Andes Day Lagoon Tour: Embalse El Yeso & Cajón del Maipo

Summary

Guided Day Trip to Embalse El Yeso from Santiago

If you want to swap city noise for mountain air, this day trip to Embalse El Yeso is perfect. You’ll see hidden spots only locals know, taste Chilean wine right by the lagoon, and get real stories from your guide along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Santiago still clung to my jacket as we left the city behind, heading southeast toward the mountains. Our guide, Felipe, chatted about local legends while we wound through narrow roads lined with wildflowers and sleepy roadside stalls selling fresh bread. By the time we reached San José de Maipo, the sun was peeking over the peaks—just enough warmth to make you forget the chill for a minute.

We stopped for coffee at a tiny café where the owner’s dog dozed under a table. Then it was back on the road, past waterfalls that sent mist across our windows and through a tunnel that echoed with laughter. The landscape changed quickly—one moment green valleys, then suddenly those jagged Andean cliffs. When we finally reached Embalse El Yeso, I just stood there for a second. The water looked unreal—icy blue against all that rock and sky. Felipe pointed out a glacier in the distance and handed around glasses of Chilean wine and little plates of cheese and olives. There was this quiet up there—just wind and far-off bird calls—that made me want to stay all afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Andes and Embalse El Yeso

• Visit Embalse El Yeso Dam
• Enjoy views of the Andes in Cajón del Maipo
• Connect with nature and fresh mountain air

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s designed for all fitness levels. The pace is relaxed and there are plenty of stops.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?

No need! We provide water, appetizers, gourmet sandwiches, and a glass of Chilean wine (for guests 18+).

What should I wear?

Dress in layers—the weather can shift fast in the mountains. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen too.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Just let us know your needs when booking so we can prepare accordingly.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Santiago, water throughout the trip, tasty appetizers with gourmet sandwiches, a glass of local wine (if you’re 18+), plus guidance from a bilingual local expert who knows every shortcut and story in Cajón del Maipo.