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- Las Siete Tazas (The Seven Cups) — A string of perfectly sculpted, step-like pools and waterfalls carved into black basalt by the Claro River; the water colour ranges from clear to bright turquoise depending on the light. This is the park’s showstopper and my personal favorite—easy to reach, great for photos, and hypnotically beautiful in late afternoon light.
- Main Viewpoint above the Pools — A short walk up from the car park brings you to a panoramic lookout that gives the best sense of the whole formation and the canyon the river has cut. Great for wide shots, for orienting yourself on the trails, and for catching the sunset when the cliffs glow.
- Riverside Trail (Sendero Las Tazas) — The primary walking route that threads along the Claro River, hopping across small bridges and passing
- Las Siete Tazas (The Seven Cups) — A string of perfectly sculpted, step-like pools and waterfalls carved into black basalt by the Claro River; the water colour ranges from clear to bright turquoise depending on the light. This is the park’s showstopper and my personal favorite—easy to reach, great for photos, and hypnotically beautiful in late afternoon light.
- Main Viewpoint above the Pools — A short walk up from the car park brings you to a panoramic lookout that gives the best sense of the whole formation and the canyon the river has cut. Great for wide shots, for orienting yourself on the trails, and for catching the sunset when the cliffs glow.
- Riverside Trail (Sendero Las Tazas) — The primary walking route that threads along the Claro River, hopping across small bridges and passing several cascades and rapids. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike, perfect for stretching your legs between the viewpoints and discovering quieter pools away from the busiest spots.
- Upper Cascade/Big Waterfall — Above the series of cups there’s a larger, punchy waterfall and deeper plunge pools that feel wilder and more remote than the lower terraces. If you keep walking the marked trails you’ll be rewarded with fewer people and louder water—bring a windproof layer, it sprays you good on windy days.
- Basalt Potholes and Rock Formations — The park’s geology is a highlight: circular potholes, polished channels and columnar basalt make for unusual textures and natural sculptures. It’s a neat place to noodle around rock edges, study erosion patterns, and see how volcanic rock and water interact over millennia.
- Native Forest and Birdlife — The riparian woodlands here host a mix of native trees and shrubs; keep an eye (and ears) open for insectivorous birds and occasional small mammals. Not a national park for big-game sightings, but excellent for low-effort birdwatching and enjoying quiet forest sounds.
- Camping, Picnicking and River Swimming (seasonal) — There are basic camping and picnic areas close to the main attractions; in summer people cool off in the pools, though the water is cold and currents can be strong. Check park notices—some areas or crossings close after heavy rains—and pack warm layers, food, and a first-aid kit if you plan to stay late.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.