Start: Ski lift at the base of volcano
End: Same as start
Time: 6-8 hrs
Distance: 5 miles out and back (10 miles if ski lift is closed)
When to go: November to May
Nearest airport: Pucón
Highlights
Another stunning hike in Andes, scaling the slopes of the active Villarrica Volcano, this trek provides stunning panoramic views with makes lakes and city of Pucón and an opportunity to witness the region’s unique volcanic landscapes. It is among the few places on earth you can see lava safely. It’s the most active volcano in Chile. Villarrica stands as one of the world’s rare continuously active volcanoes, boasting a persistent lava lake within its crater. This Stratovolcano reaches an impressive height of 2,847 meters (9,340 feet), with its most recent eruption recorded in 2012. Referred to as Rucapillán (home of the great spirit) by the Mapuche, the last independent indigenous tribe in Chile.
Depending on the volcanic activity the guides will decide how close to the summit you can go. We were able to go to the very top and hear the lava rumbling. We didn’t see lava but the guide should us many pictures where the previous groups got to see lava bubbling up, it just comes down to your luck on a given day.
Probably the only hike where you can sledge down most of the way if there is enough snow which saves a lot of time. You will either find it most fun or nerve-racking.
Difficulty
It is very strenuous and unique. The equipment needed for this hike includes gas masks, crampons, helmets, ice axes and a sledge! The first stage was a steep 45 minute climb over rocks to get onto the slope of the volcano from which it was a straight line to the top.
Atleast half the hike is on snow with crampons and there is no way to do that quickly, it’s a slow grind. Every time you turn around you can see the lush green volcanic landscape. Take as many breaks as you need as it’s a steep climb.
Some meters from the top you will take of the crampoons and put on the gas mask so not to breathe in the plumes coming off the volcano. Even with the mask it does not smell great at the summit.
On the way down we got sledge the whole way which for me personally was more scary than fun. I had very little control over the sledge and felt like it will go off the path (which is just a shallow trench made by other sledges ahead of you) and roll down different section of the mountain). There is no preparation of skill required for sledging, you just have to do it. It is definitely preferable than walking down the steep mountain in snow.
Getting There
The hike starts in Pucón, a picturesque town in southern Chile. This is hike that you are required to do with a tour operator and they will arrange the transportation to Villarrica National Park where the trail starts.
At the national park it is recommended to take the chair lift to get to the middle section. There on it’s a straight steep hike to the top.
Nearby Activities
- Downtown Pucón
- Termas Geométricas
- Huerquehue National Park – Los Lagos