Lower Trancura River Rafting: Class III Rapids near Pucón

Pucón•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours (approx.) with ~1 hour on water

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness — comfortable with bursts of exertion and able to get in and out of the raft

Overview

Ride a Class III stretch of the Trancura River beneath the shadow of Villarrica Volcano. This half-day rafting trip from Pucón combines technical rapids, glacier-cold water and expert guides—ideal for families with older kids and anyone seeking an adrenaline-packed river run.

Lower Trancura River Rafting: Class III Rapids near Pucón

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Select participants and date

Date

Mon, Nov 24

Travelers

A cool wind pushes off the water as the raft noses into the first chop. Paddle blades slice the Trancura’s clear flow and the mountain line of the Villarrica Volcano hangs like a dark backdrop above the river valley. Guides call commands in short, precise bursts—left, right, brace—and the boat answers like a single organism, rising and falling on whitewater.

Adventure Photos

Lower Trancura River Rafting: Class III Rapids near Pucón photo 1

Adventure Tips

Bring a baselayer and swimwear

Wetsuits are provided but a synthetic baselayer and swimwear keep you warm under the suit and dry afterwards.

Protect your valuables

Use a small waterproof dry bag or leave phones and wallets in the base’s secure storage—waterfalls and flips happen fast.

Stay hydrated and eat light

Eat a light meal 1–2 hours before the trip and carry a small water bottle; cold water and effort can be deceptively taxing.

Listen to the guide

Following guide commands is the single best safety measure—paddle together and brace on calls to avoid capsizes.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Andean fox (zorro)
Torrent duck

History

The Trancura corridor was long used by Mapuche communities and later became a route for settlers and recreational visitors drawn to the river’s energy and the volcano’s presence.