About All ToursHot Springs ToursEmbalse el Yeso ToursFrom Santiago ToursPrivate ToursWinter Tours Directions Hours & Fees
Find Tours 
Explore the stunning Andes mountains with guided trips to Cajon del Maipo, Embalse El Yeso, and local hot springs. Choose from relaxing spa retreats, scenic hikes, or traditional folk picnics departing from Santiago.
Free Cancellation A full-day trip from Santiago to the Andes featuring Embalse El Yeso, local food tastings, and a riverside picnic.
Free Cancellation A full-day Andes escape featuring historic San José de Maipo, the El Yeso Reservoir, and a relaxing riverside spa.
Free Cancellation Hike 8km through the Andes to see a 5,800-meter volcano and ancient glaciers, just 100km from Santiago.
Free Cancellation Explore Cajón del Maipo in a small group with a mountain picnic, Chilean wine, and local empanadas in San José.
Free Cancellation Explore the high Andes on an 8-hour trip to the El Yeso Reservoir and the mountain village of San José de Maipo.
Free Cancellation A day in the Andes visiting mountain villages, soaking in natural hot springs, and sharing a local picnic.
Free Cancellation Soak in volcanic hot springs, visit the Chocolate House, and enjoy a 4-course Chilean BBQ under the Andean stars.
Free Cancellation Visit a historic mountain town and a fairytale chocolate house before lunch and a swim at a lodge in the snowy Andes.
Free Cancellation Explore Chile’s vast landscapes and wildlife while learning about local history from expert multilingual guides.
Free Cancellation Soak in six natural thermal pools high in the Andes on this seasonal day trip from Santiago.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Cajon del Maipo — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Cajón del Maipo offers a dramatic natural escape just outside of Santiago, taking you deep into the heart of the Andes Mountains. Expect full-day adventures featuring rugged high-altitude landscapes, turquoise reservoirs, and natural thermal springs.
A massive turquoise reservoir sitting at 2,500 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by snow-capped Andean peaks and serves as the perfect backdrop for photography and mountain picnics.
Natural thermal hot springs cascading down the mountainside. Soak in nine different pools with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 55°C while taking in views of the San José Volcano.
A historic mountain village founded in 1792. Tours often stop here to admire the colonial adobe architecture, visit the traditional Plaza de Armas, and grab local artisan chocolates.
Many guided tours include a scenic outdoor picnic. Enjoy traditional Chilean wine, local cheeses, salami, and empanadas right in the middle of the mountain wilderness.
A protected geological wonderland offering incredible hiking trails. Trek through the valley to witness the San Francisco Glacier and Morales Lagoon up close.
Planning a trip into the high Andes requires a bit of preparation regarding weather, altitude, and logistics. Here is what you need to know before booking your Cajon del Maipo tour.
Most options are full-day guided group tours lasting 10 to 12 hours. You can choose between relaxed sightseeing tours focused on the reservoir and picnics, wellness tours centered around the hot springs, or active 8-kilometer trekking adventures.
Check your specific tour details for entrance fees. While hot spring tours generally include the ~10,000 CLP admission, the 3,450 CLP fee for Parque Embalse El Yeso is sometimes treated as an optional extra paid on-site.
Tours reach altitudes between 2,500 and 3,000 meters. Sensitive individuals may experience mild altitude sickness (puna). It is recommended to stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals before ascending.
During winter (June to September), heavy snow often closes the final stretch of Route G-455. Tours adapt by providing snow boots and walking the final distance to the reservoir, or altering the route entirely for safety.
Nearly all tours offer free pick-up and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura, and Santiago Centro. If you are staying near the airport, you will likely need to meet at a designated downtown point.
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Dress in 'onion layers' (base, thermal, waterproof) as temperatures can drop by 15°C in an hour. Sturdy hiking boots, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory due to intense high-altitude sun.
Most operators offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure. Because mountain weather is unpredictable, tours may be canceled by the operator due to storms or road closures, in which case you will be offered a reschedule or refund.
| Classic Reservoir & Picnic Tour | Hot Springs & Spa Tour | Andean Trekking Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 hours | 10 - 12 hours | 12 hours |
| Best for | Photography and relaxed sightseeing | Relaxation and wellness | Active travelers and hikers |
| Includes | Hotel pickup, bilingual guide, wine & cheese picnic | Transport, guide, hot springs entrance ticket, lunch or BBQ | Bilingual guide, 8km guided hike, gourmet sandwich, insurance |
| Price from | $38 - $99 USD | $147 - $210 USD | $150 USD |
Parque Embalse El Yeso: Open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Please note that the last permitted entry is at 16:00.
Monumento Natural El Morado: Open from 08:30 to 17:30. CONAF strictly prohibits starting the hike after 12:30 PM for safety reasons.
