Arauco Province: Lakes, Mapuche Culture and Nahuelbuta
Accommodation in Arauco Province
Between the Pacific and the Nahuelbuta Range, Arauco Province brings together a wide variety of experiences: ancient forests and native wildlife, lakes offering opportunities for water activities, and places where Mapuche culture and history are present. When choosing a holiday rental, it therefore helps to first consider what you want to focus on: the lake scenery, cultural discoveries or the distinctive natural environment of the Isla Mocha National Reserve.
Discover lakes and landscapes
Lake Lanalhue lies between the communes of Cañete and Contulmo in the Nahuelbuta Range. Walks along its shore invite you to experience the diversity of native flora and fauna. Water skiing and kayaking are also possible on the lake. When planning your trip, you can choose between exploring the shore on foot and enjoying activities on the water.
Lake Lleu Lleu lies on the western slope of the Nahuelbuta Range. It is 40 kilometres south of Cañete via the San Ramón access point, and 14 kilometres from the access point in the commune of Contulmo. The lake covers 4,300 hectares. Possible activities include kayaking, windsurfing and fishing, as well as trekking in the surrounding area and horseback riding. If you plan to spend several days exploring the lakes, you can use this information to decide which access point is relevant to your excursion plans and choose a holiday rental to suit the destinations you prefer.
Mapuche culture and history
In Cañete, the Mapuche Museum presents Mapuche territory and worldview in six spaces adapted and open to the public. Another place of cultural significance is the Antiquina Cemetery, or Eltún, in the commune of Cañete. Its tangible and intangible values are rooted in the worldview of the Mapuche people and remain alive today. Those interested in Mapuche culture will find different ways to engage with it here: through the museum’s interpretation and through the significance of a place whose values are connected to a living worldview.
The province’s history is also reflected in specific places and buildings. The Fuerte de Tucapel in Cañete was the setting for significant events during the Arauco War. In Contulmo, a tour of 18 houses featuring heritage-listed architecture associated with the German founders is recommended. On Millaray Street are the Pfaaff and Vhymeister houses, as well as the former Hotel Central, which hosted, among others, the poet Pablo Neruda. These places offer different points of interest: the history of the Arauco War, or the architecture and guests of the former hotel.
A nature experience on Isla Mocha
The Isla Mocha National Reserve is a protected area in Arauco Province and the commune of Tirúa. It was established on 12 May 1988. The reserve is home to the endemic, endangered seabird known as the pink-footed shearwater (Ardenna creatopus), which is of particular scientific and tourist interest. For travel to the island, the available mode of transport is an important consideration: an air taxi departs either from Tirúa airfield or from Carriel Sur Airport in Concepción. Maritime access from Lebu or Tirúa is limited to freight transport, depends on the weather and the availability of boats, and is not offered regularly.
Local traditions and other places
Ruka-Lelbun offers visitors a short presentation of traditional Mapuche customs, cuisine and crafts. The Palomitas de Laraquete are another local specialty: they are recognised as a Living Human Treasure and are associated with the commune of Arauco. These cultural and culinary discoveries complement the natural experiences with a glimpse of regional traditions.
For further inspiration, you can also explore Frutillar, Tirúa, Arauco, Contulmo, Curanilahue and Cañete.
For the broader travel overview: Bío-Bío.
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