Lonquimay Volcano

Rising dramatically from the Araucanía Andes, Lonquimay Volcano is a stunning stratovolcano that rewards adventurous travellers with raw volcanic landscapes, ancient araucaria forests, and sweeping views across Chile's Lake District. The perfectly conical peak, often dusted with snow, stands at 2,865 metres and offers one of the most accessible high-altitude experiences in the region. Whether you're here to hike the crater rim, ski its slopes in winter, or simply soak in the otherworldly scenery, Lonquimay feels wild, remote and utterly captivating.

Highlights & What to See

• Crater ascent – A challenging but rewarding hike to the summit crater (2–3 hours up) reveals steaming fumaroles and panoramic views of the Llaima, Tolhuaca and Sierra Nevada volcanoes.
• Araucaria Monkey Puzzle Trees – The lower slopes are cloaked in ancient araucaria forests, their bizarre, scaly branches creating a prehistoric atmosphere unique to this part of Chile.
• Corralco Ski & Mountain Resort – In winter (June–October), Corralco offers excellent powder skiing and snowboarding with uncrowded slopes and a lively base lodge.
• Lonquimay Lagoon – A serene turquoise lake at the volcano's base, perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment surrounded by volcanic peaks.
• Thermal springs – Soak in natural hot springs near the town of Malalcahuello, a blissful reward after a day of hiking.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to explore Lonquimay Volcano. Most visitors base themselves in the nearby town of Malalcahuello (20 minutes away) and spend the morning hiking to the crater, followed by an afternoon exploring the araucaria forests or relaxing in the hot springs. If you're skiing, plan for two to three days to fully enjoy Corralco's slopes. The best hiking season is December to March when the weather is stable and trails are clear of snow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Malalcahuello – A charming mountain town with cosy lodges, good restaurants and access to the hot springs and national reserve.
• Conguillío National Park – Home to the Llaima Volcano and spectacular araucaria forests, just an hour south – a must for nature lovers.
• Tolhuaca Volcano – A less-visited but equally dramatic volcanic peak with excellent hiking and hot springs.
• Curacautín – A historic railway town with a laid-back vibe and gateway to the region's thermal baths and waterfalls.
• Temuco – The regional capital (2 hours west) offers good transport links, a vibrant market and Mapuche cultural experiences.

Please check official sources for current details.