Pucon

Similar to its Los Lagos sister, Puerto Varas, Pucón is throbbing with outdoor adventure energy. Settled at the base of the often smoking Villarrica Volcano, Pucón’s vistas inspire travelers to kayak, climb, and hike their way closer to nature. Flush with outdoor adventure companies primed to meet your every need, Pucón is bursting at the seams with highly qualified, multi-lingual guides ready to help you have the time of your life.

Sporting the quintessential lakes district German/Chilean charm, Pucón resembles ski towns the world over. Buildings made of rich, local wood line the streets and food offerings oscillate between emanapdas and kuchen. If you have been missing food that makes you feel at home, Pucón will be able to help with everything from great vegetarian restaurants to top-notch burger joints. You will notice, Pucón has significantly more gringos than your average Chilean town. All the adventure sports have drawn in a decidedly international crowd, and with them come the high end gear stores, yoga studios, and (a rarity elsewhere in Chile!) excellent espresso.

If all the American-style additives feel like they are taking you out of Chile’s rich culture, consider opting to stay in neighbouring Villarrica, also along the lake’s shoreline. Both towns offer the opportunity to find out more about the Mapuche, the indigenous people of Chile. Pucón actually began as a fort after it was conquered in 1883, establishing it as a part of modern Chile. The Mapuche people were the longest surviving indigenous people in South America and their culture is still present in this region. Take the opportunity to visit the small museum of Mapuche artifacts or sample some traditional foods and learn more about this ancient culture.

Try your hand at whitewater kayaking or take the more tranquil approach with fly fishing. In the winter, take to the slopes of Volcán Villarrica, and in the summer, enjoy the views from the volcano from the furthest point accessible by car or tackle the trek up to the very crest of the crater. There is something for everyone and every energy level here in Pucón. Whatever you decide to fill your days with, Pucón will guarantee that you will never be bored.