular mountain views.
For more adventurous hikers, the San Sebastian trek offers one of the best day hikes in the region, with panoramic views of multiple volcanoes from the summit. Regular buses run from Pucon to the park entrance, making it easily accessible as a day trip.
4. Go Whitewater Rafting on Rio Trancura
Pucon offers some of Chile’s best whitewater rafting experiences on the Trancura River. Choose between the Upper Trancura for more challenging Class IV-V rapids or the Lower Trancura for a more family-friendly Class III-IV experience.
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try hydrospeed – essentially bodyboarding down the rapids with flippers and a foam board. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the river up close and personal.
5. Visit Ojos del Caburgua Waterfalls
The Ojos del Caburgua (Eyes of Caburgua) are a series of stunning blue waterfalls cascading into turquoise pools. The intense blue color comes from minerals in the water, creating a magical scene that’s perfect for photography.
Located about 30 minutes from Pucon, these falls can get crowded during summer months, so it’s best to arrive early. The site has well-maintained walkways and viewing platforms to appreciate the falls from different angles.
6. Enjoy Lake Villarrica
The beautiful Lake Villarrica offers numerous recreational opportunities right in town. Rent a kayak and paddle to secluded beaches around the peninsula, try stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on the black sand beaches.
Don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset over the lake with the volcano in the background – it’s one of Pucon’s most magical daily spectacles. The lake water is surprisingly warm during summer months, making swimming pleasant even with the volcano’s snowy peak in view.
7. Try Canyoning at Los Nevados
Canyoning combines hiking, climbing, jumping, and swimming as you make your way down a canyon. In Pucon, the Los Nevados canyon offers an exciting adventure through waterfalls, natural rock slides, and crystal-clear pools.
This activity is suitable for beginners with a reasonable fitness level, as guides provide all necessary equipment and instruction. It’s a refreshing way to experience Pucon’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
8. Skydive Over an Active Volcano
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving over Pucon offers unparalleled views of Villarrica Volcano, the surrounding lakes, and forests. The 25-minute plane ride before the jump provides a scenic tour of the region, including a pass directly over the volcano’s crater.
The free fall lasts about 45 seconds, followed by a peaceful glide back to earth with panoramic views of one of Chile’s most beautiful landscapes. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for thrill-seekers.
9. Horseback Ride Through the Countryside
Explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Pucon on horseback. Various tours take you through Mapuche indigenous lands, open meadows, forest trails, and alongside rivers, offering a different perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Rides are available for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders, and typically last 3-4 hours. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the countryside and learn about the local Mapuche culture and traditions.
10. Discover Hidden Waterfalls
The Pucon region is home to numerous stunning waterfalls beyond the popular tourist spots. Salto El León (Lion Waterfall) is one of the most impressive, with powerful cascades creating constant mist and often rainbows. Nearby Salto La China offers a different experience with its tall, elegant drop.
For a more secluded experience, the waterfalls at Rio Turbio feature crystal clear blue water flowing over ancient lava trails. These falls are less visited and offer a peaceful alternative to the more popular attractions.
Dining & Local Cuisine
After a day of adventure, Pucon offers excellent dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The town’s culinary scene blends traditional Chilean dishes with international influences.
Local Specialties
- Fresh trout and salmon from local lakes and rivers
- Empanadas filled with cheese, seafood, or meat
- Curanto – a traditional dish of seafood, meat, and potatoes
- Pastel de choclo – a sweet corn and meat casserole
- Local craft beers from microbreweries in the region
Recommended Restaurants
- La Maga – Cozy restaurant with excellent wood-fired pizzas and pasta
- Café de la P – Great breakfast spot with homemade bread and pastries
- Trawen – Upscale dining featuring local ingredients and Chilean wines
- Ecole – Casual spot for burgers and craft beers with lake views
- Viva Perú – Delicious Peruvian cuisine including fresh ceviche
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Pucon adventure with these essential travel tips:
Safety
- Always check volcanic activity reports before planning a volcano climb
- Use reputable tour operators for adventure activities
- Apply sunscreen even on cloudy days – UV exposure is high in this region
- Carry rain gear year-round as weather can change quickly
- Inform someone of your plans when hiking in remote areas
Money & Services
- ATMs are available in town, but carry some cash for smaller establishments
- Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
- Prices increase significantly during January and February (high season)
- Tipping 10% is customary at restaurants
- Most tour operators require cash payment or charge extra for credit cards
Language Tip: While tourist areas have English speakers, learning basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience, especially when venturing to less-visited attractions.
Plan Your Pucon Adventure
Pucon truly offers something for every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to nature lovers seeking tranquility. With its perfect combination of outdoor activities, natural beauty, and comfortable amenities, it’s easy to see why Pucon has become Chile’s adventure capital.
Whether you’re climbing an active volcano, soaking in hot springs, or exploring ancient forests, Pucon promises unforgettable experiences that will keep you coming back for more. Start planning your adventure today and discover why this gem in Chile’s Lake District captures the hearts of travelers from around the world.
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