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Take a full-day trip from Santiago into Cajón del Maipo to soak in mineral springs, stroll the turquoise El Yeso Reservoir shoreline, and enjoy a riverside picnic. This tour mixes light exploration, geology, and easy relaxation in one alpine day.
Take a full-day trip from Santiago into Cajón del Maipo to soak in mineral springs, stroll the turquoise El Yeso Reservoir shoreline, and enjoy a riverside picnic. This tour mixes light exploration, geology, and easy relaxation in one alpine day.
The day opens under a cold Andean light as the van climbs toward the Maipo Cajón and the mountains tighten around the road. You step out into thin air: wind pushes against your jacket, the river dares you closer with a constant silver voice, and the turquoise of El Yeso glows like a slice of sky trapped in rock.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Morandé Turismo & Transporte · San José de Maipo, Santiago Metropolitan Region
The day opens under a cold Andean light as the van climbs toward the Maipo Cajón and the mountains tighten around the road. You step out into thin air: wind pushes against your jacket, the river dares you closer with a constant silver voice, and the turquoise of El Yeso glows like a slice of sky trapped in rock.
This route threads volcanic geology and human history. The hot springs at Termas Valle de Colina are fed by hydrothermal systems tied to the San José volcano; locals have used these mineral waters for generations for their reputed therapeutic properties. El Yeso Reservoir is an engineered water reserve that now doubles as a striking recreational landscape—granite ridges, glacially polished valleys, and scree slopes that keep the high-country weather abrupt and changeable.
Culturally, the Cajón del Maipo still feels rural: small mountain hamlets, artisan chocolate stalls and picnic clearings that echo the region’s outdoors-first lifestyle. You’ll balance soaking in pools between 25–55°C with short shoreline strolls and a riverside picnic as guides handle logistics.
Practical tips: this is a long, full-day excursion (roughly 10–11 hours) at elevation—bring layered clothing, sun protection and a refillable water bottle. Footwear should handle gravel and short uneven walks. Expect vehicle transfers from Santiago and light walking on site; thermal pools can be hot and are not recommended for people with cardiovascular issues. Time your visit for clear weather to get the best light on El Yeso and warmest afternoon temperatures at the baths.
easy.
10–11 hours.
Suitable for travelers in general good health who can handle several short walks and a full day at altitude
Expect a 10–11 hour day that includes hotel pickup, a stop for breakfast by the river, admission to Termas Valle de Colina, viewpoint stops, a visit to El Yeso Reservoir, a chocolate stop and a riverside picnic.
Pools range 25–55°C; they are generally safe but not recommended for people with cardiovascular conditions, pregnant travelers, or very young infants—consult your physician if uncertain.
El Yeso is primarily a water reserve—recreational use is limited and weather-dependent; swimming is uncommon and local regulations should be followed.
Bring some Chilean pesos for small purchases like snacks or souvenirs; major stops on the tour typically accept card payments but remote vendors may not.
The Cajón del Maipo has long been a transit corridor and resource area for Andean communities; the thermal springs were used locally long before modern tourism developed.
El Yeso is a working water reserve—stay on designated paths, pack out waste, and respect signage to protect water quality and fragile high-altitude vegetation.
Morandé Turismo & Transporte operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The day opens under a cold Andean light as the van climbs toward the Maipo Cajón and the mountains tighten around the road. You step out into thin air: wind pushes against your jacket, the river dares you closer with a constant silver voice, and the turquoise of El Yeso glows like a slice of sky trapped in rock.
The day opens under a cold Andean light as the van climbs toward the Maipo Cajón and the mountains tighten around the road. You step out into thin air: wind pushes against your jacket, the river dares you closer with a constant silver voice, and the turquoise of El Yeso glows like a slice of sky trapped in rock.
This route threads volcanic geology and human history. The hot springs at Termas Valle de Colina are fed by hydrothermal systems tied to the San José volcano; locals have used these mineral waters for generations for their reputed therapeutic properties. El Yeso Reservoir is an engineered water reserve that now doubles as a striking recreational landscape—granite ridges, glacially polished valleys, and scree slopes that keep the high-country weather abrupt and changeable.
Culturally, the Cajón del Maipo still feels rural: small mountain hamlets, artisan chocolate stalls and picnic clearings that echo the region’s outdoors-first lifestyle. You’ll balance soaking in pools between 25–55°C with short shoreline strolls and a riverside picnic as guides handle logistics.
Practical tips: this is a long, full-day excursion (roughly 10–11 hours) at elevation—bring layered clothing, sun protection and a refillable water bottle. Footwear should handle gravel and short uneven walks. Expect vehicle transfers from Santiago and light walking on site; thermal pools can be hot and are not recommended for people with cardiovascular issues. Time your visit for clear weather to get the best light on El Yeso and warmest afternoon temperatures at the baths.