Pucon
Just 20 minutes from the 2,847-meter-high (9,341-foot) Villarrica Volcano, Pucón is one of Chile's top spots for adventure travel. The active volcano has itself become an obligatory climb for the many nature- and adventure-seeking tourists who come to Chile. In winter, the volcano is a favorite spot for skiing and snowboarding. Nearby Trancura River is a rafting, kayaking, and fishing paradise. Villarrica and Caburgua lakes are outstanding for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and water-skiing. There are several worthy nature hikes close to Pucón, featuring some of the most beautiful forests in Chile, including the El Cani Sanctuary and Huerquehue National Park.
At first glance Pucón's myriad outfitters look the same and sell the same slate of activities and rentals; quality varies, however. The firms we recommend get high marks for safety, professionalism, and friendly service. Although a given outfitter might have a specialty, it usually offers other activities as well. Pucón is the center for rafting expeditions in the northern Lake District, with Río Trancura 15 minutes away, making for easy half-day excursions on Class III–V rapids.
