Private Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Dam from Santiago.

Santiago , Chile

Private Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Dam from Santiago.

Active

(92 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Have an amazing day on a private tour exclusively for you or your group of friends or family in the beautiful Cajon del Maipo. Experience the beauty of the Andes Mountains on this 8-hour journey Get incredible views of the El Yeso Reservoir and feel the amazing fresh winds of these mountains in Chile. Learn about the history of the sites and the little town of San José de Maipo, and its amazing surroundings with live commentary from a tour guide aboard a minivan. Enjoy a delicious picnic at the end of the walk. Have a dream day walking through the heart of the mountains of Chile!

Available options

Vehicle for 15 people maximum

Vehicle for 14 people maximum: Price for groups between 10 to 15 people. Pickup included

Vehicle for 6 People

Vehicle for 6 People Pickup included

Vehicle for 3 people maximum

Price for groups between 3 people. Pickup included

Vehicle for 18 People

Vehicle for 15 a 18 People max Pickup included

Vehicle for 9 people maximum

Price for groups between 5 to 9 people. Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Stop at a restaurant for lunch

Detailed itinerary

The Maipo Canyon is an Andean canyon located in the southeastern part of the Metropolitan Region of Chile. It corresponds to the upper basin of the Maipo River (around 900 m above sea level), where it is enclosed by hills, cliffs, and massifs. The area also has several confluences, such as the Volcán, Yeso, and Colorado rivers, and other estuaries such as the San Gabriel, Manzanito, Coyanco, Sauce, Manzano, and San José.
The main town is San José de Maipo, capital of the commune of the same name, which encompasses most of the mountainous sector of the Metropolitan Region.

Discover the natural wonder of Cajón del Maipo and the El Yeso Reservoir on an unforgettable tour with a picnic included! Located just a few kilometers from Santiago, the Cajón del Maipo is a mountain valley surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear rivers. The El Yeso Reservoir, with its azure waters and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes as a backdrop, offers a breathtaking landscape. A perfect experience to connect with nature and enjoy a unique moment with your family, friends, or partner!

The Chocolate House is one of the most popular and iconic tourist attractions in the Cajón del Maipo region, a must-see for most tour operators. It's a magical place with a café at its center, featuring striking vernacular architecture, reminiscent of a house made of chocolate. Surrounded by a small forest, it features walkways, a bonfire, and fairy-tale-like resting places. Here, we can appreciate the design and architectural details of one of the oldest and most innovative families in Cajón del Maipo tourism.

The El Tinoco Tunnel in the Cajón del Maipo is a former railway tunnel, 493 meters long, built between 1911 and 1914 for the transport of minerals and military equipment. It is currently a Historic Monument. It is a popular tourist site for its historical significance and the legends of paranormal phenomena surrounding it, especially those associated with the little spirit of the young "Willy" found at its exit.

What's not included

Breakfast

Lunch

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

83 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is smart casual

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

About Santiago

Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile, nestled between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range. Known for its rich history, modern culture, and stunning natural surroundings, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure. The city is a gateway to both the Pacific coast and the Andes Mountains, making it an ideal destination for diverse experiences.

Top Attractions

Plaza de Armas

The heart of Santiago, this historic square is surrounded by significant buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National History Museum.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (museums may charge entry fees)

San Cristobal Hill

A prominent landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the Andes. The hill is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary and a funicular railway.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (funicular ride costs around CLP 2,000 or USD 2.50)

La Moneda Palace

The official seat of the President of Chile, this neoclassical palace is a symbol of the country's political history.

Historical 1 hour Free

Barrio Lastarria

A charming neighborhood known for its boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great place for dining and exploring.

Cultural Half-day Free to explore (shopping and dining costs vary)

Sky Costanera

The tallest building in South America, offering a breathtaking observation deck with panoramic views of the city and the Andes.

Adventure 1-2 hours CLP 12,000 (USD 15) for adults, CLP 6,000 (USD 7.50) for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Completo

A Chilean-style hot dog topped with avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. It's a popular street food and a must-try for any visitor.

Snack Vegetarian options available (without meat)

Empanadas de Pino

A type of empanada filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a staple of Chilean cuisine and can be found in bakeries and restaurants throughout the country.

Snack/Dinner Contains meat and allergens

Pastel de Choclo

A savory pie made with ground corn, chicken, beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a traditional dish often served as a main course.

Dinner Contains meat and allergens

Cazuela

A hearty stew made with beef, pumpkin, potatoes, and corn. It's a comforting and filling dish, often served with rice or bread.

Dinner Contains meat and allergens

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Andes Rafting in the Cajón del Maipo Beach day in Viña del Mar or Reñaca Wine tasting in the Maipo Valley Exploring the historic quarter of Valparaíso Visiting museums and cultural centers in Santiago Surfing in Reñaca Kayaking in the Cajón del Maipo

Best Time to Visit

November to March (Summer)

This is the best time to visit Santiago for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for hiking, wine tours, and enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife.

20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F) 68°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

CLT (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Santiago is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious and take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
• Use official taxis or app-based services, and avoid unlicensed taxis
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Comodoro Arturo Benitez International Airport • 17 km (10.5 miles) northwest of downtown

By bus

Terminal Alameda, Terminal Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It's the fastest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Barrio Lastarria Bellavista Providencia El Golf Barrio Brasil

Day trips

Valparaíso

120 km (75 miles) west of Santiago • Full day

A vibrant port city known for its colorful houses, historic funiculars, and bohemian atmosphere. Valparaíso is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Santiago.

Vina del Mar and Reñaca

125 km (78 miles) west of Santiago • Full day

Two popular beach towns offering beautiful sandy beaches, resorts, and a variety of water sports. These towns are a great escape from the city, especially during the summer months.

Cajón del Maipo

50 km (31 miles) southeast of Santiago • Full day or overnight

A stunning valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Fiestas Patrias • September 18-19 Santiago a Mil • January Viña del Mar International Song Festival • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Use the metro and public transportation to get around the city, as they are efficient, affordable, and widely available
Explore the city's many neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions
Visit the city's markets, such as Mercado Central, for a taste of local culture and cuisine
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, or the Cajón del Maipo, to experience the diversity and beauty of Chile