Chile • Araucanía Region
Welcome to Pucón
Adventure capital of Chile — where the volcano meets the lake, and every trail leads to wonder.
Welcome to Pucón
Pucón, located in the Araucanía Region of southern Chile, is renowned as a hub for both adventure and relaxation. Nestled by Lake Villarrica and shadowed by the active Villarrica Volcano, it offers visitors a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, national parks, and thermal springs.
The town provides an exceptional environment to unwind after a productive day of scientific sessions.
Visa Information
Obtain information about required documentation needed to travel to Chile.
Quick Facts
Time Zone
UTC−03:00 (Chile Summer Time)
December
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Credit/debit cards widely accepted
Languages
Spanish
Mapudungun also spoken
Avg. Temperature
21°C / 8°C (70°F / 46°F)
December average
Elevation
227 m (745 ft)
At the foot of Villarrica Volcano
Population
~28,000
Peak season swells significantly
Food in Pucón
Traditional dishes and dining spots to fuel your stay.
Traditional Chilean Food
Don't miss these regional specialties while you are in town.
Empanada de Pino
Baked pastry filled with beef, onion, olive, and hard-boiled egg. An efficient option for a quick lunch between conference sessions.
Asado Tradicional
Cuts of meat prepared over the grill or on the spit (often lamb or beef). Suggested for dinners or closing sessions of the conference.
Pastel de Choclo
Baked dish with a sweet corn (choclo) topping over a meat base with chicken, olive, and hard-boiled egg.
Pulmay
A traditional southern Chile stew, cooked in a pot, combining shellfish, pork, chicken, sausages, and potatoes. A high-calorie dish with generous portions.
Where to Eat
A selection of recommended restaurants in Pucón.
Sabor a Mar
Restaurant specializing in seafood and coastal Chilean cuisine.
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Criolla Pucón
Classic Chilean flavors with local identity.
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La Maga
Specializing in grilled cuts of meat and traditional asado.
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El Maderero
An establishment serving typical national cuisine.
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Café Berlin Pucón
Café and pastry shop representing the German colonist tradition.
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Chocolates Rucamalal
Artisanal chocolate production with tastings available for visitors.
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Those preferring something more casual can also explore Fresia and O'Higgins streets, where cafés, sandwich shops, and bars with craft beer are concentrated, all a short distance from the Campus.
Accommodation in Pucón
From hostels to executive hotels, find a place to stay within walking distance of the venue.
Hostels & Private Rooms
For attendees requiring essential services, Pucón offers central options with private or shared rooms.
Standard Hotels & Cabins
Options offering more privacy and acoustic isolation, aimed at professionals requiring rest and workspace.
Cabaña Central (Airbnb)
Independent cabin with basic equipment for two people.
700m · 10 min walk from venue
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Mid-RangeHotel Patagonia Pucón
Standard-category hotel establishment.
350m · 5 min walk from venue
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Mid-RangeHotel Pucón Indómito
Modern infrastructure with facilities oriented toward rest.
250m · 3 min walk from venue
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Executive Hotels
Establishments with comprehensive services that optimize logistics for researchers with limited time in the city.
Things to Do in Pucón
From volcano treks to thermal soaks, every day brings a new adventure in Pucón.
Termas de Huife
Open-air thermal pools in the middle of native forest, a little over half an hour from Pucón. Shuttle or transport can usually be arranged through an agency or your hotel.
Termas Los Pozones
Natural thermal pools set in native forest, around half an hour from town. A convenient option for those without a car or much time.
Ojos del Caburgua
Waterfalls and turquoise pools, 20 minutes by car outside Pucón. The main access requires only a short, flat walk to the first viewpoints.
Plaza de Armas
The historic heart of Pucón, right in front of the venue, with volcano views between the trees. Nearby Fresia and O'Higgins streets concentrate most shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Feria Artesanal
A market just steps from the center with Mapuche wood and wool crafts, souvenirs, and regional products. A short but highly recommended stop.
La Poza y la Costanera
Pucón's most emblematic lakeside promenade, free to enter, with direct views of the lake and volcano. It features a viewpoint, wooden sculptures, boat rides (including the "pirate ship" tour), the classic "Pucón" letters, and connects to the Costanera path toward Playa Grande.
Getting There
Pucón is easily accessible by road from major Chilean cities.
By Air
Fly to La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO) in Temuco, then drive 1.5 hours to Pucón.
By Bus
Direct buses from Santiago (10–12 hrs) and other cities arrive at Pucón's central terminal.
By Car
Take Route 5 south to Temuco, then Route 199-CH east. About 10 hours from Santiago.