Come and enjoy the sun, water, and culture in the Araucanía Region, a magical land that in summer becomes the perfect refuge for those seeking freshness and a deep connection with nature.
We offer you a list with summer plans that you cannot miss on your visit to this treasure of southern Chile, where turquoise lakes, shady forests, and unique cultural festivals await you.
5 unmissable plans in La Araucanía
1. Water sports in the Lake District
With the high temperatures of summer, lakes such as Villarrica, Caburgua, and Calafquén become the epicenter of activity. Meanwhile, the rivers of La Araucanía, such as the Trancura, provide plenty of adrenaline.
Going rafting on the Trancura River is a must. During the summer, the flow allows tours for both beginners (class II and III) and experts, always surrounded by the best view of the volcano. Activities such as rafting, kayaking, and hydrospeed are offered.
At Lake Caburgua, you can enjoy crystal-clear waters that reach very pleasant temperatures for swimming.
2. High-altitude trekking and bird watching
While in winter the parks are covered in white with dense blankets of snow, in summer the trekking routes are fully open. You won’t even need a guide to explore those of lesser difficulty.
Summer is the best time of year to hike the Sierra Nevada trail in Conguillío National Park, where you can see the contrast between the green of the araucarias and the intense blue of the Laguna Arcoíris.
We also recommend the El Cañi sanctuary, a private reserve near Pucón that offers one of the most challenging and beautiful hikes, with 360-degree views of all the volcanoes in the area.
3. Gastronomic routes full of tradition
Summer is the season of harvest and abundance in Araucanía.
In various locations such as Curacautín or Lonquimay, fairs are held where you can taste fresh preparations based on piñón (fruit of the araucaria), muday, and lamb on a spit.
The urban offer of Pucón, on the other hand, grows with outdoor terraces where the fusion of Mapuche cuisine with German pastries creates unique flavors.
4. The magic of the Lafkenche coast
Few know that Araucanía has impressive ocean beaches. Summer is the ideal time to explore Lake Budi, the only salt lake in South America.
You can also kayak among black-necked swans and enjoy the best marine gastronomy in the region in Puerto Saavedra, highlighting the famous choro maltón from Nehuentúe.
We also recommend experiencing sleeping in a ruca facing the sea and learning about the relationship between the Mapuche people and the ocean (Lafkenche).
5. Refreshing waterfalls and beaches
The melting of the summits feeds waterfalls that are at their peak visual splendor.
Waterfalls such as Marimán and places like Ojos del Caburgua, are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a cool respite from the midday heat.
Near Curacautín, you will find the Salto de la Princesa, a perfect place for a photographic picnic under the shade of coihue and oak forests.
