Pucon

Pucon sits on Lake Villarrica directly below Villarrica volcano, one of the most active in South America, with a lava lake in its crater that glows visibly at night in active periods - the volcano erupted in 2015 and the town was partly evacuated, and its alert level is watched constantly. That proximity is also the business: climbing the volcano, rafting the Trancura, canyoning, hot springs at Geometricas and elsewhere, and skiing on the cone in winter. The town is the most developed adventure base in Chile, with a main street of outfitters, and it fills completely in January and February.

What you actually see

• A town below an active volcano - with a visible lava lake in its crater.
• An eruption in 2015 - and partial evacuation of the town.
• Chile's adventure base - climbing, rafting, canyoning and hot springs.
• A street of outfitters - the town's whole economy.

When to go

December to March; June to September for skiing. Several days.

Honest expectations

Volcano climbs are cancelled when the alert level rises, and that happens. The town is packed and expensive in January and February. Operators vary a great deal in quality - checking guides and equipment matters. Rain is frequent.

Nearby

Huerquehue park is north-east; Villarrica and its lake are west.