Villarrica National Park

The best way to experience Villarrica National Park is by climbing to the summit of the active Villarrica Volcano. Though the hike is strenuous, the views from the top are spectacular—and you’ll be able to look at lava churning inside the crater. The best part comes after, though, as you slide down snowy slopes using your ice axe as a break. Villarrica National Park is also home to Lanín Volcano, which takes two days to climb. Guided excursions help you camp overnight and reach the top.

• There are more than 15 stunning hiking trails in Villarrica National Park, so bring some sturdy shoes and a day pack for essentials.

• Volcano climbing tours typically include equipment such as crampons and hiking poles to help you navigate snowy surfaces.

• Bring cash with you, since the more rural stores won’t accept credit cards.

• There are a handful of rustic accommodation options inside the park and campsites.

The best place to base yourself for exploring VIllarrica National Park is the small town of Pucón or the lakeside resort of Villarrica. From Pucón, it’s a 6-mile (10-kilometer) drive via the S-887; have your camera at the ready for all the scenery. Tours nearly always include round-trip transportation.

Villarrica National Park is a year-round destination; in the summer (December–February), you can swim in its lakes and waterfalls, while in the winter you can ski and snowboard down the mountain slopes. After dark, you can watch the volcano emitting shoots of lava—it’s a magical sight best seen with binoculars.

If you’ve got an appetite for exciting nature treks, Pucón is calling. Hailed as the adventure sports capital of Chile, it offers a wealth of thrilling activities. Go white-water rafting on Class III rapids; jump off cliffs and into gorges on a canyoneering tour; and swim in the lakes fringed by black-sand beaches.