Villarrica Volcano

The most active volcano in Chile

The Villarrica Volcano, also known as Rucapillán, is one of the most active volcanoes in South America. Its ascent challenges visitors to the summit of 2,847 meters, allowing them to observe the magmatic activity and permanent fumaroles inside its open crater.

You can explore lava caves and trails through forests of ancient araucaria trees, protected within the national park. And in winter, the Pucón Ski Center opens its slopes on the lower flanks of the volcano, allowing you to enjoy snow sports with a beautiful panoramic view of Lake Villarrica.

Plan your trip to Villarrica Volcano

How to get there

How to get there by air

Fly directly to La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO), located in Freire, 25 km south of Temuco. From there, take a transfer, minibus, or rent a vehicle to Pucón (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes). Once in Pucón, you can book a tour to visit the base of the volcano.

How to get there by land

From Pucón, you must travel 20 km along a mountain road to the access point and the ski center, which takes about 30 minutes. To ascend to the crater, it is mandatory to hire a certified guide in advance and have the appropriate technical equipment.

Must-Know Tips

The ascent to the crater is a high mountain activity that must be carried out exclusively with certified guides and the appropriate equipment. For safety, always check the volcanic alert and weather conditions before going, as access is frequently restricted due to volcanic activity or bad weather.