Audio Guide of Alpehue River

Access to Alpehue River is free year-round, but we recommend visiting during daylight hours (between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.). To get there from Melipeuco, take route S-757 toward Conguillío National Park and follow the signs. Check the official map on the CONAF website.

Yes, access to the river is free, as it is within Conguillío National Reserve. However, if you enter through Conguillío National Park, you must pay the park entrance fee: CLP $6,000 for Chilean adults and $12,000 for foreign adults (2023 prices).

We recommend setting aside at least 2 to 4 hours to enjoy the route to the natural hot spring pools, go hiking in the surrounding area, and take photos of the volcanic landscape.

Its name in Mapudungun means "place of healing waters." Mapuche communities consider its hot springs sacred because of their mineral properties and their connection to the volcanic activity of Llaima Volcano.

From December to March (Southern Hemisphere summer), when the roads are more accessible. Mornings are ideal to avoid the afternoon rain that is common in the area. Avoid winter (June to August) because of snow on access roads.

The terrain is uneven, with unadapted natural trails. Good physical condition is required to walk on volcanic rocks. Not recommended for wheelchairs without specialized assistance.

In Melipeuco, don't miss: 1) Conguillío National Park (lagoons and monkey puzzle trees), 2) Llaima Volcano (trails), 3) Huife Hot Springs (termashuife.cl), 4) Mapuche handicrafts in the town.

1) Wear non-slip trekking shoes 2) Bring water and sunscreen 3) Check weather conditions with the Melipeuco Tourism Office (+56 45 258 9013) 4) Hire local guides to learn safe routes to the hot springs.