Santiago: El Yeso Reservoir, Laguna Hike, Brunch and Chocolate

4.9
(1,239 reviews)
Santiago, Chile

10 hours (approximately)
Offered in: Portuguese and 2 more

Experience the best of Cajón del Maipo in one day and without worrying about logistics: round-trip transfer from Santiago, bilingual guide, brunch and snack included at four stops in the Andes Mountains.

It begins in the Plaza de San José de Maipo, founded as a village in 1792, where its parish is located, declared a National Monument. Then go up to Embalse El Yeso, one of Santiago's main drinking water reservoirs, fed by the Yeso River and mountain snowmelt, with time for photos.

Continue to Laguna del Encañado, also called Laguna Escondida, a high mountain nature reserve. Walk among native vegetation, with the possibility of spotting condors, and enjoy an outdoor brunch facing the mountain range.

Close in Casa Chocolate, handmade by artisan Sergio Andrade, with a sweet snack and hot chocolate, tea or coffee.

The route exceeds 2,500 meters in altitude: bring layered warm clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear.

What's Included

Outdoor Brunch at the Gypsum Reservoir
Bilingual guide
Sweet snack with hot chocolate, tea or coffee at Casa Chocolate
Air-conditioned vehicle
Visit to El Yeso Reservoir and Hike to Laguna del Encañado
Round trip transfer to departure point
Gratuities
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends in a different location. You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.

Itinerary

Duration: 10 hours (approximately)
  • Parque Arauco (Pass by)

    Start of the tour to Cajón del Maipo.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    San Jose de Maipo

    San José de Maipo was founded as a town in 1792 by order of Ambrosio O'Higgins, Governor of Chile and future Viceroy of Peru. In its square is the Parish of San José de Maipo, built in 1854 and declared a National Monument for its historical and architectural value. It is the main meeting point of the town and retains the Andean character that distinguishes it since its founding.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Embalse El Yeso

    The El Yeso Reservoir is one of Santiago's main drinking water reserves, fed by the Yeso River and the snowmelt from the mountain range. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by Andean peaks, make it one of the most photographed landscapes in Cajón del Maipo. Here you will have time to walk along the shore, take photos, and enjoy the panoramic view.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Gentle hike to Laguna del Encañado, also known as Laguna Escondida, a U-shaped glacial valley surrounded by slopes and native vegetation. From the viewpoint you can see the lagoon nestled between mountains and, with luck, spot condors on the nearby peaks. Upon arrival, an outdoor brunch with views of the mountain range awaits you.

    1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Casa Chocolate Tienda Boutique

    Casa Chocolate is one of the most unique places in Cajón del Maipo, built by hand by the artisan Sergio Andrade with bioconstruction techniques, native woods, and recycled materials. Its fantasy architecture seems taken from a fairy tale. Explore the place and enjoy a sweet snack with hot chocolate, tea, or coffee.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • You must bring your suit and swimming cap
  • It is not recommended for travelers with reduced mobility
Supplied by Turistik

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Culinary Tours
Small Group
Food & Drink
Excellent Quality

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 1239 1239 reviews
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