“The House of the Devil” is what the Mapuche indians call Volcan Villarica, and at 2847 metres it is one of the highest active volcanoes in the americas. On the sunny afternoon, that we book it, climbing to the summit seems like a good idea. At 4am in the morninfg, when the alarm goes off and the mercury is barely above zero, it does not. However, the skies are clear and the wind is down, so all the signs are for a good day.
There are sixteen of us, huddled at the base of the volcano, dressed in specialist clothes that would make construction workers appear glamourous, together with the four guides. Crampons, helmet and ice axe are essential tools on the mostly snow covered five hour ascent and It is still pitch black when we set off. Very soon we have split into a fast group and a slow one. Vicki and I, as part of the former, reach the summit at 11 am.
>
We have witnessed a spectacular sunset, and standing around the large caldera, we can hear the occasional loud hiss and rumble of volcanic activity as the near constant steam rises from the depths.
Over beers, later that afternoon, we agree that this has been one of our more memorable experiences.
4 Comments
May 16, 2008 at 9:39 am
This must be the most amazing trip I could wish for the two of you. Enjoy!!!!!
May 28, 2008 at 11:25 pm
unacceptability says : I absolutely agree with this !
June 2, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Gauziness says : I absolutely agree with this !
June 16, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Shane and Viki, do you have place for me in the luggage, I want to be there.
Glad your are enjoying yourself and I am sure all these travels have been One amazing experience
The pictures are so awsome and the write up just incredible. So far away and yet i know more about what is happening with you than the rest of the family.
Thanks