We'll start at our agency or pick you up at your accommodation to begin our adventure exploring the geological richness of the area. The first village we'll pass through is Curarrehue, which means “Stone Altar” and has been sculpted by the force of glaciers and erosion.
We'll continue our journey to Puesco, which means “water from the north.” Here, we'll have privileged views of the Peinetas rock formation, or Sierra Millallifen, a landmark created by the collision of tectonic plates.
Arrival at the Puesco sector of Villarrica National Park, at the foot of Lanín Volcano, or Awelñanko, as it is known locally. We set off from an altitude of 1,170 metres and cover 4.5 km to reach our first campsite at 2,300 metres (+1,130 metres of elevation gain) at a leisurely but steady pace. From there, we are surrounded by the imposing volcanoes Rukapillán, Quetrupillán, and Quinquilil, as well as the Las Peinetas rock formation and the border with Argentina, clearly marked by the change in vegetation. At sunset, we'll see the shadow of Lanín painting the horizon before enjoying dinner and mate with stories.
At 3:00 a.m., we'll start the final ascent, climbing 1,447 metres in elevation until we reach the sunrise at over 3,000 metres above sea level — an unforgettable moment. Between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., we'll reach the highest summit in La Araucanía, at 3,747 metres above sea level.
The descent takes us back to camp. We can usually slide down in the snow, which makes the descent very fun and fast. There, we rest, recover, and prepare our gear; then we continue to the base.
We wrap up the experience at the Puesco Brewery at the foot of the Peinetas or Sierra Millallifen and on the riverbank with a delicious dinner and a craft beer to celebrate the experience.
Then we'll start the return journey by vehicle and drop you off at your accommodation.