Difficulty
Customizable
Duration
8-10 hours
Where you'll go
Cajón del Maipo
Season
Year-round
Mode
Private · From USD 160 per person
Discover the landscapes and culture of the Andes on a flexible private experience
Join us to explore Cajón del Maipo, a spectacular mountain valley just outside Santiago, known for its dramatic Andean landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural history.
This full-day experience is flexible and designed around your interests and pace.
You might hike to places like Morales lagoon or Engorda valley, follow quiet mountain roads with scenic viewpoints, or simply enjoy short walks surrounded by the Andes.
Some travelers also choose to visit the turquoise waters of El Yeso Reservoir.
What truly defines the day, however, is the atmosphere we create.
Guests often tell us it feels less like a tour and more like spending a day in the mountains with a knowledgeable local, sharing stories, discovering hidden corners of the valley, and enjoying the landscape at a relaxed pace.
Further down, you’ll find pricing, inclusions, and everything you need to plan your tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
6:30 AM
Hotel pick-up in Santiago
7:45 AM
Optional stop in San José de Maipo for a traditional breakfast
10:00 AM
Arrival at Baños Morales. Begin the hike to Morales lagoon
12:30 - 1:00 PM
Picnic lunch at the lagoon with views of Glacier San Francisco
1:00 - 2:30 PM
Descent to the starting point
4:30 PM
Return to your hotel in Santiago
Customizable
This itinerary is an example based on the Morales lagoon hike. Since the experience is private, the route, pace, and timing can be adjusted to your interests and conditions.
Route Options
A relaxed day with incredible views and no strenuous hiking.
We’ll stop at scenic viewpoints for short walks and enjoy a picnic with local products.
This option can be combined with El Yeso Reservoir, hot springs, or the Cascada animal refuge, depending on your interests and timing.
* We don’t recommend visiting hot springs on weekends or peak season due to crowds.
* All routes are subject to road and weather conditions, especially in more remote areas like El Yeso and the hot springs.
For travelers interested in wildlife conservation, we can include a visit to Cascada Wildlife Refuge as part of the panoramic scenic drive.
This rehabilitation and conservation center focuses on native Chilean wildlife, providing specialized care for injured or displaced animals with the goal of returning them to their natural habitat whenever possible.
The refuge also leads long-term conservation initiatives, including projects aimed at restoring guanaco populations in central Chile.
Visiting offers a meaningful opportunity to learn about the real challenges of wildlife conservation and the work being done to protect these fragile ecosystems.
The visit includes a 2-hour guided tour with an English-speaking guide. There is a per-person fee for the visit, and all proceeds go entirely toward supporting the refuge’s wildlife rehabilitation and conservation work.
A scenic mountain outing focused on landscapes and photography.
Embalse El Yeso is the main water reservoir supplying Santiago and is known for its striking turquoise color and dramatic mountain setting.
We’ll enjoy a picnic by the lake and take short walks.
During the drive, we’ll also share stories about the region’s geology, water systems, and Andean ecosystems.
* All routes are subject to road and weather conditions, especially in more remote areas like El Yeso and the hot springs.
A moderate hike through a glacial valley leading to a beautiful alpine lake, with stunning views of Glacier San Francisco and the surrounding Andes.
We’ll pause at the lake to enjoy a picnic while taking in the landscape.
Total distance: 10 km
Elevation gain: 600 m
* Closed on Mondays and during winter.
* All routes are subject to road and weather conditions.
A moderate hike through a wide Andean valley, walking alongside a mountain river with stunning views of San José Volcano.
A rewarding 3–4 hour experience with chances to spot local herders and wildlife, followed by a picnic in a scenic setting.
Total distance: 8 km
Elevation gain: 300 m
* All routes are subject to road and weather conditions.
A more demanding hike, ideal for experienced hikers looking for a longer and more challenging day.
This hike leads deep into the valley, with some steep and rocky sections, ending at a viewpoint of the El Morado Hanging Glacier.
We’ll take breaks along the way and enjoy a picnic while taking in the surrounding landscape.
Total distance: 16 km
Elevation gain: 800 m
* All routes are subject to road and weather conditions.
Everything you need to know
What's Included and Pricing
Included
- Professional bilingual guide
- Private transport (airport transfers available at extra cost)
- Trekking poles
- Box lunch or picnic
- Entry fees
- Accident insurance
- 19% VAT
Not included
- Entrance to hot springs
- Gratuities
Price – Private Tour (total per group)
- 1 guest – USD 495
- 2 guests – USD 550
- 3 guests – USD 620
- 4 guests – USD 660 (SUV). Recommended just for families with children. For 4 adults, we suggest a van for greater comfort on long drives.
- 4 guests – USD 870 (Van)
- 5 guests – USD 915
- 6 guests – USD 960
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear or bring?
We recommend bringing:
- Comfortable hiking clothes, a warm layer and walking or hiking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat or cap
- Water (1-1.5 L)
- Small backpack (if hiking)
- Swimsuit, towel, sandals, cash (if considering hot springs)
A detailed preparation guide will be sent before your tour with everything you need to know.
What’s the best time of year to visit Cajón del Maipo?
Cajon del Maipo can be visited all year round, and each season offers something different. Spring and summer bring dry trails and clear mountain views, while autumn colors the valley with beautiful tones. In winter, snow can transform the landscape into a unique Andean scenery.
We always monitor weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is the tour suitable for beginners or people with no hiking experience?
Yes, absolutely. The routes are easy to moderate, and no previous hiking experience is required. We adapt the pace of the hike to the group so everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.
Can I choose the route on the day of the tour?
The main route needs to be selected before the tour, as some trails require advance permits. However, during the day we can adjust the pace, stops, and final viewpoints depending on conditions and your preferences.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
In case of extreme weather or force majeure, you’ll be able to reschedule, switch to another experience, or receive a full refund.
Have more questions?
Feel free to contact us, we’ll be happy to help.
Map
Documentation for the National Tourism Service
All our adventure tourism experiences are registered with Chile’s National Tourism Service (SERNATUR). This registration ensures that we comply with the official safety and quality standards for adventure tourism, including technical sheets, prevention protocols, and emergency response plans.
Do you still have doubts?
Don’t worry, we are here to help you.
Write to us and we will respond to you as soon as possible.
Download our brochure with all the details about this tour, including itineraries, recommendations and what you need to know to fully enjoy this experience.
