Private Getaway to Maipo Cajon, Thermal Baths and El Yeso Reservoir
Private Cajón del Maipo Tour from Santiago: El Yeso Reservoir & Hot Springs
Discover the dramatic landscapes of the Chilean Andes on a private full-day tour to Cajón del Maipo and El Yeso Reservoir from Santiago. Designed for travelers who prefer a more personal and flexible experience, this journey combines mountain scenery, local character, and time to enjoy the Andes at your own pace.
After hotel pickup in Santiago, leave the city behind and travel into the Maipo Valley toward San José de Maipo, the historic heart of Cajón del Maipo. From here, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as the route follows mountain valleys, rivers, and scenic viewpoints deeper into the Andes.
The highlight of the journey is El Yeso Reservoir (Embalse El Yeso), one of the most striking landscapes near Santiago. Surrounded by rugged Andean peaks, its turquoise waters create a remarkable setting for photography and quiet time in nature. Your private guide allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, with time to appreciate the scenery rather than simply stopping for photographs.
Choose Your Andean Experience
When booking, choose the experience that best suits your day:
Cajón del Maipo + El Yeso Reservoir
Explore San José de Maipo and the high Andes, with time at El Yeso Reservoir and scenic stops along the route.
Cajón del Maipo + El Yeso Reservoir + Valle de Colina Hot Springs
Extend your journey deeper into the mountains to the Valle de Colina Hot Springs, where naturally heated mineral pools cascade along the mountainside. Admission to the hot springs is included with this option, giving you time to relax surrounded by the Andes before beginning the return journey to Santiago.
On the way back, we make a short stop at a local artisan chocolate shop — a relaxed ending to a day in the mountains.
With private transportation, a professional bilingual guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and an itinerary designed around your group, this private Cajón del Maipo tour from Santiago offers a comfortable and personal way to experience one of Central Chile's most impressive natural landscapes.
Highlights
- Private full-day Cajón del Maipo tour from Santiago
- Explore the historic town of San José de Maipo
- Visit the turquoise waters of El Yeso Reservoir
- Travel through spectacular Andes Mountains scenery
- Choose an option with Valle de Colina Hot Springs admission included
- Private transportation and professional bilingual guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in selected areas of Santiago
- Relaxed pace with scenic stops along the journey
- Visit a local artisan chocolate shop on the return to Santiago
FAQ – Private Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir Tour
Is this a private tour?
Yes. Transportation and guiding are exclusively for your group, allowing for a more relaxed pace and personalized experience.
What time does the tour start?
Pickup is generally around 7:30 AM. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed before the tour according to your accommodation and the selected experience.
Is admission to Valle de Colina Hot Springs included?
It depends on the option selected when booking. The Cajón del Maipo + El Yeso Reservoir + Valle de Colina Hot Springs option includes admission to the thermal baths. The standard El Yeso Reservoir option does not visit the hot springs.
Do I have to visit the hot springs?
No. You can choose the Cajón del Maipo + El Yeso Reservoir option if you prefer to focus entirely on the mountain landscapes and reservoir.
Can the tour operate in winter?
The tour operates throughout the year, but access to high-altitude areas can be affected by snow, road conditions, or weather. If access to El Yeso Reservoir or Valle de Colina is restricted, we will advise you of the available alternatives.
Is lunch included?
No. Lunch and meals are not included. Your guide can recommend suitable options depending on the itinerary, or you may bring snacks or a picnic.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as temperatures in the Andes can change quickly. We also recommend sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and a warm jacket. If you select the hot springs option, bring a swimsuit and towel.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The experience involves relatively short walks and can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. However, the tour travels to high altitude, so travelers with concerns about altitude or mobility should consider this before booking.
What happens if weather or road conditions prevent access?
Mountain conditions can change throughout the year. When access is restricted for safety reasons, we will adjust the itinerary and offer the best available alternative based on conditions that day.
Looking for another way to experience the Andes? Explore our [Portillo & Inca Lagoon Private Andes Tour] for a different journey into Chile's high mo untains.
Preguntas frecuentes sobre nuestros tours
- What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, PayPal, bank transfers, and cash depending on the tour.
- What is your cancellation policy?
Most tours allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. For cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour, unfortunately, we are unable to provide a refund. Please check the specific tour page for confirmation.
- Do you offer hotel pick-up and drop-off?
Yes. Pick-up is available from hotels and Airbnbs in central Santiago, including Downtown, Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura.
- Are tours private or shared?
We offer both private tours and small-group experiences, with a maximum of 7 passengers on shared services.
- Are your tours suitable for children and elderly travelers?
Most tours are family-friendly and appropriate for all ages. Please refer to the specific tour details for information on walking distances and accessibility.
- What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, sun protection, and personal identification.
- How do I communicate with my guide?
We send you your guide’s phone number the day before your tour for easy coordination.
- What safety measures do you follow?
All tours follow local safety regulations, and our guides are trained and fully licensed professionals.
- What happens in case of rain or unexpected weather?
Tours operate rain or shine. The guide may adjust the itinerary if necessary.
- Do you offer airport or cruise pick-up?
Yes. Your guide will meet you at the cruise terminal exit or at the airport arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name.
- Is there space for luggage during the tour?
Yes. Our vehicles have ample space for luggage, and your bags will remain safe while you enjoy the tour.
- Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not required but greatly appreciated for excellent service.
