Santiago: Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir Tour

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Santiago and step into the scenic embrace of the Andes, this Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir tour offers a well-balanced day of natural beauty, cultural sights, and engaging little stops — all for about $40 per person. It’s a full-day adventure, running roughly 9 hours, with a flexible schedule that varies depending on availability.

What sets this tour apart are the stunning vistas of El Yeso Reservoir’s turquoise waters, and the chance to breathe in fresh mountain air, far from the city’s smog and noise. We particularly enjoyed the visit to the historic Tinoco Tunnel, which offers a glimpse into Chile’s past, and the opportunity to relax with a picnic amid jaw-dropping scenery.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring some cash for extra snacks or purchases at the Chocolate House. Also, since the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, comfortable clothes and layers are advised.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a quick nature fix with a bit of history thrown in — ideal for those who want a taste of high Andes scenery without a full day of hiking or expense. Families, singles, or couples looking for a budget-friendly outdoor excursion will find this trip offers excellent value for the scenery and experiences.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery of the Andes and turquoise El Yeso Reservoir
• Historic stops like the Tinoco Tunnel add cultural context
• Comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide enhance the experience
• Picnic amidst nature offers a relaxed, immersive break
• Flexible booking and cancellation options suit spontaneous plans
• Not including lunch gives travelers freedom to choose or pack their own food

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir Tour

The Starting Point: Santiago to Cajón del Maipo

Our journey begins with pickup from Santiago, where an air-conditioned vehicle takes us out of the city and into the Cajón del Maipo valley, a favorite weekend escape for locals. The drive itself is scenic, with mountain views gradually replacing urban sprawl. The guide, whose friendly manner made the ride enjoyable, shares interesting tidbits about the region’s geology and history.

First Stop: San Jose de Maipo Square

Our first official stop is the San Jose de Maipo Square, a charming little town square with colonial touches. It’s a good place to stretch your legs, snap photos, and get a sense of local life. We liked the quiet ambiance here, far from the city’s hustle, and appreciated the chance to see a typical small Chilean town.

The Scenic Drive to The Shells

Next, we headed to The Shells, a lookout point offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. The vistas are especially mesmerizing on clear days, with the snow-capped peaks framing the landscape. It’s a quick stop but well worth it for the photo opportunities.

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El Yeso Reservoir: The Highlight

The main event is a visit to El Yeso Reservoir, famous for its glittering, turquoise waters set against snow-covered peaks. We loved the way the sunlight danced on the water, creating a picture-perfect scene. The reservoir is a popular spot, but the tour keeps the group manageable, so you won’t feel crowded.

Here, you’ll have time to relax, take photos, or simply soak in the serenity. The water’s color is strikingly vibrant, a true highlight for any nature lover. We appreciated the chance to enjoy a picnic lunch amidst such stunning scenery — a simple meal, but one that felt special in this mountain setting.

The Historic Tinoco Tunnel

Next, we visited the Tinoco Tunnel, a historic railway tunnel that once played an important role in Chile’s transportation network. Walking through the tunnel offers a tangible link to the country’s past, and the guide shares stories that bring it to life. It’s a fun stop that also adds a bit of adventure to the trip.

The Chocolate House

A visit to the Chocolate House offers a sweet ending — a cozy spot where you can browse local chocolates and treats. It’s a perfect place to pick up a gift or indulge a bit, rounding out the cultural aspect of the tour.

Return to Santiago

As the day winds down, the bus takes us back to Santiago, usually arriving in the early evening. The scenic drive back provides time to reflect on the day’s highlights and share photos. Throughout, the guide keeps the journey engaging with stories and insights.

What Travelers Say

Many travelers find that the scenic views truly live up to the hype — one review states, “we loved the way the water looked like a jewel, and the mountains around it were breathtaking.” Others appreciate the relaxed pace that allows plenty of time for photos and wandering. The tour guide’s friendly attitude and local knowledge are often praised, making the day more enriching.

Some reviewers mention the lack of included lunch as a minor inconvenience, but most see it as an opportunity to customize their meal or enjoy local snacks. The small group size and smooth transportation are also appreciated, making the trip feel intimate and comfortable.

Practical Details

• Price: At $40 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic stops and guide service.
• Duration: About 9 hours, which is enough to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.
• Inclusions: Transport, driver guide, and a picnic are included. You’ll need to bring cash for extra purchases or snacks.
• Not included: Breakfast and lunch — plan accordingly.
• Availability: Check ahead for specific starting times, as they vary.
• Languages: The tour is offered in English and Spanish.

What to Bring

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing for variable mountain weather.
• Carry cash for snacks, souvenirs, or any extra stops.
• Bring a sweater or jacket for cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
• Don’t forget your camera — the scenery is picture-perfect.

Who This Tour Is For

If you’re seeking a scenic day trip that combines natural beauty, history, and a bit of local flavor, this tour hits the mark. Ideal for those with limited time, it packs in several highlights without requiring strenuous activity. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want a budget-friendly way to see the Andes’ best features. It’s also good for anyone who prefers a guided experience that takes care of logistics, so you can just enjoy the views.

Final Thoughts

This Cajón del Maipo & El Yeso Reservoir tour offers an affordable, well-rounded glimpse of the Chilean Andes. The stunning vistas, combined with interesting stops like the Tinoco Tunnel and Chocolate House, make for an authentic and memorable day. While it’s not a trek or a full outdoor adventure, it’s a perfect way to add a scenic escape to your Santiago itinerary without breaking the bank.

The value for money is clear, especially with the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and a picnic. If you’re eager to see Chile’s mountain landscapes, enjoy some cultural highlights, and relax with a scenic picnic, this tour will check all the boxes.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $40 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, and a picnic. Extras like snacks or souvenirs are paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full-day experience but not overly exhausting.

What’s included in the price?
You get transport, a driver guide, and a picnic. Lunch and breakfast are not included, so plan to bring your own or buy at stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially since it involves some walking and outdoor time, but check with the provider if your kids have specific needs.

Are there bathroom facilities during the trip?
Yes, stops like San Jose de Maipo Square and The Shells typically have facilities, but it’s good to carry some tissues or hand sanitizer.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, thanks to flexible cancellation policies.

Do I need to bring my own food for lunch?
Yes, lunch isn’t provided, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is recommended. There’s also the option to buy local treats at the Chocolate House.

This tour offers a nice balance of breathtaking scenery, history, and local charm, all wrapped into a manageable day trip from Santiago. It suits travelers craving a scenic break without complicated logistics or high costs, and it leaves plenty of room to simply enjoy the stunning views of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby