Sollipulli Volcano Guided Ascent in Cunco, Chile

Hike to South America's largest crater inside an ancient volcano

A guided trek to the summit of Sollipulli volcano in Cunco, Chile, where you hike through forests of monkey puzzle and coihue trees to reach the crater rim and see the massive glacier inside. The tour includes vehicle transport from the meeting point, all trekking gear, a live guide in English or Spanish, and runs 11 hours with medium difficulty and slopes under 40 degrees.

The experience

Sollipulli sits in the Villarrica National Reserve, about 90 minutes by vehicle from the meeting point. The trek itself takes 7 to 9 hours, climbing through old-growth forests and ancient volcanic terrain to the southern summit. The payoff is the crater view: at 24 square kilometers, it holds the largest crater in South America and a glacier that feeds the region's water supply. Along the way you'll pass through stands of araucaria (monkey puzzle) and coihue trees, and the guide points out geological layers, animal life including condors and foxes, and the Mapuche relationship to this land.

The hike is medium difficulty with no major technical risk, though the slopes run steep enough to need trekking poles, snow gaiters, snowshoes and a helmet, all provided. An air-conditioned vehicle handles the drive to and from the trailhead. Your guide speaks English or Spanish and leads the whole day. Children from age 12 are welcome, and you'll need at least moderate fitness to manage the 7-to-9-hour climb and the altitude.

Bring your own lunch and water. The operator does not provide them. The national park entrance fee is separate. Pickup from your accommodation is included, so you only need to confirm your meeting point when you book.

What’s included

• Live guide in English or Spanish.
• vehicle transport from your meeting point to the Villarrica National Reserve trailhead.
• trekking poles, snow gaiters, snowshoes and helmets.
• air-conditioned vehicle for the drive.
• photographic record of the day.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 07:30 and 08:00

AgesAdult (19 to 60 years) · Youth (12 to 18 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 2 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Turismo FlorAnimal

Is this one for you?This is a guided, shared trek led by someone who knows the volcano and the Mapuche territory, so you climb with instruction and context rather than navigating alone. The 11-hour day and medium-difficulty slopes suit anyone with moderate fitness who wants a full immersion in the mountain rather than a quick summit visit.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 18 years). Children under 12 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is the largest crater in South America?

Sollipulli's crater is the largest in South America, and it holds a glacier covering 24 square kilometers that serves as one of the region's most important water sources.

How long does the actual hike take on this tour?

The trek lasts 7 to 9 hours, depending on pace and conditions, with slopes under 40 degrees and medium difficulty throughout.

What animals might I see on the Sollipulli hike?

The forests and slopes are home to black woodpeckers, condors, striped rays, snakes, lizards and foxes. You may spot any of them during the trek.

What gear does the tour provide for the hike?

Trekking poles, snow gaiters, snowshoes and helmets are all included. The operator also provides vehicle transport and an air-conditioned vehicle for the 90-minute drive to the trailhead.