LONQUIMAY VOLCANO

The Lonquimay volcano (2,865 m) is located on the "Pacific Ring of Fire", the name given to the most active group of volcanoes in southern Chile, often approaching or exceeding 3,000 m in altitude. Although its name means "dense forest" in the Mapuche language, there is another meaning behind this fire-breathing giant. The Mapuches say that the other name given to this volcano means "great precipice" because of a 120-metre high ravine on the east face of the mountain. The last three eruptions recorded are less than 150 years old: the last one occurred on December 25, 1988, giving rise to the Noël crater, the "crater Navidad". Access is from the ski resort of Corralco, near the village of Malalcahuello, be careful not to get lost (it is best to be accompanied by a guide), there are very few indications and the ascent, although easy for the first two thirds, becomes more difficult on the last slopes. The view from the summit is nevertheless magnificent: one dominates a horizon of a dozen volcanic monsters such as the Villarica, Lanín, Llaima and Sierra Nevada volcanoes. You can also access its surprising and huge crater of 800 meters in length. As far as the downhill is concerned, the skiers will be able to enjoy themselves! Note that the volcano is categorized as an active volcano and is monitored by the South Andean Volcanological Observatory, based in the city of Temuco.