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Salto Chico Falls: A Patagonian Jewel

Discover the beauty of Salto Chico Falls in Torres del Paine National Park, a Patagonian paradise of cascading water and stunning mountain views.

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Salto Chico Falls is a captivating cascade within Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Chile. The falls offer stunning views, tumbling over rugged rocks amidst lush vegetation and the park's iconic peaks, providing a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.

A brief summary to Salto Chico Falls

  • Torres de Paine, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, CL

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited in the park.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots, as some trails can be rugged and uneven.
  • Check the weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in Patagonia.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife; binoculars can enhance your viewing experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If traveling by car within Torres del Paine National Park, start from the main entrance at Laguna Amarga. Follow the road towards the park's interior, navigating the scenic routes. Look for signs indicating Salto Chico Falls. After approximately 30 minutes of driving, you will reach a parking area near the falls. From there, follow the marked walking path to the viewing area, about a 15-minute walk. Park entrance fee is approximately 21,000 CLP for adults.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park. Buses typically leave in the morning, with the journey lasting about 2 hours. Upon arrival at the park entrance, pay the entrance fee (approximately 21,000 CLP for adults). From the entrance, arrange for a shuttle service or a guided tour that includes transportation to Salto Chico Falls. Alternatively, take a scheduled shuttle that specifically goes to Salto Chico Falls; the shuttle ride takes approximately 1 hour. After disembarking, follow the well-marked trail to the falls, about 15 minutes.

  • Walking

    If already within the park, several trails lead to Salto Chico Falls. From the central area of the park, take the popular 'W' Trek. Follow the signs towards Refugio Los Cuernos and then take the trail leading to the Salto Chico area. From Refugio Los Cuernos, it's a moderately challenging hike that takes about 4-5 hours to reach the falls. Alternatively, a short walk from Explora Lodge to Salto Chico Falls takes about 20-40 minutes.

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Discover more about Salto Chico Falls

Salto Chico Falls, meaning "Small Falls," is one of the enchanting features of Torres del Paine National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity. The falls themselves boast a stunning cascade as the Paine River thunders through a canyon, tumbling over rugged rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. Surrounded by lush vegetation and the majestic peaks of the Torres del Paine, the falls are a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can embark on scenic, easy hikes that lead to various viewpoints, allowing them to capture the falls from different angles and experience the tranquil ambiance of the park. The area is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot guanacos, condors, and even elusive pumas in their natural habitat. While the falls are smaller compared to Iguazu or Niagara Falls, they offer something special to the landscape of Torres del Paine. The falls are easily accessible from Hostería Pehoé via a comfortable path. A short walk on a boardwalk from the entrance to Hotel Explora also leads to the falls. Despite its popularity, the expansive nature of the park means you can often find quiet moments to appreciate the serene beauty of the falls.

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