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Escape Santiago for a day to soak in six naturally fed pools carved into the Andes at Termas de Colina. This full-day trip pairs high-country panoramas, local history and restorative hot springs for an easy, memorable mountain outing.
Escape Santiago for a day to soak in six naturally fed pools carved into the Andes at Termas de Colina. This full-day trip pairs high-country panoramas, local history and restorative hot springs for an easy, memorable mountain outing.
You leave Santiago behind in the rearview and the city’s grid softens into the serrated silhouette of the Andes. A twisting road drops into Cajón del Maipo, cliffs closing in, the air colder and drier; steam rises in thin threads from pools dug into granite slopes. At Termas de Colina six warm basins sit like rustic terraces, each offering a different temperature and a panorama of snow-dusted peaks.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Full Tour · San José de Maipo, Región Metropolitana
You leave Santiago behind in the rearview and the city’s grid softens into the serrated silhouette of the Andes. A twisting road drops into Cajón del Maipo, cliffs closing in, the air colder and drier; steam rises in thin threads from pools dug into granite slopes. At Termas de Colina six warm basins sit like rustic terraces, each offering a different temperature and a panorama of snow-dusted peaks.
Cajón del Maipo is shaped by tectonics and glacial carving—El Yeso reservoir upstream is a turquoise reminder of high-Andean hydrology and the region’s role in Santiago’s water supply. The valley carries mining and railway history: abandoned stations and folk houses speak to 19th–20th century industry and local legend. Small family-run cafés in the area carry recipes and chocolates that are a regional touchpoint.
Practically, this is a full-day outing: expect 7–10 hours from pickup to return. Pools are natural-fed and mineral-rich—soak times vary, but limit long, consecutive dips if you have cardiovascular concerns. Dress in layers; temperatures swing quickly between sun-baked canyon noon and chilly mountain breeze. Bring swimwear, towel, water and sunscreen, and a small snack if you prefer more than the provided light breakfast. Guides usually handle entrance and logistics and will point out viewpoints at El Yeso and the old train station.
Timing matters: this trip runs best in warmer months when roads are clearer and the contrast between cold air and hot water is most enjoyable. Be mindful of Leave No Trace—stay on paths, avoid soaps in pools, and respect local customs around bathing. The payoff is straightforward: warm water, high-Andean light and the unpaved hum of a canyon that insists you slow down.
moderate.
7–10 hours.
Moderate fitness—able to handle a day of travel on mountain roads, short walks, and repeated entries/exits from pools
Plan for a 7–10 hour day including pickup, travel into Cajón del Maipo, soaking time, and return to Santiago.
The pools are fed by natural thermal waters; basic changing areas are typically available but bring your own towel and consider modesty layers as facilities can be rustic.
Children can usually participate under supervision, but the operator advises that pregnant travelers and people with serious heart conditions avoid thermal baths.
Tours run most comfortably from October through April when roads are clearer and weather is warmer; winters can bring snow and access issues.
The valley has a mix of indigenous and 19th–20th century mining and railway history; many small settlements grew around mining routes and water infrastructure like El Yeso.
These springs are sensitive—avoid soaps, stick to marked paths, and support operators who limit visitor numbers and educate on Leave No Trace.
Full Tour operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You leave Santiago behind in the rearview and the city’s grid softens into the serrated silhouette of the Andes. A twisting road drops into Cajón del Maipo, cliffs closing in, the air colder and drier; steam rises in thin threads from pools dug into granite slopes. At Termas de Colina six warm basins sit like rustic terraces, each offering a different temperature and a panorama of snow-dusted peaks.
You leave Santiago behind in the rearview and the city’s grid softens into the serrated silhouette of the Andes. A twisting road drops into Cajón del Maipo, cliffs closing in, the air colder and drier; steam rises in thin threads from pools dug into granite slopes. At Termas de Colina six warm basins sit like rustic terraces, each offering a different temperature and a panorama of snow-dusted peaks.
Cajón del Maipo is shaped by tectonics and glacial carving—El Yeso reservoir upstream is a turquoise reminder of high-Andean hydrology and the region’s role in Santiago’s water supply. The valley carries mining and railway history: abandoned stations and folk houses speak to 19th–20th century industry and local legend. Small family-run cafés in the area carry recipes and chocolates that are a regional touchpoint.
Practically, this is a full-day outing: expect 7–10 hours from pickup to return. Pools are natural-fed and mineral-rich—soak times vary, but limit long, consecutive dips if you have cardiovascular concerns. Dress in layers; temperatures swing quickly between sun-baked canyon noon and chilly mountain breeze. Bring swimwear, towel, water and sunscreen, and a small snack if you prefer more than the provided light breakfast. Guides usually handle entrance and logistics and will point out viewpoints at El Yeso and the old train station.
Timing matters: this trip runs best in warmer months when roads are clearer and the contrast between cold air and hot water is most enjoyable. Be mindful of Leave No Trace—stay on paths, avoid soaps in pools, and respect local customs around bathing. The payoff is straightforward: warm water, high-Andean light and the unpaved hum of a canyon that insists you slow down.