Cascada de las Ánimas
Riverside ecolodge in Chile's Maule Region offering guided hikes, horseback riding, spa, and dining amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, blooming nature
Cascada de las Ánimas
Best Time
Mild weather, blooming nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Riverside ecolodge in Chile's Maule Region offering guided hikes, horseback riding, spa, and dining amidst stunning natural landscapes.
"This place is amazing. The staff are so incredibly helpful and accommodating."
Trek Preparation :hiking_boot:
The hike to the main waterfall is 14km from Monte Oscuro. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water!
Book Activities Ahead :calendar:
Horseback riding and spa treatments are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascada de las Ánimas Waterfall
End of the 14km trek from Monte Oscuro
A breathtaking natural cascade, the reward after a challenging but scenic hike through the Achibueno Canyon.
Pozón Las Ánimas
Near the waterfall
Magical natural pools offering a refreshing dip amidst stunning precordillera landscapes.
Horseback Riding Adventures
Resort grounds and surrounding trails
Explore scenic trails with breathtaking views on a guided horseback riding tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Trek to Cascada de las Ánimas
Accommodation & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Trek Preparation :hiking_boot:
The hike to the main waterfall is 14km from Monte Oscuro. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water!
Book Activities Ahead :calendar:
Horseback riding and spa treatments are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot.
Respect Nature :leaf:
Leave no trace. Respect the flora and fauna, and take all your trash with you. 
Kid-Friendly Options :child:
The resort offers guided tours suitable for families and children.
Tips
from all over the internet
Trek Preparation :hiking_boot:
The hike to the main waterfall is 14km from Monte Oscuro. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water!
Book Activities Ahead :calendar:
Horseback riding and spa treatments are popular. Book in advance to secure your spot.
Respect Nature :leaf:
Leave no trace. Respect the flora and fauna, and take all your trash with you.
Kid-Friendly Options :child:
The resort offers guided tours suitable for families and children.
Accommodation Variety :bed:
Choose from geodomes, private rooms, or lodges, some with hot tubs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cascada de las Ánimas is highly praised for its stunning natural beauty, excellent food, and range of activities like horseback riding and spa treatments. Guests appreciate the friendly and accommodating staff, and the beautiful setting on the Maipo River. Some visitors noted the presence of roaming animals, which might not appeal to everyone.
"We had an amazing time horseback riding with Valentina! The experience was unforgettable — breathtaking views the entire ride and a peaceful, scenic trail that made for the perfect outdoor adventure. One of the horses was a bit stubborn (which added some laughs!). Valentina was friendly, patient, and clearly experienced, which made us feel comfortable the whole time. Highly recommend this experience!"
MCK
"I stayed with my girlfriend during late season/early winter in one of the private terrace rooms.
The room was beautiful, clean, and spacious. The private hot tub was great. Restaurant had very good food and the area was beautiful. There are a lot of roaming dogs and cats, so if that's not your thing beware. Can't come by on any of the activities as they weren't really in season"
Nick Reese
"What a great place to come either traveling solo or with family. Very kid friendly. We did the 1.5h / 3k tour to the "Cascada de las animas" with the tour Fanny. It was great and I highly recommend it. The views are great. The waterfall itself not as expected but overall nice."
Cristián Navarrete Dechent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Santiago, take Ruta 5 Sur towards Linares. In Linares, head towards Pejerrey on route L-45. The road is paved for about 36 km, leading to the conservation areas. For the main waterfall, you'll need to drive to Monte Oscuro where the paved road ends, and then begin a 14km trek.
While the resort is accessible by car, reaching the trailhead for the longer treks might be challenging with public transport alone. It's recommended to have a car or arrange private transport.
Cascada de las Ánimas is approximately 2 hours from Linares, with the final stretch requiring a drive to Monte Oscuro before the trek begins.
Yes, guided tours are available, offering insights into the local flora and fauna. These tours can last around 1.5 hours for shorter trails.
The hike to the main waterfall is a significant 14km trek from Monte Oscuro. Shorter trails, like the one to 'Cascada de las Ánimas' with tour Fanny, are described as great with nice views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary. One source mentions $2,000 CLP per person for a day visit and $5,000 CLP for overnight camping. Guided treks may have separate costs, around $10,000 CLP for adults and $8,000 CLP for children for a 1.5-hour tour.
