At 2,847m high, it was no easy task climbing Volcano Villaricca but it was definitely one of the highlights of our gap year in South America. I did wonder if we would make it to the top, the last part is ice and we wore crampons, but the views and the sight of lava in the crater made this an experience not to be missed. The way down is much more fun as you slide through tunnels in the snow. Don’t miss the hot springs ‘Los Pozones’ in the evening, it definitely eased our aching muscles.
Andesmar on O’Higgins 480, Pucon: www.turismoandesmar.com
Great B&B-style accommodation run by an old German couple. Lovely relaxing atmosphere, clean, tidy and inexpensive. The best room is en-suite and has a beautiful balcony. There’s also a nice terrace outside to enjoy a glass of Chilean wine in the evening. Don't even think about staying anywhere else in Pucón.
About three blocks up from the bus station and on the left
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- Population:
- 25,000
- Currency:
- Peso
- Time zone:
- GMT-4
- Dialling code:
- +56 (0) 45