Araucanía Lacustre: Trails, volcanoes, and adventure
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
Two days of trekking in Huerquehue and rafting on the Trancura River
2 DAYS
Welcome to the Araucanía Lacustre, with its epicenter in Pucón, the undisputed capital of adventure tourism in Chile. This region is a paradise framed by the imposing figure of the Villarrica volcano. On this two-day trip, you will experience a total immersion in nature. You will test your endurance with a trek in Huerquehue National Park, feel the adrenaline of rafting on the Trancura River, and end with the absolute relaxation of its famous hot springs.
DISTANCIA
130 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
2 days
DESTINOS
PAISAJE
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Huerquehue National Park
With Pucón as our starting point, we will travel 35 kilometers by bus, private vehicle, or through a tour to reach Huerquehue National Park. Our goal will be to complete the Los Lagos Trail, one of the most beautiful hikes in southern Chile. The first part of the trekking is a constant climb that will give you spectacular views of the lake and the Villarrica volcano, passing through the Nido de Águila and Truful waterfalls.
After the initial ascent, the trail enters an overwhelming landscape, where you will walk among ancient araucarias until you reach a series of lagoons with pristine waters. The circuit will take you through Lago Chico, Lago Verde, and finally Lago El Toro, perfect places to rest, take pictures, and enjoy your lunch in the middle of nature.
The complete circuit is a demanding hike of approximately 6 to 7 hours in total. After a long day of effort, you will return to Pucón for a well-deserved dinner and a good rest, with the satisfaction of having conquered one of the most iconic trails in the region.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Huerquehue National Park
With Pucón as our starting point, we will travel 35 kilometers by bus, private vehicle, or through a tour to reach Huerquehue National Park. Our goal will be to complete the Los Lagos Trail, one of the most beautiful hikes in southern Chile. The first part of the trekking is a constant climb that will give you spectacular views of the lake and the Villarrica volcano, passing through the Nido de Águila and Truful waterfalls.
After the initial ascent, the trail enters an overwhelming landscape, where you will walk among ancient araucarias until you reach a series of lagoons with pristine waters. The circuit will take you through Lago Chico, Lago Verde, and finally Lago El Toro, perfect places to rest, take pictures, and enjoy your lunch in the middle of nature.
The complete circuit is a demanding hike of approximately 6 to 7 hours in total. After a long day of effort, you will return to Pucón for a well-deserved dinner and a good rest, with the satisfaction of having conquered one of the most iconic trails in the region.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Rafting on the Trancura River and hot springs
Get ready for a morning of rafting on the famous Trancura River! You will have to travel about 15 kilometers along the route towards Curarrehue. Depending on your experience, you can choose between the “Trancura Bajo”, ideal for families and beginners, or the “Trancura Alto”, with more intense rapids for the more adventurous. The local guides will equip you and accompany you on this exciting river adventure.
After the adrenaline of the river, the afternoon is for total relaxation in one of the famous thermal centers that are hidden in the mountain valleys near Pucón. Here you can immerse yourself in rustic stone pools or modern swimming pools, always surrounded by the dense native forest and the relaxing sound of water.
At sunset, you will return to Pucón to enjoy its atmosphere. You can walk along its main street, O’Higgins, observe its characteristic wooden architecture, visit its craft shops, or sit in one of its many cafes and restaurants. It is the perfect ending to a trip that combines the best of adventure and relaxation in the Araucanía.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Rafting on the Trancura River and hot springs
Get ready for a morning of rafting on the famous Trancura River! You will have to travel about 15 kilometers along the route towards Curarrehue. Depending on your experience, you can choose between the “Trancura Bajo”, ideal for families and beginners, or the “Trancura Alto”, with more intense rapids for the more adventurous. The local guides will equip you and accompany you on this exciting river adventure.
After the adrenaline of the river, the afternoon is for total relaxation in one of the famous thermal centers that are hidden in the mountain valleys near Pucón. Here you can immerse yourself in rustic stone pools or modern swimming pools, always surrounded by the dense native forest and the relaxing sound of water.
At sunset, you will return to Pucón to enjoy its atmosphere. You can walk along its main street, O’Higgins, observe its characteristic wooden architecture, visit its craft shops, or sit in one of its many cafes and restaurants. It is the perfect ending to a trip that combines the best of adventure and relaxation in the Araucanía.
What you should know
How to get there by air
The main gateway to the area is La Araucanía Airport, located near Temuco. From there, Pucón is about 100 km away, a journey that lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. At the airport you can rent a car or take a direct transfer service to your accommodation.
How to get there by land
Pucón is located 780 kilometers south of Santiago. There is an excellent frequency of long-distance buses. To carry out this itinerary, renting a vehicle gives you greater flexibility, although there are tours and transfers for all activities.
Climate and clothing
The mountain climate is very changeable. For trekking in Huerquehue it is essential to wear hiking shoes, dress in layers, and wear a waterproof jacket. For Day 2, don’t forget your swimsuit and a towel.
Must-Know Tips
The Los Lagos Trail in Huerquehue is a long and demanding hike, so it is essential to bring enough water and food. Book rafting and hot springs in advance, especially in summer.
