01 May Discovering Pucon: A Complete Travel Guide and Best Things To Do
Whether you’re an adventure seeker searching for an adrenaline rush or someone just looking for a relaxing escape into nature, I have the perfect place for you. Pucón, a safe town in central Chile, kind of has it all for outdoorsy people.
It rests near a beautiful lake and is surrounded by flourishing forests full of unique trees called Araucaria, cascading waterfalls, hot springs, rivers and most notably, four volcanoes. The closest called Volcano Villarrica is actually the most active in South America!
Utilizing this terrain, Pucón’s tourism offers adventurous activities such as white water rafting, canyoneering, trekking, mountain biking, and winter sports in the right season. When I visited in April 2023, Pucón was my last destination before heading to Santiago to fly home after solo traveling for 10 months and I even skydived next to the volcano there as my last hoorah!
After spending 7 days in Pucón doing both intrepid activities and laid back ones, I can tell you this is a must-visit destination in Chile. Seriously add it to your itinerary whether you’re backpacking South America or just looking for a vacation from Santiago.
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Things to Do
- Climb Volcano Villarrica
- Hydrospeed & Rafting
- Canyoning Los Nevados
- Rent a Kayak on Lago Villarrica
- Skydive next to Villarrica Volcano
- Go Horseback Riding
- Explore waterfalls
- Huerquehue National Park
- Hotsprings & Thermal Baths
- El Cañi Natural Reserve
- Playa Blanca Caburgua
- Conguillio National Park
- Relax at a cabin
- Rio Turbio
- Sunset at Playa Grande
- Visit the Mapuche Community
*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.
Is Pucón good for solo travel?
Before I get into all the nitty gritty for visiting Pucón, let’s talk about if it’s worth it as a solo traveler. If you’re traveling with a partner or as a group you’ll still find this whole post really helpful since it’s for everyone – but as a solo traveler myself let’s first touch on if it’s worth it to go alone.
First, Pucon is really safe. You don’t need to worry at all there, beyond taking regular precautions you’d practice anywhere.
Second, there is a lot you can see and do as someone traveling on their own; there are plenty of tours and places you can catch a bus too.
Simultaneously though, there are also destinations where renting a car is necessary or it would be much simpler. And while it’s totally possible to rent a car on your own (driving is pretty standard here) it can be pricey unless you’re splitting the cost with someone.
This also goes for accommodation. If you’re not a hostel person, you will be paying U.S. prices for hotel rooms on your own.
Lastly, if you want to meet people it’s really easy to at Chili Kiwi Hostel. Otherwise, I’d propose you take tours and do group activities. There are so many in Pucón.
Overall, beyond budget concerns, I think Pucón is a really great place for solo travel and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.
WHERE IS Pucón?
Pucón is located in central/southern Chile in the Andes Mountain Region, resting right at the shore of Lake Villarrica. It’s about 800 km / 500 miles south of Santiago.
Below you can find Pucón on a map.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Pucón can be reached in three ways: by flying (although not directly), by bus or driving yourself.
If flying, the closest airport is Temuco (La Araucanía International Airport) which is about 1.5 hours drive away from Pucón. This means from Temuco you can either grab a rental car, take a bus to Pucón, or hire a private transfer. At the time I’m writing this, there are 3 buses in the early morning and one in the afternoon at about 1:00 PM costing $7-14 USD. You can check availability here on BusBud.
If flying, the closest airport is Temuco (La Araucanía International Airport) which is about 1.5 hours drive away from Pucón. This means from Temuco you can either grab a rental car, take a bus to Pucón, or hire a private transfer. At the time I’m writing this, there are 3 buses in the early morning and one in the afternoon at about 1:00 PM costing $7-14 USD.
HOW TO GET AROUND Pucón
The town itself is pretty small so you can walk to most inner city places within 15 minutes. However, most of Pucón’s charm lies outside of the city for which you’ll need alternate transportation.
Ideally, having a car is the best option so that you easily have the freedom to explore on your own time and go to more off the beaten track spots. If you have the budget or a travel partner to split the cost, then I definitely suggest looking into a rental car for some days. It’s really a game changer for many places that tours are not offered or if you prefer independent exploration.
However, it can be pricey for solo travelers or those on a tighter budget. In that case, many tours offer pick up and drop off transport for their activities. To some wilderness areas, there are also daily buses available. Below in the ‘Things To Do’ section I talk about transport options to each place mentioned.
Additionally, taxis and Ubers are also available, although if you intend to catch a ride back from somewhere make sure you have phone service and/or a driver’s number and some cash.
One of the easiest ways to ensure you have service is using an eSIM. My recommended international eSim is below.
