Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo

During this excursion to Cajón del Maipo from Santiago de Chile, you will have the chance to discover the breathtaking El Yeso Reservoir, characterized by its striking turquoise waters framed by the formidable Andes mountains. A perfect retreat into nature awaits!

Trip Overview

We will start by picking you up from your hotel in Santiago to embark on a journey into Cajón del Maipo, a picturesque region filled with mountains and rivers nestled in the Andes. Adventure beckons!

Our initial stop will be at San José de Maipo, a charming mountain village where you can delve into the local history and culture while taking in the scenic views.

As we traverse the route, we will pass by some of Cajón del Maipo's notable landmarks, including the El Tinoco Tunnel, a remnant from the old railway. You’ll also be treated to stunning views of the Yeso River and the majestic mountain ranges nearby.

We will pause for breakfast at a local eatery in Cajón del Maipo, where you are free to select any meal you prefer, at your own expense.

Following this, we will head towards the highlight of the day: the El Yeso Reservoir, renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters set against the breathtaking mountainous backdrop. Positioned at approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level, it offers stunning panoramic views of the natural beauty that the Andes have to offer.

Later on, we will take some time to relax and allow you the opportunity to purchase lunch and experience some traditional culinary delights of the area. We will also visit the Casa de Chocolate, celebrated for its whimsical architecture and extensive assortment of chocolate confections.

To conclude our day during spring and summer, we will share a toast before returning to Santiago, with an expected return time of around 10 hours after our initial pickup.

Seasonal Itinerary Adjustments

Access to the El Yeso Reservoir by vehicle is typically available from October to April, subject to weather, safety, and road conditions.

From May to September, the access road to the reservoir is closed to vehicles. When conditions permit, we will undertake a scenic 25-minute walk each way to reach a viewpoint where you can admire the reservoir’s captivating scenery.