Temuco

Temuco, the Province Capital of La Araucanía, is well worth a visit from Villarrica. It has one of Chile's most colorful fruit and vegetable markets, a good museum and plenty of nice restaurants. It takes one hour by bus from Villarrica to get there.

Mercado Municipal

Located in the center of town near the main plaza, this is a good place to buy souvenirs and eat Chilean food such as Pastel de Choclo or a Paila Marina.

Feria Pinto

Located next to the train station, the "Feria Pinto" is one of Chile's most colorful fruit and vegetable markets. There are local Mapuche women selling their goods. Open 09.00 - 16.00 Mon - Sat, closed last Wednesday each month. Important: Don't take pictures without permission and beware of pickpockets!

Museo Regional de la Araucanía

Located on Av. Alemania 084. Recounts the history of the Araucanian peoples before, during and since the Spanisch invasion. Open 10.00 - 17.30 weekdays, 11.00 - 17.00 Saturday and 11.00 - 14.00 Sunday.

Getting there

Buses JAC has a service every half hour to Temuco. Buses Villarrica, located opposite the Turbus terminal, runs less frequently but is cheaper.

Cerro Ñielol

The Monumento Natural "Cerro Ñielol" is located at the end of Calle Prat. This nature park is very popular among the locals, plenty of Copihues, Chile's National Flower, can be seen. They flower from April to September. There are also picnic sites, a small lagoon and several walks there.