Due to the geographical characteristics of our country, Chile holds an estimate of 2.900 volcanoes, 90 of which currently present some sort of activity. Due to its volcanic activity, Chile has acquired great scientific interest during the last few decades, but tourists are the ones who are increasingly more interested in discovering, watching and even climbing these giants.

Here’s a list of the most popular and unique volcanoes that can be found throughout the country.

Payachata
This complex of potentially active volcanoes is located in the border between Chile and Bolivia, in the Arica and Parinacota Region. The Parinacota volcano as well as the Pomerape volcano are part of the Lauca National Park, and it is possible to have an amazing view of these volcanoes from the Chungará Lake. Currently, the Parinacota is considered among the 25 most active volcanoes in Chile.

Nevados Ojos del Salado
Located in the border that divides Chile from Argentina, this volcano is known as being the highest volcano in the world, with 6891,3 meters above sea level. This volcanic complex located in the Atacama region consists of three main peaks. It is possible to climb this mountain without too much difficulty, with the exception of the last few meters, where the use of professional gear is recommended. It is possible to find archaeological remains in the nearby villages, specifically of the Inca civilization.

San José Volcano
Also known as San José de Maipo, it registers the highest activity of all the Metropolitan Region’s volcanoes, although it is considered to be stable. Located just 60 kilometers from Santiago, it is a popular destination for those who enjoy of adventure tourism, who decide to explore this volcano during summertime, and defy it during winter season, when it is completely covered in snow.

Llaima Volcano
The protagonist of the Conguillio National Park, the Llaima volcano embellishes the landscapes of the La Araucanía Region with a height that surpases the 3.000 meters above sea level. Along with the Araucarias and the Conguillio Lake, these three items have become one of the most traditional postcards of the south of Chile. It is considered as the second most active volcano of the country, with over 50 eruptive events since 2003.

Villarica Volcano
Without a doubt this is one of the most popular volcanoes of the national territory, especially since it is the volcano that presents the highest volcanic activity. Located in the limit between La Araucanía and Los Ríos regions, this volcano welcomes thousands of visitors every year. It has a crater that reaches up to 200 meters in diameter, filled with a lake of lava and it constantly releases smoke. It is possible to visit its foothill on vehicle, and for those who enjoy a good adventure you can reach its top without difficulty due to its height.

Osorno Volcano
Located within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Los Lagos Region; this volcano is known for its almost perfect cone, which has been compared in several occasions with the Mount Fuji. According to a Mapuche legend, a evil spirit of name Peripillán is trapped inside the volcano, and he likes to unload its rage to those who try to reach its top.