Santiago: Full day Trekking to El Morado glacier, include hot springs entrance.

Santiago: Full Day Trekking to El Morado Glacier, Including Hot Springs Entrance

This tour offers a fantastic escape from the busy streets of Santiago, taking you into the heart of the Andes for a full day of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. For $186 per person, you get a roughly 12-hour journey starting with hotel pickup, a scenic 4×4 drive through rugged mountain terrain, a rewarding 2-hour trek to the El Morado Glacier, and a soothing soak in the Baños Colina hot springs. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch, some wildlife spotting, and panoramic views that make every mile worth the effort.

What we love most about this trip are two things: first, the personalized guidance—our guide Juan Paulo knew exactly where to take us for the best views, and second, the balance of adventure and relaxation with the hot springs offering a lovely wind-down after the hike. The trip’s well-organized nature makes it accessible for travelers who want an authentic outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort.

A potential consideration is that the trek is moderately strenuous, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of physical fitness. If you’re not used to hiking or have mobility issues, this might be a bit challenging. Also, since it’s a full-day trip, it requires good weather, so be prepared for possible changes or rescheduling if weather conditions turn foul.

This tour fits best for active travelers eager to see Chile’s spectacular mountain landscape and who appreciate guides with a personal touch — reviewers rave about guides like Ramon and Juan Paulo for their knowledge and calm demeanor. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a day that combines physical activity, awe-inspiring vistas, and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain scenery including Cajón del Maipo and Arena Valley.
• Authentic trekking experience with a guided 2-hour hike to El Morado Glacier.
• Comfortable amenities such as hotel pickup, a delicious countryside lunch, and optional hot springs soak.
• Professional guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and make the experience more engaging.
• Moderate physical activity suitable for travelers with a good fitness level willing to hike and ride off-road.
• Flexible cancellation policy allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your adventure begins early, with hotel pickup in Santiago. This is a major perk because it removes the hassle of navigating public transport or figuring out your own way to the mountains. Once on the road, you’ll quickly leave behind the urban sprawl and enter the breathtaking landscape of Cajón del Maipo. The drive itself is part of the fun, with a rugged 4-wheel drive that takes you through Arena Valley. This journey provides a chance to stretch your legs and take in panoramic views of the Andes, with some reviews noting that guides like Ramon made the drive interesting with local insights and stories.

The Trail to El Morado Glacier

At the end of the drive, you reach the base of the trek, where you’ll lace up your hiking shoes. The hike lasts around two hours and takes you into the El Morado Glacier area. According to reviews, this is not just a walk; it’s a lunar-like landscape with multi-colored rocks and a rugged terrain that makes it feel almost otherworldly. One traveler mentioned walking for over five hours through this kind of landscape, which highlights how varied and striking the scenery can be.

The guide’s role is crucial here. Our guide Juan Paulo, for example, impressed everyone with his expertise—knowing exactly where to go and how to pace the group. Reviewers often praise guides like Ramon and Juan Paulo for their informative and friendly approach, which really enhances the experience.

Snacks and Photos

After reaching the glacier, you’ll have a chance to stop for a snack and take photos of the glacier, the surrounding peaks, and the rugged terrain. This moment is perfect for soaking in the silence and feeling the vastness of the mountains. Many travelers find this a moving experience, with some saying it brought them to tears.

The Hot Springs and Lunch

The journey continues with a jeep ride closer to the Baños Colina hot springs. Here, you can relax in thermal waters ranging from 16°C (60°F) to 60°C (140°F), depending on your preference. The hot springs are a welcome wind-down after the physical activity, and reviews frequently mention the value of this part of the trip. You’ll find the hot springs a peaceful spot to reflect on the day and enjoy the natural setting.

While entrance costs around CLP$8,000, it’s an optional extra, giving you control over your budget and experience. The guide will then prepare a delicious countryside lunch, often described as hearty and satisfying, perfect for fueling the rest of your day.

Returning to Santiago

After lunch and some leisure time at the springs, the journey back to Santiago begins, with a return arrival in the evening. This full-day itinerary maximizes your time outdoors, blending adventure and relaxation seamlessly—ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded mountain experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $186 per person, including hotel pickup, a guided trek, lunch, and the hot springs entry (optional), this tour offers excellent value for those seeking an authentic mountain adventure. The private tour setup ensures your group won’t be crowded, and the knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to the experience’s quality.

The reviews highlight that guides like Ramon and Juan Paulo are well-versed and personable, making the trip informative and fun rather than just physically demanding. Travelers also praise the breathtaking scenery and the ability to see an unspoiled, lunar-like landscape that’s hard to access independently.

While the price is on the higher side compared to self-guided options, what you get—a full day led by experts with comfortable transport, hot springs, and a substantial hike—makes it a very cost-effective way to experience the Andes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers with at least moderate fitness levels, as it involves a 2-hour trek and off-road jeep rides. It’s perfect for those who love scenery, wildlife, and physical activity, combined with comfort and guided expertise. Families with older children who are used to hiking will find this a rewarding day, especially with the hot springs offering a soothing reward.

If you’re looking for a scenic, physically engaging day that showcases Chile’s mountain beauty and includes some relaxing downtime, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re not comfortable with hiking or have mobility issues, you might want to consider simpler, less strenuous options.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Santiago are included, making it very convenient.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including driving, hiking, and relaxing at the hot springs.

Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a swimsuit and towel for the hot springs, and carry a change of clothes.

Can children participate?
Children aged 9 and under are not recommended, but older kids who are used to walking and hiking may enjoy it with adult supervision.

Is the trek difficult?
The trek is moderate, suitable for those with a decent fitness level. Expect some elevation and uneven terrain.

How much does the hot springs cost?
Entry costs around CLP$8,000 per person and is optional.

What about weather?
Good weather is essential. If the weather is poor, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds available if canceled in advance.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup, a professional guide, lunch, and a snack are included. Entrance to the hot springs is optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

In summary, this Santiago tour provides a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic mountain scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to get off the beaten path, experience Chile’s stunning natural beauty firsthand, and enjoy a relaxing soak afterward. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler eager to see the Andes up close, this trip delivers in every way possible—so long as you’re ready to embrace a full day of outdoor fun.