Explore Chile's most active volcano with guided ascents that take you to the edge of its crater. Choose from challenging full-day climbs equipped with professional mountain gear or lighter hiking and walking tours around Pucón.
Free Cancellation Climb South America’s most active volcano with expert guide Richard Diaz and professional mountaineering equipment.
Free Cancellation Summit Chile's most active volcano to see its open crater and slide down the snowy slopes on a sled.
Free Cancellation Summit an active volcano using technical gear for panoramic lake views and a thrilling snow-slide descent.
Free Cancellation Reach a summit with panoramic views of Pucón, Lake Villarrica, and the Caburgua and Calafquén lakes.
Free Cancellation Experience Chile’s most iconic sights on high-energy tours led by a team with over seven years of local expertise.
Free Cancellation Summit South America’s most active volcano to witness a rare lava lake and slide down snowy slopes on the descent.
Free Cancellation Reach the 2,847m summit of Villarrica to witness a bubbling lava crater and stunning views of the Chilean Andes.
Free Cancellation Explore Villarrica’s historic streets and local culture on a guided walking tour focused on history and art.
Free Cancellation Explore Pucón’s forests and volcanoes with a local guide before relaxing at a neighborhood craft brewery.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Villarrica Volcano — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Climbing Villarrica Volcano is a demanding but highly rewarding adventure that takes you to the summit of South America's most active volcano. You will navigate steep, snow-covered terrain using crampons and ice axes, ultimately reaching a smoking crater with panoramic views of the Chilean Lake District.
Stand at the edge of a 200-meter-wide crater emitting sulfurous fumaroles. Depending on the day's volcanic activity and gas levels, you might even catch a glimpse of the glowing lava lake.
Navigate the upper slopes of the volcano, which are covered by a permanent 40-square-kilometer glacier. Guides will teach you how to safely use crampons and an ice axe for the ascent.
Instead of hiking all the way down, many tours offer a thrilling descent where you slide down the snowy slopes on small plastic sleds, using your ice axe as a brake.
Before the hike begins, tour operators outfit you with specialized mountaineering gear. This includes windbreakers, waterproof pants, boots, helmets, and even gas masks for the summit.
From the 2,847-meter summit, enjoy unobstructed views of Lake Villarrica, lush national parks, and up to seven other surrounding volcanoes in the region.
Preparing for a Villarrica climb requires understanding the physical demands and logistical details. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot on a tour.
The vast majority of tours are full-day guided group ascents lasting 8 to 9 hours. There are also lower-intensity options like guided walks through the volcanic caves or relaxed nature hikes that include craft beer tastings.
The summit hike is strenuous, featuring a 1,400-meter elevation gain over steep snow and loose rock. It is not recommended for anyone with poor cardiovascular health, spinal injuries, or pregnant travelers.
Standard summit tours include round-trip transport from Pucón, certified bilingual guides, and all technical gear (crampons, ice axes, helmets, boots, and clothing layers). National park entrance fees are also typically covered.
At the base of the volcano, the Juncalillo chairlift can save you about 1.5 hours of hiking through loose volcanic ash. This usually costs an extra 17,000 to 20,000 CLP and is not included in the base tour price.
Tours are highly dependent on weather and volcanic alert levels set by SERNAGEOMIN. If conditions become unsafe, guides will turn the group around. Most operators offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Due to the extreme nature of the climb, most tour operators enforce a strict minimum age of 18 for the summit ascent. Families with children should opt for lower-elevation hikes or the volcanic caves.
You must bring your own food and water—at least 2 to 3 liters per person. High-quality sunglasses and sunscreen are mandatory due to intense glacier glare. Jeans are strictly prohibited as they retain moisture and freeze.
| Full-Day Summit Ascent | Volcano Hiking & Craft Beer | Villarrica City Walking Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8-9 hours | 10 hours | 1.5 hours |
| Best for | Fit adventurers & thrill-seekers | Nature lovers wanting a relaxed pace | History buffs & non-hikers |
| Includes | Technical gear, guide, transport, park fees | Guide, transport, snacks | Local guide, historical insights |
| Price from | ~$190 USD | ~$280 USD | ~$40 USD |
Villarrica National Park Hours: The park is generally open from 08:30 to 17:30, Tuesday through Sunday. The last permitted entry is at 16:00.
