Termas Coñaripe

After a long drive, we arrived with our family of five hoping to have lunch and enjoy the thermal pools in the beautiful surroundings. The pools looked nice, but entry cost 35k CPL per person, and only then were we told we needed to bring towels and caps. We ended up buying five caps for 5k CLP each and renting towels for 2k CPL each. The restaurant was nearly empty, with only one table occupied, but we were told there were just two menu options, served at set times. The food was nothing special and cost an extra 20k CLP per person, not including drinks. It felt like they served what they wanted, when they wanted, at a premium. I don’t understand this approach to tourism. We came to feel welcome and relax, not to be made to feel we’d forgotten something or to deal with extra charges. Why not include towels? If caps and towels are a significant cost, charge a slightly higher flat rate and say they’re included. We turned around and went to the next thermal place.

Everything feels old and dated, some things are out of order, and some of the pools have leaves in them. The staff were rude. It’s very expensive, and then they charge extra for a towel and swimming cap. A tourist trap. The surroundings are amazing, but go somewhere else until the place has been completely remodeled.

The pools are the highlight: several indoor and outdoor thermal pools, all between 32 and 37 C, and guests can use them around the clock. There’s a good restaurant on site too. The setting is magical and beautiful, though Panguipulli town is a good 20 minutes away by car.

Try to get there around 9:30-10:00, then head out after lunch. You can enjoy the pools to yourself that way. It gets really crowded after 1 pm.