Los Charcones Natural Pools - a body of water surrounded by trees and rocks
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Los Charcones Natural Pools

4.4
·1k reviews·Yaiza, Spain

Discover breathtaking natural pools carved into volcanic rock, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide & calm weather

Safer swimming conditions

CrowdLow
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Los Charcones Natural Pools - a body of water surrounded by trees and rocks

Los Charcones Natural Pools

Best Time

Low tide & calm weather

Safer swimming conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover breathtaking natural pools carved into volcanic rock, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views. TikTok

4.4
(1k reviews)

"Most beautiful body of water, but swimming can be risky due to waves and urchins."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌊 Check Tides & Wind

Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience.

🚗 Rocky Road Ahead

Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Pools

Crystal Clear Pools

Various pools along the coastline

Discover a series of natural pools with incredibly clear, inviting waters perfect for a refreshing dip.

TikTok
Volcanic Rock Formations

Volcanic Rock Formations

Surrounding the pools

Marvel at the dramatic volcanic landscape that shapes these unique coastal formations.

Reddit
Abundant Wildlife

Abundant Wildlife

Surrounding reserve areas

Spot diverse wildlife, including colorful frogs and various snake species, on guided tours.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Safety

These natural pools are stunning but can be dangerous. Always check the tide and wind conditions before visiting. High tides and strong winds can create powerful waves that flood the pools and make swimming risky, especially for children. Reddit

Accessing Los Charcones

The drive to Los Charcones involves a rocky, off-road path. While some visitors drive their cars slowly, it's best suited for vehicles not afraid of rough terrain. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk from a parking area is an option. Reddit

Best Times

When
Low tide & calm weather
Why
Safer swimming conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Daytime, non-windy
Why
Best for swimming & views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Charco de aguas cristalinas 😮‍💨 #eluakids #crystalclearwater #crystalwaters #charco #charcones #ocean #island
@eluakids
248.7K likes • 1.2M views

🌊 Check Tides & Wind

Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience. Reddit+1

🚗 Rocky Road Ahead

Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars. Reddit

Piojó lo tiene todo 😍😏 ¿Han escuchado hablar de los charcones? No hay un piojonero que no se haya bañado en sus frías aguas, que no haya recorrido sus senderos y apreciado la magia de este lugar.🪨🫧 #Valelapenavisitar #uncarnavalparalahistoria #turismo
villanuevavalentina_
366 likes • 7.5K views
¡La Rana Platanera! Durante el recorrido guiado por mi amigo @labitacoradecorion en la reserva los charcones, encontramos esta hermosa ranita .uy común en nuestra región caribe. @canon.colombia #Frogs #Herpetologia #Divulgación #wildlifephotography #Colombia #caribecolombiano🌴
mawild_fotografia
154 likes • 2.4K views

⚠️ Sea Urchin Alert

Be cautious of sea urchins, especially during higher tides. Wear water shoes if possible. Reddit

🐸 Wildlife Spotting

Consider a guided tour to discover the area's fascinating frogs and snakes. Instagram+1

🐍¡Bejuquilla Verde! Miren la serpiente que encontré Con @labitacoradecorion en una de las rutas de la Reserva de Sociedad Civil Los Charcones. Recuerden que pueden contactar a Jesús para agendar una visita a la Reserva. Esta serpiente de hábitos diurnos ha sido un lío taxonómico y aún queda mucho por descubrir. Si deseas saber un poco mas sobre no dudes en comentarmelo en los comentarios. Re...
mawild_fotografia
139 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌊 Check Tides & Wind

Prioritize safety! Visit during low tide and calm weather for a safer swimming experience. Reddit+1

🚗 Rocky Road Ahead

Drive slowly on the rocky path or opt for a 20-min walk. Not ideal for fragile rental cars. Reddit

⚠️ Sea Urchin Alert

Be cautious of sea urchins, especially during higher tides. Wear water shoes if possible. Reddit

