Chile Volcanoes

This is a sample itinerary that represents the general flow of the trip. There is a high concentration of objectives in this region, so we may alter our plan as we go based on the weather, snow conditions, or the group. Regardless, our goal is to explore as many volcanoes as we can during our time in Araucanía. Because these are day missions, it's completely reasonable to take a rest day if you feel the need at any point throughout the trip. 

 

Day 1 — ARRIVE in TEMUCO

Travel to Temuco, Chile (ZCO) typically takes 14-24 hours fro the US. Airport pickup and transfer to our hotel in the city. Meet the group, explore the city or relax for the rest of the day. Overnight in Temuco. 

 

Day 2 — LAGUNA DEL LAJA NATIONAL PARK

We drive north from Temuco to a refugio at the base of Volcán Antuco (9,774’ / 2979m), a stunningly beautiful perfect cinder cone that rises above a majestic lake in Laguna del Laja National Park. In the afternoon we head up for a warmup  tour to get our ski legs under us and make sure all of our gear is functioning properly. Overnight at a refugio. B, D

 

Day 3 — SKI VOLCÁN ANTUCO

Antuco  //  summit: 9,774’ / 2979m  |  vertical ascent: 5,100’ / 1554m

With a semi-alpine start we head up from the base of a small ski area on the northwest side of the mountain, gaining a broad shoulder that leads to the final summit pitches. Unparalleled summit views are followed by a huge descent. Hang out by the lake in the afternoon. Overnight at the refugio. B, D

 

Day 4 — MALALCAHUELLO

In the morning we drive four hours south to the beautiful village of Malalcahuello. Options for afternoon activities include skiing at the local ski area, Corralco (a training site for the US Ski Team), visiting the local termas (hot springs), or exploring the village. We settle into our accommodations at a beautiful ranch run by our local outfitter, Sergio. Overnight in Malalcahuello. B, D

 

Day 5 — SKI VOLCÁN LLAIMA or SIERRA NEVADA

Llaima  //  summit: 10,630' / 3,240m  |  vertical ascent: 6000'

Sierra Nevada  //  summit: 8,379' / 2554m  |  vertical ascent: 3800-4600' / 1158-1402m

These two mountains make up Conguillio National Park, and we’ll chose the best objective based on weather and snow conditions, as well as the snow line elevation (affects how close we can drive to the different approaches). Both are amazing descents and longer missions - expect a big, rewarding day in the mountains. Interesting fact: Llaima last erupted in 2009. Overnight in Malalcahuello. B, D

 

Day 6 — SKI VOLCÁN LONQUIMAY

Lonquimay  //  summit: 9,400' / 2,865m  |  vertical ascent: 4600' / 1402m

We start from the base of the Corralco ski area. Depending on energy levels, we have the option of going human-powered the whole way, or using the lifts to access the upper mountain. The final 1500’ ascends an aesthetic arete to the summit. Lonquimay has a classic crater at the top that can be explored on a nice weather day. B, D

 

Day 7 — SKI VOLCÁN VILLARRICA

Villarrica  //  summit: 9,380’ / 2,860m  |  vertical ascent: 4700’ / 1433m

First thing in the morning we drive south to Villarrica; the most popular volcano in this region and one of the most active. Another classic cone, it towers above the tourist town of Pucon and Lago Villarrica. Pucon is a hub for outdoor activities in this region, with great restaurants, souvenir shopping, and termas (hot springs) a short drive away. B, D

 

Day 8 – SKI VOLCÁN QUETRAPILLÁN

Quetrapillán  //  summit: 7,740' / 2,360m  |  vertical ascent: 4400’ / 1341m

A short drive from Pucon, Quetrapillán sits between the Villarrica and Lanin volcanoes. In some translations it means "blunted" – looking like one of those perfect cinder cones had the top removed. 

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Day 9 – RETURN TO TEMUCO

In the morning we return to La Araucanía International Airport for outbound flights.