It's advisable to book tickets and activities, especially during peak season or holidays, to ensure availability.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check directly with the resort or park management for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there are different fees for day visitors and those planning to camp overnight.
Access to the resort grounds for general enjoyment and dining is usually possible, but specific activities like spa treatments or horseback riding require separate bookings.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include guided hikes to waterfalls and natural pools, horseback riding, spa treatments, and dining. The resort is situated on the Maipo River, offering beautiful mountain views. +1
The hike to the main Cascada de las Ánimas waterfall from Monte Oscuro is a substantial 14km. Shorter guided trails are available and described as low difficulty.
Yes, there are natural pools like Pozón Las Ánimas which are great for swimming and enjoying the scenery.
Cascada de las Ánimas is described as a perfect refuge for couples seeking connection and adventure, with options for romantic spa experiences and scenic rides.
The area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Cordillera, the Maipo River, and native flora. Visitors are encouraged to connect with nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort features a restaurant with very good food. They can accommodate larger groups for dinner and offer lunch options.
Reviews consistently mention the excellent quality of the food at the resort's restaurant.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally recommended to check with the resort regarding outside food policies, especially if staying overnight.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in the provided information, but it's worth inquiring with the restaurant staff when booking or upon arrival.
Dining is typically a separate cost unless a specific package includes meals. It's best to confirm this when booking your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall itself, the Pozón Las Ánimas pools, and the scenic trails offer stunning photographic opportunities. The river and mountain views are also picturesque.
Absolutely! The natural beauty of the area, from the cascades to the riverbanks, provides a fantastic backdrop for photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the golden hour.
Drone usage policies can vary greatly. It's essential to check with the park management or resort regarding regulations before flying a drone.
The trails leading to the waterfall and the Pozón Las Ánimas offer numerous viewpoints. The resort itself also provides scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking accommodations with family-friendly amenities. While the longer treks might be challenging for very young children, the resort's activities and the proximity to nature offer a memorable experience for all ages. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing for the kids.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance & Adventure
Many rooms feature private hot tubs, adding an extra touch of luxury and intimacy to your stay. Enjoying a meal at the highly-rated restaurant together, surrounded by the beautiful natural landscape, creates a memorable dining experience. The opportunity to explore the stunning waterfalls and natural pools hand-in-hand makes Cascada de las Ánimas a truly special getaway.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
For experienced hikers, the 14km trek from Monte Oscuro offers a challenging and rewarding solo adventure. The opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the solitude of the Achibueno Canyon is a significant draw for those traveling alone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trek to Cascada de las Ánimas
While the 14km trek is the most direct route to the primary waterfall, there are also shorter, guided trails available. These shorter options, like the 1.5-hour/3km tour mentioned, provide a more accessible way to experience the area's natural charm, including views of smaller cascades and pools. These guided walks are excellent for those with less time or who prefer a less strenuous experience, and they often include educational insights into the local ecosystem.
Travelers often describe the experience as rewarding, with the natural scenery being a major highlight. The effort of the trek is frequently cited as being well worth the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the waterfall. It's a true immersion into the Chilean wilderness, far from the hustle and bustle.
Activities and Relaxation at the Resort
For those seeking tranquility, the resort offers a spa experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking or riding. Some accommodations even feature private hot tubs, enhancing the relaxation aspect. The resort's restaurant is also a significant draw, with guests frequently praising the quality and taste of the food, making it a complete destination for both adventure and comfort.
The presence of roaming dogs and cats adds a unique, homey charm for some visitors, though it's noted for those who might prefer a more sterile environment. The overall atmosphere is one of connection with nature, whether through active pursuits or peaceful enjoyment of the surroundings.
Understanding the Location and Access
+1Access typically involves driving from Santiago south on Ruta 5, then heading towards Linares and taking the L-45 route towards Pejerrey. The paved road extends for a significant portion, but the final approach to the trailhead for the longer treks, like Monte Oscuro, is unpaved. This means a car is highly recommended for reaching the starting point of the more remote adventures.
It's important to note that 'Cascada de las Ánimas' can refer to both the specific waterfall and the broader area or resort. When planning, clarify whether you're aiming for the resort's amenities or the more challenging trek to the main cascade, as this will influence your preparation and travel time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit