Villarrica — Local services in Pucón

I've been on the volcano three separate times: once for snowboarding (my first time trying) and twice for climbing.

The first climb, I made it to the top (COLD up there). It was quite an experience to peek inside and see the smoke rising. Another memorable sight was the view of all the surrounding volcanoes above the clouds. A unique experience, for sure. We trekked with a tour... one crew member carried a snowboard to the top and... ADIOS!!! Off he went.

The second climb was way more difficult. I bailed before reaching the top, but my dad made it all the way to the top, and for that I'm proud.

Pucon is a quaint and charming town with touring spots, restaurants, and pubs to spare. Never not been grateful for a cold beer after a climb.

The lake itself has pros and cons.

This is one of Chile's "Southside" destinations good for...

Awesome volcano to climb for beginners on ice ground. Fairly easy and yet interesting by its diversities : let's you learn / try different technics of ascent. (be sure to bring crampons, icepick, helmets, etc. as the stuff is mandatory for climbing for obvious reasons)

The view at the summit is absolutely crazy if you get the chance to climb by a pure clear sky day. Else, the view may be quite awesome aswell as the summit would be above the clouds in the valleys (and thus letting you see the surroundings volcanoes !)

And the volcano itself is super great: pretty active, you'll get your fair share of toxic smoke (be sure to have a gaz mask to enjoy a bit of time at the top !)

TL;DR: climbed it in late Fall on a super bright day. Was awesome. Would do it again...

I’m 61, relatively fit, swim and hike 5-7 km at least once a week at home….and this was challenging. This is not an outing for a typical tourist , but if you are prepared for a good 5 hour workout the climb offers amazing views on the way up and from the top. Looking into the steaming crater is anti-climatic but as a whole the experience is worth it. Honestly , how can you pass on an opportunity to say you climbed a volcano. ‘ Butt sliding’ halfway down the mountain to return brings back childlike giddiness. The guides are amazing, professional, friendly and totally supportive. They are mountain goats relative to us tourists by the way, having to do this hike a few times a week at a...