Laja Falls, Waterfall system on Laja River near Los Angeles, Chile.
Laja Falls is a waterfall system on the Laja River near Los Angeles in the Biobío Region. The site features four horseshoe-shaped cascades, with the eastern fall dropping roughly 35 meters and the western falls reaching about 20 meters.
The falls were first documented in 1756 during Spanish colonial exploration of territories inhabited by Mapuche and Pehuenche peoples. This early record marked an important moment in European mapping of southern Chilean lands.
The falls served as a sacred gathering place where Mapuche elders conducted meditation rituals while young men performed crossing ceremonies as strength tests.
Access to the falls is via Route 5, where a detour leads to a concrete bridge with multiple viewing platforms overlooking the cascades. The elevated walkway allows visitors to observe the water from different angles and vantage points.
The constant spray from the four cascades creates a natural rainbow effect visible year-round from the observation bridge on sunny days. This optical phenomenon occurs when light passes through the fine water droplets suspended in the air.
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