Four volcanoes in Chile: The best time to visit them

This volcanic wealth offers multiple destinations for adventure tourism in Chile. In this context, one of the key aspects to plan a visit is to choose the best time to visit the volcanoes in Chile. The season will depend on the type of experience desired, whether it is ascending to the crater, trekking around the volcano, skiing, enjoying viewpoints or exploring the geographical area.

In the blog you will find valuable information to consider, from the best time to visit a volcano in Chile and which are the most explored by tourists. Let's get to it!

What is the ideal time of year?

There are several factors to consider when visiting a volcano in Chile. These vary between climate, volcanic activity and accessibility to tourist services, in case you need them.

Climate and seasons: In the south of Chile, where many emblematic volcanoes are located , summer runs from December to March and offers better access, clearer routes and longer days. October and November are also recurrent dates when tourists visit these places. The key is to always check the availability of tour operators, since they give the go-ahead according to weather information.

Volcanic activity and safety: Although most tourist visits are carried out under controlled conditions, it is always advisable to consult the monitoring of active volcanoes carried out by the National Volcanic Surveillance Network (RNVV) of SERNAGEOMIN. Check the updated information in real time, including alert levels, ascent restrictions, and safety protocols before traveling.

Accessibility and tourist services: In high season or summer many climbing routes, guided tours and services are fully operational.

Type of experience you are looking for: For crater climbing or an intense mountain experience, summer or early spring is recommended. For skiing, snowboarding or snow sports on Chile's volcanoes, winter is ideal. For landscapes, photography and tranquility, autumn and spring are ideal, as they are less crowded with tourists.

Areas of the country: Chile is long and the mountain range is further south. The volcanoes in the south of Chile have their own season, with more humid weather, rain and constant cloudiness. On the other hand, the volcanoes in the north of Chile have different conditions: high temperatures and low humidity, among other considerations due to the altitude and atmospheric pressure.

Considering all these factors, you must now choose the volcano in Chile you would like to visit. Read on and discover your next adventure!

Four must-see volcanoes for tourists in Chile

Now, we saw that there are several volcanoes in Chile, both active and inactive. It is important to clarify that although a volcano may be classified as active, this does not mean that there is an eruption in progress; many visits are safe, guided and regulated. The important thing is to follow the official recommendations of SERNAGEOMIN, ONEMI and certified tour operators.

Below we highlight four of Chile's most popularvolcanoes, each with its own attractions and suggested best time of year to visit. Let's get to it!

1. Villarrica Volcano (Araucanía Region)

This 2,847 m volcano is one of the most active in Chile and South America. It is located in the Villarrica National Park, near the city of Pucón, which makes it accessible for those seeking adventure or scenery. The best time to visit the Villarrica Volcano is between December and April, when the weather allows ascents, trekking and longer days. Visiting this volcano will allow you to visit the city of Pucon, one of the epicenters of adventure tourism in Chile, as it has different activities to do, including rafting, canopy, paragliding and more.

2. Osorno Volcano (Los Lagos Region)

With its 2,652 m, the Osorno Volcano is an icon of southern Chile: its symmetrical cone, permanent snow and location on Lake Llanquihue make it a spectacular destination. Its last eruption dates back to more than a century ago, which makes it a quiet place for tourism. The best time to visit is November to March, when the days are warmer. For skiing and snow sports, the winter months are also suitable.

3. Llaima Volcano (Araucanía Region)

Located in the Conguillío National Park, the Llaima Volcano reaches 3,125 m and is one of the active volcanoes in Chile. For tourism, it is recommended to visit between December and March, when the ascent route is clear and the weather is more stable. In winter, the most experienced visitors can practice ski touring, always accompanied by certified guides.

4. Calbuco Volcano (Los Lagos Region)

Its ascent reaches an altitude of 2,015 m, offering spectacular views of the Osorno and Tronadorvolcanoes . Its last eruption, in 2015, set a precedent in Chile regarding prevention and evacuation zones in the face of volcanic eruptions. Today, Calbuco Volcano is a natural attraction that combines geological history and controlled adventure.

Volcanoes with current activity

According to the latest October reports from SERNAGEOMIN's National Volcanic Surveillance Network (RNVV), two of the volcanoes currently showing activity or reinforced surveillance are the Puyehue - Cordón Caulle Volcano, with a recent declaration of yellow technical alert, and the Planchón-Peteroa Volcano, which also presents recent reports of associated seismic increase.

Volcanoes in Chile all year round

Chile is a volcanic land of high tourist and natural impact. Choosing the best time to visit Chile's volcanoes depends on the type of experience you are looking for, the weather and the tourist services available.

The Villarrica, Osorno, Llaima and Calbuco volcanoes are four of the most popular and accessible for national and international visitors. With proper planning, respect for the environment and the advice of professionals, your visit to the volcanoes in Chile can become an unforgettable experience. Enjoy!