Things To Do
in Pucón
Pucón is a picturesque town located in the Araucanía Region of Chile, known for its stunning natural surroundings. The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports on the nearby Villarrica Lake. Visitors can also explore the lush forests and take in breathtaking views of the Villarrica volcano.
Pucón is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in Villarrica National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Villarrica Volcano and the lush surrounding forests.
Have a picnic lunch in the park while taking in the beautiful scenery. Continue your exploration with additional trails or relax by one of the glacial lakes.
Return to Pucón and enjoy a local dinner at one of the recommended restaurants. Finish your night with a walk along the lake shore at sunset.
Head out early to visit the stunning Ojos del Caburgua waterfalls. The vibrant blue waters and lush vegetation create a picturesque setting.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, then spend time swimming or lounging by the waterfalls. Capture some pictures of this hidden gem.
Return to Pucón and have dinner at a cozy café. Sample local cuisine and share your favorite moments of the day with friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with views of Villarrica Volcano and Lake Pucón.
- Variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot springs.
- Vibrant local culture with indigenous Mapuche influence.
- Pleasant climate, especially during the summer months.
- Access to diverse wildlife and natural parks.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak season.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Chile.
- Some areas may have variable internet connectivity.
- Tourist infrastructure can be lacking in certain months, affecting service availability.
Best Activities in Pucón
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails in the nearby Villarrica National Park and Huerquehue National Park.
Enthralling experience to summit the active Villarrica Volcano with breathtaking views.
Enjoy the adrenaline rush while navigating the Trancura River's rapids.
Ride through the stunning landscapes around Pucón, including the Caburgua Lake and Ojos del Caburgua.
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Termas Geométricas or Termas Los Pozones.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pucón with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pucón
Visit one of these nice places.
The majestic Villarrica Volcano offers stunning views and excellent photo opportunities, especially from the top after a challenging hike.
These beautiful waterfalls provide a picturesque setting and often make for great photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding lush vegetation.
The expansive Lake Villarrica, with its crystal-clear waters and the snow-capped Andes mountains in the background, offers some of the most breathtaking views and photo opportunities in Pucón.
Food in Pucón
Pucón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Mapuche dish featuring a mix of seafood, meat, potatoes, and vegetables, all slow-cooked in a hole in the ground lined with heated rocks. Donde El Chef is a popular restaurant in Pucón to savor this hearty dish.
Must-Try!
A savory pie made with ground beef, onions, chicken, olives, and a thick layer of creamy corn topping. Look for this comforting dish at La Maga or Brisas del Mar, two renowned eateries in Pucón.
Fried pastry made from a smooth squash-based dough, often served with pebre (a spicy salsa) or as a side dish with other meals. You can find excellent Sopaipillas at La Reina del Tamarugal, a local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pucón better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and traditional Chilean bread. Visitors can enjoy street food like empanadas and freshly squeezed juices.
A bustling street packed with food stalls dishing up local specialties such as ceviche, churrascos, and completos. Don't miss the opportunity to try the delectable choripán from the stalls lining this street.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pucón, it's important to show respect for the Mapuche indigenous culture, which is an integral part of the region's heritage. This includes being mindful of traditional customs, practices, and sacred sites.
When dining out or receiving other services in Pucón, it's customary to leave a tip of about 10% of the total bill. This shows appreciation for good service and is considered respectful.
In Chilean culture, it's polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Addressing others with formal titles such as 'Señor' (mister) or 'Señora' (missus) is also a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pucón with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pucón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Chile, including Pucón. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip (around 10%) for exceptional service at restaurants, cafes, and for tour guides.
In Pucón, Chile, cash is widely accepted, especially at smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas. It's always good to carry a mix of cash and cards for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pucón.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Pucón is during the summer when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming in the lakes, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. This is also the peak tourist season, so the town is bustling with energy and events.
Autumn in Pucón brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time for peaceful walks in the colorful forests and enjoying the stunning fall foliage. The town starts to transition into a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter in Pucón is perfect for snow sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities on the nearby slopes. The town takes on a cozy, charming atmosphere, and the views of the snow-capped mountains are simply breathtaking.
Spring brings Pucón back to life with blooming flowers and thawing landscapes. It's a wonderful time to witness the renewal of nature, go on scenic hikes, and participate in outdoor excursions before the peak summer season.
Pucón at Night
Hiking in Pucón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring diverse landscapes, lakes, and stunning mountain views, with several hiking trails of varying difficulty.
A popular hiking spot close to Pucón, offering a moderate hike with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and Volcano Villarrica.
A scenic trail that passes through lush forests and offers views of stunning lakes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for a day trek.
Home to the Villarrica volcano, this park offers multiple trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and the chance to see volcanic activity.
A lesser-known area with well-maintained trails, featuring ancient forests and unique ecosystems, ideal for a peaceful hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pucón through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pucón by plane.
The nearest major airport located approximately 120 km from Pucón, serving domestic flights primarily.
Located around 400 km north of Pucón, this airport offers a mix of domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 565 km to the south in Puerto Montt, this airport serves as a key hub for the southern region of Chile, with connections to international destinations.
Located approximately 780 km to the north in Santiago, this is the largest international airport in Chile, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Pucón, consisting of individuals of mixed Indigenous and European descent.
An Indigenous group native to the region, with a significant presence and cultural influence in Pucón.
Includes people of German, Italian, and other European ancestries, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.
People who identify as Chilean and are part of the broader national identity.
Visitors from other countries, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.
The Soul of Pucón
Discover the essence of Pucón through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pucón is known for its proximity to the Villarrica Volcano, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
The region's rivers, especially the Trancura River, offer thrilling white-water rafting experiences, attracting adventure enthusiasts.
With its stunning landscapes and proximity to national parks, hiking is a popular activity in and around Pucón, including trails to the Villarrica Volcano.
Pucón offers various mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced, making it a favored spot for cyclists.
The lakes and rivers around Pucón provide excellent opportunities for fishing, particularly for fly fishing enthusiasts.
The area's lakes, particularly Lake Villarrica, are popular for swimming and various water sports during the summer.
The mountainous terrain around Pucón provides an excellent backdrop for paragliding, allowing adventurers to experience the thrill of flying.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pucón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Pucón cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering dishes like quinoa salads, vegetable stir-fries, and hearty bean stews. Cafe de la P is highly recommended for their delightful vegetarian and vegan fare.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives such as corn-based empanadas, rice flour pastries, and cassava-based dishes at various dining establishments, including Miralejos Restaurant and El Fogón de Cañío.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pucón with these cultural adventures.