Guided Tours: Most full-day tours depart Santiago very early, typically picking up between 05:00 AM and 08:00 AM. A few specialized afternoon tours (like sunset hot springs) depart around 3:00 PM.
By Guided Tour: The most convenient and popular option. Tours take 10-12 hours and handle all navigating on the difficult mountain roads.
By Car: The canyon is 60 km from Santiago City Center (about 1 hour 15 minutes). Follow Route G-25 (Camino al Volcán) southeast. While a standard car is fine in summer, a 4x4 is highly recommended for winter and the unpaved Route G-455.
By Public Transport: Take the Metro Line 4 to Las Mercedes, then catch the MB-72 public bus (1,500 CLP) or a shared Colectivo (2,500 CLP) to San José de Maipo. Note that public transport does not go all the way to the reservoir.
October to March (Summer/Spring): This is the ideal time to visit for stable weather, clear hiking trails, and reliable access to high-altitude attractions like the hot springs and reservoir.
June to September (Winter): Best for seeing heavy snow and a true winter wonderland. However, be prepared for unpredictable mountain storms, 'viento blanco' (whiteout) conditions, and frequent road closures on Route G-25.
Tip: Try to visit on a weekday. The single-lane mountain roads experience heavy traffic jams on weekends with Santiago locals escaping the city.
Wheelchair Users: Accessibility is generally limited. Most hiking trails and natural sites like El Morado feature uneven, rocky terrain that is not wheelchair friendly. However, some private tours offer modified, vehicle-based sightseeing itineraries.
Elderly Visitors: Suitable for those with moderate mobility. The hot springs at Valle de Colina are accessible by car, but high-altitude trekking (2,500m+) may be strenuous.
Children: The region is highly suitable for kids interested in nature. Parents should just be prepared for long travel times (2+ hours each way) and ensure children have strong sun protection.
Money: ATMs are only available in the main town of San José de Maipo. Bring plenty of Chilean Pesos (CLP) in cash, as card machines further into the canyon often fail due to poor signal.
Connectivity: Cell service is reliable in San José de Maipo but becomes completely non-existent past the town of San Gabriel. Download offline maps before leaving Santiago.
Food & Drink: Basic snacks and cafes can be found in San José de Maipo and Baños Morales. For remote areas like the reservoir, you must bring your own food and water (which is why tour picnics are so popular).
Yes, visitors reach altitudes of 2,500m to 3,000m at the reservoir and hot springs. This can cause mild altitude sickness (puna) in sensitive individuals. It is best to stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals before your tour.
Yes, it is highly recommended to bring Chilean Pesos (CLP). ATMs are only available in San José de Maipo, and card machines at remote stops often fail due to a lack of cell service.
It depends on the tour. Hot springs tours usually include the ~10,000 CLP admission fee. However, the 3,450 CLP entrance fee for Parque Embalse El Yeso is sometimes treated as an optional extra that you pay on-site.
June through August offers the most snow. However, access to many attractions, including the final road to the reservoir, is frequently restricted or closed during these months due to safety hazards.
The main road (Route G-25) is paved and generally safe, but the final stretch to the reservoir (G-455) is a narrow, winding gravel road prone to rockfalls. Guided tours use experienced drivers familiar with these mountain conditions.
Yes, you can take the MB-72 public bus from Metro Las Mercedes to the main towns. However, public transport does not go to the reservoir or deep into the mountains, so a guided tour is the best option without a vehicle.
Dress in 'onion layers' (a base, thermal layer, and waterproof jacket) because mountain temperatures can drop by 15°C very quickly. Sturdy hiking boots, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are also essential.
Cell service is reliable in the main village of San José de Maipo, but it becomes virtually non-existent once you pass the town of San Gabriel. Download any necessary offline maps before leaving Santiago.
Most full-day tours include a scenic picnic featuring Chilean wine, cheese, salami, and empanadas. Premium hot springs tours often include a larger lunch or an evening Chilean BBQ.
Pets are generally prohibited in protected areas, such as the El Morado Natural Monument, to protect the local wildlife and delicate ecosystem.
Browse verified tours with free cancellation and instant confirmation.
