Known for its innate wildness, the beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear waters, the Araucania and Lakes region of Chile embodies the spirit of the Andes mountains, balancing a resort-like vibe with an untouched naturalness. Lake Budi gets an inflow of sea water and is a central part of the Mapuche culture. Maintaining their traditions and customs, the Mapuche people happily welcome visitors who want to step back in time. For the more adventurous—this is part of the Andes Mountain Range after all—skiing is definitely on the agenda. Malalcahuello National Reserve and the Conguillío National Park offer some serious slopes.
The park is framed by mountains, lagoons and forests. The ultimate hiker’s paradise, it offers visitors several opportunities to check out the wildlife, flora and fauna. You might come across the Andean condor, or perhaps you’ll spot an indigenous alpaca.
One of the country’s most active volcanoes, Villarrica last erupted between December 2014 and June 2015. It is an extremely popular tourist destination. Guided hikes are available as are helicopter flights over top of the volcano.
The region certainly has plenty of breathtaking falls for visitors to enjoy. Salto El Leon is considered one of the more impressive to behold as it falls 92 meters. Directly nearby are also Salto Palguin as well as La China.
Araucanía and the Lakes Region experience winter from June to August. During this season, temperatures can drop, and higher elevations may even see snowfall. Winter is an excellent time for snow sports enthusiasts, as several ski resorts like Pucon and Villarrica offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The region's natural beauty, including the snow-capped volcanoes and frozen lakes, creates a picturesque winter wonderland.
Spring in Araucanía and the Lakes Region, from September to November, brings milder temperatures and a burst of colorful blossoms. The landscapes become vibrant with blooming flowers and lush vegetation, making it an ideal time for nature hikes and outdoor adventures. Spring is also a great time to visit the region's national parks, such as Conguillío National Park, to witness the awakening of nature.
The summer season in Araucanía and the Lakes Region, from December to February, is warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season when visitors flock to the region to enjoy its stunning lakes, including Lake Villarrica and Lake Llanquihue. It's a great time for water sports, fishing, and relaxing on the shores of the picturesque lakes.
Fall in Araucanía and the Lakes Region, from March to May, brings mild temperatures and a beautiful display of autumn foliage. The region's forests and landscapes are adorned with hues of red, orange, and gold. Fall is an excellent time for wine enthusiasts to explore the region's vineyards and taste some of Chile's finest wines.