🐸 Wildlife Spotting

Consider a guided tour to discover the area's fascinating frogs and snakes. Instagram+1

🌅 Avoid After Sunset

Navigating the rocky terrain after dark can be difficult. Plan your visit during daylight hours. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Los Charcones' natural pools, calling them some of the most beautiful bodies of water they've ever seen. However, many caution that swimming can be dangerous due to powerful waves and sea urchins, especially during high tide or windy days. The rocky access road is also a point of consideration for visitors. Reddit+1

"Had to be the most beautiful body of water I have ever seen and was such a nice swim. But, it felt really unsafe with the waves and sea urchins. I man got thrown around by the waves and ended up getting stab by the urchins. I reccomend to go low-tide and also when it‘s not windy. Swimming is really a risk here as it can pull you out. So make responsible decisions!"

SunHee Kim

"To get there, you can either park and walk for 20 minutes, or use your car if you're not afraid, though you'll have to drive very slowly.

These natural swimming pools are beautiful yet dangerous due to giant waves that often come and flood the pools. Be cautious if you bring children. You can still enjoy the view from atop of the rocks if you decide not to take a swim."

Silky

"Not sure if we had the right place... when we went no one in their right mind would attempt to swim here! We got to the Abandoned hotel, actually parked just off the main road as the track is full of sharp stones - hire car! Crazy windy day crashing waves up to the cliffs - scary.
It was high tide ..
Hotel weird. Also whole area has amazing roads and street lights - but zero buildings. Does this mean masses of touist accommodation coming...?"

Karen Mundy

What People Like

Stunning natural pools
Crystal clear water
Dramatic volcanic landscape

What People Dislike

Dangerous waves
Sea urchins
Rocky access road

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing Los Charcones involves a rocky, off-road drive. You can either drive your car slowly, being mindful of the terrain, or park and walk for about 20 minutes. Reddit+1

Yes, the road is described as rocky and requires slow, careful driving. It's not recommended for standard rental cars unless you're prepared for potential damage. Reddit+1

Public transport options are limited for reaching Los Charcones directly due to its remote, off-road access. It's best to arrange private transport or drive yourself. Reddit

While there isn't an official parking lot, visitors typically park off the main road before the rocky track begins, or at the start of the walking path. Reddit

The terrain is volcanic and rocky, with sharp stones. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to walk or explore the surrounding areas. Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Los Charcones is a natural area and generally does not require tickets for entry. However, some guided tours might have associated fees. Instagram

As a natural attraction, Los Charcones doesn't have official opening hours. However, it's recommended to visit during daylight for safety and visibility. Reddit

There is typically no entrance fee for Los Charcones itself, as it's a natural reserve. Fees may apply if you book a guided tour. Instagram

While accessible, it's strongly advised to visit during daylight hours and when weather conditions are favorable (low tide, calm winds) for safety. Reddit+1

The main restriction is to be aware of the natural conditions, especially tides and waves, which can make swimming dangerous. Respect the natural environment. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Swimming can be risky due to powerful waves and sea urchins, especially during high tide or windy conditions. Assess the conditions carefully and prioritize safety. Reddit

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended due to the rocky terrain. Water shoes can also be beneficial for swimming to protect against sea urchins. Reddit+1

Due to the potential for strong waves and rocky areas, Los Charcones may not be ideal for young children, especially if you plan to swim. Adult supervision is crucial. Reddit

The surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife, including various species of frogs like the 'Rana Platanera' and snakes such as the 'Bejuquilla Verde' and 'Patoco'. Instagram+3

You can drive very slowly on the rocky track, but it's a challenging drive. Many visitors prefer to park and walk the final stretch. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dramatic volcanic landscapes, the crystal-clear natural pools, and the vibrant wildlife. The contrast between the rocks and water is stunning. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for dramatic landscape shots. However, be mindful of safety and avoid staying after dark. Reddit

