Cascada del Río Colorado Cafayate
Discover the breathtaking 7 Cascadas del Río Colorado in Cafayate, a guided trek through stunning natural landscapes with unique frozen waterfall phen...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat and crowds.
Cascada del Río Colorado Cafayate
Best Time
Beat the midday heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking 7 Cascadas del Río Colorado in Cafayate, a guided trek through stunning natural landscapes with unique frozen waterfall phenomena.
"A wonderful hike, nevertheless slightly demanding, with amazing vistas and very interesting guides."
Book Your Guide
Guides are mandatory and highly recommended for safety & local support. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Waterproof hiking boots are essential for river crossings and rocky paths. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 7 Cascadas Circuit
Río Colorado
Embark on a guided trek through a stunning natural landscape, discovering a series of beautiful waterfalls.
El Salto de la Golondrina
Río Colorado
Witness the impressive 'Swallow's Leap' waterfall, a highlight of the longer trekking route.
Frozen Waterfall Phenomenon
Río Colorado
Experience the rare sight of the waterfall's water completely frozen during colder periods.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Guided Trekking is Essential
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Your Guide
Guides are mandatory and highly recommended for safety & local support. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Waterproof hiking boots are essential for river crossings and rocky paths. :athletic_shoe:
Protect Your Legs
Long pants are advised to shield against thorny plants along the trail. :pants:
Choose Your Trek Length
Opt for the short (approx. 1-1.5h) or long (approx. 2-4h) trek based on your time. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Your Guide
Guides are mandatory and highly recommended for safety & local support. :admission_tickets:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Waterproof hiking boots are essential for river crossings and rocky paths. :athletic_shoe:
Protect Your Legs
Long pants are advised to shield against thorny plants along the trail. :pants:
Choose Your Trek Length
Opt for the short (approx. 1-1.5h) or long (approx. 2-4h) trek based on your time. :stopwatch:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially on the longer routes. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty of the Cascada del Río Colorado, highlighting the impressive waterfalls and diverse landscapes. The mandatory guided trek is seen as a positive aspect, enhancing safety and providing valuable local insights, while also supporting the community. Some find the trek moderately challenging, especially the longer routes, and recommend proper footwear and attire.
"Wonderful hike, nevertheless slightly demanding (1,5 hour). I have no problem paying for a fee to the local community who indeed guided us very well with very interesting and insightful comments. Would highly recommend. My wife and I only have one regret : we did not plan enough time to do the long hike (4hours). Enjoy!"
Jean-Marie Carrère
"Very good trekking, we had a very good guide. We arrived at the place at 3:00 PM, didn’t have to wait, and chose the route with 3 waterfalls. In reality, we made it almost to the 6th waterfall but didn’t have enough time as it started to get dark. Everything is well organized, the route to the 3 waterfalls can be done with children (not small ones), but beyond that, the trail gets quite difficult. We got a boost of energy and a great mood. Many thanks!"
Natalia Bazyl
"Great, great hike! Quite challenging, diverse landscales, a lot of fun, and amazing vistas! It is guided, which generally does not appeal to us, but since the path changes every month due to the rising and falling of the water level, the path was not always clear, so the guide was actually of help. If is 12.000 pp for the short one, and 17.000 for the larger one (app. 2-3h). Highly recommend!"
Martijn Brands
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trek starts from El Divisadero, a short drive from Cafayate. While some vehicles can manage the bumpy road, a higher clearance vehicle might be more comfortable. Many visitors arrange transport through their accommodation or local tour operators.
The road to the trailhead can be bumpy and may require a vehicle with good ground clearance. Some visitors have managed in standard cars, but it's advisable to check conditions or opt for guided transport.
Taxis are available in Cafayate, but it's best to arrange this in advance and confirm the price. Public bus services to the immediate trailhead are limited, so a guided tour or private transport is often more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a fee to access the trail and hire a guide. The cost typically varies for the short and long treks, with prices around 12,000 and 17,000 pesos per person respectively.
Yes, a guide is mandatory for the trek. The paths can change due to water levels, making it difficult to navigate independently. Hiring a guide also supports the local community.
Guides are typically hired upon arrival at the starting point of the trek. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to ensure guide availability, especially during peak season.
While there aren't strict opening hours, it's best to start the trek in the morning to allow ample time to complete it before dusk. Guides are usually available from morning until mid-afternoon.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderately challenging. The short trek is manageable for most, but the longer route involves steeper ascents, rocky terrain, and river crossings, making it more demanding. +1
The short trek to the first few waterfalls takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The longer trek, which explores more of the circuit, can take 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and stops. +1
The initial part of the short trek is suitable for children, but it can become challenging for younger ones beyond the first few waterfalls. The longer trek is generally not recommended for very young children due to its difficulty.
Expect diverse landscapes including lush vegetation, rocky paths, and of course, the stunning series of waterfalls. The natural beauty is a major draw for visitors.
While the water is beautiful, swimming is generally not advised due to the cold temperatures and potentially strong currents. The focus is on the scenic beauty and the trekking experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The series of waterfalls themselves are the main photographic subjects. Capture the unique frozen water phenomenon in winter, the lush greenery, and the dramatic rock formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to potential splashes and river crossings.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic lighting on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's essential to equip children with appropriate footwear – sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must. Long pants are also recommended to protect their legs from thorny plants. Ensure they have plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for them to get a little wet during river crossings. Hiring a guide is mandatory and beneficial, as they can help manage the children's safety and keep them engaged with stories about the area.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
Consider visiting during the winter months to witness the incredible phenomenon of the frozen waterfalls, a truly unique spectacle.
+1 This adds an extra layer of adventure and photographic opportunity. Remember to pack accordingly for potentially colder temperatures and ensure your gear is ready for wet conditions. The guided nature of the trek ensures you can push your limits safely while discovering hidden gems of the canyon.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Guided Trek Experience
Guides are typically hired at the starting point. It's recommended to arrive earlier in the day to secure a guide, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The cost for the guide is reasonable and often split between participants if you join a group. This system ensures the preservation of the natural environment while providing a valuable service to visitors.
When choosing your trek, you can opt for a shorter route, usually taking 1-1.5 hours, which covers the most accessible waterfalls. For the more adventurous, a longer trek of 2-4 hours explores further into the canyon, offering more secluded cascades and challenging terrain. Regardless of the length, the experience promises stunning natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.
Navigating the Terrain and Weather
Beyond the rocky paths, the vegetation along the trail can be dense and thorny. To protect your legs from scratches, wearing long pants is a practical tip shared by many trekkers. This simple precaution can make the hike much more comfortable.
The weather in Cafayate can vary, and the area is known for its dramatic temperature drops, especially in winter. During colder months, the waterfalls can even freeze over, creating a spectacular, albeit temporary, natural phenomenon.
+1 Visitors should check the weather forecast and dress in layers, preparing for both sunny spells and cooler conditions. Bringing a light waterproof jacket is also a good idea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit