Up the Río Cruces from Valdivia is the small village of Punucapa, which had been founded as a Jesuit mission. Every February 2 faithful followers make a pilgrimage both on foot and by boat to the Santuario de la Virgen de la Candelaria, a 19th-Century wooden church. Punucapa is also famous for its apple sidra, or chicha de manzana, a slightly alcoholic drink. The apple liqueur isn’t the only thing brewing in this hamlet, though. Cuello Negro (named for the resident black-necked swans) is also made here. Horseback riding and remo (rowing) are ways to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding this hamlet. Punucapa is a popular stop on river tours departing from Valdivia.

(Altitude: 406 meters / 1319.5 feet, Population: 1150, Phone Code: 063)

Location:
Near Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile

Other Activity Types:
Village

Getting There
A road does lead the way to Punucapa. Take the Camino a Niebla. After crossing Puente Cruces is the turn-off heading north across the peninsula. From that route another eastward road heads to Punucapa. The easiest way, however, is by boat tour ($8).

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

Visit the history, anthropology, arts and science museums; catch a concert or movie; spend an afternoon strolling through the Jardín Botánico and Parque Saval on Isla Teja; take a boat tour to the Spanish fortresses; sample the beer at Cervecería Kunstmann; explore the beaches and fortalezas of Niebla, Corral and Isla Mancera; visit Parque Oncol and other nature reserves. Further afield, go kayaking or fishing in the Seven Lakes Region.

Currencies accepted
Chilean Peso

By Lorraine Caputo

Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began traipsing throughout...

Created: 10 Jun 2009

Updated: 24 Jun 2009

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