Experiences and local guides in Curarrehue

Nature

Curarrehue is the last town before the Mamuil Malal border crossing into Argentina, in the Trancura river valley surrounded by araucaria and coigüe forests. It's Mapuche-Pehuenche territory: much of the tourism is run by the communities themselves, with routes past volcanic lagoons like Quinquilil and viewpoints onto the Villarrica volcano's less-photographed side.

Hot springs

Palguín hot springs fall in stepped waterfalls inside the forest, with natural pools of different temperatures as the water descends. Puñilcura hot springs are more rustic and less known, reached by dirt road with far fewer visitors. Both run year-round, with extra charm on cold days.

Activities

• Trekking and horseback rides guided by Pehuenche communities, with Mapuche worldview explanations and traditional food tastings
• Fly fishing on the upper Trancura river, quieter than its lower stretch near Pucón
• Border crossing to San Martín de los Andes (Argentina) via the Mamuil Malal pass, with views of Lanín volcano

When to go

December to March for trekking, horseback rides and crossing the border with clear passes; the Mamuil Malal pass often closes with snow in winter.