Tour Timings: Keep in mind that full-day summit tours start very early. Tour operators typically pick you up from your accommodation in Pucón between 06:00 and 07:00 to ensure you have enough daylight to complete the 7 to 9-hour round trip.
Unexpected Closures: Hours can change without prior notice due to sudden shifts in weather or volcanic alert levels issued by SERNAGEOMIN.
Villarrica Volcano is located roughly 19 kilometers from the town center of Pucón, which serves as the primary basecamp for visitors.
For Summit Climbs: The ideal time to hike Villarrica is during the Chilean summer, from December to March. During these months, the weather is more stable, the skies are generally clear for panoramic views, and the risk of extreme cold is lower.
For Skiing: If you want to ski or snowboard on an active volcano, visit between June and August. The Pillán Ski Resort operates on the lower flanks. However, these are the worst months for summit hikes due to heavy snow, rain, and frequent route closures.
Mobility Restrictions: The Villarrica Volcano climb is not wheelchair accessible. The terrain consists of steep, loose volcanic rock, deep snow, and glacial ice. It requires a high level of physical fitness and mobility.
Health Warnings: The hike is not recommended for elderly visitors, pregnant travelers, or anyone with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. The 1,400-meter elevation gain and thin air near the 2,847-meter summit are physically taxing.
Base Access: Visitors with limited mobility can access the Pillán Ski Center at the base via paved and gravel roads to enjoy views of the volcano without hiking.
On the Mountain: There are absolutely no facilities, restrooms, or water stations on the volcano trails. You must pack out all your trash and bring everything you need for the day.
At the Base: The Pillán Ski Center at the start of the hike has basic facilities, including restrooms and a small cafeteria, though operating hours can be inconsistent outside of ski season.
What to Pack: Because there is nowhere to buy supplies on the trail, you must bring a minimum of 2 to 3 liters of water per person, along with high-energy snacks or a packed lunch.
Permits & Guides: A mandatory permit from CONAF is required to climb. For non-professionals, this is strictly handled by hiring a certified mountain guide. You cannot hike to the summit independently unless you have specific mountaineering certifications.
Yes. Unless you are a certified professional mountaineer with prior approval from CONAF, you must hire a certified local guide to attempt the summit climb.
No, seeing lava is not guaranteed. The visibility of the lava lake is intermittent and depends heavily on the current volcanic activity, magma levels, and the amount of gas or smoke in the crater on that specific day.
No. Guided tours provide all the necessary technical gear, including crampons, ice axes, helmets, waterproof outer layers, boots, and gas masks for the summit.
The hike is very strenuous. You will gain about 1,400 meters in elevation over 7 to 9 hours, navigating steep snow, ice, and loose volcanic rock. A moderate to high level of physical fitness is required.
Safety is the top priority. If high winds, poor visibility, or increased volcanic activity occur, guides will turn the group around before reaching the summit. Most operators offer refunds or rescheduling if the tour is canceled before starting.
Usually, no. The Juncalillo chairlift, which saves about 1.5 hours of hiking at the start, costs an additional 17,000 to 20,000 CLP and must be paid for separately in cash.
No. Most tour operators enforce a strict minimum age of 18 for the summit climb due to the physical demands and safety risks. Older children can participate in lower-elevation hikes or visit the volcanic caves instead.
You should wear moisture-wicking base layers and comfortable hiking clothes. Jeans are strictly prohibited because they freeze when wet. The tour company will provide the waterproof outer layers and boots.
There are no bathrooms or facilities on the mountain itself. You can use the restrooms at the ski center at the base before the hike begins.
Depending on snow conditions, the descent usually involves 'volcano sledding.' Guides provide small plastic sleds, and you slide down the snowy slopes using your ice axe as a brake, which is much faster and easier on the knees than walking.
