About All ToursHot Springs ToursEmbalse el Yeso ToursFrom Santiago ToursPrivate ToursWinter Tours Directions Hours & Fees
Find Tours 
Explore the stunning Andes Mountains with a Cajon del Maipo day trip from Santiago. Choose from relaxing natural hot springs visits, scenic El Yeso Reservoir drives, or active snowshoeing adventures.
Free Cancellation Soak in volcanic hot springs and enjoy a four-course Chilean barbecue under the stars in the Cajón del Maipo.
Likely to Sell Out A private 8-hour trip through the Andes to El Yeso Reservoir, featuring local history and a mountain picnic.
Free Cancellation Snowshoe through Cajon de Maipo on a full-day Andes trek featuring steep climbs, mountain views, and local wine.
Free Cancellation Soak in the natural thermal pools of Termas de Colina, set deep in the Andes just two hours from Santiago.
Free Cancellation A flexible, private trip through Cajon del Maipo tailored to your interests and the day’s mountain conditions.
Free Cancellation Escape Santiago for a day in the Andes to visit El Yeso Reservoir, with a picnic and stops at local landmarks.
Free Cancellation Visit a high-altitude glacial lagoon in the Cajon del Maipo followed by a soak in natural volcanic hot springs.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Cajon del Maipo — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour to Cajón del Maipo offers a dramatic escape from the bustling streets of Santiago into the rugged Andes Mountains. You will spend the day navigating winding canyon roads, taking in views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise reservoirs, and natural thermal springs.
A massive, vivid turquoise reservoir sitting at 2,500 meters above sea level. It is the primary source of Santiago's drinking water and provides a stunning backdrop for photography.
Nine natural thermal pools terraced into the mountainside. Temperatures range from 25°C to 55°C, offering a warm soak with direct views of the San José Volcano.
The historic main village of the canyon, founded in 1792. It features classic colonial adobe architecture, a traditional Plaza de Armas, and local artisan markets.
A protected natural monument offering an 8km round-trip hike. The trail leads you straight to the impressive San Francisco Glacier and the Morales Lagoon.
Many tours stop at spectacular local waterfalls like Velo de la Novia or Cascada de las Ánimas, where snowmelt crashes down the steep canyon walls.
To cap off the mountain experience, several guided tours include a traditional Chilean barbecue or a scenic picnic with local wine and snacks right in the valley.
Visiting the high Andes requires a bit of preparation. Here is what you need to know before securing your Cajón del Maipo tour.
You can choose from large group bus tours, small-van excursions, or fully private trips. Options range from relaxed sightseeing and hot spring soaks to active 12-hour snowshoeing treks.
Read the fine print on what your ticket covers. Premium tours often include hot spring admission, a box lunch, or a BBQ with wine. Budget tours generally only cover transportation and a guide, leaving meals and entry fees at your own expense.
Tours regularly reach altitudes between 2,500 and 3,000 meters. If you have poor cardiovascular health or are prone to severe altitude sickness, consult a doctor before booking. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals before the trip.
The terrain is rugged, rocky, and largely unpaved at higher elevations, making wheelchair access highly limited. However, some private tours offer modified, vehicle-based sightseeing that requires minimal walking.
October to March offers the most stable weather and clear roads. June to September brings heavy snow; while beautiful, it frequently causes sudden road closures and requires specialized winter tours.
Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Dress in 'onion layers'—a base, thermal, and waterproof shell. Temperatures can plummet by 15°C in an hour as the sun sets. Sturdy boots and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory.
Most tours offer hotel pickup from central Santiago neighborhoods like Providencia, Las Condes, and Santiago Centro. Operators usually contact you via WhatsApp the day before to confirm the exact pickup window.
Standard group tours typically offer a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. However, some high-end private tours have strict non-refundable policies, so check the terms before you pay.
| Hot Springs & BBQ Tour | Private Day Trip | Snowshoeing Trek | Budget Scenic Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 hours | 8 - 9 hours | 12 hours | 9 hours |
| Best for | Relaxation and foodies | Custom pacing and privacy | Active winter adventurers | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Key Inclusions | Hot springs entry, dinner/BBQ, drinks | Private transport, guide, hotel pickup | Snowshoes, poles, box lunch, guide | Transport, driver-guide |
| Price from | $210 USD | $298 USD | $150 USD | $68 USD |
Operating hours in the canyon vary strictly by location and season, and mountain parks close early to ensure visitor safety.
If you are traveling independently, always aim to arrive at trailheads before 10:00 AM.
Cajón del Maipo is located roughly 60 km southeast of Santiago's city center.
The ideal time to visit depends entirely on what you want to experience.
Summer (October to March): This is the best time for hiking, rafting, and guaranteed access to high-altitude spots like Embalse El Yeso and the hot springs. The weather is stable and trails are clear.
Winter (June to September): Best for snowshoeing and dramatic winter photography. However, expect frequent road closures, heavy snow, and the risk of 'viento blanco' (whiteout conditions) which can shut down attractions without notice.
Pro Tip: Avoid weekends if possible. The single-lane roads experience heavy traffic jams as Santiago locals flock to the canyon for their days off.
Accessibility in Cajón del Maipo is quite limited due to the natural, rugged environment.
Do not expect city conveniences once you venture deep into the canyon.
Local authorities strictly enforce rules to protect the fragile Andean ecosystem and ensure visitor safety.
