Private tour Cajón del Maipo and Natural hot springs

Picture this: a private tour that whisks you away from the bustling streets of Santiago into the tranquil, rugged beauty of the Andes. For around $490 per couple, you’ll get a full day of discovery—visiting the quaint town of San Jose de Maipo, soaking in the hot springs of Valle de Colina, and finishing with a tasty picnic and a visit to a rustic Chocolate House. Led by guides who know their mountains, this experience offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation.

We love how this trip combines genuine local charm with stunning natural scenery. The hot springs are the star, with their thermal waters and impressive mountain views, creating a sense of peaceful escape. The visit to San Jose de Maipo gives a glimpse into local life and history, making the experience more grounded and authentic. The gourmet picnic, with drinks included, adds a touch of indulgence that elevates the day.

One thing to keep in mind is the long duration—about 10 to 12 hours—so it’s best for active, comfortable travelers ready for a day of exploration. Also, as it’s a private tour limited to your group, it offers flexibility and intimacy, but you’ll want to be prepared for the early start (6:20 am).

This tour suits those who appreciate spectacular scenery, enjoy soaking in natural hot springs, and want a personalized experience that includes cultural stops and good food. If you’re seeking a well-rounded day that balances adventure and relaxation while avoiding crowded group tours, this is a great pick.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures a flexible and intimate day.
• Stunning views of the Andes and thermal springs make for memorable scenery.
• Expert guides like Consuelo and Rodrigo are praised for their knowledge and punctuality.
• Includes all essentials like transportation, hot spring tickets, and a gourmet picnic with drinks.
• Duration of 10-12 hours means an all-day adventure; good for active travelers.
• Limited group size offers a more exclusive experience compared to larger tours.

A Closer Look at the Cajón del Maipo Private Tour

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day of Discovery

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 6:20 am, catching the cool morning light as you leave Santiago behind. The journey to San Jose de Maipo is about 20 minutes of scenic drive, offering a taste of local life before diving into the natural beauty of the Andes. This small town is a charming spot where you can stroll its central square and get a feel for its history—simple pleasures that remind us of rural Chilean life.

Next, the highlight: Termas Valle De Colina. Here, your guide will provide instructions on how to make the most of the thermal pools, which are set against a panoramic mountain backdrop. Spending about three hours soaking in the mineral-rich waters, you’ll feel your stress melt away as you enjoy the views. Reviewers applaud the well-worth-it nature of these springs, describing them as fun and scenic. One remarked, “The pools are of different sizes, perfect for relaxing while soaking in the natural setting.”

The third stop is a visit to the Casa Chocolate Tienda Boutique—a rustic yet charming spot where you can indulge in local chocolate treats. As one reviewer said, “The Chocolate House was amazing,” adding a delightful sweet note to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides private transportation, making sure you travel comfortably and efficiently. The hot spring tickets, snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages are included, so you can indulge without worry. However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat afterward depending on your appetite.

The Experience: From Scenic Views to Authentic Moments

Traveling with a knowledgeable guide like Consuelo or Rodrigo enhances the experience—finding out local stories, understanding the significance of each stop, and ensuring you’re comfortable throughout. Reviewers have praised guides for their punctuality, friendliness, and expertise.

Expect a day filled with breathtaking vistas, relaxing dips in hot springs, and a taste of local Chilean hospitality—all in a setting that feels both exclusive and genuine. The inclusion of a gourmet picnic with drinks adds a touch of luxury, making this more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a small celebration of nature and culture.

Transportation and Timing

The private nature of this tour means you won’t be part of a large bus group, which translates into more flexibility and a quieter experience. The early start ensures you beat some of the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. The drive from Santiago takes about 20 minutes to reach the town, followed by several hours in the springs, a short stop at the chocolate shop, and then return.

The Real Advantages

Travelers consistently mention the quality of the guides as a standout feature. “Our guide was Consuelo and our driver Jean Pierre—simply excellent,” one reviewer notes. The scenic beauty of the thermal pools with mountain views is another frequent praise. Many find the value for the price to be fair, especially considering the private transportation, hot spring access, and included snacks and drinks.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Long day: Be prepared for a 10-12 hour trip. Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, as mountain weather can change suddenly.
• Early start: Arriving early helps you avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air.
• What to bring: Towels, swimwear, and perhaps a dressing gown are recommended, especially based on reviews advising to bring your own.
• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day away from city life, with a focus on nature, thermal baths, and local culture. It’s great for those who appreciate scenic views and authentic experiences in a small-group setting. If you’re comfortable with a full day’s outing and want to combine relaxation with cultural insight, this tour hits all the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at around 6:20 am with pickup, ensuring you make the most of the day and beat the crowds.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering more flexibility and personalized service.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, hot spring tickets, snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages—all designed to keep you comfortable and refreshed.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s recommended to bring towels, swimwear, and a dressing gown if you prefer, especially since reviews suggest bringing your own.

How long is the tour?
Expect the adventure to last about 10 to 12 hours, making it a full-day outing.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but snacks and drinks are provided. You might want to bring extra snacks or plan to eat afterward.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Consuelo and Rodrigo are praised for their punctuality, friendliness, and knowledge of the region.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families or groups with children, provided they’re comfortable with a full day out.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking an authentic and scenic escape from Santiago, this private Cajón del Maipo and Hot Springs tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s a thoughtful way to experience the Andes without the hassle of planning the details yourself. The inclusion of hot springs, a charming town visit, and a gourmet picnic makes it a memorable day that combines adventure with leisure.

If you value guides with local expertise, scenic mountain views, and an intimate experience, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path, soak in natural thermal waters, and enjoy a bit of Chilean hospitality—all in one well-organized day.