About this experience
Experience the best of Cajón del Maipo in one day and without worrying about logistics: round-trip transfer from Santiago, bilingual guide, brunch and snack included at four stops in the Andes Mountains.
It begins in the Plaza de San José de Maipo, founded as a village in 1792, where its parish is located, declared a National Monument. Then go up to Embalse El Yeso, one of Santiago's main drinking water reservoirs, fed by the Yeso River and mountain snowmelt, with time for photos.
Continue to Laguna del Encañado, also called Laguna Escondida, a high mountain nature reserve. Walk among native vegetation, with the possibility of spotting condors, and enjoy an outdoor brunch facing the mountain range.
Close in Casa Chocolate, handmade by artisan Sergio Andrade, with a sweet snack and hot chocolate, tea or coffee.
The route exceeds 2,500 meters in altitude: bring layered warm clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.
At a glance
- Duration: 10 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- You must bring your suit and swimming cap
What is included
- Outdoor Brunch at the Gypsum Reservoir
- Bilingual guide
- Sweet snack with hot chocolate, tea or coffee at Casa Chocolate
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Visit to El Yeso Reservoir and Hike to Laguna del Encañado
- Round trip transfer to departure point
Not included
- Gratuities
- Lunch
Itinerary and highlights
Start of the tour to Cajón del Maipo.
San José de Maipo was founded as a town in 1792 by order of Ambrosio O'Higgins, Governor of Chile and future Viceroy of Peru. In its square is the Parish of San José de Maipo, built in 1854 and declared a National Monument for its historical and architectural value. It is the main meeting point of the town and retains the Andean character that distinguishes it since its founding.
The El Yeso Reservoir is one of Santiago's main drinking water reserves, fed by the Yeso River and the snowmelt from the mountain range. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by Andean peaks, make it one of the most photographed landscapes in Cajón del Maipo. Here you will have time to walk along the shore, take photos, and enjoy the panoramic view.
Gentle hike to Laguna del Encañado, also known as Laguna Escondida, a U-shaped glacial valley surrounded by slopes and native vegetation. From the viewpoint you can see the lagoon nestled between mountains and, with luck, spot condors on the nearby peaks. Upon arrival, an outdoor brunch with views of the mountain range awaits you.
Casa Chocolate is one of the most unique places in Cajón del Maipo, built by hand by the artisan Sergio Andrade with bioconstruction techniques, native woods, and recycled materials. Its fantasy architecture seems taken from a fairy tale. Explore the place and enjoy a sweet snack with hot chocolate, tea, or coffee.
Meeting and pickup information
- Diego de Velásquez Street 2131, Providencia. Next to Los Leones Metro station. Find your guide dressed in a red jacket. Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip. Does not include transportation to or from your accommodation.
- Hotel Sheraton Av Santa Maria 1742, Providencia. At the entrance to the Sheraton Hotel. Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip. Does not include transportation to or from your accommodation.
- Av. Ricardo Lyon 32, Providencia, Santiago. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip. Does not include transportation to or from your accommodation.
- Kennedy Lateral 5601, Las Condes, Chile. Find your guide at Turistik shelter in Parque Arauco Oriente, on the ground floor outside by Av Kennedy Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip.
- Via Avenida Vitacura 2653, eastern sidewalk, between Encomenderos and Tajamar streets. Close to Mall Costanera Center and Tobalaba Metro Station. Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip. Does not include transportation to or from your accommodation.
- Monjitas 879 Santiago, Chile Costado Casa Royal, Plaza de Armas sector. Look for your guide and red bus at the meeting point. Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Exclusive transportation for the group round trip. Does not include transportation to or from your accommodation.
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Turistik
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- You must bring your suit and swimming cap
- It is not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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It is not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility
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