Marquiri Waterfalls (Tarija)
The Marquiri Waterfalls are one of those hidden gems that Tarija offers, nestled among its mountains: a waterfall cascading into the rock, pools of cool water, and a verdant setting that feels secluded, peaceful, and incredibly photogenic. It’s an ideal destination if you love truly unspoiled nature, where the reward comes after a hike and where the sound of water is louder than the city.
Furthermore, Marquiri is often mentioned as part of the protected area of the Sama Mountain Range, which explains its landscape of hills, ravines, and well-preserved natural environments.
📍 Where is Marquiri located and what kind of outing is it?
Marquiri is located in the municipality of San Lorenzo (Tarija) and is situated amidst ravines and canyons where the waterfall appears.
It’s not an “urban” place or a park with large infrastructure: it’s more of a rural natural attraction, perfect for:
- travelers looking for scenery + hiking + water
- groups of friends and couples
- people who want a half-day or full-day outing
- photography lovers, those who enjoy natural pools and nature without the crowds
💧 What to see at Chorros de Marquiri?
1) The main waterfall
The main attraction is a waterfall that appears between rocky walls, creating a “gorge” or ravine effect. Upon arrival, the most striking thing is the contrast: dark rock, humidity, vegetation clinging to the walls, and the vertical jet of water.
2) Natural pools and crystal-clear water
In the area, you can enjoy natural pools formed by the water flow. They are perfect for cooling off, although the water is usually cold, the kind that wakes you up at first touch.
3) Marquiri Canyon
Many visitors describe the hike as a canyon trek, with a pleasant walking trail and areas where you’re bound to get wet (splashes, water crossings, and the surrounding humidity).
4) “Adventure” Option: Waterfall Descending
For more adventurous travelers, the possibility of descending the waterfall is mentioned as an additional activity (this is no longer a family outing and usually requires a guide and equipment).
🥾 What’s the hike like? (What to really expect)
The route can vary depending on the exact starting point and the path you take, but there are references to moderate routes with a distance of approximately 9–12 km, elevation gain, and approximate times of 4–6 hours for a circular/round trip (depending on pace and stops).
Important things for the traveler:
- It’s not extreme trekking, but it’s not like “I’ll just hop in a taxi and get off at the waterfall.”
- There are sections where the ground can be slippery, especially if it has rained.
- It’s common to get wet during the hike (from crossings, splashes, or being near water).
✅ If you enjoy hiking and being rewarded by nature, you’ll love Marquiri.
🚗 How to get there? (Practical, no-fuss way)
As a general guide for travelers:
Option A: Taxi / Private Transportation (easiest)
The most comfortable option is to leave from Tarija towards the San Lorenzo area and go to the trailhead. This is the most practical if you’re traveling in a group, because you split the cost and aren’t tied to a schedule.
Option B: Organized Tour (without logistics)
There’s an excursion that combines Chorros de Jurina and Marquiri Canyon, useful if you want everything taken care of (transportation, timing, stops).
Option C: On your own (independent traveler mode)
If you’re going without a tour, the key is to ask in Tarija or San Lorenzo about:
- the exact entry point
- the trail conditions depending on the season
- whether a guide is recommended that day (due to rain, water levels, or safety concerns)
⏰ How much time to dedicate?
- Express plan (half day, 3–4 hours): hike a section, reach water areas, take photos, and return at a leisurely pace.
- Ideal plan (full day, 5–7 hours): complete route + breaks + pools + picnic.
- Top plan (full day + combo): Jurina + Marquiri if you want waterfalls and pools in “full nature” mode.
🌦️ Best time to visit Chorros de Marquiri
Marquiri changes a lot depending on the season:
Rainy season
- Greener vegetation
- Higher water flow (more powerful waterfall)
- But trails are more slippery and have more crossings
Dry season
- Sturdier paths
- Better for longer hikes
- The waterfall may flow with less force, but the walk is usually more comfortable
💡 If you want an epic photo with strong water features, prioritize the rainy season (and be careful). If you want a comfortable hike, prioritize the dry season.
🎒 What to Pack (Travel Checklist)
Essentials
- Shoes with good grip (ideal for trekking)
- Water (at least 1L per person)
- Sunscreen + hat
- Insect repellent
- Trash bag (a must)
For the water
- Swimsuit
- Small or quick-drying towel
- Extra clothes (in case you get wet on the hike)
- Sandals with good grip (if you’re going to be in pools)
Useful Extras
- Energy snack (nuts, bars)
- Power bank
- Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, rubbing alcohol, basic pain reliever)
🧠 Safety Tips (the ones that really matter)
- If it rained the day before, walk more slowly: rocks + moisture = easy slipping.
- Don’t go into deep pools if you don’t know the bottom (there may be uneven rocks).
- Avoid going too late: the return trip in low light makes the trail more difficult.
- If you’re going to attempt waterfall rappelling, make sure you have a guide, the right equipment, and the conditions are suitable.
🧺 Is a picnic allowed?
Yes, it’s one of the best ways to do it: hike, reach the water, relax, and enjoy a simple meal. Just remember:
- Leave no trash
- Avoid glass containers
- Don’t use soap/shampoo in the water
📸 Best photo ideas
- Wide shot of the canyon with the waterfall in the background (for scale)
- Portraits in soft light (morning or afternoon)
- Long exposure if you have a tripod (the water looks “silky”)
- Details: moss, wet rocks, turquoise pools if the sun is shining
✅ Suggested mini itinerary (full day well planned)
8:00 Departure from Tarija
9:00 Start of hike (gentle pace)
10:30 Arrival at the waterfall/pools area + photos
11:30 Free time to refresh (no rush)
12:30 Picnic lunch
13:30 Return (with short stops)
15:30 Arrival/rest in Tarija
(If you’re on a combined tour, the order and times change.)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Travelers
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, if the group walks calmly and with supervision near the water. Avoid slippery sections after rain.
Will I get wet?
Probably, at least a little. Several visitors recommend being prepared to get wet.
Do I need a guide?
Not always, but if you’re unfamiliar with the area or the weather is unstable, a local guide enhances safety and the overall experience.
Can I visit in the afternoon?
Yes, some even suggest going when it’s cloudy or in the late afternoon; just make sure you don’t leave too late.