Where to stay in Pucón
The best area to stay in Pucón is within the city center to be close to restaurants and tour agencies. However, if you have a car you could also look into more secluded areas outside of the town. There are many cabins which would offer a relaxing experience on their own.
My Picks
budget $
By far, Chili Kiwi Hostel is the most highly rated in Pucón for those on a budget. It’s clean, very social (family style not so much party style) and costs around $25 USD per night for a dorm bed. They also give the best prices when it comes to tours.
Standard $$
For standard pricing, Maki Hotel is not your standard hotel. It’s tastefully designed and the spaces are homey. Guests love this hotel for it’s comfort and cleanliness. Rooms also include a balcony.
Luxury $$$$
andBeyond boasts of celebrity treatment and tranquil environment. I have to say this is my dream hotel in Pucon. The price per night is hefty, but for those who can afford it, it includes all transfers, activities, etc. Stay here while in Pucón and your whole trip is planned for you.
THINGS TO DO in Pucón
1. Climb the Villarrica Volcano
This is probably the most staple, adventure activity to do in Pucón. Volcano Villarrica is the most active volcano in South America, last erupting in March 2015 (with ample warning – don’t worry). On a one day trek, you’re typically able to hike to the top not only to see panoramic views of surrounding volcanoes, but also peak into the crater lake inside*.
*When I visited Pucón, for whatever reason tour groups were only hiking to 300 meters short of the top. I’m not sure if this is because of weather or volcanic activity, it might change. Ask guides agencies if you’re concerned.
Tour needed?
Yes
Transport included?
Yes
Cost?
Around 90,000-100,000 CLP
Where to book?
At your hostel/hotel, with agencies in town, or online
How much time is needed?
Hiking up Volcano Villarrica is an entire day trip. You’ll leave early in the morning, and return at different times depending on your group. On average, it takes 4-6 hours to reach the top, a short time spent at the summit, and 2-3 hours to go down.
What to bring and wear?
Ask your tour guide for specifics, but typically warm layers, sunscreen and sunglasses. They should provide all the equipment though.
Suggested Tours:
2. Go hydrospeeding or rafting
If you’re looking for an exhilarating activity and don’t mind getting wet, this is for you.
Hydrospeed is basically bodyboarding down a river and supposedly one of the most fun things you can do in Pucón (sadly, I had to skip it because I was sick at the time). It’s offered in places like France and New Zealand, but there’s much better value for your money here. Pucón is also the only place in South America that offers this activity.
A little more tame, rafting is also a good option. Although, if you plan to travel the Carretera Austral in Patagonia, I suggest saving your rafting experience for Futaleufú.
Tour needed?
Yes
Transport included?
Yes
Cost?
Both Hydrospeed and rafting are around 35,000-40,000 CLP
Where to book?
At your hostel/hotel, with agencies in town, or online
WHAT TIME IS THE ACTIVITY AND HOW LONG IS IT?
Hydrospeed is typically offered at 3 different times on any given day: one in the morning, and two in the afternoon. You’re in the water for about an hour but the whole activity lasts about 2.5 hours.
Rafting typically is offered at two different times daily, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Like hydrospeed, you’re on the river for about an hour and the whole activity is around 2.5 hours.
Because both are a half day activity you could pair it with another activity that day if you’re short on time in Pucón.
What to bring and wear? What’s included?
You’ll need to wear a bathing suit, bring a towel and a change of warm clothes. The tour agencies will provide all the equipment such as any wetsuits, helmets, etc.
Suggested Tours:
3. Go Canyoning in Los Nevados
For adventure seekers searching for a mix of activities and a bit of exploration, you should try canyoning. On this tour you’ll rappel down waterfalls, zipline through volcanic canyons, and cliff jump into water holes.
Tour needed?
Yes
Transport included?
Yes
Cost:
Varies but typically is around 35,000 – 50,000 CLP
Where to book:
At your hostel/hotel, with agencies in town, or online
WHAT TIME IS THE ACTIVITY AND HOW LONG IS IT?
This is a half day activity where you can choose either in the morning or afternoon.
WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR? WHAT’S INCLUDED?
You’ll need to wear a bathing suit, bring a towel and a change of warm clothes. The tour agencies will provide all the equipment such as any wetsuits, helmets, etc.
Suggested Tours:
4. Kayak at Lago Villarrica
An affordable and really relaxing thing to do in Pucón is to rent yourself a kayak and explore Lago Villarrica. I recommend exploring around the peninsula, there are some private beaches there where you can dock to sunbathe and read. Bring some snacks and schedule to be on the water around sunset and you’v got yourself a wonderful day.
