Villarica and Pucón

I saw many hints along the way that Villarrica and Pucón would be a very popular summer resort. Just off the shore to Lake Villarrica, with high mountains and the impressive Villarrica volcano in the backyard, this is simply a paradise for those looking for adventure as well as relaxing on the beach. When I asked about accommodation in the area earlier on my trip, I could not believe what I was told!

Take the 4-wheeler around the water side
in Villarrica

While Villarrica is more of a quieter and smaller town, where you will find a lot of artesenal work from the area, various adventure agencies, and two museums, Pucón is really the centre of the resort with ample number of agencies, bars and accommodation.  Along the main street O´Higgins you will find everything you could possibly need, and Eltit offers good quality food for for a cheap buck (which otherwise is fairly expensive). 

Pucón renders more of a, perhaps German
European architecture with a soothing feel

Volcano Villarrica

When I arrived to Pucón, it was the last day of sun before a 5 day streak of rain. So I can´t really speak with my actions, but the few things you really should do before you leave this area are: #1 climb the volcano #2 Hourse back riding (visiting the Mapuche territory [the indigenous people from the area]) #3 River rafting! Furthermore, there is endless places to visit, hikes to do, lakes to see, hot springs to enjoy etc, and in the winter, why not go up the mountain for some skiing!

So really, there shouldn´t be a surprise, that almost all of Chile and Argentina pilgrim to Villarrica / Pucón, to enjoy the summer vacation months! I had a hard time to believe that a welcome committee with cardboard signs saying "Cabin / Lodge / Rooms available" as you turn into Villarrica from the west. True as you would expect, the prices are anything but cheap, but maybe more importantly, I couldn´t find anything fitting my budget as a lone traveller. 

I searched around at various hostals for anything under US$ 50, but alone it was very hard to find. But as I was about to leave yet another hostal, the receptionist told me to wait. After calling a friend of hers, I was offered a room in the home of a very hospital elderly couple. They provided both a homely environment and went great lengths to give me advice on what to do in the area and in La Patagonia for when I finally get there!  

I was able to climb the volcano, but just before the rain arrived to Pucón! It turned out to be quite an adventure!! 

Lake Villarrica