Pucón is a small touristy town in the middle of the southern lake district in Chile. Extremely popular both with Chileans and foreigners for its night life and the beautiful views of Volcán Villarica. The city centre is a backpacker's Disneyland, filled with travel agencies that will offer you any kind of day trip imaginable. If you don't like it crowded, you'll be better off in the nearby town of Villarrica. January and February are the busiest months.

Around and closeby
Visit the Volcanic Caves at Villarica Volcano. Climbing to the top of the Volcán Villarrica is non-technical and, on clear days, easy. Thousand of people make the climb each year. Crampons, an ice-axe, trekking poles and warm windproof clothing is essential equipment year round. To be allowed to climb without a guide you officially need to register with Conaf, have your equipment checked and show proof of membership in a mountaineering organisation in your home country. But walking to the crater unauthorized is very straightforward and the recommended procedure for climbers who don't want to be part of a guided group. There are very few Conaf officials around and you'll not be noticed among the many others heading to the crater. The skiing area on Villarrica is open from May until the beginning of October. You can rent ski equipment in Pucón.

Sightseeing
From Pucón's centre there are stunning views of Volcán Villarrica, one of the most active volcanoes in Chile.

Getting there
Buses travel between Santiago and Pucón daily, many overnight. Tickets are scarce in summer, buy yours in time. Pucón's airport operates only during summer(for regular flights), with expensive flights from Santiago. The closest airport used for the rest of the year is Temuco, to which airlines do the flight in about one hour from Santiago or Puerto Montt. Temuco is about 1,5 hours away from Pucón by road.