Tour needed?
Nope, you can explore on your own. You just need to rent a kayak.
Cost:
Renting a kayak costs around 7,000 – 10,000 CLP
Where to rent:
You can rent a kayak from Chili Kiwi Hostel if you’re staying there (recommended) or from Rivers Oceans & Lake.
5. Skydive next to Villarrica Volcano
If you’ve ever wanted to skydive, I highly recommend doing it in Pucón where you’ll witness the most incredible views. First, you’ll enjoy a 20 minute flight over the city, lake, forests, and right over Volcano Villarrica. You can actually look straight into the crater! Then you’ll drop from the plane, and experience the biggest adrenaline rush of your life.
Before doing it myself, I was terrified of free-falling but I took on the challenge and now it’s a core memory. I’d recommend it 100x over to anyone visiting Pucón.
Cost:
200,000 CLP without video, 220,000 with GoPro in your tandem partner’s hand (this is what I booked), 260,000 CLP with an additional skydiver across from you filming and 280,000 CLP for both.
Where to book:
Paracaidismo Skydive was incredibly professional while also being fun which is important when you’re so nervous. They also pick you up from your hotel and had world-class equipment with parachutes including emergency automatic releases. Plus, they took a ton of photos and videos which were ready to be airdropped to you within 20 minutes after.
To book with them go on their website or WhatsApp them here +56 9 7477 3763.
What to bring and wear?
You don’t need to bring much other than water and cash to pay (there’s a 5-10% fee when you pay with card). I had read to also bring a memory card for photos and videos but they just airdropped it all to my phone.
For clothes, I suggest wearing pants and sneakers. Perhaps a t-shirt and some added layers depending on how cold it is. Don’t wear a ton of jewelry.
6. Go horseback riding in the valley
To enjoy the countryside, I thoroughly encourage you to go horseback riding. This is a laid-back activity where you’ll ride your own horse, following a guide for a few hours along a trail. You don’t have to have experience riding, and the guides pair you with calm, friendly horses.
For me, this was one of my favorite experiences in Pucón and considering the price of other activities I feel it’s a really good value for your money.
Cost:
28,000 CLP for a 2 hour ride or 50,000 CLP for a 3 – 4 hour ride
Where to book:
I suggest Antilco Horseback Riding, I really enjoyed their hospitality and how they treated their horses. You can WhatsApp them to reserve +56 9 9713 9758 or book online.
If you’re staying at a hostel, you can also book there and they may provide transport to the activity (when I booked directly there was no transport included but I was given the number of others in my tour and they actually gave me a ride).
There’s also another place called Rancho Carhuello if there’s no availability.
Suggested Tour:
7. Explore waterfalls
With so many crazy activities to do, most tourists are not too focused on the waterfalls in Pucón (except for a small few). But as a waterfall enthusiast, I was so excited by the amount in this region. Most don’t involve much, if any, hiking trail but they can be more difficult to get to without a rental car. However, if you can swing it, I definitely recommend visiting at least one.
Salto del Claro
This one is often recommended to backpackers because you can actually hike there. Although it’s not much of a nature trail, more like a 2 hour walk, mostly on a backroad. The last 30 minutes are uphill though. Alternatively you can drive there.
Ojos del Caburgua
The most popular, and my least favorite of the waterfalls I visited. It’s very touristic and crowded with platform walkways. Although I think it could be a great place for families or those looking for accessibility. The entrance cost is 2000 CLP and you can drive or it may be possible to take the bus.
Salto La China
A beautiful 73 meter waterfall that you can actually zipline across. My friend and I visited here and had it all to ourselves. The entrance fee is 2000 CLP per person, and you do have to drive to get here.
Salto El Léon
Probably the most impressive waterfall in Pucón, I felt like I was in Brazil seeing it. For a truly unique experience, you can also soak in hot baths while watching the cascades. The entrance to only see the waterfall is 4000 CLP and with the hot baths it’s about 20,000 CLP. It’s also necessary to have a car to reach Salto El Léon.
Other waterfalls to visit: Salto Palguin, Salta Coilaco & Tres Saltos
8. Hike in Huerquehue National Park
In Mapuche, the language of the indigenous people in this region, Huerquehue means “place of messengers” because you can hear the forest speak to you. It’s about 12,500 acres an full of unique plant and animal species. Tourists especially love to see the Araucaria or Monkey Puzzle Trees.
