Ascent to Quetrupillán volcano 2370masl, from Pucón

Location: North Chile, Chile
Price: $160 per person
Duration: Approximately 13 hours (check available start times)
Rating: 5 stars
Supplier: Ermitaño Expediciones

A Quick Look at the Experience

If you’re craving a full-day adventure with breathtaking scenery and the chance to stand atop an inactive volcano, the Quetrupillán climb offers just that. Starting early from Pucón, this tour takes you through lush forests, across snow-dusted trails, and to a flat summit with 360° views. For around $160, you get transportation, expert guides, gear, and plenty of opportunities for authentic Chilean scenery.

Two things we really appreciate are the comprehensive gear provided—which makes the climb accessible—and the stunning views of Villarrica and Lanín volcanoes from the top. The chance to see a large glacier inside the crater during summer makes this trip especially memorable.

One potential consideration? The duration and physicality of the climb might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or limited hiking experience.

This tour works best for active travelers who love nature, panoramic vistas, and a touch of adventure, and who don’t mind a full day on the mountain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of Villarrica and Lanín volcanoes from the flat summit.
• Full gear and guide services included, making it accessible for many skill levels.
• Variety of seasonal sights: glaciers inside the crater in summer, snow-capped landscapes in winter.
• Experience guides speak multiple languages, ensuring clear communication.
• A full day of outdoor activity—perfect for those seeking an active, authentic experience.
• Moderate difficulty with about 5-6 hours of hiking, suitable for most healthy adults.

Why We Love This Trek

We loved the way this climb balances adventure with comfort. The inclusion of all necessary equipment, from crampons to helmets, means you don’t need to worry about packing or renting gear. This is especially handy if you’re unfamiliar with mountain equipment or want to keep your packing light. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

The views from the summit are truly something to remember. Imagine standing on a flat-topped volcano with a 360° panorama—snow-capped Villarrica to the south, the gigantic Lanín to the east, and the crater’s glacier just below. It’s a photographer’s dream, and the sense of achievement is genuinely rewarding.

Another highlight is the seasonal variation. In summer, the presence of melted ice lagoons and glaciers inside the crater adds a surreal element to the landscape. In winter, the snow-covered terrain and the fun of sledging down the slopes provide a different but equally memorable experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Gear Setup:
At 6:00 am, you’ll meet your guide at the agency in Pucón. Here, you’ll receive all the mountain equipment—including backpack, shoes, gaiters, helmet, ice axe, crampons, gloves, sunglasses, and over-clothing. Having all gear included is a major plus, especially if you’re new to mountain hiking or visiting from abroad, as it simplifies logistics and ensures safety.

Transport to Base:
By 6:30 am, the group departs Pucón, enjoying a scenic drive of about an hour to the volcano’s base. The journey itself is pleasant, giving you a chance to chat with guides or fellow travelers and to get your first glimpses of the rugged landscape.

Climb Begins:
Around 8 am, the ascent officially kicks off. The route winds through a lush forest, which beautifully contrasts with the snow and ice ahead. During the hike, guides share insights about the volcano’s geology and the local environment, enriching your understanding of this dormant giant.

Summit Reached:
Depending on the season, it might take 5 to 6 hours to reach the top. The climb involves some moderate effort but is considered medium difficulty, suitable for most active adults. We loved the way the trail varies from forested sections to open, snow-dusted slopes, making the hike both interesting and challenging.

Summit and Views:
At the summit, about 2:00 to 3:00 pm, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360° vistas. The flat terrain offers space for sightseeing and photography. You can gaze upon Villarrica, with its smoking crater, and Lanín, a towering volcano straddling Argentina and Chile. If you’re lucky, clear weather will give you postcard-perfect mountain views.

Descent and Sledging:
In winter, the guides will have sledges ready for sliding down the snow-covered slopes—adding an element of fun and speed. In summer, you’ll walk down a well-trodden route, often amid blue lagoons of melting ice. We enjoyed both aspects, appreciating the different feelings of gliding versus walking.

Return and Relaxation:
By around 5 pm, you’re back in the vehicle, heading to a local spot for a quick refreshment—beers, juice, or snacks. The day concludes around 7 pm with a sense of accomplishment and fresh mountain air.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

The pricing of $160 is quite reasonable given the comprehensive nature of the experience. It covers transportation, park entrance, guides, insurance, gear, and photos/videos, making it a transparent and convenient package. The inclusion of full equipment saves you the hassle and expense of sourcing gear independently, which can be costly or tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with mountain gear.

The guides are fluent in English, French, and Spanish, which helps ensure clear communication and safety throughout the day. They also excel at making the group feel comfortable and informed, regardless of experience level.

Adding to the value is the opportunity to disengage from daily life and connect with nature in a genuinely spectacular setting. Whether you’re captivated by the glacier inside the crater or the sweeping mountain vistas, this trip offers authentic scenic grandeur.

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The Experience Provider: Ermitaño Expediciones

This tour’s provider is known for their well-organized, customer-focused approach. The safety measures, including insurance and quality gear, are reassuring. The flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance and reserve with pay later adds ease, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience suits active travelers who want to combine physical activity with incredible scenery. It’s perfect for those comfortable with several hours of moderate hiking and eager to reach a mountain summit with sweeping views. The inclusivity of gear and guides makes it accessible for many, but those with mobility issues or very young children should consider the difficulty level.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic outdoor adventures, photo opportunities, and learning about volcanic landscapes, this tour should be on your bucket list. It’s an excellent way to see a less-visited volcano while enjoying the company of knowledgeable guides and fellow travelers.

The Sum Up

The ascent to Quetrupillán offers a rewarding blend of adventure, scenery, and culture. For around $160, you get a full day of activity in an unbeatable setting—complete with expert guides, all gear, and the thrill of standing atop a dormant volcano with panoramic views. Whether you’re summer or winter, the spectacular landscapes and the unique presence of a glacier inside the crater make this a worthwhile experience.

This tour is well-suited for those who seek an active, authentic experience in the Chilean wilderness. It’s perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to step away from the crowds and into the beauty of volcanic Chile. Just prepare for a full day of hiking, bring your camera, and be ready to enjoy some of the most impressive views the region has to offer.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This activity isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly due to the physical demands and safety considerations involved in mountain hiking.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and your own food and drinks. The tour provides all technical gear, but personal items for comfort and protection are advised.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup, transportation, park entrance, guides, insurance, all mountain gear, photos/videos, and snacks or drinks after the climb.

How long does the climb take?
The ascent typically lasts 5 to 6 hours, depending on the season and your pace. The total activity, including preparation and return, runs around 13 hours.

Is the activity accessible year-round?
Yes, but the scenery varies by season. Summer features glaciers and blue lagoons, while winter offers snow-covered landscapes and sledging fun.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

This comprehensive trek offers a chance to see a beautiful volcanic landscape and push your outdoor limits in a safe, guided environment. Whether you’re after postcard-worthy views, a taste of mountain adventure, or both, the Quetrupillán climb delivers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby