Hiking - Volcano Villarrica
The Villarrica Volcano is the highlight of the area. It's a long and hard climb, but the views from the top are stunning. Up to nine volcanoes can be seen on a clear day, and if you're lucky, you might see the boiling lava in the crater as well.
The climb
The climb takes anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on the group and whether the chairlift works or not. Every person with a reasonable level of fitness can do it, and there's no previous climbing experience required. The way back is pure fun - sliding down on the snow! In winter and early spring you can do the tour with skis or snowboard.
It's forbidden to climb the volcano on your own, unless you have proper equipment and you are member of a mountaineering club. CONAF checks both at the park entrance.
Agencies
Several agencies in town organize the climb (Politur, Trancura), which must be booked the day before. There is a big difference in the quality of the equipment and guides between the cheaper and more expensive agencies. They provide all the equipment, like boots, crampons, ice pick, trousers, jacket, backpack, gloves, sunglasses etc. The chairlift is optional and costs extra, it's strongly recommended for those with less experience or fitness. When the tour is cancelled due to bad weather, you'll get the money back. It starts around 06.30 in the morning, and you're back by 19.00 in the evening.
Important
For those not familiar with snow and mountains, and to prevent swollen red faces with split lips and sore eyes, keep the following in mind:
- Never ever take off your sunglasses, especially on snow
- Use plenty of high factor suncream on the entire face. Keep in mind that the snow reflects the sunlight from below
- Trink plenty of water
Trip details
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Type | Guided |
| Level | Hard |
| Duration | 6 - 10 hrs |
| Distance | 10 km |
| Alt. gain | 1100 m |
| Highest pt. | 2870 m |
| Trailhead | 45 km |
| Cost | $30-40.000 |