Pucon y el Sur de Chile

In mid-december I went with Hugo (my boss) down to Pucon, Chile for an astronomy conference. Pucon, falling at about 40° S latitude, is the furthest south I have been in my life. The sights there were spectacular, and very reminiscent of western Washington, except more pristine, less crowded, and with more impressive volcanoes. The drive down was awesome, as we gradually changed from dry, dusty desert to plush, green forest over the span of 12 hours. Also, we drove on election day (a Sunday) so there was practically nobody on the road (but the few that were on the road, were, like most chileans, horrible drivers).


Volcan Villarica from the road to Pucon. Occasionally it's possible to see smoke coming out the top.

Pucon, although very touristy and expensive, is surrounded by fantastic scenery. Snow-covered Volcan Villarica peers down on the town at all hours of the day. I really, really wanted to climb the volcano, but since we were there only 3 days for the conference, there was no time. The other side of the town is bordered by a gorgeous lake lined with evergreens.


Nice lake, eh?


Volcan Villarica from the place we were staying.