Find Tours
Depart from Santiago in an air-conditioned vehicle toward the mountain town of San José de Maipo. After a stop for coffee by the Maipo River, you will continue to Embalse El Yeso, a reservoir known for its bright turquoise water and surrounding peaks. This portion of the tour is coordinated with Parque Cordillera to provide access to safe, marked walking trails and panoramic viewpoints. The itinerary focuses on rural Andean life and local flavors. You will have the chance to see native wildlife, sample goat cheese, artisanal honey, and traditional alfajores, and browse local crafts. The experience includes a live folk dance performance and a picnic with charcuterie, snacks, juice, and a wine toast. The tour concludes with a return to Santiago around 6:00 PM.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Start the morning in the town of San José de Maipo to see its colonial main square and the landmark Church of San José. From there, stop at the Addiction del Maipo cafeteria to learn how local artisan chocolate is made and hear about the traditions of the Cajón del Maipo region. Continue higher into the mountains to the El Yeso Reservoir, located 2,500 meters above sea level. This area is known for its turquoise water and rugged mountain scenery. You will have time for a short walk along the shore followed by an outdoor brunch with views of the surrounding peaks. The afternoon is spent at the Sanctuary of the River, beginning with a welcome Pisco Sour and a traditional Chilean lunch. You will have full access to the facilities, including heated and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, and the spa. Please note that swim caps are required for all pool use.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Located 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Santiago, this excursion takes you deep into the Central Andes to witness the geological history of the South American continent. The day centers on an 8-kilometer (5-mile) hike through high-altitude terrain, following a path carved by mountain rivers and glacial movement. As you trek, you will reach vantage points overlooking a massive 5,800-meter (19,000-foot) volcano. The route provides a close look at active glaciers and rugged rock formations, offering a clear perspective on the natural forces that shaped this mountain range.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Escape the city for a day in the heart of the Andes with a small-group tour limited to 15 people. You will travel into Cajón del Maipo to take in the high-altitude landscapes and panoramic views. Your guide will point out specific locations for photography and share knowledge about the region's natural history and the importance of environmental conservation. During the trip, you will visit the mountain town of San José to try a traditional Chilean empanada. The experience also includes a picnic featuring local wine, served at a viewpoint overlooking the cordillera. This tour is designed for those who want to experience the mountains at a relaxed pace while learning about the local culture and terrain.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This 8-hour small-group tour takes you deep into the Andes to explore the Cajon del Maipo region. Traveling by minivan, you will visit the historic town of San José de Maipo and learn about the area's heritage through live commentary from your guide. The journey continues to the El Yeso Reservoir, where you can walk along the turquoise waters and take in the surrounding peaks. The excursion concludes with a shared picnic in the mountains before the drive back. Please be aware that during the winter months, road closures due to snow or landslides are common. In these instances, the itinerary adjusts to visit other scenic areas within the Cajon del Maipo to ensure a safe and complete mountain experience.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, Spanish
Departing from Santiago, this full-day trip heads into the Andes to San José de Maipo. You will travel through mountain villages while learning about the region’s history and customs from your guide. The morning includes a stop for coffee by the Maipo River (not included) followed by a visit to a local farm to see baby goats and sample regional goat cheese, honey, and traditional alfajores. The tour continues to natural hot springs with mineral pools ranging from 25°C to 55°C. After time to soak, you will have a picnic featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, snacks, and a wine toast. You will also have the chance to meet residents in traditional attire and see local crafts before returning to Santiago around 6:00 PM.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
We depart at 3:00 PM, heading into the Cajón del Maipo valley alongside the Maipo River. Our first stops include the uniquely designed Chocolate House and the Velo de la Novia waterfall. From there, we continue deep into the mountains to the Colina hot springs. These natural thermal baths consist of seven pools with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 55°C, fed directly by volcanic activity. As evening approaches, we move to a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset over the Andes peaks. This is followed by a traditional four-course Chilean barbecue, featuring local meats and seasonal dishes paired with wines from central and southern Chile. The tour finishes under the clear mountain night sky, offering a prime opportunity for stargazing before we head back.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
Travel into the Andes to the Cajon del Maipo, reaching nearly 1,000 meters above sea level. The tour stops first at the central town square, a site recognized as a National Monument since 1992 for its traditional architecture. Nearby, you will visit the Chocolate House, a unique building made from recycled wood, mud, and stone that serves artisan vegan chocolates, ice cream, and hot chocolate. As the road climbs higher, the landscape opens up to mountain rivers and snow. The day concludes at El Morado Lodge & Spa with lunch and access to the swimming pools. This location provides panoramic views of the Andes Nevada range, offering a quiet place to experience the mountain air and scenery before the trip back.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This tour focuses on Chile’s natural beauty, taking you through scenic landscapes where you can observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Along the way, our guides provide a practical introduction to the country’s history and geography, helping you understand the context of the sights you visit. Our team is multilingual and prioritizes clear communication and punctuality. We aim to be flexible throughout the day to accommodate your questions and specific interests. If you need to cancel or modify your reservation, please contact us directly to coordinate the changes.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish
This trip takes you into the heart of the Andes to visit a series of six natural hot springs. Available from October through April, the site offers a quiet place to soak while surrounded by high-altitude mountain views. Your booking covers the full cost of admission to the thermal pools. We also provide a light breakfast for the group before heading up into the mountains.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Spanish