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Parque Termal Botánico

Parque Termal Botánico: Complete Guide + Honest Review 2025

Kurt My Chile Travel Guide
Author: Kurt | Founder
Published August 28, 2025

The road started rough and bumpy, and soon we were crawling along the edge of a cliff with a steep drop on our right. Just when it felt a little too sketchy, the view opened up into one of the most beautiful parking spots I’ve ever seen, surrounded by colorful flowers.

Two locals welcomed us with kind smiles, and from there a wooden stairway led us down through the trees. Hibiscus flowers were everywhere, making it feel like a hidden garden. We dropped our bags at the lockers (already in swimwear underneath) and followed the path down to the pools.

Parque Termal Botánico has its charm both in real life and online, their Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok give a taste of the atmosphere even before you arrive.

My Parque Termal Botánico Review

Getting to Parque Termal Botánico already felt like part of the adventure, first a bumpy road, then a stretch along a cliff edge with a steep drop on the side. Just when it felt a bit sketchy, the road opened into one of the prettiest parking spots I’ve seen, full of colorful flowers.

Two locals greeted us with smiles, and a wooden stairway led us down through hibiscus-filled paths to the pools. What makes this place stand out is that it’s not just hot springs, it’s also a garden. Pools are scattered between trees and flowers, with some open-air, some cave-like, and even one inside a glass “crystal palace.”

The vibe is calm, green, and peaceful, more of a retreat than an adventure. Staff were kind, the setting felt unique, and the balance of water and gardens made it a great memory in Chile.

The layout

Imagine walking down through shaded gardens and between lush trees until you spot the first warm pool glinting through the branches, that’s Parque Termal Botánico. The wooden and gravel paths lead you past flowers, ferns, and greenery, with pools scattered around the park. In total there are ten pools: seven open-air, two tucked away in cavern-like spaces, and one inside a large glass “crystal palace” that feels like soaking in a greenhouse.

What makes this place different is that it’s not just about the water, it’s also about the gardens. Parque Termal Botánico calls itself the world’s first spa built inside a park, blending wellness with plant conservation. It feels more curated and garden-like compared to the rugged vibe of other hot springs.

Facilities are modern and comfortable, with heated changing rooms and showers, though there aren’t that many of them. I’d recommend arriving already in swimwear so you can head straight to the pools, and just shower back at your accommodation afterwards.

Tips:

One thing to know before you go: there aren’t many showers or changing rooms at Parque Termal Botánico. If you want to save time (and avoid waiting around), I’d recommend changing into your swimwear at home so you can head straight to the pools when you arrive.

For showers, it’s easiest to rinse off back at your accommodation instead of queuing here. That way you spend more time relaxing in the hot springs and less time dealing with logistics.

Practical info

How much does Parque Termal Botánico cost in 2025?

The entrance fee depends on age, but tickets are always valid for a maximum of 4 hours:

  • Adults (12+ years old): 40,000 CLP
  • Children (from 3 years old): 30,000 CLP
  • Senior citizens (65+ years old): 30,000 CLP

The ticket price includes access to all thermal pools, the botanical garden, trails, and facilities. Entrance to the Botanical Garden is also included, so you can enjoy the mix of hot springs and nature in one visit.

How many pools does Parque Termal Botánico have?

Parque Termal Botánico features a total of 10 thermal pools, designed to blend seamlessly with its botanical setting. Most are open-air, while a couple are tucked into cave-like alcoves, and there’s even a beautiful glass-enclosed “crystal palace” pool that brings a greenhouse feel to the garden experience.

What is Parque Termal Botánico?

Parque Termal Botánico is a natural hot springs complex just outside Pucón, set in a lush botanical park. Unlike some of the wilder termas, this place feels more like a garden retreat, with flowers, trees, and pools scattered along wooden walkways.

  • Pools – several different hot pools with varying temperatures.
  • Surroundings – tropical plants, hibiscus flowers, and shaded forest areas.
  • Atmosphere – peaceful, family-friendly, and you constantly hear the southing noice of the water rushing next to the thermen.

It’s a mix of nature and comfort, perfect if you want to soak in warm waters while surrounded by greenery.

What does Parque Termal Botánico mean?

The name is simple, but it perfectly fits the place:

  • Parque = Park
  • Termal = Hot springs
  • Botánico = Botanical / related to plants

So, literally: Botanical Thermal Park.

The name reflects exactly what you’ll find, hot spring pools surrounded by gardens, flowers, and trees.

What facilities does Parque Termal Botánico have?

Parque Termal Botánico combines hot springs with a garden atmosphere, giving you both comfort and nature in one place:

  • Thermal pools – 10 in total: seven open-air, two cave-style pools, and one glass-enclosed “crystal palace” pool.
  • Changing rooms – modern and heated, though there aren’t many, so it’s smart to arrive in swimwear.
  • Showers – available, but limited; most visitors prefer showering back at their accommodation.
  • Massage service – available on-site if you want to add extra relaxation to your visit (make sure you reserve a spot for this, when I was there it was already fully booked for the day).
  • Lockers – safe and convenient if you don’t want to leave your things out of sight.
  • Food & drinks – a café/snack bar for tea, coffee, or light meals, plus green areas where you can sit and relax.
  • Botanical gardens & trails – landscaped paths, flowers, and native plants create a park-like feel that sets this place apart.

