Villarrica National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located in the Araucanía region of Chile, Villarrica National Park is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to the iconic Villarrica Volcano, which offers stunning views and exciting hiking opportunities for visitors. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush forests, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.
One of the highlights of Villarrica National Park is the opportunity to hike to the summit of the Villarrica Volcano. The challenging yet rewarding trek takes visitors through a variety of terrain, from dense forests to rocky slopes, ultimately leading to the top of the volcano where they can take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, there are also plenty of shorter trails that wind through the park, offering glimpses of the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home.
In addition to its natural wonders, Villarrica National Park also offers a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The park's lakes and rivers provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating, while its meadows and valleys are perfect for picnicking and birdwatching. Camping is also a popular option for those who want to spend more time exploring the park and taking in its tranquil atmosphere.
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Villarrica National Park offers the chance to witness the stunning natural phenomenon of the Villarrica Volcano's eruptions. While this activity is not without its risks, it provides a rare opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close.
Araucanía
Villarrica National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Villarrica National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Villarrica Volcano, Quetrupillán, Mamuil Malal Pass. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Villarrica National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Villarrica National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Tinquilco Lake (Huerquehue National Park), Mocho-Choshuenco (Mocho-Choshuenco National Reserve), Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve (Neltume).
Best Time To Visit Villarrica National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Villarrica National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Puma, Mountain Lion, Cougar
The cougar, also known by names like puma, mountain lion, red tiger, and catamount, is a remarkable big cat native to the Americas. Scientifically known as Puma concolor, this majestic animal roams from the Canadian Yukon all the way down to the southern Andes in South...
Mammals
Coypu
The coypu, also known as the nutria, is a large, herbivorous rodent originally from South America. It was introduced to various continents by fur traders. These animals inhabit burrows near water bodies and primarily feed on river plant stems.
Mammals
Mouse Opossum, Monito Del Monte
The monito del monte, or Dromiciops gliroides, is a diminutive marsupial native to southwestern South America. It is the sole extant species in the ancient order Microbiotheria and the only representative of the superorder Australidelphia in the New World.
Mammals
Harris's hawk
The Harris's hawk, also known as the bay-winged or dusky hawk, is a captivating bird of prey found in the southwestern United States, Chile, central Argentina, and Brazil. What distinguishes these medium-large raptors is their unique behavior of hunting in packs, a...
Birds
Culpeo
The culpeo, also known as the zorro culpeo, Andean zorro, or Andean fox, is a fascinating species of fox native to South America. It is the continent's second-largest canid, trailing only the maned wolf. With its gray and reddish fur, white chin, reddish legs, and a...
Mammals
Araucanía