Home to hot springs, tourist accommodations, and restaurants, Llancahué is a must-visit destination in the Los Lagos region. It is an island located in the municipality of Hualaihué on the Austral Highway.

The thermal springs of Llancahué represent the perfect place to rejuvenate, especially after a day of hiking or kayaking in Hornopirén National Park.

A Brief History of Llancahué

The hot springs of Llancahué have always served as an essential waypoint for reaching, by sea, the Quintupeu estuary, with passage through the Comau estuary. Indeed, it was in this very estuary that the German cruise ship SMS Dresden was anchored during the First World War.

Llancahué Today

Llancahué means "green pebbles" in the Mapudungún language. Situated facing the Llancahué channel, this island belongs to the municipality of Hualaihué in Palena Province, Chile.

Arriving on Llancahue Island, you'll discover a floating dock leading to the foot of the famous hot springs. To reach them, you must cross the Hornopirén channel for approximately 30 minutes. Throughout this journey, you'll marvel at the beauty of the landscape and wildlife, particularly sea lions.

The Thermal Springs of Llancahué

Llancahué is accessible only by boat from the port of Hornopirén. The journey itself is worthwhile, but it is the island's hot springs that draw so many travelers. Operated since 1935, they are located in the north of Llancahué, at the water's edge.

Here, underground waters reach temperatures exceeding 55°C. Regular visitors to Llancahué's thermal springs attest to the healing and restorative properties of these mineral-rich waters. They are said to treat various ailments, including rheumatism, muscle pain, and arthritis.

After revitalizing yourself in Llancahué's warm, sulfurous waters, plan an excursion along the Cholgo channel. The Llanchid archipelago, as well as the Quintupeu and Cahuelmó fjords, rank among the natural gems adorning this channel. Along the channel, you can admire picturesque fishing villages. Not to mention the incredible marine fauna surrounding the island, notably seals and whales.

Climate

Llancahué Island reaches an elevation of 684 meters. The climate is quite temperate, with temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. However, rainfall is fairly frequent throughout the year, averaging around 2,179 mm annually. February sees the least precipitation, while June is the rainiest month. As for temperature, the island maintains an annual average of 11.3°C. In January, temperatures rise to 16.1°C.

Llancahué is accessible only by boat. Departing from Hornopirén, you must follow the Cholgo channel to reach your destination.