Ethnotourism in Chile Part 2
Junio 25, 2018

Ethnotourism in Chile Part 2

Located on the road that leads to Lake Caburga, approximately 14 kilometers from Pucón, in the IX region, the first thing we find when we arrive are red dirt trails, surrounded by native forests and the imposing Villarrica, Quetrupillán and Lanín volcanoes.

Crossing the bridge that crosses the Trancura River, actually two bridges. An old one made of wood that allows you to feel the force of the current of this water; or the second modern, concrete and firmer structure that provides beautiful postcards for unforgettable photographs; we arrived at the village of Quelhue, where the Mapuche tourism is lived. Here visitors can stay in rucas that are prepared especially for them, made with the same materials of these ancient dwellings, such as native straw, maqui wood and willow; and a bonfire in the center, where they can gather around the heat, food and good conversation.

Other activities are the game of palín, in which you share with the inhabitants of the area and also with other tourists. There are also trails to walk and bike rides through steep terrain and beautiful viewpoints to observe the surrounding landscape.

In this area we find in summer the traditional fair of Kui Kui, where you can enjoy handicrafts, gastronomy, music and typical Mapuche traditions. Another interesting place is Curarrehue, which is located in the Andean Araucanía area. Here we find a living museum in the Trawepeyum Intercultural Village, where you can share with the Mapuche community of the area, learn the stories of their origin, their traditions and also enjoy their particular cuisine with native elements such as pine nuts, mushrooms, herbs and tubers, as well as handicrafts with wool works and silver jewelry.

In the surrounding area is the city of Temuco, approximately 112 kilometers away. Nueva Imperial, located 35 kilometers from Temuco, also has a great Mapuche cultural heritage. Throughout the year you can visit craft fairs where you can buy local products made by them, handicrafts, typical food and learn about their customs.

Also in the Bío Bío region, going into the mountains in the valley of the Bío Bío and Queuco rivers, you can visit the Pehuenche communities of Pitril, Malla Malla, Butelelbún, Cauñicú and Trapa Trapa, which offer horseback riding through the wonderful virgin araucaria forest that exists in the area. Here there are camping areas, lodging options and the possibility of experiencing directly the customs and traditions of its inhabitants.

If you follow the road along the Bío Bío River, you can visit the communities of Quepuca, Ralco, Ralco Lepoy, El Avellano, Guayalí and El Barco, near the reservoir of the Pangue Hydroelectric Power Plant and the Ralco Hydroelectric Power Plant. The main activity here is kayaking. In the surrounding area you will find the Ralco National Reserve, a wonderful area of araucaria forests, with hiking trails and beautiful landscapes, such as the Laguna Mula and the Callaqui volcano. To reach this area you must take Route 5 South to the city of Los Angeles, until you reach kilometer 87 where the Villa Ralco is located. Ethnotourism is a different way of touring incredible natural areas, learning about ancient traditions and sustainable ways of life, where the communion between man and nature is maintained.

Relacionados