A CONAF-managed reserve of Andean foothills with river pools, waterfalls, native forest and short well-signed trails.
Reserva Nacional Rio Clarillo protects a mountain valley of Mediterranean forest, with trails that follow the Clarillo river to waterfalls, pools and ridgeline loops. It is a popular summer day trip for Santiago residents, with designated picnic areas and swimming sections in the river. The park is administered by CONAF, which sets opening hours and entrance fees; entrance tickets are usually modest and can be bought at the gate. Wildlife is varied, including birds and the occasional fox. The trails suit families and walkers wanting nature without high elevation.
| Distance | Trails from 1 to 7 km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 to 4 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Metro Line 4 to Plaza de Puente Alto, then local colectivo or bus toward Pirque and Rio Clarillo; ride-hailing or driving is easier (about 1 hour from central Santiago). |
| Best season | September-May (summer swimming spots) |
| Address | Reserva Nacional Rio Clarillo, Camino Rio Clarillo, Pirque, Chile |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Pirque, Cordillera Province
- Trail type
- Nature reserve trails
- Terrain
- Forest paths and river banks
What to bring
- Water
- Sun protection
- Swimwear in summer
- Hiking shoes
- Cash for entry
Location
Reserva Nacional Rio Clarillo, Camino Rio Clarillo, Pirque, Chile
-33.7260, -70.4640 View on map
Highlights
- River pools in summer
- Mediterranean forest
- CONAF signed trails
- Bird watching
- Picnic facilities
Tips for visiting
- Check current hours and fees on the CONAF website.
- Bring cash for entry and food: limited services.
- Do not leave valuables in vehicles.
- Respect fire bans in summer.
- Refill water only at official points.
When to visit
October-April for river access and flowers.
Accessibility
The picnic area and a short flat trail are accessible; longer trails are natural paths.
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming allowed?
Designated river sections are used for bathing in summer; follow CONAF signage.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, CONAF charges a small entrance fee; confirm the current price on the CONAF site.
Can I reach it by public transport?
Partly: take the Metro to Puente Alto and a local colectivo; services are infrequent so plan the return in advance.