Villarrica Traverse Full

Villarrica Traverse Full

The ultimate Andean trekking expedition. Over nine extraordinary days, the Villarrica Traverse Full takes you on a comprehensive journey through the volcanic heartland of Chile's Lake District — from ancient Araucaria forests and hidden glacial lakes to the summit crater of one of South America's most active volcanoes. This is the definitive way to experience the Villarrica massif in all its wild grandeur.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Pucon

Transfer from Temuco airport to Pucon. Meet your expert guides, settle in, and enjoy a welcome dinner as we outline the epic adventure ahead.

Day 2 — El Cani Sanctuary Trekking (18 km / 6–8 hrs)

Trek through the Santuario El Cani, a privately protected Araucaria forest with trees over 1,000 years old. Ascend to high-altitude lagoons with views of the full volcanic chain. Option to attempt the Villarrica Volcano ascent instead for experienced climbers.

Day 3 — North Slope Villarrica to Zanjon de Challupen (14 km)

Enter the wilderness on Villarrica's less-travelled north slope. Cross lava fields, navigate through native forest, and camp at the remote Zanjon de Challupen — a hidden valley shaped by ancient eruptions.

Day 4 — To Termas Geometricas (18 km)

Traverse through dense Valdivian rainforest and volcanic terrain to reach the spectacular Termas Geometricas, where steaming natural hot springs cascade through a narrow red-walled canyon. An unforgettable reward after a demanding day on the trail.

Day 5 — To Laguna Azul (17 km)

Push deeper into the backcountry toward the mesmerising turquoise waters of Laguna Azul, set beneath the towering silhouette of Volcan Lanin on the Argentine border.

Day 6 — Laguna Azul to Laguna Avutardas (16 km)

A high-altitude traverse connecting two pristine glacial lakes, passing through landscapes of extraordinary biodiversity — condors overhead, ancient forests below, and volcanic peaks in every direction.

Day 7 — To Puesco, End of Traverse (10 km)

The final trail day descends through Araucaria forest to the Puesco border crossing, completing the full circuit of the volcanic range. Celebrate with your team.

Day 8 — Volcan Rukapillan Ascent (12 km / 8–10 hrs)

The grand finale: a full summit attempt of Volcan Villarrica (Rukapillan in Mapuche, meaning “House of the Great Spirit”). Climb 1,500 metres through snow and ice to peer into the active crater at 2,847m, with views stretching across the entire Lake District and into Argentina.

Day 9 — Departure

Transfer to Temuco airport for your onward journey, carrying nine days of memories from one of the world's great mountain traverses.