Yes, it is possible. Tours to the reservoir and hot springs reach altitudes of 2,500m to 3,000m. Sensitive individuals may experience mild symptoms like headaches or shortness of breath. Staying hydrated helps significantly.
During the summer months, a standard car is usually sufficient for the main paved roads. However, a 4x4 is highly recommended if you are visiting in winter or driving the unpaved G-455 road to the reservoir.
It depends on the tour. Premium full-day tours usually include the 10,000 CLP entrance fee to Termas Valle de Colina, while budget tours often require you to pay this separately in cash. Always check the inclusions.
Yes. You can take the MB-72 bus or a colectivo from Metro Las Mercedes in Santiago to the main towns. However, to reach remote spots like the reservoir, you will need to book a guided tour or rent a car.
ATMs are only available in the main town of San José de Maipo. Most businesses, kiosks, and park entrances further up the canyon are cash-only, so bring plenty of Chilean Pesos with you.
The main Route G-25 is paved, but the final stretch to the reservoir (Route G-455) is a narrow, winding gravel road. It is prone to rockfalls and can be dangerous after heavy rain.
June through August offers the most snow. However, be aware that access to many attractions, including the reservoir, is frequently restricted or closed during these months due to unsafe road conditions.
No, pets are generally prohibited in protected areas like El Morado Natural Monument. This rule is strictly enforced by CONAF to protect the local Andean wildlife.
Cell service is reliable in San José de Maipo but drops off completely once you pass the town of San Gabriel. Make sure to download offline maps and coordinate pickup times beforehand.
Dress in layers. Even in summer, the wind at 2,500m can be freezing, but the sun is intense. Bring a base layer, a warm jacket, sturdy hiking boots, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Browse verified tours with free cancellation and instant confirmation.
Find Tours
Starting at 3:00 PM, we drive into the Cajón del Maipo valley, following the route of the Maipo River. The first stop is the Chocolate House, known for its distinctive architecture, followed by a visit to the Velo de la Novia Waterfall. We then head to the Colina hot springs, where seven natural pools range in temperature from 30°C to 55°C, allowing time to relax in the mineral-rich volcanic waters. As the sun sets over the Andes, we gather at a mountain viewpoint for a traditional four-course Chilean barbecue. The meal is paired with a selection of wines from the central and southern regions. The tour concludes with an opportunity to view the stars in the clear night sky before heading back.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This eight-hour private tour travels into the Andes Mountains to visit El Yeso Reservoir and the town of San José de Maipo. You will travel by minivan with a guide who provides live commentary on the history and geography of the Maipo Valley. Since this is a private excursion, the schedule is reserved exclusively for your specific group. The itinerary includes time for walking along the mountain trails to see the reservoir and the surrounding peaks. The day concludes with a picnic served outdoors in the mountains before the return trip. This tour focuses on the natural landscape of central Chile and the heritage of its mountain communities.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Spend a full day exploring the winter landscape of the Maipo Canyon on foot. This snowshoeing trek takes you into the heart of the Andes, offering views of Cerro el Plomo as you navigate the snowy terrain. The tour includes round-trip transportation and a professional guide to lead the way. The hike is rated as medium-high difficulty with a 600-meter elevation gain. The first hour involves a steep ascent before the trail levels out for the remainder of the journey. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions like rain or heavy snow. To keep you fueled, the trip includes a box lunch, appetizers, and wine.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Located two hours from Santiago, this trip takes you into the Cajón del Maipo region of the Andes Mountains. The journey through the canyon leads to Baños Termas de Colina, a series of natural outdoor pools terraced into the mountainside. You will have time to soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters while taking in the views of the surrounding high-altitude landscape. The area also offers space for walking through the rugged mountain terrain before the return drive to the city.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, Spanish
This private trip into the Cajon del Maipo moves away from rigid schedules. Instead of following a fixed path, we adjust the route and pace based on your preferences and the current mountain weather. You can spend the day on a scenic drive, head out on a hike, or combine the two to see the glaciers and volcanic landscapes of the Andes. Throughout the day, your guide provides context on the region’s geology, wildlife, and high-altitude ecosystems. We also focus on the local culture of the mountains to give you a deeper understanding of the area. The experience is designed to be relaxed and informal, feeling more like a day out with a knowledgeable local than a standard commercial tour. By keeping the timing and routes flexible, we can adapt to the landscape as it changes. This approach allows us to find the best spots for the day's conditions while ensuring you aren't rushed through the scenery.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Head out from Santiago for a day in the Cajón del Maipo valley, a high-altitude region of the Andes known for its rugged landscapes and fresh air. The main destination is the El Yeso Reservoir, sitting at 2,500 meters and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The route also includes stops at the Tinoco Tunnel, the Las Cáscaras ruins, the central square of San José de Maipo, and the local Chocolate House. A picnic and a toast are provided during the trip. Please note that between June and August, winter weather can lead to road closures. If we cannot reach the reservoir safely, we will offer an alternative route, or you can choose to reschedule, pick a different tour, or request a refund.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This day trip takes you into the heart of the Cajon del Maipo to see a turquoise lagoon set against a backdrop of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. You will spend the day exploring the mountain landscape and stopping to eat traditional Chilean cuisine. You can also choose to visit the volcanic hot springs located in the Hill Valley. These outdoor pools range in temperature from 25°C to 66°C, offering a place to soak while looking out over the surrounding Andes mountains.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish