If you are looking for the best waterfalls in Argentina to add to your itinerary, you came to the right place!
Argentina is one of the most diverse countries in South America, and it is home to some incredible waterfalls. And by incredible, we mean there is a waterfall in Argentina that is classified as one of the seven natural wonders of the world!
From the majestic waterfalls on the border with Brazil to the untouched nature in Patagonia, Argentina will enchant you with its sheer beauty and breathtaking sights.
If you’re ready to discover the best waterfalls in Argentina, let’s dive right in!
Overview Best Waterfalls In Argentina
Before you go chasing waterfalls in Argentina, keep in mind that these are not like tropical waterfalls in SE Asia. Most of them are high in the mountains, and it is not possible to swim in many of them. Nonetheless, they are a breathtaking sight.
For those who love swimming in waterfalls, we will note the ones suitable for swimming on our list below! For the rest, save the swimming for the landscaped pool in your hotel!
Here are the best waterfalls in Argentina that should be on your Argentina itinerary:
- Iguazú Falls Waterfall
- Salto del Agrio Waterfall
- Rio Colorado Waterfalls
- Cascada de Los Duendes
- Chachin Waterfall – Hua Hum
- Cascada Escondida, El Bolsón
- Cascada de Toro Muerto
Iguazú Falls Waterfall
It wouldn’t be appropriate to open this list with any other than the majestic Iguazú Falls. This waterfall was classified as one of the seven natural wonders by UNESCO in 1986, and it is not hard to see why! Iguazú Falls is the largest waterfall system in the world – stretching for almost 3km along the border of Argentina and Brazil.
The waterfalls are made up of about 275 different waterfalls, some of them dropping from more than 80m. You can visit the waterfall from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, and each offers a different experience of this magnificent waterfall. The most outstanding fall is called the Devil’s Throat.
Walk on the wooden boardwalk along the waterfalls to see them from close up, just be prepared that you’ll get rather wet from the spraying water. It is also possible to get into a boat to some of the waterfalls and observe them from below.
The nearest Argentinian town is Puerto Iguazú. The most common way to visit is by taking a flight from Buenos Aires.
Salto del Agrio Waterfall
Agrio Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall, dropping from over a 60m cliff into a small teal green pool at the bottom. The contrast between the green pool, red rocks, and white waterfall make for an incredible scene.
A colourful rainbow appears next to the waterfall at certain times, making this waterfall look like it came straight out of a fairytale. The best time to visit Agrio waterfall is in the morning when the sun is in front of the waterfall and there is the highest chance of a rainbow forming next to it.
There are more waterfalls along the river, so it makes for a nice hiking trip. It is even possible to swim at some spots in the area.
Agrio waterfall is located about 15km from Caviahue, a mountain town close to the Chile border.
Rio Colorado Waterfalls
You will find Rio Colorado Waterfalls in the canyons of Cafayate, a popular hiking area. It is no surprise that the most popular way to visit this waterfall is on a trek.
The Colorado River creates unique waterfalls falling from different heights along the trail. The most iconic waterfall is the one dropping between two large boulders surrounded by lush vegetation.
One thing to keep in mind, once you reach the starting point of the hiking area, you will be approached by many guides offering their services. You don’t need one, you are allowed to hike to the waterfalls on your own.
The hike to the waterfalls is about 3 hours long, and you will pass multiple waterfalls along the way. Be sure to bring enough water for the return trip.
The closest city to the Rio Colorado waterfalls is Cafayate, in northwest Argentina.
Cascada de Los Duendes
Cascada de Los Duendes is a waterfall on the popular nature trail close to Bariloche, and you can easily reach it by bus from the city. It is a spot popular with Argentinian families who want to spend their weekend in nature, and it is a relaxing picnic spot with grills and tables.
The Los Duendes waterfall is about 5m tall, cascading down several levels. The trail leading to the waterfall is relatively flat, short and not challenging. That makes it perfect for families with small kids and older people who can’t commit to a long hike.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can continue the walk up to the Lago Gutierrez viewpoint for a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding area.
Chachin Waterfall – Hua Hum
Chachin waterfall is one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Argentina. This 30 m high waterfall dramatically drops from the cliff in the middle of the Valdivian Forest. You have two options to get to the waterfall – hiking or by boat.
Taking a boat from the glacial Lacar Lake to the Chachin Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist activities in the area, as you can also visit other highlights of Lanín National Park along the way. If you drive to the waterfall, the walk from the parking lot takes about 20 minutes.
It is not possible to get too close to the waterfall, but it is spectacular to observe and take photos from the wooden viewing platform.
The closest town to the Chachin Waterfall is San Martín de Los Andes.
Cascada Escondida, El Bolsón
Escondida Waterfall is one of the best things to do in El Bolson. It’s another scenic waterfall you can reach on an easy hike. The hike to the waterfall takes about 30 minutes, and you will have to pay an entrance fee to spend time at the waterfall.
Depending on the time of the year, the water flowing across these falls changes. It is possible to swim in the lake at the bottom of the waterfall, so pack your swimming costume!
Cascada Escondida is located about 10km from El Bolsón.
Cascada de Toro Muerto
This waterfall has a rather interesting name, but don’t worry, you won’t find any dead bulls along the way. It is a perfect spot to spend a day in nature, popular with families, as picnic tables and grills are available.
It is possible to swim in the lake at the bottom of the waterfall, and it makes for a truly memorable experience on a hot summer day. Keep in mind that the lake gets pretty deep where the waterfall drops, so non-swimmers should stay close to the shore where the water is shallow.
If you have time, hike along the river to reach another smaller waterfall and swimming point.
Keep in mind that recently you need to pay an entrance fee to spend time at this waterfall.
Cascada de Toro Muerto waterfall is located about 150km from Cordoba.
Summary: Best Waterfalls In Argentina
And there you have the list of the best waterfalls in Argentina, ready for your next trip. With stunning waterfalls all over the country, you can add a waterfall visit to your itinerary.
While most people visit only the incredible Iguazú Falls, other Argentinian waterfalls are well worth visiting and adding to your itinerary if you want to experience more of the majestic beauty that this country is famous for.