Cascada Chachín
A breathtaking waterfall nestled in the lush Valdivian rainforest, accessible via a scenic drive and a rewarding forest hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Cascada Chachín
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking waterfall nestled in the lush Valdivian rainforest, accessible via a scenic drive and a rewarding forest hike.
"Easy walk through the gorgeous shady forest listening to the murmuring of the Chachin river, with a spectacular waterfall in the end."
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
The 50 km gravel road to Cascada Chachín is best navigated with a 4x4 for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Easy Forest Hike
The 2km trail to the waterfall is generally easy, suitable for families, though some find it steep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascada Chachín Waterfall
End of the trail from Camping Chachín
A stunning 30-meter waterfall cascading through lush Valdivian forest, offering a rewarding sight after a pleasant hike.
Valdivian Forest Hike
Trail from Camping Chachín
An easy, shaded 2 km walk through a vibrant forest, filled with informative boards about local flora and history.

Lago Nonthué & Hua Hum
Access point for boat tours
The journey often includes boat trips across these picturesque Patagonian lakes, surrounded by the Andes.

Playa Yuco
Near Hua Hum
A beautiful beach often visited in conjunction with the waterfall, offering stunning lake views.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Cascada Chachín
Best Time for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
The 50 km gravel road to Cascada Chachín is best navigated with a 4x4 for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Easy Forest Hike
The 2km trail to the waterfall is generally easy, suitable for families, though some find it steep.
🚤 Combine with Boat Tour
Many tours combine the waterfall with a scenic boat trip on Lago Nonthué and Lago Lácar.
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Respect the natural environment by taking all your waste back with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
The 50 km gravel road to Cascada Chachín is best navigated with a 4x4 for comfort and safety.
🚶♀️ Easy Forest Hike
The 2km trail to the waterfall is generally easy, suitable for families, though some find it steep.
🚤 Combine with Boat Tour
Many tours combine the waterfall with a scenic boat trip on Lago Nonthué and Lago Lácar.
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Respect the natural environment by taking all your waste back with you.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Advised
While the path is manageable, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cascada Chachín for its stunning waterfall and the pleasant, easy hike through a beautiful Valdivian forest. The journey, especially the gravel road, is noted as a significant part of the experience, with many recommending a 4x4. While the waterfall is beautiful, some mention you can't get extremely close to it.
"Great hike to a gorgeous waterfall on the west and of Lago Nonthué near the Chilean border."
Josiah Roe
"Easy walk through the gorgeous shady forest listening to the murmuring of the Chachin river, with a spectacular waterfall in the end as if the walk required a reward.
Drawbacks? 50 km of a gravel road from San Martin - so better get a 4x4. As a bonus you ll be able to get to termas as well."
Dmitry Romashev
"Beautiful waterfall though you can't get very close to it. The path to the view deck is easy to walk and it takes about 20-40 mins depending on your peace. We went with my 1.5yo and he enjoyed it."
Juan Manuel Fluxà
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Cascada Chachín by car, which involves a 50 km gravel road, making a 4x4 vehicle recommended. Alternatively, many visitors opt for guided tours from San Martín de los Andes that often include boat trips on Lago Nonthué and Lago Lácar, with a stop at Puerto Chachín.
No, the road is a gravel road for approximately 50 kilometers. It's advisable to have a vehicle suitable for unpaved terrain, such as a 4x4, for a more comfortable journey.
Public bus services directly to Cascada Chachín are limited. The most common ways to access it are by private vehicle or as part of an organized tour, which often includes transportation.
The Hua Hum route is a scenic path that leads to Cascada Chachín and other attractions like Playa Yuco. It often involves driving through beautiful forests and can be combined with boat tours on the lakes.
Yes, some tours offer a boat trip on Lago Nonthué that stops at Puerto Chachín, from where you can then hike to the waterfall. This is a popular option for those who prefer to avoid the gravel road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cascada Chachín is located within the Lanín National Park. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the waterfall itself, you may encounter fees for park access or specific activities like boat tours. It's best to check with tour operators or park authorities for the most current information.
As it's a natural attraction within a national park, Cascada Chachín is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, access might be restricted during certain seasons or weather conditions. Organized tours will operate on their own schedules.
If you are driving your own vehicle, there might be a parking fee at designated areas, especially near the trailhead or camping sites. It's advisable to carry some cash for potential small fees.
