Conguillio National Park 307 km
Updated on 5 de January, 2026
Araucarias, volcanoes, and hot springs in the Araucanía
1 DAY
Discover the majesty of the Araucanía on an epic 307 km journey. From the prehistoric monkey puzzle forests and volcanic lagoons in Conguillío to the mystical Salto de la Princesa waterfall and the thermal waters of Malalcahuello. A trip designed to maximize contact with wild nature under the gaze of the Llaima and Lonquimay volcanoes.
DISTANCE
307 km
DAYS
1 Day
DESTINATIONS
LANDSCAPES
SEASON
ATTRACTIONS
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Volcanic Challenge: Araucarias, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs
Start your journey at 06:30 AM from Temuco to make the most of every minute of this 307 km circuit. Enter Conguillío National Park through the Melipeuco sector; it is mandatory to have your downloaded CONAF reservation ready. During the morning, hike the Sierra Nevada trail to admire ancient monkey puzzle trees and the silhouette of the Llaima Volcano reflected in the lake.
Driving requires extreme caution on the volcanic gravel stretches, so a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. After crossing toward the northern sector and spotting birds at Captrén Lagoon, exit the park toward Curacautín. On Route 181, stop at the iconic Salto de la Princesa, a 25-meter waterfall surrounded by native vegetation. Finish this marathon day by relaxing your muscles at the Malalcahuello Hot Springs under the shadow of the Lonquimay Volcano.
Consider that the return to Temuco takes two additional hours on paved roads. This itinerary is demanding and requires strict planning of fuel and schedules to avoid driving on rural trails after sunset.
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Volcanic Challenge: Araucarias, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs
Start your journey at 06:30 AM from Temuco to make the most of every minute of this 307 km circuit. Enter Conguillío National Park through the Melipeuco sector; it is mandatory to have your downloaded CONAF reservation ready. During the morning, hike the Sierra Nevada trail to admire ancient monkey puzzle trees and the silhouette of the Llaima Volcano reflected in the lake.
Driving requires extreme caution on the volcanic gravel stretches, so a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. After crossing toward the northern sector and spotting birds at Captrén Lagoon, exit the park toward Curacautín. On Route 181, stop at the iconic Salto de la Princesa, a 25-meter waterfall surrounded by native vegetation. Finish this marathon day by relaxing your muscles at the Malalcahuello Hot Springs under the shadow of the Lonquimay Volcano.
Consider that the return to Temuco takes two additional hours on paved roads. This itinerary is demanding and requires strict planning of fuel and schedules to avoid driving on rural trails after sunset.
What you should know
How to get there by air
La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO) in Freire, near Temuco, is the main entry point. It receives daily flights from Santiago (SCL). Upon landing, rent a vehicle directly at the airport to begin the circuit. No public transport covers this entire 307 km route in a single day, making a private car essential for this adventure.
How to get there by land
From Temuco, take the road toward Vilcún to enter via the Los Paraguas sector or through Melipeuco toward Truful-Truful. The 307 km circuit requires a vehicle in top condition, preferably 4×4 if traveling in spring, due to volcanic gravel roads. Plan your fuel carefully, as there are no gas stations inside the national park.
Climate and clothing
The mountain climate is unpredictable and cool, even in summer. Dress in layers with technical and waterproof clothing. Trekking shoes are vital for the trails. Do not forget a swimsuit for the end of the day at the Malalcahuello hot springs.
Must-Know Tips
Book your entry on the CONAF platform (Pase Ticket) in advance, as capacity is limited. Bring cash for tolls and local services. Download offline maps, as GPS signal is unstable in forested areas. Carry a flashlight, sunscreen, and enough water for hiking across the volcanic trails during this intense mountain journey.
