7. Pucon, Chile

Pucon is the outdoor adventurer's paradise. If you can't find you favourite activity here then it hasn't been invented. The setting is idyllic - on a lake with a huge volcano as a backdrop - or so they said. We were here for 2 days - some rain, fog but no volcano. On the third day the weather lifted and the majestic snow-topped mountain appeared. WOW! Volcano Villarica.

The day we arrived, we had just checked into the hostel and were headed into town when guess what - we ran straight into Mark & Karry, the Aussies that have been stalking us - or since they were here first I guess we're to blame. We each have our own uncoordinated plans but it's amazing how many times we have crossed paths. They were heading out later that day on an overnight bus. It was the day before Marilyn's birthday, but they claimed it was already her birthday in Australia, so we had to celebrate. After a couple of heavy duty Margaritas the girls were in very good form!

Most adventurers (mid 20s on average) come here at this time of year ( fall in southern hemisphere) to climb the volcano. This was not on our agenda. With age comes a slight bit of sanity (which with further increase in age rapidly disappears). It is actually not a hugely difficult climb but quite a few people have lost their lives in the last few years.

With the inclement weather we headed first to a set of thermal pools, of which there are many in the area. Nice relaxing soak in a series of pools of varying temperature.

Next day we went white water rafting on a pretty wild river. The previous 2 days rain made it pretty scary. Class 3, 4 and 5 rapids. Halfway (the drop was too steep) we had to get out of the raft and portage, then jump off a 17 ft cliff into the swirling water and swim like mad for shore. Marilyn was not a happy participant but she came through with flying colours. It was a great day but we were pretty bruised and contused!

There is a beautiful National Park - Huerquehue - pretty well unpronounceable - near Pucon. We did a major hike - about 18 k in total - up a mountain to 2 waterfalls and 3 lakes. Problem was the constant steep climb on the way up and the even harder descent. We were feeling some pain by the time we got back down!

The last day we needed some rest as we awaited our overnight bus to Valparaiso, Chile. We wandered the town and rented a two person paddle
boat and headed out into the lake to get some photos of the volcano without all the hydro wires. All in all a great stopover.