Two distinct themes stand out when planning a stay in Arauco: the cultural history surrounding Cerro Colo Colo and the coastal landscape, with Playa de Arauco and the wetland. You can tailor your stay according to whether you are more interested in Mapuche culture and the town’s history, the beach, or bird habitats.

Cerro Colo Colo: History and Mapuche Culture

The town of Arauco was founded on the slopes of Cerro Colo Colo. The hill is used as a ceremonial and religious center by the Mapuche; one of the most important ceremonies held at the Rehue there is We Tripantu, celebrated at the winter solstice. This is a recurring cultural occasion, not a specific event date for any particular stay. The hill is therefore both the town’s founding site and an important cultural landmark in its history.

In 2008, Cerro Colo Colo was declared a National Monument in the Historic Monument category under Exempt Decree No. 2360. The hill is also home to a grotto made of concrete and stones, with a statue of the Virgin Mary; a waterfall flows from within the hill beside it. The grotto entrance is at the foot of Cerro Colo Colo, at the end of Esmeralda Street. Check locally whether access is possible before planning a visit.

The town’s history also includes the Spanish Fort San Felipe de Arauco, founded by Pedro de Valdivia in 1552. Cerro Colo Colo is part of the Coastal Range and has lush vegetation. As Landmark 7, “Ciudad de Arauco,” it is included in Heritage Route No. 36, “Nahuelbuta. Cordillera, Costa, Cultura.” The route’s name refers to the mountain range, coast, and culture; the landmark’s name emphasizes its connection to the town. For travelers interested in cultural heritage, the route offers additional context for understanding the hill’s historical and cultural significance.

Coast and Wetland

Playa de Arauco is a local coastal beach and seaside destination in the town of Arauco, within the commune of Arauco. It is approximately ten kilometers long and is known for its fine white sand. In contrast to the vegetation-covered Cerro Colo Colo, it offers a different landscape: a coastal beach rather than hill vegetation. If you are weighing the beach against cultural history, this distinction is a starting point for choosing the focus of your trip.

Another nature destination is the Santuario de la Naturaleza Humedal Arauco–Carampangue in central Arauco. This coastal wetland is a habitat and feeding ground for both resident and migratory birds. Its hygrophilous, or moisture-loving, vegetation is typical of coastal wetlands. This distinguishes it both from the beach landscape of Playa de Arauco and from the cultural history of Cerro Colo Colo: bird habitats and wetland vegetation are the focus of the protected area.

Discover more destinations: Frutillar, Curanilahue, Cañete, Tirúa, Contulmo

Go to the overview of the wider region: Arauco Province.