Yes, booking tours in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. This ensures availability and allows you to secure your spot on popular boat trips or guided excursions.
Lanín National Park typically has an entrance fee for vehicles and individuals. This fee contributes to the park's maintenance and conservation efforts. Check the official national parks website for current rates.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike from Camping Chachín to the waterfall is approximately 2 kilometers (about 1.2 miles) one way. It's considered an easy to moderate walk, taking about 20-40 minutes depending on your pace.
The trail is generally family-friendly and suitable for children. However, some sections have a slight incline, and a few elderly visitors have found it challenging. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
You'll walk through a beautiful, shady Valdivian forest with tall trees and lush vegetation. Informative boards along the path detail the local flora and the history of the area.
While you can't get extremely close to the base of the waterfall, there is a viewing deck that offers excellent perspectives for photos and enjoying the view.
Camping Chachín, the starting point for the hike, usually offers basic facilities including restrooms and picnic areas. It's a good place to rest before or after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning light can be beautiful filtering through the forest canopy. Overcast days can also be great for capturing the waterfall without harsh shadows, especially if you're using a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the waterfall and the surrounding forest. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance colors.
Drone usage is subject to national park regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules for Lanín National Park regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.
The viewing deck at the waterfall offers a classic shot. The forest trail itself, with its dappled light and rich greenery, also provides many picturesque opportunities.
Absolutely! The boat tours offer stunning views of the lakes and surrounding mountains, making them excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking a boat tour on Lago Nonthué as part of your visit; kids often love boat rides, and it offers a different perspective of the stunning Patagonian landscape. Remember to pack snacks, water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. The viewing deck at the waterfall provides a safe spot for everyone to admire the natural beauty.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
This route is not just about the destination; it's about the journey through the lush Valdivian forests and past stunning Patagonian lakes. Plan for stops at viewpoints and consider combining your drive with a boat trip on Lago Nonthué for a comprehensive experience of the region's natural wonders.
🌿 Nature & Hiking Lovers
The waterfall itself is a magnificent sight, and the viewing deck provides excellent photo opportunities. For a more immersive experience, consider exploring other trails within the Lanín National Park or combining your visit with a scenic boat trip on the nearby lakes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Hua Hum Route
If you're driving yourself, be prepared for a significant portion of the route to be on unpaved gravel roads. While beautiful, these roads can be bumpy and winding, making a 4x4 vehicle a highly recommended option for comfort and safety. The journey is part of the adventure, with opportunities to stop at various viewpoints overlooking the lakes and the Andes mountain range. Remember to pack essentials and check road conditions, especially outside of the main tourist season.
Organized tours are a convenient way to experience the Hua Hum route, especially if you prefer not to drive or want to learn more from local guides. These tours often bundle the drive, boat trip, and sometimes even visits to other nearby attractions, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience. They also handle logistics like booking boat tickets and navigating the roads, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
The Hike to Cascada Chachín
Along the trail, you'll find informative signs detailing the local flora and fauna, as well as the history of the region. This adds an educational element to the walk, enhancing the overall experience. While the hike is generally considered easy, some sections can be a bit steep, so wearing comfortable, sturdy walking shoes is advisable. The effort is well worth it, as the trail culminates in the spectacular sight of the Cascada Chachín waterfall.
Upon reaching the waterfall, you'll find a viewing deck that provides excellent vantage points for admiring the cascade and taking photographs. While you can't get extremely close to the base, the view is impressive and offers a great reward for the hike. The area around the waterfall is a perfect spot to relax, enjoy the natural scenery, and listen to the powerful roar of the water before heading back.
Exploring the Patagonian Lakes
Excursions often depart from San Martín de los Andes and navigate through these lakes, showcasing their immense beauty. Lago Nonthué, in particular, is significant as it's where the boat trip typically stops to allow access to Puerto Chachín, the gateway to the waterfall hike. The journey across the water is a serene experience, with the crisp mountain air and panoramic vistas creating a truly memorable adventure.
Beyond the scenic beauty, these lakes are also important for local ecosystems and offer opportunities for various water activities. Some visitors also combine lake excursions with visits to nearby attractions like Playa Yuco, a beautiful beach on the shores of one of the lakes, perfect for a relaxing stop. The combination of mountain scenery and tranquil waters makes exploring these Patagonian lakes an essential part of any visit to the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit