El Yeso Dam (Embalse El Yeso)

Overview

El Yeso Dam (Embalse El Yeso) is a stunning reservoir nestled in the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and photography.

El Yeso Dam is a vital water source for the Santiago Metropolitan Region and a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dam Reservoir Outdoor Recreation

Location

Address

Metropolitan

Neighborhood: Cajón del Maipo

Coordinates

-33.344100, -70.593700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

clear skies, fewer tourists

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day with hike

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

warm to hot

• clear skies
• long daylight hours

autumn

cooler, crisp air

• fall colors
• cool breezes

winter

cold, snowy

• snow-covered landscape
• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Bring appropriate gear
Carry water and snacks

What to Bring

essential

water snacks hiking shoes jacket

seasonal

swimwear winter hat and gloves

not allowed

drones without permit littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• altitude sickness
• slippery rocks
• cold weather

Medical facilities: limited, nearest hospital in San Jose de Maipo

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $2

food $5

guided tours $20-$50

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, layered clothing, hiking shoes, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for guided tours
• local tour operators, official website
• 48 hours
• available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Embalse El Yeso Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Hiking trails, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafes

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Comodoro Arturo Benitez International Airport (SCL)

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours

taxi

$80-$100 1.5 hours

car_rental

$50-$80/day 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

bus

$5 1.5 hours

car

$10 for petrol 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Beautiful natural scenery, peaceful environment

Historical Significance: Built to supply water to Santiago, important for local agriculture and industry

Insider Tips

Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience
Best sunrise views from the main viewpoint

Local Recommendations

• Try local empanadas
• Visit nearby hot springs

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Dam viewpoint

Best Time: Sunrise

Tips: Wide angle for the dam and mountains

Result: Stunning landscape shot

#ElYeso #Chile #Andes #TravelChile

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas dam infrastructure, private properties

flash photography not usually needed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy restricted, permit required

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

San Jose de Maipo

Distance: 15 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Town

Baños Morales

Distance: 25 km