Cascadas del Arroyo del Plata
Waterfalls and crystal-clear pools in Arroyo del Plata.
The Arroyo del Plata Waterfalls are a succession of waterfalls hidden on the slopes of Uritorco, in the Huertas Malas area, in Capilla del Monte, Córdoba. The stream flows down between large boulders and native woodland, forming pools and waterfalls that are one of the area's best-kept secrets. It is accessed on foot from Balneario La Toma and climbing up the Cuesta del Toro, gaining altitude with views of Cerro Uritorco and the Punilla Valley. It is a trek of low technical difficulty and moderate physical demand, with poorly marked stretches of trail. Ideal for those seeking mountain nature, fresh water and ravine landscape away from mass tourism, combinable with Cueva del Ermitaño and other nearby waterfalls in the ravine.
What makes this place unique
- Waterfalls and cascades of the stream falling among large stone blocks
- Mountain water pools to cool off
- Views of Cerro Uritorco and the Punilla Valley during the climb
- Can be combined with Cueva del Ermitaño and the Huertas Malas gorge
- Little-trafficked trail, native nature, and tranquility
A bit of history
The area is part of the eastern slope of Cerro Uritorco, in the Sierras Chicas, an area rich in mountain legends. In the same Huertas Malas gorge is the Cueva del Ermitaño, associated with the story of a man who supposedly lived there for about twenty years. The trail to the Arroyo del Plata waterfalls became popular among hikers and local guides as a quieter alternative to the classic circuits of Capilla del Monte.
URI's tips
The trail has poorly marked sections from the Cerro Overo area, so it is highly recommended to hire a local guide or download a Wikiloc track. Leave early to avoid the heat and complete the circuit in daylight. Respect the environment: leave no waste and do not enter the stream if it is swollen after rains.
What to bring
Closed trekking shoes with laces, medium backpack, at least 2 liters of water, light food, cap or hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. It is advisable to bring a GPS track or go with a guide due to scarce signage.
This is what Cascadas del Arroyo del Plata looks like
How to get to Cascadas del Arroyo del Plata
4.5 km from downtown Capilla del Monte. About 10-15 minutes by car to Balneario La Toma; from there, access is on foot.
From the center of Capilla del Monte, head towards Balneario y Camping La Toma, about 4.5 km away, at the foot of Cerro Uritorco on the Calabalumba River. The trail starts from La Toma: cross the bridge over the Calabalumba River and climb up Cuesta del Toro, gaining altitude along the hillside towards the Huertas Malas area and Arroyo del Plata. The full round-trip circuit is about 12 km. The final stretch is poorly marked, so a guide or GPS track is recommended.
Hiking routes around Cascadas del Arroyo del Plata
Data from the Wikiloc community. Always check conditions and entry hours.
What everyone asks
Is the trek to the Arroyo del Plata Waterfalls difficult?
It is of low technical difficulty but moderate physical demand: it's about 12 km round trip, with climbs up Cuesta del Toro and the hillside. It requires reasonable fitness and proper footwear.
Where does the trail start?
From Balneario y Camping La Toma, about 4.5 km from the center of Capilla del Monte. Cross the Calabalumba River and climb up Cuesta del Toro towards Huertas Malas and Arroyo del Plata.
Is it advisable to go with a guide?
Yes. A large part of the final stretch is poorly marked, so it is recommended to go with a local guide or a GPS track so as not to lose the trail.
