Cajón Del Maipo – El Yeso Reservoir and Colina Hot Springs

Nestled in the heart of the Chilean Andes, Cajón del Maipo is a natural gem that captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil ambiance. The region’s crown jewel, the El Yeso Reservoir, sits at an elevation of 2,500 meters, offering a serene setting for picnics and outdoor adventures. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the Colina Hot Springs beckon with their therapeutic waters, promising a rejuvenating escape amidst the grandeur of the Andes. Whether you’re a nature lover or seeking a immersive experience, Cajón del Maipo holds the key to unlocking a truly remarkable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Spa And Hot Springs Experiences In Santiago.

Good To Know

• Cajón del Maipo, located near Santiago, Chile, is a popular destination known for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil settings.
• The main attraction is Embalse El Yeso, a reservoir situated at an elevation of 2,500 meters in the Chilean Andes.
• The tour itinerary includes stops at San Jose de Maipo, Tunel Ferroviario del Tinoco, and Cascata El Yeso, each offering unique experiences.
• A relaxing visit to Termas de Colina, where visitors can enjoy therapeutic thermal baths, concludes the tour.
• The tour is well-organized, with convenient pickup options, an early start, and a focus on maximizing visitor enjoyment throughout the day.

Location and Attraction

Cajón del Maipo is a stunning natural area located just outside of Santiago, Chile. The main attraction is the Embalse El Yeso, a massive water reservoir nestled high in the Andes at an elevation of 2,500 meters.

Visitors are drawn to this picturesque locale for its breathtaking landscapes, tranquility, and crisp mountain air. The reservoir offers a serene escape, providing a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

With its pristine beauty and peaceful ambiance, Cajón del Maipo has become a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to enjoy the grandeur of the Chilean Andes.

Tour Highlights

Tourists visiting Cajón del Maipo embark on a captivating journey that includes several remarkable stops. The tour offers a diverse array of experiences, from exploring the historic Tunel Ferroviario del Tinoco to admiring the breathtaking Cascata El Yeso waterfall. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic lunch at the magnificent Embalse El Yeso reservoir, surrounded by the awe-inspiring Andes mountains.

Stops Included	Duration
San Jose de Maipo	30 minutes
Tunel Ferroviario del Tinoco	30 minutes
Refugio dos Soldado	–
Cascata El Yeso	–

The tour also includes a visit to the Termas de Colina, where travelers can indulge in therapeutic thermal baths, further enhancing the overall experience.

Transportation and Pickup

The tour offers convenient pickup options, allowing participants to select a preferred location.

Pickup confirmation is provided the night before, usually between 8 PM and 10 PM via WhatsApp.

The tour departs promptly at 5:30 AM, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

This early start ensures visitors can make the most of the day’s activities in the serene Cajón del Maipo region.

The organized logistics and reliable transportation allow travelers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique experiences awaiting them on this excursion.

Schedule and Duration

Departing promptly at 5:30 AM, the Cajón del Maipo tour ensures visitors can make the most of the day’s activities in the serene Andean region. The tour includes several stops, allowing guests to explore the area’s natural wonders fully.

Stop	Duration
San Jose de Maipo	30 minutes
Tunel Ferroviario del Tinoco	30 minutes
Refugio dos Soldado	–
Cascata El Yeso	–

The tour concludes with a relaxing visit to the Termas de Colina, where travelers can enjoy therapeutic thermal baths, capping off an unforgettable day in the stunning Cajón del Maipo.

Visitor Experiences

Visitors to the Cajón del Maipo tour consistently praise the exceptional care and attentiveness of the guides leading the experience.

Alejandro García and Rodrigo Inostrosa, in particular, have been highlighted for their dedication in ensuring a memorable journey.

The tours are well-organized, with prompt responses from the Chilenjoy agency.

Tourists rave about the picnic at Embalse El Yeso, where they savor wines, juices, snacks, cheeses, and cold cuts while taking in the breathtaking Andean landscapes.

While some express minor dissatisfaction with the agency’s role as an intermediary, the overall experiences are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.5-star rating based on 9 reviews.

Recommended Packing

Travelers’ body and lip moisturizer prove essential for the therapeutic thermal baths at Termas de Colina. The hot springs offer a welcomed break from the day’s adventures, but can be drying on the skin. Visitors should also prepare for the varying temperatures and weather conditions of the Andes.

Item	Recommendation
Clothing	Layers, warm jacket, comfortable hiking shoes
Sun Protection	Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Hydration	Water bottle
Snacks	Energy bars, fruits, nuts

Tour Agency and Guides

Underpinning the Cajón del Maipo tour’s success are the dedicated tour agency, Chilenjoy, and its knowledgeable guides.

The agency promptly communicates tour details, including pickup confirmations, via WhatsApp.

Chilenjoy’s guides, such as Alejandro García and Rodrigo Inostrosa, are praised for their attentiveness and care in ensuring a memorable experience.

Tourists appreciate the well-organized nature of the tours, including the seamless coordination of activities like the picnic at Embalse El Yeso and the visit to Termas de Colina.

While some travelers express dissatisfaction with the agency’s intermediary role, the overall feedback highlights the tour’s strengths, with a 4.5-star rating from 9 reviews.

• Efficient communication and logistics
• Knowledgeable and attentive guides
• Well-organized tour activities
• Positive overall customer feedback

Unique Experiences

With breathtaking landscapes and tranquil settings, the Cajón del Maipo tour offers visitors a unique blend of experiences.

At the Embalse El Yeso reservoir, travelers can enjoy a picnic surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains, indulging in wines, juices, snacks, cheeses, and cold cuts.

The tour also includes a visit to the Termas de Colina, where guests can relax in the therapeutic thermal baths.

These memorable experiences, combined with the stunning natural scenery, make the Cajón del Maipo tour a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Chile’s outdoor wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour seems suitable for children, as it includes picnicking, visits to scenic locations, and thermal baths. However, parents should consider the young ones’ stamina for the early start time and moderate hiking involved.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the Cajón del Maipo tour. However, a picnic with wines, juices, snacks, cheeses, and cold cuts is typically included as part of the tour experience at the Embalse El Yeso.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

Unfortunately, there don’t seem to be any discounts mentioned for this tour. The agency, Chilenjoy, doesn’t appear to offer any promotional pricing or special offers based on the available information.

How Do I Reschedule or Cancel My Tour Booking?

To reschedule or cancel a tour booking, travelers should contact the tour operator (Chilenjoy) directly via phone or email. Fees may apply, so it’s best to review the tour’s cancellation policy before making changes.

Are There Any Restrictions or Requirements for the Thermal Baths?

The thermal baths at Termas de Colina have some basic requirements. Visitors must wear swimwear and bring a towel. There are no reported restrictions, but it’s recommended to check with the agency for the latest policies.

The Sum Up

Cajón del Maipo’s stunning landscapes, tranquil El Yeso Reservoir, and therapeutic Colina Hot Springs make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a rejuvenating experience in the Chilean Andes. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures and relaxation, creating an immersive and memorable experience amidst the majestic mountains.