Siete Tazas National Park

Parque Nacional Siete Tazas

A spectacular natural park featuring a series of seven natural pools formed by waterfalls cascading through a canyon. It's one of the region's most striking natural attractions with excellent hiking trails and swimming opportunities.

Things to do

• Hike the Seven Pools Trail — Follow the main canyon trail past all seven natural pools, each formed by waterfall cascades, taking approximately 2-3 hours for the complete circuit.
• Swim in the Natural Pools — Cool off in the crystalline waters of the pools, with the lower pools generally being more accessible for swimmers of all levels.
• Explore El Salto del Aire Waterfall — Trek to this dramatic 40-meter waterfall located within the park boundaries, offering stunning photo opportunities and a short detour from the main trail.
• Visit the Visitor Center — Learn about the park's geology, flora, and fauna through exhibits that explain how the basaltic rock formations and water erosion created the seven pools.
• Rock Hopping Challenge — Navigate carefully across the smooth basalt rocks between pools for an adventurous experience that requires good balance and proper footwear.
• Photography at Viewpoint Mirador — Access elevated vantage points along the trail that provide panoramic views of the canyon and cascading waterfalls ideal for landscape photography.

Food to try

• Empanadas de Queso y Chalupa — These traditional Chilean pastries filled with cheese and sometimes corn are sold at park entrances and nearby villages as convenient trail snacks.
• Fresh Trout from Local Rivers — The Maule region is known for its abundant trout; seek out restaurants in nearby Molina or Sagrada Familia that serve freshly caught river trout prepared simply with local herbs.
• Mote con Huesillo — This refreshing traditional Chilean drink made from wheat and dried peaches is perfect for cooling down after a day of hiking in the canyon.
• Completo Chileno — Find these hearty Chilean hot dogs topped with sauerkraut, avocado, and mayonnaise at food vendors near the park entrance, perfect for a quick lunch.
• Pastel de Choclo — This savory corn pie made with meat, olives, and hard-boiled eggs is a staple of Maule cuisine found in local restaurants in surrounding towns.

Local customs & good to know

• Start Early to Beat Crowds — The park is very popular on weekends; arrive by 8-9 AM to enjoy the pools and trails with fewer visitors and better lighting for photography.
• Wear Proper Hiking Footwear — The basaltic rocks are smooth and slippery when wet; locals and guides strongly recommend non-slip hiking boots or specialized water shoes to prevent accidents on the pool-side trails.
• Respect Water Safety Signs — Pay attention to marked danger zones and current warnings, as water levels and flow rates can change rapidly depending on rainfall in the upper canyon areas.
• Support Local Guides — Consider hiring a certified local guide from the nearby villages of Molina or Sagrada Familia, as they provide valuable context about the geology and ensure safer navigation of the canyon.