Laguna del Laja National Park

The Laja lake was formed when lava from Antuco volcano blocked the valley, and the park around it is a landscape of black volcanic rock, scattered araucaria and the bare cone of Antuco at 2,979 metres, which last erupted in the nineteenth century and is still classed as active. The Salto de las Chilcas and Salto del Torbellino falls are on the Laja here - but the river's flow is largely diverted for hydroelectric generation, and the falls run at a fraction of what they were except when the system spills. A small ski centre operates on Antuco in winter. Condors are frequently seen over the ridges.

What you actually see

• A lake dammed by lava - blocked by flows from Antuco.
• The bare cone of Antuco - 2,979 metres, still classed active.
• Falls reduced by diversion - the Laja largely taken for hydro.
• Condors over the ridges - regularly seen from the trails.

When to go

December to March for walking; winter for the small ski area. A full day.

Honest expectations

The waterfalls are much reduced by the hydro diversion and can be nearly dry. The last road is gravel. Wind on the open volcanic ground is strong and there is no shade. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Los Angeles is west; Saltos del Laja are downstream on the same river.