Villarrica Volcano Summit Clim

Villarrica is renowned as one of the most active volcanoes in Chile. However, reaching the vicinity of its crater is only possible when specific conditions allow it and always under strict safety measures. This is one of the main adventure outings of tourist agencies in both Villarrica and Pucón, all of them with certified guides and the required official permits. Because the volcanic alert level is sometimes kept at yellow, access to the crater´s edge may be restricted, so each excursion depends on the conditions in effect at the time.

Eager to test our strength and be part of a group activity, we committed to a mountain climb we will never forget. Before the walk, our expert guides explained the type of ascent we would face and made sure we were physically fit. Early in the morning of the agreed day, after trying on the equipment, a transfer left us at the foot of the volcano. The weather was good, and the whole group felt optimistic and ready to face the challenge.

The warden at Villarrica National Park gave us a really interesting talk about the characteristics of the reserve. We left his office and went straight to the chair lifts that would take us to the starting point of our ascent.

We practiced with the piolets and the crampons attached to our boots for a few minutes, and we could feel the adrenaline rush as we made the final adjustments to our backpacks. After applying sunscreen to our faces and making sure we were all ready, off we went!

Mountaineering techniques began at an altitude of 1,900 meters MSL as we zig-zagged in Indian file. The height tested our fitness and resistance, and naturally, some of us had more difficulty than others. We walked on, using the strength of our legs, but especially thanks to our willpower, which always determines our behavior. A few stops enabled us to take a break, adjust our gear, and above all bond with the other members of the group.

We walked on for two hours, almost in complete silence, gauging every step to minimize effort. When we reached a height of 2,200 meters MSL, it was time to have lunch. Clouds covered the area, but we hoped it would be clear at the summit. We caught sight of LLaima and Lonquimay Volcanoes as we neared the last and most difficult stretch of the climb, a real test to our strength and pride. Our guides constantly supported and encouraged us.

A Challenging Ending

Overcoming steep, rugged terrain covered in volcanic rocks and the increasingly strong stench of sulfur, we reached the crater. We were overwhelmed by mixed feelings: exhaustion, the crater and its ever-present fumaroles, but above all, the realization that we were standing on such an enormous mass of magma.

We had met the challenge, and that was the greatest pleasure for every one of us. Before descending, we walked around the crater to marvel at the panoramic view. Lanin, Tronador, and Osorno Volcanoes, as well as Lakes Calafquen, Panguipulli, and Pellaifa, lay before our eyes. Unfortunately, the wind and the sulfurous gas sped up our descent, but not before we had a chance to celebrate our achievement: the summit of Villarrica Volcano.