The Chachín Waterfall, located in the Lanín National Park (Neuquén), is one of the most fascinating destinations in Patagonia.
With a water drop of approximately 30 meters, the waterfall makes its way from the heart of the Valdivian rainforest, a humid and lush ecosystem that reaches its greatest splendor in Chile but also extends into Argentine territory.
The surroundings are a true green and sound spectacle, where nature advances without asking for permission and offers visitors an experience of deep connection with the landscape.
Location and surroundings
The waterfall is located on Lake Nonthué, connected to Lake Lácar, from whose waters the Hua Hum River originates, crossing the mountain range and flowing into the Pacific Ocean.
This natural corridor culturally and geographically connects Argentina and Chile, making Chachín a binational meeting point.
How to get there from San Martín de los Andes
The waterfall is 60 kilometers from San Martín de los Andes. The recommended route is:
- Take Route 234 towards Junín de los Andes.
- Merge with Provincial Route 48 to the left.
- At 10 km: Cerro Colorado.
- At 20 km: park ranger station.
On the way, you can visit Yuco, a peninsula with white sand beaches and clear waters, ideal for combining beach and waterfall. Continuing along Route 48, you reach the Hua Hum international pass, open all year round.
A few meters before the road to Lake Queñi, a sign indicates the entrance to the Chachín Waterfall. There is parking and basic services available.
The trek to the viewpoint
The walk from the parking lot to the waterfall is an interpretative experience:
- Difficulty: medium.
- Elevation change: gentle ascent.
- Duration: approx. 30 minutes.
- Trail with botanical signage.
At the end, the viewpoint offers a perfect postcard of the waterfall and the jungle surroundings.
Catamaran excursion on Lake Lácar
Another option is to sail Lake Lácar from the central pier of San Martín de los Andes. The excursion reaches Puerto Chachín, from where a 20-minute walk leads to the viewpoint.
Traveler tip: bring comfortable shoes, water, and light clothing. The forest’s microclimate can surprise even on hot days.
Lanín National Park: biodiversity and culture
The Lanín National Park is one of the most important in Patagonia due to its biodiversity, water resources, and cultural value.
Biodiversity and conservation
- Flora: forests of araucaria (pehuén), raulí, and roble pellín. The araucaria is a protected species, and its collection is prohibited.
- Fauna: native species such as the pudú, the huillín, the monito de monte, and the huemul, some of which are endangered.
- Landscape: mountains, glacial lakes, and the imposing Lanín volcano at 3,776 meters.
Hydric importance
The park’s forests play a vital role in the water regulation for the entire northern Patagonian region.
Cultural value
- Mapuche communities: seven communities inhabit the park, necessitating participatory management that integrates their ancestral knowledge.
- Sustainable tourism: projects like Huella Andina promote local development through hiking and low-impact activities.
The Chachín Waterfall is much more than a water drop: it is a gateway to the humid and lush Patagonia, a space where biodiversity, culture, and sustainable tourism meet.
Just a step away from San Martín de los Andes, this destination invites you to discover the richness of the Lanín National Park at any time of the year.
