Balneario La Toma
Private bathing complex on the Calabalumba River, at the foot of Uritorco. Pools, camping, and dining.
Balneario La Toma is the quintessential water attraction in Capilla del Monte and one of the most beautiful in the Punilla Valley. It sits at the foot of Cerro Uritorco, crossed by the Calabalumba River and surrounded by native forest that provides good shade and mountain air. In summer the river carries more water and forms crystal-clear pools, the famous pools, where people cool off and even dare to dive into the deepest ones. Following the course of the water, you can walk and climb up to nine pools, with increasingly rugged stretches as you go deeper into the woods. The complex is ideal for a family day out: it has tables, grills, a grocery store, restrooms, and a restaurant. It's a must-see for visitors to the Uritorco area.
What makes this place unique
- The famous 9 natural pools of the Calabalumba River
- Views of Cerro Uritorco framing the bathing area
- Native forest with shade, tables, and grills for a day out
- Walk along the river with small waterfalls and marked trails
- Dives into the deepest pools in summer season
A bit of history
The site has operated for decades as the traditional bathing area of Capilla del Monte, taking advantage of the waters of the Calabalumba River that descends from the Uritorco hills. Over time it has been equipped as a tourist and camping complex, adding services to receive the large flow of visitors that arrives each summer season. Today it is privately managed and remains one of the classic postcards of the town's mountain tourism.
URI's tips
To find the pools with more water and fewer people, it's worth walking a bit upstream; the first pools tend to be more crowded. Be careful with children in the deep pools, which can be dangerous. Go early in high season to get a spot and shade. Bring everything you need because, beyond the store, prices at the complex can be higher.
What to bring
Sunscreen (there is little shade in some areas), hat, comfortable or water-friendly footwear for walking on rocks, water, mate or packed lunch, swimsuit, and towel. If you plan to grill, bring what you need or use the on-site store.
This is what La Toma looks like
How to get to Balneario La Toma
4.5 km from downtown Capilla del Monte. About 10 to 15 minutes by car from the center.
From the central plaza of Capilla del Monte, take the opposite side from the river (by Recalde street) and follow a dirt road, generally in good condition, for about 4 to 5 kilometers until the sign that says 'Balneario La Toma'. Buses also leave from the center every half hour or about an hour. By car the trip is short but it's best to go slow on the gravel road.
Hiking routes around La Toma
Data from the Wikiloc community. Always check conditions and entry hours.
What everyone asks
How much does it cost to enter Balneario La Toma?
Walking in is usually free or very affordable, and what you pay for is parking per vehicle. Rates change according to the season, so it's best to check when you visit.
What are the 9 pools?
They are a series of natural pools or swimming holes formed by the Calabalumba River along its course. Walking upstream, you can go from one to the next, with increasingly rugged stretches as you head deeper into the forest.
Is it worth going in winter?
In winter the river's flow drops significantly and it almost disappears, so it's not ideal for swimming. Still, the place is nice for walking and enjoying the landscape at the foot of Uritorco.
How do I get there without a car?
From the center of Capilla del Monte, buses leave for La Toma every half hour or about an hour. You can also walk or bike, since it's about 4.5 km from the center.
