Araucanía Backcountry

Join us on an adventure through the heart of Chile’s Araucanía region, summiting some of its most iconic volcanic peaks that overlook sacred valleys. Traveling from north to south, we will explore prehistoric landscapes framed by majestic monkey puzzle tree forests, the true symbol of the region, and climb the slopes of active volcanoes that rise from deep within the earth. From high above, breathtaking views await, followed by an unforgettable ski descent down wide, open slopes.

Top Highlights:

Ski the four most iconic volcanoes of the Araucania region.
Enjoy volcanoes with easy vehicle access, skiing from start to finish, right to the car.
Descend two of Chile’s active volcanoes.
Explore the crater of Villarrica Volcano, one of the few open craters in the world.
Immerse yourself in local culture in the region’s iconic towns: Malalcahuello and Pucón.

Note: This tour does not include accommodation and meals, as both Malalcahuello and Pucón offer a wide range of lodging options that cater to various budgets. If you prefer us to arrange your accommodation, let us know, and we will gladly do so for an additional fee. If you need ski or splitboard equipment, let us know, and we can help you find a place to rent it. Finally, although this tour can be done in 5 days, we recommend our clients reserve 6 days to allow for an additional day of rest or to better accommodate unpredictable weather conditions.

This trip can include a pick-up and drop-off at Temuco Airport, a day prior to the first ascent.

You can also include Sierra Nevada Volcano (2,554 m) in Malalcahuello, or replace Llaima Volcano (3,127 m) with it for a less challenging day.

Expedition availability: July through October.
Difficulty level: Ski touring at an intermediate level. You must be competent in diverse terrains and snow conditions and must be able to link turns in steep terrain (up to 35 degrees) while maintaining control.
Duration: 6 days, operated from Pucón.

Itinerary

DAY 1

Lonquimay Volcano, 2,865 MASL

At 7:30 am, we will pick you up from your accommodation and begin the drive toward Lonquimay Volcano. Once we arrive, we will check and prepare all ski equipment before starting the ascent.

The climb involves 1,400 meters of elevation gain and takes approximately four hours to ascent. Lonquimay is an excellent volcano to begin our trip, thanks to its wide, open terrain that allows for a comfortable and confident backcountry experience. Along the way, you will enjoy expansive views of the surrounding Andes, including the striking Tolhuaca Volcano.

From the summit, you will ski down to the base, where the transport will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation to rest and prepare for the second day of backcountry skiing.

Elevation gain: 1,400 meters
Approximate duration of activity: 5-6 hours

DAY 2

Llaima Volcano, 3,127 MASL

At 6:00 am, we will set out for Llaima Volcano, our next ski objective. From the base at the small Araucarias Ski Resort, we will begin our ascent toward the summit. This will be a more demanding day, with a climb lasting approximately 5 to 6 hours, but the effort is rewarded at the highest point of Conguillío National Park. From there, we will enjoy sweeping views of the park’s lagoons and the ancient monkey puzzle trees that define this remarkable landscape.

The descent begins with an exciting stretch on 35-40-degree slopes, followed by more moderate terrain as we ski down to our waiting transport. You will then return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after a full day in the mountains.

Elevation gain: 2,000 meters
Approximate duration of activity: 7-8 hours

DAY 3

Rest day

Pucón is a mountain town and adventure tourism hub, offering everything you need for a well-deserved rest day. You can enjoy scenic walks along the shores of Lake Villarrica, unwind in one of the many nearby hot springs, and choose from numerous restaurants to experience the best of the local cuisine.

DAY 4

Sollipulli Volcano, 2,280 MASL

At 5:00 am, we will meet at your accommodation and begin the two-hour drive to the town of Melipeuco, heading toward our next ski objective: Sollipulli Volcano.

After arriving at Villarrica National Reserve, we will prepare our equipment and begin the ascent through native monkey puzzle tree forest. As we gain elevation, the summit comes into view and we reach the volcano’s northern slopes. The climb starts on gentle terrain before becoming steeper near the top, leading us to an impressive summit with panoramic views and a massive crater filled by an expansive glacier.

We will ski down along the same route, returning to the base where our transport will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation.

Elevation gain: 1,300 meters
Approximate duration of activity: 5 hours

DAY 5

Villarrica Volcano, 2,847 MASL

The adventure continues! At 6:30 am, we will drive about 30 minutes to the base of Villarrica Volcano. From there, we will begin a 1,600-meter ascent, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours. As we climb through the Pillán Ski Resort, we will enjoy continuous views of Lake Villarrica. At the summit, we may see gas and steam rising from the crater and, with some luck, even catch a glimpse of lava. The panoramic views also include Quetrupillán and Lanín volcanoes.

After taking in the scenery, we will ski down 35-degree slopes before transitioning onto gentler terrain that leads back to our transport, which will take you back to your accommodation in Pucón.

Elevation gain: 1,400 meters
Approximate duration of activity: 6 hours

DAY 6

Although this tour can be done in 5 days, we recommend our clients to reserve 6 days to allow for an additional day of rest or to better accommodate unpredictable weather conditions.

What should I bring?

Ski touring equipment or split board (including ski skins, ski crampons, poles, and boots)*
Backpack (30 liters – should be able to attach skis)
Helmet
Crampons for ski boots
Avalanche beacon
Water bottle (recommended: Nalgene 1L minimum)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

*While we can assist you with renting it, we highly recommend you bring your own gear.

Ski touring apparel