Santiago: El Yeso Reservoir, Laguna Hike, Brunch and Chocolate
Overview
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 you’ll do
Start of the tour to Cajón del 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.
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.
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.
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.
From €189
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