Outings and excursions · Villarrica

Villarrica: the lakeside town and its Mapuche culture

Photos: Ralf Christian Gamper / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A waterfront facing the lake and the volcano, craft fairs and a Mapuche museum, a few kilometres from Pucón.

Photo: Ralf Christian Gamper, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Villarrica, on the shore of the lake of the same name and a few kilometres from Pucón, is a quiet town with superb views of Villarrica volcano and a strong Mapuche presence.

The waterfront

Almost 2 km of promenade beside the lake, with footpaths, cycle lanes and green areas. From here the lake and volcano appear in all their grandeur. Cultural events are added in summer.

The lake

You can swim, kayak, sail or water-ski, and take boat trips.

Mapuche culture

  • The Mapuche Craft Fair, next to the municipal library, with a ruca where Mapuche culture and traditions are explained.
  • Craft fairs and markets with wool textiles, Mapuche silverwork and wood carvings.
  • The Leandro Penchulef Museum, with Mapuche ceramics, textiles, jewellery and musical instruments.

Tips

  • A good, quieter base to explore Pucón and the nearby parks.
  • Museum and fair opening hours: check in advance.

Plan your trip

See alsoHotels and lodging in Villarrica

Outings in Villarrica

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Hotels and lodging in Villarrica

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