Pucón
La Araucanía
Pucón is a picturesque city located on the eastern shore of Lake Villarrica in Chile's Araucanía Region. Known as the "entrance to the cordillera," it is famed for its proximity to the active Villarrica volcano, which attracts climbers and adventure seekers. The city offers a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, and thermal hot springs. Established originally as a fort in 1883 after the Occupation of Araucanía, Pucón has evolved into a major tourist hub with diverse accommodation options from hostels to luxury hotels. Its stable climate, especially in summer, and spectacular natural surroundings including lakes, volcanoes, and forests make it a popular destination for both Chilean and international visitors. The city also features vibrant nightlife, diverse gastronomy, and cultural festivals. Nearby protected areas such as El Cañi offer hiking trails through ancient forests with opportunities to observe local wildlife and panoramic views of multiple volcanoes.
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Tip: The best time to visit Pucón is during the summer months when the weather is stable and outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and climbing Villarrica Volcano are most accessible. Visitors are advised to check volcanic activity updates before attempting ascents. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended, especially in peak season. Discounts may be available for early bookings or group tours. Winter visitors can enjoy skiing on Villarrica’s snow-covered slopes and relax in nearby thermal baths. Tourist offices in the city provide helpful information and guided excursions.
Interesting facts
- •Villarrica volcano near Pucón has erupted over 82 times since 1558, with the latest eruption in 2015.
- •Pucón means "entrance to the cordillera" in the Mapudungun language of the indigenous Mapuche people.
- •El Cañi protected area near Pucón covers 500 hectares and is home to species like pumas, pudús, and condors.
- •Pucón has become a popular destination for second home investments and amenity migration.
- •The first hotel in Pucón was established in 1923, and tourism significantly expanded after the 1934 opening of Gran Hotel Pucón.
History
Pucón's origins trace back to the Spanish conquest of Chile when the nearby city of Villarrica was founded in 1552.
The original settlement was abandoned after volcanic lahars buried gold deposits, prompting relocation.
The modern town of Pucón was established as a military fort in 1883 during Chile’s pacification of the Araucanía region.
Early 20th-century development included the establishment of the first hotel in 1923 and the Gran Hotel Pucón in 1934, marking the beginning of tourism.
Infrastructure improvements in the mid-20th century, such as roads connecting Pucón to Villarrica and other lakes, facilitated its growth into a major adventure tourism destination.
Place Guide
Villarrica Volcano
An active volcano located about 17 km south of Pucón, Villarrica is a popular climbing destination offering spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It is snow-covered in winter and accessible for guided ascents year-round when conditions allow.
El Cañi Protected Area
A private natural reserve of 500 hectares featuring hiking trails through ancient forests with araucarias, lengas, and volcanic craters. It hosts diverse wildlife including foxes, pumas, pudús, wild ducks, and condors, and offers a viewpoint at 1,550 meters with views of four volcanoes.
Gran Hotel Pucón1934
Established in 1934, this historic hotel marked the beginning of Pucón’s development as a tourist destination. It remains an iconic landmark representing the city’s early hospitality industry.
