Climb into the high Andes for a full-day soak in geothermal pools below San José volcano. This 7–8 hour trip mixes a scenic G25 drive through Cajón del Maipo with three hours of hot-spring bathing and postcard views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Steam rises off a ring of mineral-rich pools as the Andes hold a cold sky above you — snow crusts the scrub, and below it the earth warms. On this full-day excursion you climb toward San José volcano to reach the Colina hot springs, a sequence of baths that span roughly 60°C down to 30°C, framed by glaciated ridgelines and the long sweep of Cajón del Maipo.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness — able to step on uneven ground and tolerate short walks at altitude
Wildlife
History
Cajón del Maipo developed from colonial-era mining and later water infrastructure projects; the thermal springs have long been used by local communities for therapeutic bathing.
Conservation
The high-Andes puna is ecologically sensitive — stay on paths, pack out waste, and avoid soaps or sunscreen in the pools to protect water quality.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Volcano Hot Springs Experience today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a night in Santiago and avoid heavy exertion the morning of the tour to reduce altitude effects at ~2,500 m.
Bring a dry change
Pack warm, dry clothes and a towel; you’ll cool quickly after hot pools, especially if there’s snow on the ground.
Footwear for rocky approaches
Pools are accessed via uneven paths — closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip make transfers safer.
Limit additives in pools
Do not use soaps, oils, or lotions in the thermal baths to protect water quality and local microbes.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on rocky or icy paths between pools and the transport drop-off.
Quick-dry towel and spare clothes
Necessary to warm up after soaking and to change into dry layers for the return drive.
Layered insulated jacket
Keeps you warm after a soak and during alpine stops where wind and snow are common.
winter
Reusable water bottle
Hydration is important at altitude; bring at least 1–2 liters to avoid repeated stops.