Patagonia Walking – Volcano Lonquimay
The Ring of Fire
Volcano Lonquimay in Chile forms part of what´s called the Ring of Fire in the Pacific Ocean. It´s the most unstable and geologically dynamic region in the world. Chile has 90 potentially active volcanoes of which Lonquimay is definitely one of them, last erupting on christmas day in 1988. For two years it was spewing out lava in a 10km flow, now a dry bed of volcanic rock and small luminescent pools of water with the occasional bush or tree.
Walks and ascents for visitors to Volcano Lonquimay
1. Crater Navidad
As a consequence of this activity, Volcano Lonquimay has two craters, one very low on the volcano and very accessible to visitors wishing to get close and personal with a volcano. The height of the crater is just 190m (623 f) and from the access road it´s just a 1.5 km walk each way, which for the person of average fitness takes around 2.5 hours for the round trip. The route is marked by blue poles and traverses across undulating sandy terrain. It´s wise to wear boots and gaiters to avoid having your shoes fill with sand. The last part involves a steep climb on loose, rocky terrain. Here the wind can be very strong and so may be quite challenging.
2. Volcano Lonquimay
This is a more challenging climb, although it is within the reach of most people of moderate fitness who are not scared of heights. The altitude is 2865m (9400f) and the volcano can be covered in snow from April to December, automatically changing the nature and conditions of the climb. If you are not trained in mountain climbing it is wise to contract a local guide to assist you. Local shops rent equipment for climbing and cross country skiing. In summer when there is no snow, the climb can take around 5-6 hours return. You can either start the walk from the ski resort Corralco or along the road at the same place as the start of the walk to Crater Navidad. As in all mountain areas, one must watch the forecast and if the weather changes, be prepared to abandon the attempt. Winds on the volcano can reach up to 120km/hour.
Where to stay
The options are many and varied from the 4 star Corralco Mountain Resort to independent cabins of varying standards and campsites with facilities . Inside the Reserve there are no camping facilities, although there is a bathroom at the entrance which is sometimes open. There is no public transport into the Malalvahuello National Reserve, it is possible to hitch hike. The local buses will get you to within 8km of the Reserve entrance.