There are many trails but two day hikes that are especially popular to travelers: the Lagos Route and San Sebastian Trail. The Lagos Route is about 8 miles / 13 km leading you through the forest past a small waterfall and 3 lakes: Lago Chico, Lago Toro, and Lago Verde. More challenging is the San Sebastian Trail which is nearly 9 miles / 14 km but has much more elevation gain. However, you’re rewarded with probably the best view in Pucón besides from Volcano Villarrica.
Wikilock, similar to AllTrails, is helpful to follow the trails. Here is the Lagos Route and here is the San Sebastian Trail
HOW TO GET TO HUERQUEHUE PARK:
If you have a rental car, driving is the easiest way. I caught a ride with a friend that I met. There is however, a bus as well which is convenient and affordable.
You can take the bus to Huerquehue National Park from the terminal in town with Buses Caburgua. It leaves at 8:30 AM and costs around 3600 CLP round trip. It returns to Pucón at either 14:10 or 17:10. Make sure to bring cash to pay.
Cost:
The entrance ticket to the park is 5000 CLP and you need to reserve online ahead of time at www.ASPTICKET.CL. Note that you reserve online but you pay in person at the park in cash.
What to bring and wear?
Dress accordingly to the weather, it can drift between chilly and warm so layers that you can takeoff are a good idea. Make sure to wear supportive hiking shoes and bring plenty of food and drink.
9. Relax by soaking in hot springs and thermal baths
After hiking and plunging yourself into cold water while rafting, it’s really nice to treat your body to some thermal baths. This is a really popular activity to do in Pucón as there are many hot springs where you’ll be surrounded by lush moss and greenery, maybe even a waterfall as you soak.
The most popular hot spring by far is Termas Geometricas. It’s picturesque and there are 17 pools, however it can become crowded. Still worth it though, and it’s a great option if you don’t have a car since many tours are offered to go there.
Some others are Los Pozones, Salto El Leon, Termas El Rincón, Termas Vergara, Termas Quimey Co, and Termas Coñaripe. I really recommend Salto El Léon, because the waterfall was just so impressive and to soak in a thermal bath while watching it flow would be so dreamy (they were closing the pools when I visited and I was sorely disappointed).
TOUR NEEDED:
Not if you have a car and can drive to the hot springs. Otherwise a tour is necessary.
SUGGESTED TOURS:
COST:
If you sign up for a tour, check if entrance fees are included. Otherwise if you go on your own, each pool will have an entrance fee which varies but is probably around 20,000 – 25,000 CLP.
WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR
A swimsuit, towel, warm clothes to change into and padlock for the lockers
10. Explore El Cañi Natural Reserve
A privately owned forest, El Cañi Natural Reserve is another beautiful place to explore and complete some challenging hikes. The most tempting to tourists is the hike to the mirador where you can view 3 surrounding volcanoes. This is one trail I regret not completing as it looks absolutely incredible.
Here is the trail I’m referring to on WikiLoc, which is like All Trails. This blog post is also very helpful as well as the reserve’s website.
HOW TO GET TO EL CAÑI NATURAL RESERVE:
If you have a rental car, driving is the easiest way. Otherwise you can take a bus there with Buses Caburgua or Pullman. It’s about 700 pesos each way with varying times, so you’ll need to go to the terminal beforehand to check time schedules.
Cost:
The entrance ticket to the reserve is 4000 CLP and you need to reserve online ahead of time at here . Note that you reserve online but you pay in person at the park in cash.
What to bring and wear?
Dress accordingly to the weather, it can drift between chilly and warm so layers that you can takeoff are a good idea. Make sure to wear supportive hiking shoes and bring plenty of food and drink.
11. Playa Blanca Caburgua
If you’re looking for a more tranquil beach than Playa Grande in Pucon, head to Playa Blanca. In Caburgua you’re also close to Ojos de Caburgua if you wanted to make a day out of it.
How to Get There:
You can drive here or take a bus with Buses Caburgua (opposite JAC buses and Uruguay st.). It used to be recommended to ride bikes here as a fun day trip, but the road is quite busy so if you choose to do this you should be very careful.
Cost:
There is no entrance cost.
12. Conguillío National Park
This magnificent park is absolutely stunning with some of the most picturesque views of Llaima Volcano. Additionally, the park is also known for its ancient Araucaria trees, crystal-clear lakes, and abundance of wildlife. There are many trails but the most popular is the Sierra Nevada Trek. Also check out Truful Truful waterfall.
How to Get There:
The first option is to rent a car and drive there from Pucón. Second, you could sign up for a tour which would include a knowledgeable guide. Lastly, you could take a bus to the town of Melipeuco, which is located near the park entrance, and then hire a taxi or take a shared transfer to the park.
If you decide to drive, and especially if you decide to take the bus, consider staying overnight in that area. The drive without stopping is about 2.5 hours.
