&Beyond Vira Vira is surrounded by spectacular natural terrain. The homeland of the indigenous Mapuche people, the region surrounding the lodge offers a vast selection of hiking/trekking excursions. In the company of one of our experienced guides, explore national parks that showcase beautiful forests, shimmering bodies of water, waterfalls, hot springs and the breath-taking terrain of majestic volcanoes draped with snow-capped peaks. Discover the beauty of Huerquehue National Park and enjoy various trekking options.
Each trek requires sturdy hiking boots, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (walking poles and a backpack are optional). Treks vary on difficulty levels, duration and restrictions, and some are seasonal, so please be sure to check with your guide on arrival.
San Sebastian
This trek starts within Huerquehue National Park “the place of the messenger”, 20km (12.42miles) from the lodge, and trails through a temperate rain forest surrounded by coihues, maquis and other species of trees. After 1 hour walking uphill, arrive at the Quinchol pampa and meander among araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees, one of the most beautiful and unique species of trees in the area. Continue uphill for a further 2 hours to the summit of San Sebastian, and on the way capture spectacular views of lakes and volcanoes.
Distance of trekking: 14 km (8.69miles) return
Elevation gain: 1250m (0.77miles). Starts at 780m, summit 1920m
Difficulty: Moderate / hard
Birds to see: Magellanic woodpecker, chucao tapaculo, black-throated huet-huet
Trees to view: Coihue, maqui, araucaria (monkey puzzle), lenga
Time to go: January to April
Quinchol
Setting off from the lodge, head to the Huerquehue National Park and walk through a lush forest, slowly ascending Quinchol. After 40 minutes of trekking, come upon the picturesque araucarias (monkey puzzle) trees, and the pampas at the top of the hill. You are met with mesmerising views of volcanoes and lakes.
Distance of trekking: 8 km (4.97 miles) return
Elevation gain: 780m (0.48 miles). Starts at 780m, summit 1420m
Difficulty: Moderate
Birds to see: Magellanic woodpecker, chucao tapaculo, black-throated huet-huet, grey-hooded sierra finch
Trees to view: Coihue, maqui, arrayan, araucaria (monkey puzzle)
Time to go: September to May
Los Lagos Huerquehue
On arrival at Huerquehue National Park, follow the trail surrounded by centenary trees. Marvel at the sweeping views of Lake Tinquilco and Villarrica Volcano as you climb the hill, and as you reach the top, view the sparkling lakes surrounded by araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees.
Distance of trekking: 10 km (6.21 miles) return
Elevation gain: 730m (0.45 miles). Starts at 780m, Lakes 1350m
Difficulty: Moderate
Birds to see: Magellanic woodpecker, chucao tapaculo, black-throated huet-huet, grey-hooded sierra finch, variable hawk
Trees to view: Coihue, maqui, arrayan, araucaria (monkey puzzle), lengas
Time to go: September to May
Aquila and Truful Waterfall
Arrive at Huerquehue National Park and trek along a route surrounded by centenary trees. As you climb the hill, marvel at the sweeping views of Lake Tinquilco and Villarrica Volcano, and reach the first waterfall (Nido de Aguila or Eagle’s Nest) before continuing on to the second waterfall (Truful). Both of these waterfalls are sourced from lakes that converge at the top of the hill.
Distance of trekking: 4km (2.48 miles) return
Elevation gain: 780m (0.48miles). Starts at 780m, Waterfalls 1000m
Difficulty: Easy
Birds to see: Chucao tapaculo, black-throated huet-huet, grey-hooded sierra finch
Trees to view: Coihue, maqui, arrayan
Time to go: Year-round
Ñirrico
This trek is ideal for those looking for a beautiful, gentle walk through the temperate rain forest, surrounded by coihues, maquis, avellanos, colihues (native bamboo) and other trees. The trail meanders past a viewpoint overlooking Tinquilco Lake and charming waterfalls.
Distance of trekking: 4km (2.48 miles) return
Elevation gain: 780m (0.48miles). Starts at 780m, Waterfalls 1000m
Difficulty: Easy
Birds to see: Chucao tapaculo, black-throated huet-huet, tufted tit-tyrant, grey-hooded sierra finch
Trees to view: Coihue, maqui, arrayan
Time to go: Year-round
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