ABOUT THE PrOVINCE

Araucanía became one of the principal agricultural districts of Chile, gaining the nickname of "granary of Chile".

The Araucanía is the heartland of the indigenous Mapuche people, who resisted both Inca and Spanish attempts at conquest. About a third of the region's population is ethnic Mapuche, the highest proportion of any Chilean region.

Virgin forests, featuring coigüe, raulí, and tepa, as well as bay and cypress trees, criss-cross the region in all directions. The majestic araucaria, or monkey puzzle tree, also known locally as pehuén, towers above the other trees. Its fruit—the piñón, a type of pine nut, is still a staple food for the indigenousPehuenches

A large part of this natural wealth is protected in various National Parks (Nahuelbuta, Tolhuaca. Conguillío, Villarrica, and Huerquehue), or National Reserves (Malalcahuello, Las Nalcas, and Alto Biobío).

Summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, so don’t forget your bathing suit and sunscreen. Winter temperatures are very low, so you’ll need warm and waterproof clothing as well as hats and gloves.

It is known for its lakes and volcanoes.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT TO DO HERE?

• The significant urban and commercial development, together with vast possibilities for tourism, contribute other openings for progress. Amenities range from a casino at Pucón to hot springs, adventure trails, and a Half-Ironman Triathlon (1.9- kilometer swim, 90-kilometer bike ride, and a 21-kilometer race). The main tourism centre in the region is the Villarrica Lake and Pucón.