Pucón: Ascent to Villarrica Volcano

Pucón’s Villarrica Volcano offers an enthralling outdoor adventure for intrepid travelers. This 8.5-hour guided hike takes adventurers on an exhilarating ascent to the summit, providing sweeping views of the Patagonian landscape. Though the climb is currently limited to 2,600 meters due to a yellow alert, participants can still expect a thrilling experience outfitted with essential gear and led by expert guides. With a convenient van ride to the national park and a comprehensive safety briefing, this excursion promises a memorable journey for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled exploration of Chile’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• The Ascent to Villarrica Volcano, also known as Pucón, is an 8.5-hour outdoor adventure in Chile, priced from €139.40 per person.
• The excursion includes a 30-minute van ride to Villarrica National Park, a safety briefing, and a 6-hour hike to the summit at 2,600 meters.
• Expert certified guides provide all necessary equipment, such as helmets, crampons, and ice axes, and maintain a constant pace for panoramic views.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, and participants must follow guide instructions and pack appropriate gear.
• The cancellation policy offers a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Ascent to Villarrica Volcano, also known as Pucón, is a thrilling and challenging outdoor adventure that takes participants on an unforgettable journey to the summit of one of Chile’s most active volcanoes.

Priced from €139.40 per person, the 8.5-hour excursion is available for booking with check-in at the Terravolcano Agency. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The activity includes a 30-minute van ride to Villarrica National Park, a safety briefing, and 6 hours of hiking to the summit, which is currently limited to 2,600 meters due to a yellow alert.

Expert certified guides lead the way, providing all necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable ascent.

Itinerary Details

From the starting location at Terra Volcano, participants embark on a 30-minute van ride to the breathtaking Villarrica National Park.

Upon arrival, they receive a 10-minute safety briefing before beginning the 6-hour hike. Along the way, they’ll pause for a 10-minute photo stop, capturing panoramic views of Pucón, the lakes, and the surrounding volcanoes.

Near the summit, at 2,600 meters above sea level, they’ll use crampons and ice axes. The descent varies by season – sliding on snow in winter/spring/autumn, and walking in summer.

Climbing Experience

Expert certified guides accompany participants throughout the ascent, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

The equipment provided includes:

• Helmet, backpack, leggings, mountain footwear, crampons, and ice ax to navigate the terrain near the summit
• Trouser cover, windproof jacket, and gloves to stay warm
• Trekking sticks for added stability

The ascent maintains a constant pace, allowing for panoramic views of Pucón, the surrounding lakes, and volcanoes.

Crampons and ice axes are used as the group approaches the summit, currently limited to 2,600 meters due to a yellow alert.

During the descent, participants can slide on snow in winter, spring, and autumn, or walk in summer.

Safety and Restrictions

This activity isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, individuals with vertigo, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, or recent surgeries.

The ascent depends on weather conditions, which are checked the day before and during the activity. It’s essential to test the equipment one day before the hike.

Smoking, intoxication, alcohol and drugs, littering, and unaccompanied minors are strictly prohibited.

Safety is the top priority, and the guides will provide instructions and support throughout the journey. Participants should follow the guide’s directions and pack appropriate gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Villarrica Volcano.

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What to Bring

Participants will want to pack a variety of items to ensure they’re prepared for the hike up Villarrica Volcano. This includes:

• Warm clothing, such as layers and insulated jackets, to protect against the changing weather conditions.

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction to navigate the rocky and snowy terrain.

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield from the intense Patagonian sun.

• Snacks and plenty of water to maintain energy and hydration throughout the day.

Plus, it’s recommended to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views and a charged smartphone in case of emergencies.

Participants should avoid bringing any prohibited items, such as smoking materials, alcohol, or drugs.

Recommended Snacks

Recommended snacks for the Villarrica Volcano hike include water, cookies, chocolates, fruit, and sandwiches. These fuel hikers with carbohydrates, fats, and electrolytes to sustain energy levels during the long ascent. A balanced selection of snacks is key, as shown in the table below:

Snack	Purpose
Water	Hydration
Cookies	Quick carbohydrate energy
Chocolates	Fats and calories
Fruit	Natural sugars and vitamins
Sandwiches	Complex carbs and protein

Packing the right snacks ensures hikers stay nourished and energized throughout the challenging climb to the Villarrica Volcano summit.

Cancellation Policy

The Villarrica Volcano hike offers a generous cancellation policy, allowing participants to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the scheduled departure.

This policy provides flexibility and peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans.

Some key points about the cancellation policy:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity
• Full refund provided for cancelled bookings
• Flexibility to adjust plans without penalty
• Ensures customers can book with confidence

This cancellation policy makes the Villarrica Volcano hike an attractive option, as it accommodates the needs of travelers and minimizes financial risk.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Villarrica Volcano hike is at the Terravolcano Agency, located at Av. Bernardo Ohiggins 717, local 4, Bulevar Patagonia. This centrally located office serves as the starting point for the adventure.

Facility	Address	Hours	Contact
Terravolcano Agency	Av. Bernardo Ohiggins 717, local 4, Bulevar Patagonia	9 AM – 6 PM	+56 45 2232 575

Participants should arrive at the agency 15-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to check-in, receive any necessary equipment, and get briefed on the day’s activities. From here, the group will depart for the Villarrica National Park trailhead via a 30-minute van ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike?

The hike is moderately difficult, requiring constant pace and use of crampons and ice axes near the summit. The ascent is 6 hours long, with panoramic views along the way, but it’s not suitable for those with certain health conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The activity is not suitable for children under 12 years old, pregnant women, or individuals with vertigo, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, or recent surgeries. Participants must be in good physical condition to undertake this challenging hike.

Can I Rent Equipment On-Site if I Don’t Have My Own?

Yes, the activity provider offers all the necessary equipment for the hike, including helmets, backpacks, crampons, ice axes, and more. Participants don’t need to bring their own gear, as it’s all provided on-site.

Is the Hike Suitable for Individuals With Limited Hiking Experience?

The hike may not be suitable for those with limited hiking experience, as it requires 6 hours of constant ascent and the use of specialized equipment like crampons and ice axes near the summit. However, expert guides provide thorough safety briefings and equipment.

What Is the Refund Policy for Last-Minute Cancellations?

The activity has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not eligible for a refund, so it’s important to cancel within the 24-hour window if unable to attend.

The Sum Up

Pucón’s Villarrica Volcano excursion offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure. The guided hike to the summit is limited to 2,600 meters due to safety concerns, but participants are equipped with essential gear. This 8.5-hour experience amidst Patagonian landscapes promises a memorable journey. Hikers should come prepared with the recommended clothing and snacks, and be aware of the cancellation policy before embarking on this challenging yet rewarding ascent.

You can check if your dates are available here: