Charge the Maipo River through Cajón del Maipo on a 2.5-hour rafting excursion from near Santiago. Expert guides, full safety kit, and a photographer make this an accessible yet adrenaline-rich river run.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The river breathes cold and fast as you step onto the gravel bank of the Maipo — a mottled current that dares you to move with it. Under a bowl of Andean sky, guides fit helmets and lifejackets, voices clear over the rush. Within minutes you’re cutting into riffles, the raft pitching and the river answering, rocks humming beneath a polished surface.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to swim and handle repeated paddling bursts and quick body bracing in the raft.
Wildlife
History
The Maipo valley has long been a corridor for indigenous groups and later miners; irrigation and water capture projects shaped local settlements in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conservation
Operators encourage ‘leave no trace’ practices and use biodegradable products; water use and tourism are managed to minimize impacts on fragile high-Andean ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Rafting Adventure in the Maipo Cajon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive in swimwear
Put on swimwear under your clothes to speed transitions; carry a dry bag for your phone and a change of clothes for the return.
Secure footwear
Wear closed-toe sandals or lightweight trail shoes with straps to prevent losing shoes on drops.
Tell guides about health issues
Disclose back, heart, or pregnancy concerns before boarding — operators will refuse participants with contraindications for safety.
Protect from sun and cold
Bring a low-profile sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a thin wind/rain shell for post-run chill.
Closed-toe water shoes
Keeps toes protected and provides traction on wet rocks and the raft.
Quick-dry layers
Dries fast after a soak and keeps you comfortable before and after the run.
Biodegradable sunscreen
Protects exposed skin without harming river ecology.
summer
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps valuables dry and lets you bring a phone for post-run photos.