Cajon Del Maipo Including Wine with Picnic and Empanada

Experience the Natural Beauty of Cajón del Maipo with a Scenic Day Trip from Santiago

This tour offers a 10-hour adventure into the breathtaking landscapes just outside Santiago, Chile. For $99 per person, you’ll enjoy a small-group trip (limited to 15 travelers) that combines striking mountain vistas, waterfalls, glaciers, and cliffs with local food, Chilean wine, and a touch of cultural charm. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience promises a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos, exploration, and savoring local flavors.

What we love about this tour is its blend of spectacular scenery and authentic Chilean cuisine. The included picnic, featuring locally sourced ingredients and Chilean wine, makes the experience both memorable and flavorful. Plus, the small group size ensures personal attention and a more intimate connection with the landscape and guides.

One potential consideration is the weather-dependent nature of mountain travel. During winter months (June to September), snow and road conditions may limit access to certain spots like the Embalse El Yeso reservoir, which could mean some walking or alternative stops. This is a sensible caution for travelers planning during colder seasons — but the tour’s flexibility with refunds or rescheduling is a plus.

This tour suits those who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy guided insights, and want a taste of local food and wine in an outdoor setting. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, well-organized experience rather than a hectic sightseeing rush.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain scenery with waterfalls, glaciers, and cliffs
• Authentic Chilean picnic featuring local ingredients and wine
• Small group experience ensures personalized attention
• Flexible options for weather-related cancellations or changes
• Ideal for outdoor lovers seeking a relaxed day outside Santiago
• Includes visits to noteworthy spots like Embalse El Yeso, boutique chocolate shops, and waterfalls

A Deep Dive into the Cajón del Maipo Tour Experience

Getting There and Transportation

We loved the convenience of hotel pickup in Santiago, with the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan. The drive into the Andes is part of the fun — you’ll pass through the Maipo River Canyon, with plenty of scenic views that prepare you for the day ahead. The journey itself is relatively smooth, but keep in mind that the roads twist and turn through mountainous terrain, so a steady driver is essential. As multiple reviews praise the skill of the driver, you’ll likely feel safe even on the more challenging curves.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Stop at Embalse El Yeso

This is the big star of the tour — a stunning reservoir that sits high in the hills. When we visited, the views of the mountain backdrop reflected perfectly in the water offered incredible photo opportunities. The guide takes you to the best viewpoints, so you can truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural site.

According to reviews, visitors raved about the gorgeous vistas and being able to walk around the reservoir. One reviewer said, “The trip up to the Reservoir was gorgeous to the top of the Andes mountains. Beautiful vistas and pictures.” However, weather can change this experience; during winter, snow and road closures might limit access, so be prepared for possible walking or alternative stops.

Local Restaurant with Empanadas and Chilean Wine

Next, you’ll stop at a local restaurant for a delicious empanada — a classic Chilean snack filled with seasoned meat and spices. The experience is made richer by the included Chilean wine — a perfect pairing to enjoy with the local dish. Reviewers mention how tasty and authentic the empanadas are, often calling them the “best.” One said, “The picnic spread and the wine was perfect,” which highlights how well this component complements the outdoor scenery.

Casa Chocolate Tienda Boutique

A charming stop, this fairy-tale house offers an opportunity to buy handcrafted chocolates, homemade ice cream, and other local products. The architecture alone makes it worth a quick stop, and many travelers enjoy picking up souvenirs or a sweet treat. This stop adds a dash of local craftsmanship and a chance to relax before heading back.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour includes Chilean wine, the empanada snack, hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide and driver, and a fee to a small waterfall. The experience is designed for comfort and convenience, with the vehicle equipped for all weather conditions during winter. The included wine and food elevate the outdoor experience, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a true taste of local Chilean culture.

The Guide and Group Size

According to reviews, guides like Gabriel, Hector, and Benjamin are well-informed, personable, and fluent in multiple languages. They offer insights into the region’s history, geology, and culture, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The maximum group size of 15 allows for a friendly, intimate atmosphere, avoiding the crowding often found on larger tours.

Timing and Pacing

The tour departs early, around 7:00 am, to maximize daylight and scenery. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and enjoy the picnic. Reviewers frequently mention how organized and smooth the day feels, thanks to attentive guides and drivers. Some reviews note that during winter, the drive to the reservoir might involve some walking or alternative locations due to snow, but this is a small trade-off for the stunning views.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Weather plays a big role in mountain tours, and this one is no different. During colder months, snow and road closures might mean the reservoir is less accessible. The tour company is transparent about this, offering alternative options or full refunds if necessary. If you’re visiting in winter, be prepared for potential walking and dress appropriately — the experience is still worthwhile, just a bit different from summer visits.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

The reviews highlight the personal attention and knowledge of guides like Gabriel and Hector, who make the trip engaging and educational. Many travelers appreciated the storytelling, local tips, and the way guides tailored the experience to suit the group’s interests.

Value for Money

Considering the price of $99 and what’s included — transport, guides, a picnic with wine, and multiple scenic stops — this tour offers excellent value for money. It’s a comprehensive experience that combines natural beauty, local cuisine, and cultural insights, making it more than just a sightseeing drive.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is weather dependency. During winter, some locations might be inaccessible, and the tour might involve walking or alternative stops. Also, the tour’s success hinges on good weather, so travelers should be flexible and prepared for changes. Some reviews mention the need for proper shoes or clothing during winter, so packing accordingly is wise.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This outing is ideal for nature lovers who enjoy outdoor scenery, photography, and local flavors. It suits travelers who prefer a small group for a more personal experience and want a relaxing, well-organized day outside Santiago. If you’re interested in Chile’s landscape, local cuisine, and a bit of cultural insight, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic experiences rather than large, scripted tours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Santiago, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide and driver, Chilean wine, a local empanada snack, and a fee to a small waterfall.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable during winter?
During winter (June to September), certain spots like Embalse El Yeso might be less accessible due to snow. The tour company may offer alternative stops or activities, and proper winter clothing is recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled because of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other Santiago excursions?
Its focus on authentic outdoor scenery, small group intimacy, and local cuisine sets it apart. Plus, many reviewers praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is pre-planned, but with a small group, guides often tailor the experience based on weather or group interests. Check with the operator if you have specific requests.

To sum it up, this Cajón del Maipo tour offers an excellent way to escape Santiago and enjoy Chile’s stunning mountain landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, authentic food, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching outdoor experience. Ideal for nature admirers, food lovers, and anyone wanting a taste of Chile’s natural beauty with a personal touch. Just be prepared for seasonal variations, and you’re set for a memorable day out.