Salto Grande Waterfall

The majesty of Salto Grande

There might be no more famous national park in all of Chile than Torres del Paine. This protected area, located on the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in Patagonia, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. It's on display on the many nature hikes within the park that cut through fertile valleys, around glacial lakes, and up to the peaks of granite mountaintops like the famous Paine Massif. This park is also home to Salto Grande, the most spectacular waterfall in the area.

A day's excursion to Salto Grande involves a drive to the Pudeto sector of Torres del Paine, which is located in the heart of the park's lake district. From there it’s a short and easy two km walk along well-marked paths to this raging aquamarine cascade on the Paine River that funnels water between lakes Nordenskjöld and Pehoé. Glaciers feed these lakes, which is why the rushing water at the falls has a milky sky blue color that's almost dreamlike in its appearance. You can hike right up to the edge and look out as great torrents of water thunder through the bottleneck and crash dozens of meters into the river below. Also, while you marvel at the fury and beauty of Salto Grande, be sure to keep on the lookout for local wildlife like guanacos (a relative of the llama), because they are common here.

Photos

Looking out over the lakes of the Pudeto sector

Itineraries with Salto Grande Waterfall

Spend a day at Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina

Torres del Paine & El Calafate - 8 Days

Deep south of Chile and Argentina, this 8-day itinerary explores some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. First, head to Chilean Patagonia's Torres del Paine for snow-capped peaks and thundering waterfalls. Next, bus to Argentine Patagonia for a glacier hike and other activities while based in El Calafate—a traveler hub with a range of services. Kick off the whole trip in Santiago for a taste of big-city culture.

A sunset in Torres del Paine National Park

Ultimate Patagonian Adventure - 12 Days

This itinerary is ideal for adventure enthusiasts looking to get the most out of Chile's Patagonia region. After two days in Santiago, head to the south of the continent for a series of unique guided excursions in and around Torres del Paine National Park. You'll also visit a working Patagonian ranch, and tour a series of caves known for archeological sites—all while staying in some of the area's best hotels.

Torres del Paine Experience - 6 Days

You don't need two full weeks to experience Chilean Patagonia. In fact, you can enjoy the major highlights in one national park: Torres del Paine. Not only is this one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world, but it's overflowing with snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. This quick six-day itinerary includes the best sites and treks in the park, and you'll kick off the adventure by exploring Chile's capital of Santiago.

Torres del Paine & Ultima Esperanza Fjord - 11 Days

There are few places in the entire world more desirable as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this vast portion of unspoiled mountain wilderness is protected, safe from development and welcoming to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. This itinerary covers all the highlights of the park, including visits to its mountain peaks, lakes, glaciers, and even a kayak outing on a nearby fjord. What could be better?

Lake Pehoe, Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine & Última Esperanza - 12 Days

Few places in the world are more coveted as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this protected mountain wilderness is open to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. Accomplish the highlights on this 12-day trip, including waterfalls, glaciers, and enormous peaks. You'll also visit Última Esperanza Sound for fjord tours, kayaking, and a cave with 11,000 years of history.