Hey, are you looking for the best waterfalls and hikes in central Chile? The “Parque Inglés” and the “Radal Siete Tazas” are a perfect destination. The national park in the “Region del Maule” is known for turquoise pools, forest trails and dramatic waterfalls along the Río Claro. You are a nature lover and fan of hiking? Then let’s go!
Location of the parks
The gentle gurgling of water mingles with the rustling of trees. Crickets chirp, and before me stretches a view of plateaus and mountain peaks. I hold my face into the golden sun and take a moment to relax in the calming forest. From peaceful places like these to exciting hiking trails and viewpoints to the most beautiful waterfalls in central Chile, the “Radal Siete Tazas” and the “Parque Inglés” have it all.
In a wooded valley between plateaus and snow-capped mountains, along the “Rio Claro”, lies the natural heart of the “Region del Maule”. With its breathtaking waterfalls and a variety of hiking trails, the parks offer the perfect opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of central Chile. You can explore them by bike or visit the different sightseeing spots and hikes by car.
Velo de la Novia and Radal Siete Tazas
Following the road, you will first pass the viewpoint to the “Velo de la Novia” waterfall. It is approximately 40 metres long and pours into a large pool, which you can also visit for a swim in summer! The lush green of the forest blends with a bright turquoise. This picture is rounded off by the rugged mountain peaks that can be seen in the distance.
The most popular hiking trail leads to the “7 tazas”, from which the park gets its name. Over centuries, the stone was washed away by the “Rio Claro” and formed seven cup-like pools in which clear, turquoise-blue water bubbles. And once you’ve walked this far, the hike to the “Salto de la Leona” should also be part of your trip. It continues from the Siete Tazas on, and the waterfall pours directly from the rock face, forming a large pool.
Hikes in the Parque Inglés and Radal Siete Tazas
In addition to the wild waterfalls, the hiking trails in the national park also offer beautiful views of the plateaus and mountains surrounding the park. In the shade of the giant trees, you can reconnect with nature. You might even spot a lizard or two scurrying by. There is a great variety of different plants in the park- from Eucalyptus to Babus, Agaves and Lianes or giant Tree fungi. You will feel like stepping from one ecosystem into another. And when it all mixes together, it creates this special, wild atmosphere that is so unique to this park.
There are hiking trails for all kinds of people. Weather you haven’t been hiking for a while and prefer a small hike of 1h through the forest or you’re a professional and ready to hike for a whole day to “el Bolsón” in the mountains. In the “Parque Inglés” everyone can pick their level! And if you’re a little bit confused on where to start or what the difference between the Radal Siete Tazas and the Parque Inglés is; no worries. The Chileans seem to separate the different regions of the forest, but one is just on one side of the road and one on the other. Everything is pretty close together.
Food stops and restaurants Parque Inglés
After taking in all these impressions, it’s worth stopping at one of the restaurants (with views to the waterfalls) along the road to enjoy the mouthwatering Chilean cuisine! There are also snack bars that sell Completos, Empanadas and even Pizza or fries. The hikes in Chile can make very hungry- buen provecho!
Tips for visiting the “Parque Inglés”
Arrival at the park;
Getting to the park with a local Bus or any other public transport will be difficult, as there are no villages nearby. However, there are tour busses that offer trips to the park and you can drive there with your own car.
What you should take;
- clothes for warmer and cooler weather, as the temperature can change very fast in the shade of the trees
- A BIG water bottle
- A Good camera (if you have one because the scenery is just perfect to take amazing pictures 🤩)
- Hiking boots
- Sunscreen (it’s just a non-negotiable in Chile)
Camping near the Parque Inglés;
The hikes through the park make it almost impossible to see all the waterfalls and viewpoints in one day. Those who want to stay longer can spend the night in one of the park’s camps. From November to March you can enjoy the Idyll- surrounded by cicadas and the sound of the wind.
There are a lot of camping fields outside of the park. You will find them by following the signs along the street. They usually have douches and bathrooms and cost around 9000 CLP per night. If you want a very special experience, you can hike through the whole park and camp in the mountains at “el Bolsón” from December till march.
With its combination of turquoise pools, forest trails and viewpoints, Parque Inglés and Radal Siete Tazas are among the best places for waterfalls and hikes in central Chile. I hope, you have a wonderful experience exploring Chile’s diverse nature!