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Join Richard Diaz and the TerraVolcan team to climb Villarrica, South America’s most active volcano. Richard has 11 years of experience guiding this terrain and leads each group with a focus on safety and a steady pace. The agency provides all necessary technical gear for the ascent, including specialized boots, clothing, helmets, piolets, and gas masks. Access to the summit depends on current volcanic activity levels. If the crater is restricted for safety reasons, the itinerary shifts to an extended trek toward an ancient glacier. This alternative route explores the volcano's surroundings, including glacial cracks and ice caves. Every tour is designed to provide a technical mountain experience while adhering to local safety regulations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Villarrica is Chile’s most active volcano, known for its open crater and constant gas emissions. Depending on the day's activity, it is often possible to see magma inside the vent. The climb reaches an elevation of 2,847 meters and is suitable for both first-time hikers and experienced mountaineers. From the summit, you have a clear view of several surrounding lakes and volcanoes. When there is snow on the mountain, the descent is done by sliding down on small sleds. This allows you to cover much of the return trip while sitting, a practice specific to this climb. Access to the crater rim is currently permitted for guided groups.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This trek takes you to the summit of one of South America’s most active volcanoes. Led by specialized guides, you’ll use professional mountain equipment—including crampons and ice axes—to navigate the rugged terrain. The climb takes approximately five hours, rewarding you with expansive views of the surrounding lakes and volcanic landscape. During the ascent, you will cross an active glacier before reaching the top. The return journey includes a descent where you can slide down the snow-covered slopes. All technical gear is provided to ensure a safe experience through this unique geological environment.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, French, Spanish
This trek takes you through the natural landscapes of southern Chile to reach a high vantage point overlooking the Lake District. As you ascend toward the summit, the terrain offers a clear perspective of the region's geography and volcanic surroundings. Once at the top, you will have an unobstructed view of Pucón and the town of Villarrica. The panorama includes three major bodies of water: Lake Villarrica, Lake Caburgua, and Lake Calafquén, providing a comprehensive look at the scale of the valley and its interconnected lake system from above.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Turismo Paixão for Chile—also known as Turismo Pasión for Chile—has spent over seven years guiding local and international travelers through the country's most famous destinations. Our approach focuses on creating an energetic and engaging environment, ensuring that every trip is both informative and entertaining. We specialize in immersive itineraries that capture the intensity of the Chilean landscape. Our commitment to quality is backed by years of positive evaluations from our guests, with a strong reputation for excellence on Tripadvisor.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, Spanish
Villarrica is South America’s most active volcano and one of only seven in the world where visitors can look directly into a crater containing a permanent lava lake. This guided trek leads you to the summit, offering a steady climb accessible to anyone with a moderate level of physical fitness. As you ascend, you will have panoramic views of the surrounding lake district and the Andes mountain range. Once you reach the top and observe the volcanic activity from the crater's edge, the return journey begins. To get back down, you will use groomed snow slides to navigate the mountain's slopes. This descent provides a fast and practical way to reach the base while offering a final perspective of the volcanic landscape.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Located 20 km from Pucón, Villarrica is one of the most active volcanoes in the Andes. The ascent to the 2,847-meter summit requires navigating varied mountain terrain and crossing a glacier using crampons. Throughout the climb, you will learn essential mountaineering techniques under the guidance of the Baum team, where the primary focus is on technical safety and proper equipment use. At the summit, you can look directly into the open crater to see active lava and volcanic activity. The high-altitude vantage point also offers panoramic views of the surrounding Araucanía region, including neighboring volcanoes, native forests, and glacial lakes. This trek is designed for those looking to reach one of Chile's most famous peaks through a structured and safe mountain expedition.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Walk through the center of Villarrica with a local guide who knows the city’s history firsthand. This tour moves through the historic cobblestone streets, focusing on the architecture and landmarks that have shaped the town over the years. You will learn about the local traditions and the events that define the area's identity. The route highlights Villarrica’s artistic heritage and cultural milestones. Instead of a standard sightseeing loop, the guide shares specific stories and insights into how the city has changed, giving you a clear sense of its past and present.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This trek through the landscapes of Pucón focuses on the region's natural history rather than just physical exertion. Led by a local guide, you will walk through volcanic fields and native forests while learning about the area’s unique geology and water systems. The pace is kept relaxed to allow for questions and a better understanding of the local environment. The day concludes at a craft brewery in town. This time is flexible, allowing you to choose your own food and drinks while soaking in the local atmosphere. It provides a simple way to transition from the trails back to the city, combining a day of outdoor education with a casual social setting.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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