Instead of rugged adventure, Parque Termal Botánico is more of a garden retreat with hot springs, blending relaxation, greenery, and modern comfort.

What should I bring to Parque Termal Botánico?

Packing light makes your visit easier, but a few things are essential:

  • Swimwear – have it on already so you can jump straight into the pools.
  • Towel – they rent them, but bringing your own is cheaper and more comfortable.
  • Flip-flops or sandals – useful for walking between pools on wet paths.
  • Reusable water bottle – you’ll sweat more than you think, so stay hydrated.
  • Cash – always handy in case card payments don’t work at the café.
  • Plastic bag or dry bag – for carrying your wet towel and swimwear afterwards.
  • Warm layers – even in summer, it cools down quickly once you get out of the water.
  • Snacks – there’s a café, but options are limited and a bit pricey.
  • Insect repellent – since it’s greener and more garden-like, bugs can be around.

Optional but nice to have:

  • Phone pouch or waterproof case – if you want stress-free photos.
  • Hair tie or cap – keeps your hair out of the hot water.
  • Light rain jacket – in southern Chile, showers can roll in fast.

💡 Lockers are available for your belongings, but showers and changing rooms are limited. Best tip: arrive already in swimwear and shower back at your accommodation.

What are the benefits of the thermal waters?

The pools at Parque Termal Botánico are fed by natural volcanic springs, rich in minerals that people have used for centuries to relax and recharge. A soak here can bring a few noticeable benefits:

  • Muscle relaxation – warm water helps ease sore muscles and stiff joints.
  • Better circulation – moving between warm and cooler pools stimulates blood flow.
  • Skin health – the minerals can gently cleanse and soften your skin.
  • Stress relief – being surrounded by flowers, trees, and quiet water makes it almost impossible not to unwind.

While it’s not a medical treatment, most visitors leave feeling calmer, lighter, and more refreshed.

Where is Parque Termal Botánico located?

Parque Termal Botánico is located about 30 minutes from Pucón, in the direction of Caburgua, in the Liucura Valley. It sits near the foothills of Cerro La Barda, surrounded by forest and botanical gardens.
It’s close enough for an easy day trip, yet far enough from town that it feels like a peaceful escape into nature.

Where do you buy tickets (online vs at the entrance)?

You’ve got two options when it comes to tickets for Parque Termal Botánico, and both are easy.

  • Online – You can reserve and pay ahead through their official portal, which often comes with flexibility and peace of mind.
    • Through their own website: link
    • Get a lift from Pucón: link
  • At the entrance – If you want to play it by ear, you can still purchase tickets in person when you arrive. It’s simple, though queues may vary depending on how busy it is.

Booking online gives you a head start; buying on-site keeps it spontaneous. Either way, you’ll be stepping into the gardens and warm pools before you know it.

How long should you stay in the thermal waters?

It’s easy to lose track of time once you sink into the warm pools, but pacing yourself makes the visit more enjoyable (and healthier):

  • Per pool – about 15–20 minutes is a good rule, especially in the hotter pools.
  • Breaks – step out, cool down, drink water, or just walk through the gardens before moving to the next one.
  • Total visit – most people spend 2–3 hours at Parque Termal Botánico, rotating between pools and relaxing in the garden areas.
  • Listen to your body – if you feel overheated, dizzy, or lightheaded, it’s time to sit down for a break.

Switching pools, resting, and staying hydrated will keep you feeling refreshed rather than drained.

How do you get to Parque Termal Botánico?

Getting there without your own wheels is no problem.

  • GetYourGuide tours – The easiest option is booking a package that includes transport from Pucón and back, plus your entrance ticket. It saves you the hassle of organizing the drive yourself. You can check the options here.
  • Uber – Expect to pay around $10–15 USD for a one-way ride from Pucón.

If you don’t want to deal with parking, renting a car, gravel roads, or directions, GetYourGuide is the simplest and most stress-free way.

How does it compare to Termas Geométricas?

These two hot springs are completely different experiences, each with its own personality.

Termas Geométricas
Tucked into a narrow canyon with a forest stream running through it, this place feels dramatic and adventurous. The bright red walkways, designed by architect Germán del Sol, connect around 20 pools that range from pleasantly warm to almost volcanic hot. There are also ice-cold plunge spots and waterfalls if you want the hot–cold contrast. Getting there takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Pucón on partly gravel roads, so the journey is part of the adventure. Read my full review of Termas Geométricas here.

Parque Termal Botánico
Much closer to Pucón, only about 30 minutes away, this place feels more like a botanical garden with hot springs scattered among flowers and trees. There are 10 pools in total, including open-air, cave-style, and a glass-enclosed “crystal palace.” Facilities are more modern, with heated changing rooms, showers, lockers, and a café. The atmosphere is calm, green, and family-friendly.

Termas GeométricasParque Termal Botánico
VibeWild canyon, dramatic & adventurousGarden retreat, serene & botanical
DesignGeometric wooden walkwaysBotanical, greenhouse-style touches
PoolsAround 20, big hot–cold contrasts10, more relaxed temperatures
FacilitiesBasic changing rooms & lockersChanging rooms, showers, café
Access1.5–2 hrs from Pucón, gravel roads~30 min from Pucón, easier drive

Both are worth visiting, it really depends on what you’re looking for. For drama and design, go to Termas Geométricas. For comfort and garden vibes, Parque Termal Botánico is the better choice.

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