Cost:
The entrance to the park is about 6000 CLP.
What to bring and wear?
Dress accordingly to the weather, it can drift between chilly and warm so layers that you can takeoff are a good idea. Make sure to wear supportive hiking shoes, bring plenty of food and drink and appropriate gear to camp if you plan to.
12. Relax at a Cabin
With all these activities to do, don’t forget to relax! Sometimes the best time is just spent sitting in a hammock or on the porch of a cabin and reading with a hot coffee. If this is your vibe, there are so many beautiful cabins or lodges in the Pucón region. Some that I found are below.
14. Explore Rio Turbio trails and waterfalls
This area is really close to Volcano Villarrica and so there are lava trails paved of molten rock, impressive waterfalls, and crystal blue water.
How to Get There:
The easiest option is to rent a car and drive to Río Turbio. The other option would be to take a taxi to and from the trailhead (since it’s not too far from the city center).
Cost:
The entrance is 3000 CLP.
15. Enjoy sunset at Playa Grande
The biggest beach in Pucón is Playa Grande (are you surprised?) and it almost perfectly faces the west making it a great sunset spot. Pack yourself some food and drinks, and you’re all set for a the best way to end your day.
16. Visit the Mapuche Community
Often overlooked are the Mapuche people, the original inhabitants of the La Araucanía region who have been there for thousands of years. To learn more about their culture, take a day tour to spend time with their community. You can speak with agencies in Pucón or learn more here.
Food & Drink
To cut down on costs , I honestly didn’t eat out too much in Pucón, but I did try a few places and here’s what I recommend:
Que llueva cafe
A really good coffee and a cute place to read on the couch
Puras Pavadas
Serves huge empanadas that are really tasty and hearty
Trawen
A delicious place for dinner with many options
El Camino
The best burgers in Pucón
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN Pucón?
In my opinion, you need at least 4 days to explore Pucón. However, adding in more days though is ideal with so much to do and if you also want time to relax. In that case, one week is perfect.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY 4-7 DAYS IN Pucón:
Below is a suggested itinerary. Depending on how many days you have in Pucón and what you’d like to do, you can mix and match the suggested days.
Day 1:
Hike Volcano Villarica
Day 2:
Walk through the city in the morning,
Head to some waterfalls (or if you don’t have a car just Salto Grande)
Kayaking at the lake in the late afternoon and for sunset
Day 3:
Hydrospeed or rafting in the morning
Horseback riding in the afternoon
Day 4:
Hike in Huerquehue National Park
Day 5:
Visit the Mapuche Community & go skydiving
Day 6:
Explore El Cañi Reserve
If you read my above list of things to do you’ll notice there’s not a full day of relaxation at a cabin, or a day for exploring Conguillío National Park. If you have more time consider adding those in.
Don't forget these items when you pack for pucon
A Quick Packing List
- Supportive hiking shoes
- A zip-up or pullover and sweater(s) that you can easily take off or add
- Jacket for cooler weather
- Re-useable water bottle (water is safe to drink in Pucon but cut back on your plastic use)
- Swim suit
- Pants for outdoor activities
- Waterproof camera for rafting and canyoning
- Day back pack
My Recommendations
OTHER TRAVEL INFO FOR Pucón:
Budget, Currency, Language
Currency & Best Way to Pay:
Chile uses Chilean pesos (CLP). You can pay at all restaurants usually with a card, however some tours will only accept cash or they add a 5-10% charge. Most parks entrances will only accept cash.
You can get cash out of an ATM and I recommend it over bringing cash and exchanging. However, if you need to do this there are two cambios in Pucón.
TYPICAL COSTS:
- Hostels and budget-friendly hotels can be found for around $20-40 USD per night.
- Meals at local restaurants can cost around $10-20 USD per person
- Activities and tours vary in price, but many can be found for around $50-100 USD per person
- Overall, a budget of around $70-80 USD per day should be sufficient for a comfortable stay in Pucón as a solo traveler – more if you spent more on accommodation and rent a car without splitting
To help budget your trip, I recommend using this page which is very helpful.
Language:
Chile’s native language is Spanish, and most people do not speak English except perhaps at hotels and in tour agencies. However, I recommend learning some basic Spanish phrases.
Don't forget to sign up for travel insurance
Make sure yourself and your belongings are covered in the unfortunate, but not impossible incidents or accidents that can happen while traveling. I’m never without my travel medical insurance as a digital nomad and for shorter trips when I want full coverage I use World Nomads.
*Disclosure: World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
If you need any additional information about Pucon let me know in the comments. Thanks for reading and enjoy your travels!
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