Emplacement et comment s'y rendre

Cascada del Salto Grande is located within Torres del Paine National Park in Far Southern Chile, near the park's eastern sector. The waterfall is accessible via the park’s main hiking trails, most notably along the route to Mirador Cuernos or as part of the shorter Salto Grande Trail.

• From the park’s main entrance at Laguna Amarga, follow signs toward Lago Nordenskjöld. The waterfall is a short detour from the trail.
• Public transport is limited; most visitors arrive by private vehicle or as part of guided tours departing from Puerto Natales (approximately 2 hours away).

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The waterfall is accessible year-round during daylight hours, as it is part of Torres del Paine National Park. Visitors must pay the park entrance fee, which varies by season:

• High season (October–April): ~25,000 CLP for international visitors.
• Low season (May–September): ~11,000 CLP.
• Tickets can be purchased at park entrances; reservations are not required for day visits.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light for photography and fewer crowds. Summer (December–February) provides milder weather, though winds can be strong. Winter visits (June–August) are quieter but require preparation for cold temperatures.

Durée de la visite et activités

The waterfall can be admired in under 30 minutes, but many visitors combine it with longer hikes in the area, such as the trail to Mirador Cuernos (1–2 hours round-trip). Activities include:

• Photographing the powerful cascade where Lago Nordenskjöld drains into Lago Pehoé.
• Birdwatching (condors and eagles are occasionally spotted).
• Picnicking at nearby viewpoints (pack out all waste).

Installations

Basic facilities are available at nearby park hubs like Pudeto or Laguna Amarga, but the waterfall itself has no services:

• No restrooms or cafes on-site; nearest options are at Pudeto (20-minute drive).
• Parking is limited to small pull-offs near trailheads.
• Trails are uneven; not wheelchair accessible.

Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter

• Sturdy hiking shoes for rocky terrain.
• Windproof and waterproof layers (weather changes rapidly).
• Water, snacks, and sun protection (UV rays are intense).
• Camera with a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the water.

Règles et règlements

• Stay on marked trails; erosion is a concern.
• No swimming or wading near the waterfall (strong currents).
• Drones require prior park authorization.
• Pets are not permitted in the national park.