I’ve shared so many charming small towns in Chile, but I’ve saved the best for last—Pucon! The sheer number of stunning photos makes it hard to choose which ones to share [Crying with laughter emoji].
The Araucania region is dotted with picturesque towns, but Pucon holds a special place in my heart. I make it a point to visit every year! You can easily fly from Santiago to Temuco and then drive to Pucon, a scenic 1-1.5 hour journey. In the summer, you’ll be greeted by vast fields of hydrangeas along the way.
If you prefer not to drive at night, there are plenty of cozy hotels and guesthouses by the lake, offering breathtaking views. One tip: it’s wise to rent a 4WD vehicle, especially in winter, as the roads can be treacherous with rain and snow.
When I’m in town, I often stay at Bambulodge, nestled on the slopes of Villarica Volcano, just a 5-minute drive from the town center. My first visit was a memorable one; I arrived at night, and when I woke up the next morning, I saw sparks coming from the top of the volcano [Embarrassed emoji]. That’s when I realized it was an active volcano!
In the morning, the hotel’s friendly staff waits for you to arrive at the restaurant before they start brewing coffee and frying eggs. Enjoying breakfast by the fireplace is an absolute delight.
If you’re traveling with colleagues or superiors, I highly recommend Antumalal, a larger and more luxurious hotel. Generally, the food at Pucon’s hotels is excellent, and the town itself is brimming with fantastic dining options. My top pick is Trawen, where the roasted lamb leg is a must-try—it’s simply the best! The other dishes are also delicious, and the location is convenient, with a supermarket and gas station just a short walk away, perfect for stocking up before your adventures.
In the town, you can explore the unique black sand beach of Lake Villarica and take a boat ride, though remember to bring cash. However, it gets quite crowded in January and February, as Pucon is a popular destination for Chileans on their annual leave. For a more serene experience, I suggest driving half an hour to Caburgua Lake in the mountains.
This hidden gem offers both black and white sand beaches, and parking is a breeze. On the way, you can stop to admire the Ojos de Caburgua waterfall, and if you want to stretch your legs, there are plenty of walking trails to enjoy.
For those who love hiking, head towards Villarica Volcano, where you can get a closer look at the snow-capped peak. The park offers several hiking trails that are not too challenging, or you can hit the slopes for some skiing. I’ve heard that local guides can take you to the top of the volcano to see the mesmerizing sparks inside, but I’m not much of a hiker, and two hours is my limit. So, unfortunately, I haven’t made it to the summit yet.
However, these lakes aren’t my top picks. If you venture towards the border, you’ll pass through the charming town of Curarrehue, home to indigenous communities. After another hour’s drive, just a stone’s throw from the border, you’ll arrive at the breathtaking Quilleihue Lake—where the stunning cover photo was captured! The journey is a visual feast, with the lake itself being an absolute marvel, and the best part? It’s not overrun with tourists!
Bring along some snacks or a camping tent, or at least a cozy blanket, and find a serene spot by the lake to unwind. For those who love a good hike, the entrance to the Lanin Volcano trail is right there, offering a thrilling adventure. The mountain also cradles two smaller, picturesque lakes. The only catch is the lack of internet connectivity, so it’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a holiday retreat.
