Navidad Crater Hiking Route

Climb the Lonquimay volcano to admire its spectacular Navidad crater on this hiking route from Malalcahuello.

Navidad Crater Hiking Route

We'll begin the activity meeting at 7:30 am at Kilometer 0 of the Lonquimay Volcano Crossing. From this point in Malalcahuello, we will embark on a hiking route of medium difficulty covering a total of 5 kilometers (3.1 miles).

The hike will take us to an altitude of 1,765 meters (5,790 feet) above sea level, where the Navidad crater is located. This pyroclastic cone began forming on December 25, 1988, following an eruption that lasted for approximately 13 months.

As we ascend the northeastern flank of Lonquimay, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Navidad crater, a large 190-meter (623-foot) cavity. The lava flow from the eruption extended more than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and was 60 meters (197 feet) thick.

We will take a break next to the crater to refuel with an energy bar, a candy, and an isotonic drink. After the snack, we will begin our descent and explore other areas of the volcano.

Finally, at 12:30 pm, we will conclude the trek by returning to the meeting point.