Parque Huerquehue

Unless Pucón is your destination because you intend to climb the volcano, Parque Huerquehue is by far the best attraction in the vicinity. In a park consisting of 12,500 hectares of native forest, a spectacular views awaits those willing to endure a moderately strenuous hike, including an incredible waterfall, three lakes, and finally, at its peak, snow (even in the summer, under normal conditions).

The highlight of the park is the native monkey puzzle (Araucaria) forests. The park is enjoyable all year round, although the hotter months (December – March) are advantageous to those who wish to swim in the crystal clear waters of its lakes.

Transportation to Parque Huerquehue can be found in Pucón by microbus every morning for a very modest fee.

Santiago, Chile

Santiago is the capital of Chile, and is also the largest city in Chile, with a population of around 6.2 million people. Santiago was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, the Spanish conquistador who founded Chile.

Santiago is now a modern metropolis, and is one of the most important financial centers in Latin America. It is also home to La Moneda presidential palace.

La Moneda

Metropolitan Cathedral

Santiago is a culturally diverse city, with inhabitants from all over the world. It is a good place to visit if you are looking for other English speaking people living in Chile. There are restaurants of all types of foods, and all price ranges.

The easiest method of transportation in Santiago is to use the subway. Due to recent changes in the mass transit system, it can be very crowded at times. But it is much easier to use than the bus system, although the buses may be necessary if the Subway doesn't take you to your destination.

Most people that visit Chile also visit Santiago, partly because it is the location of the international airport, but mostly because of all that it has to offer. Of course, if your reasons for coming to Chile are to get away from the fast pace of modern life and enjoy untouched natural areas, it is best to head south as soon as you arrive.