Andean Lakes Circuit
A daily trek connecting high-altitude lakes, native forests and volcanic landscapes beneath the imposing presence of Lanín Volcano.
Day hikeModerateAll year
Destination · Chile
Volcanoes, Lakes & Hot Springs in La Araucanía, Chile
Discover one of the most diverse adventure regions in the Chilean Andes, where active volcanoes rise above ancient forests, clear lakes and geothermal valleys.
Explore La Araucanía
La Araucanía is one of the best places in Chile to combine mountains, lakes, volcanoes and hot springs.
South-central Chile forms part of the volcanic arc of the Southern Andes. Across La Araucanía, great volcanoes rise above crystal-clear lakes and vast native forests, while rivers, waterfalls and geothermal waters reveal the intense geological activity beneath the mountains.
Summer brings long days for hiking through forests and mountains, with beautiful clear lakes that are perfect for swimming after a day on the trails. In winter, snow transforms the Andean landscape while hot springs offer something for every taste — from simple natural pools hidden in the forest to comfortable thermal resorts.
Autumn brings another transformation as Nothofagus forests turn shades of red, gold and ochre. In spring, melting snow feeds rivers and waterfalls, creating excellent conditions for exploring the mountains and activities such as rafting and hydrospeed.
Throughout the Andean valleys, geothermal waters emerge at the surface, creating one of the region's most distinctive experiences: spending the day exploring the mountains and ending it relaxing in naturally heated water.
The close proximity of volcanoes, lakes, forests, rivers and hot springs makes it possible to create remarkably varied itineraries without travelling great distances.
Best Treks in La Araucanía
La Araucanía offers some of the most diverse hiking in the Chilean Andes. Trails cross ancient Araucaria and Nothofagus forests, climb active volcanoes and reach high-altitude lakes, volcanic plateaus and remote mountain passes.
From spectacular day hikes to demanding multi-day traverses, these are some of the trekking experiences that best represent the region.
Sierra Nevada Viewpoint — Conguillío
A classic day hike through ancient Araucaria forests to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the lakes, volcanoes and dramatic landscapes of Conguillío National Park.
Day hikeModerateViewpoint
Sollipulli Volcano Ascent
A challenging ascent to one of southern Chile's most remarkable volcanic landscapes: the vast glacier-filled caldera of Sollipulli Volcano.
Day hikeChallengingUnique glacier view
Villarrica Volcano Ascent
Climb one of Chile's most iconic active volcanoes across snow and volcanic terrain, with extraordinary views over the lakes and volcanoes of northern Patagonia.
Full dayChallengingGuided ascent
Design Your Adventure in La Araucanía
The close proximity of volcanoes, lakes, forests, rivers and hot springs makes La Araucanía an exceptional place to build an adventure around your own interests and level of experience.
Combine trekking, volcano ascents and remote mountain landscapes with lakes, rivers and geothermal hot springs — and discover a different side of the Chilean Andes.
With AndeScape, you choose the adventure. We help make it possible.