Best Places to Visit in La Araucania | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
La Araucania Travel Guide
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Welcome to La Araucania, Chile! Located in the southern part of the country, La Araucania is a region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This region is home to the indigenous Mapuche people, who have a strong presence in the area and offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about their traditions and way of life. La Araucania is also famous for its picturesque landscapes, including the majestic Villarrica Volcano and the beautiful lakes and forests that surround it. Whether you're an adventure seeker looking to hike up a volcano or a nature lover wanting to explore the region's national parks, La Araucania has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this enchanting region in Chile.
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Best Places To Visit in La Araucania
1. Temuco : Temuco is the capital city of La Araucania and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several museums, including the Regional Museum of La Araucania, which showcases the history and culture of the Mapuche people. Visitors can also explore the bustling markets and try traditional Mapuche cuisine.
2. Pucon : Pucon is a popular tourist destination in La Araucania, known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Villarrica and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports.
3. Villarrica : Villarrica is a charming town located at the foot of the Villarrica volcano. The town is known for its picturesque streets and colonial architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the volcano or explore the nearby national parks.
4. Valdivia : Valdivia is a historic city located on the banks of the Calle-Calle River. The city is known for its German influence, which is reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and enjoy a stroll along the riverfront.
5. Puerto Saavedra : Puerto Saavedra is a small fishing village located on the coast of La Araucania. The village is known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood. Visitors can relax on the beach or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands.
6. Lonquimay : Lonquimay is a small town located in the Andes Mountains. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can also explore the nearby national parks and enjoy the local cuisine.
7. Curacautin : Curacautin is a small town located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The town is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also explore the nearby national parks and enjoy the local cuisine.
8. Lican Ray : Lican Ray is a small town located on the shores of Lake Calafquen. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for water sports. Visitors can also explore the nearby national parks and enjoy the local cuisine.
9. Melipeuco : Melipeuco is a small town located in the Andes Mountains. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also explore the nearby national parks and enjoy the local cuisine.
10. Cunco : Cunco is a small town located on the banks of the Cautin River. The town is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular destination for fishing and water sports. Visitors can also explore the nearby national parks and enjoy the local cuisine.
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Tours And Activities In La Araucania
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Food & Drinks To Try In La Araucania
1. Curanto: This traditional dish from La Araucania is a must-try. It consists of a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, all cooked together in a hole in the ground covered with leaves. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that showcases the region's culinary heritage.
2. Merken: This spice blend is a staple in Araucanian cuisine. Made from smoked chili peppers, coriander seeds, and salt, it adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to dishes. Try sprinkling it on grilled meats or adding it to stews for an authentic taste of the region.
3. Sopaipillas: These deep-fried breads are a popular street food in Chile, and La Araucania is no exception. Sopaipillas are made from a dough of flour, pumpkin, and spices, then fried until golden and crispy. They are often served with pebre, a spicy salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
4. Cazuela: This traditional Chilean soup is a comforting and filling dish. It typically includes meat (such as beef or chicken), potatoes, corn, pumpkin, and various vegetables, all cooked together in a flavorful broth. Cazuela is often enjoyed as a main course and is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
5. Mote con huesillo: This refreshing drink is a popular choice during the summer months in Chile. It consists of cooked husked wheat (mote) and dried peaches (huesillo) soaked in a sweet syrup made from cinnamon, sugar, and water. The result is a sweet and fruity beverage that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
6. Chicha: This traditional fermented drink is made from maize (corn) and is commonly consumed in La Araucania. It has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. Chicha can be found in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, so be sure to try both if you're interested in experiencing the full range of flavors.
7. Empanadas: These savory pastries are a popular snack or meal option in Chile. They are typically filled with a variety of ingredients, such as beef, cheese, chicken, or seafood, and then baked or fried until golden and crispy. Empanadas are a delicious and portable option for enjoying a quick bite while exploring La Araucania.
8. Pisco Sour: This iconic Chilean cocktail is a must-try for any visitor to the country. It is made from pisco (a grape brandy), lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white, resulting in a tangy and frothy drink. Pisco Sour is often enjoyed as an aperitif or as a refreshing way to cool down after a day of exploring.
9. Caldillo de Congrio: This traditional fish stew is a popular dish in Chile, and La Araucania is no exception. It is made with conger eel, potatoes, onions, carrots, and various spices, resulting in a flavorful and hearty soup. Caldillo de Congrio is often enjoyed with a side of bread to soak up the delicious broth.
10. Churrasco: This classic Chilean sandwich is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It typically consists of thinly sliced beef, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and avocado, all served on a crusty roll. Churrasco is a delicious and satisfying option for a quick and filling meal while exploring La Araucania.
Best Time To Visit La Araucania
The best time to visit La Araucania, Chile is during the spring and summer months, which are from October to March. During this time, the region experiences mild temperatures and lower rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. The main attractions in La Araucania, such as the Conguillio National Park and the Villarrica Volcano, are easily accessible and offer breathtaking views. It is important to note that winter months, from June to August, can be quite cold and snowy, limiting outdoor activities. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your visit during the warmer months to fully enjoy all that La Araucania has to offer.
Flight Calendar For La Araucania
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Transportation To La Araucania
There are several transportation options to La Araucania, Chile.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to La Araucania is the La Araucania International Airport (ZCO), located in Temuco. There are domestic flights available from Santiago and other major cities in Chile to Temuco. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your destination in La Araucania.
2. By Bus: There are regular bus services available from Santiago and other major cities in Chile to Temuco, which is the main transportation hub in La Araucania. The journey by bus can take around 9-10 hours from Santiago. Once you reach Temuco, you can take local buses or taxis to reach your specific destination in La Araucania.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the Pan-American Highway (Route 5) south from Santiago to Temuco. The journey by car can take around 8-9 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Once you reach Temuco, you can easily explore the different areas of La Araucania by car.
4. By Train: There is a train service called "Tren Victoria-Temuco" that connects the cities of Victoria and Temuco in La Araucania. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a unique way to travel to the region. However, please note that the train service may have limited schedules, so it is advisable to check the timetable in advance.
Once you reach La Araucania, you can use local transportation options such as buses, taxis, or rental cars to explore the different attractions and destinations within the region.