Villarrica National Park encompasses the iconic Villarrica Volcano and surrounding ancient forests, covering over 63,000 hectares of pristine wilderness. The park is dominated by its namesake volcano, one of South America’s most active, whose persistent lava lake creates a mesmerizing glow visible at night. The park’s diverse landscapes range from temperate rainforests with towering coihue and lenga trees to alpine tundra at higher elevations.
The park offers exceptional recreational opportunities year-round, from challenging volcano summit climbs in summer to world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter. Natural hot springs dot the landscape, providing relaxing soaks with views of the smoking volcano. The park’s extensive trail network includes routes to hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and remote valleys where ancient Araucaria trees stand as silent witnesses to centuries of volcanic activity. Wildlife includes pumas, Darwin’s foxes, and the distinctive Magellanic woodpecker.