Tours and Activities:

Across the Mamuil Malal Pass towards Argentina

The Andean Patagonian forest shows its best side in this border area where height and the rainfall regime feed the wide range of tree species that make it up.

The tour along the international road towards Mamuil Malal can begin either in the city of Villarricafrom Pucón. This route, designated CH-199, is in itself an excellent journey to enjoy the ever-changing, almost untouched nature of the surrounding forest.

Upon leaving Pucón, we left behind the forks on the left of the road leading to the hot spring resorts and swim areas on Lake Caburgua. A picturesque way amidst natural wild vegetation starts there and borders the Trancura River here and there.

One particular feature about this area is the great deal of hot spring resorts that open their outdoorscreened pools and hot tubs to visitors amidst an almost unspoiled natural environment. The water, which has very good properties and temperatures to manage rest, comes from natural springs. At the San Luis, Menetúe,Huife hot spring resorts, for instance, visitors can stay, take baths, and go on hiking tours around the forest.

We continued our way to Catripulli, the next town on the road. There, a few wooden houses stood out among the green meadows, reflecting a rural way of life unfamiliar to many. Close to Curarrehue, we filled up our gasoline tanks and had lunch at a cozy restaurant serving homemade food. As we toured around its streets, we noticed there was some bustle, and even a tourist information office.

From Puesco onward, the road climbs toward the international border. Just before reaching that point, Lake Quillelhue appears, a mirror- body of water surrounded by mountains, where you can spot birds such as the black-necked swan and enjoy unique views of the Lanín Volcano. There, we paused for a moment and, from a nearby viewpoint, spotted a waterfall that drew us to stop and snap some photos, a lasting memory of our journey through that stunning landscape. 

Shortly afterwards, the Chilean border post required our documentation, and once we completed the proceedings, the milestones in both countries gave notice that we were leaving Chile to step on Argentinian soil. Just an imaginary line separates both nations, and a very quick and simple procedure, provided that the necessary documentation is presented. Then we followed the same routine on the Argentinian side.

At that moment, the Lanín Volcano dominated the landscape with its imposing presence, and once again, we got out of the car to walk around its base. We took some photos and, although we did not climb to its summit, we admired it in all its splendor.

A forest of ancient Araucaria is found within the Lanin National Park. The next leg was a very arid and rugged area, a different beauty that had crossed before.

We now had the chance to visit and tour around the Cities of Junín de los Andes and San Martín de los Andes, both of them great tourist attractions year round.

See also: Hotels in Villarrica and other accommodation venues