Yes, the area is rich in wildlife. Guided tours often provide opportunities to safely observe and photograph frogs and snakes. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Instagram

The rocky outcrops surrounding the pools offer elevated viewpoints for capturing the scale and beauty of Los Charcones. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Los Charcones offers a unique natural experience, but families should exercise caution. The rocky terrain and potential for strong waves make it less ideal for very young children, especially if swimming is planned. Reddit It's crucial to assess the tide and wind conditions daily. Consider visiting during low tide and calm weather for a safer experience. Reddit Alternatively, enjoy the breathtaking views from the safety of the rocks. Reddit

Sturdy footwear is a must for everyone, and water shoes can provide extra protection against sea urchins. Reddit+1 If you're interested in the local fauna, guided tours can be a great way for older children to learn about the frogs and snakes in the area in a controlled environment. Instagram+1

🚗 Adventurous Drivers

For those with vehicles suited for off-road conditions, driving to Los Charcones can be an exciting part of the adventure. The track is described as rocky and requires slow, deliberate driving. Reddit It's an opportunity to experience the rugged landscape firsthand. However, be aware that this can be risky for standard rental cars, so proceed with caution and at your own risk. Reddit

If you prefer to preserve your vehicle, parking before the rough section and enjoying the 20-minute walk is a popular and sensible alternative. Reddit This approach still allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area without the stress of navigating the challenging terrain. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the walk. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

Los Charcones is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The dramatic volcanic rock formations contrasting with the clear blue waters create stunning visual opportunities. TikTokInstagram Capture the raw beauty of the coastline and the unique geological features. The surrounding reserve also offers chances to photograph diverse wildlife, including colorful frogs and snakes, especially if you opt for a guided tour. Instagram+2

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. Reddit However, always prioritize safety and avoid staying after dark due to the difficult terrain. Reddit A wide-angle lens will be excellent for landscape shots, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife details. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain and Access

Reaching Los Charcones requires a bit of an adventure. The final stretch is an off-road track, described as rocky and challenging. Visitors have the option to drive their cars very slowly, but it's a risk for standard rental vehicles. Reddit Many opt to park their cars before the rough path and enjoy a 20-minute walk to the pools. This approach allows for a more relaxed journey and avoids potential damage to the vehicle. Reddit

It's important to note that the area is not officially developed, meaning there are no formal parking lots or paved roads leading directly to the pools. This raw, natural state is part of its charm, but also means visitors need to be prepared for uneven ground and potentially sharp stones. Reddit+1

Safety First: Swimming and Natural Hazards

While the crystal-clear waters of Los Charcones are incredibly inviting, safety is paramount. The natural pools are subject to the ocean's power, and strong waves can surge into them, especially during high tide or windy conditions. Reddit This can make swimming dangerous, with a risk of being pulled out to sea. Visitors are strongly advised to assess the conditions carefully before entering the water. Reddit

Another hazard to be aware of are sea urchins, which can be found in and around the pools. Wearing water shoes is a good precaution to protect your feet. Reddit For families, the unpredictable nature of the waves and the presence of urchins mean extra caution is needed, and some visitors suggest enjoying the view from the rocks if swimming feels too risky. Reddit

Discovering the Local Wildlife

Beyond the stunning geological formations and inviting waters, Los Charcones is also a haven for local wildlife. Guided tours offer a fantastic opportunity to learn about and observe the region's biodiversity. Instagram Visitors have reported encounters with various fascinating creatures, contributing to the overall experience. Instagram

Among the notable sightings are different species of frogs, including the 'Rana Platanera' (Boana pugnax), often described with iridescent eyes. Instagram+1 The area is also home to several snake species, such as the 'Bejuquilla Verde' and the 'Patoco' (Porthidium lansbergii), a type of viper common to the region. Instagram+1 These encounters highlight the ecological richness of the reserve and add an educational element to a visit. Instagram+1

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