Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Andes, the "El Yeso Dam: Full-Day Tour With Picnic" promises an unforgettable adventure. This 11-hour excursion takes visitors on a scenic journey, offering glimpses of the stunning Maipo River and a secret location before culminating in a guided exploration of the impressive El Yeso Dam. With a relaxing picnic in a serene valley, the tour immerses participants in the natural beauty of the region. From convenient hotel pickups to a focus on safety, this tour seems to offer a well-rounded experience. But what else can one expect on this exploration of the Andes?
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In San Jose De Maipo.
Key Points
- This full-day tour in the Andes Mountains takes visitors to the El Yeso Dam, including a guided tour and a scenic 1.5-hour picnic.
- The tour includes pickup from Santiago, stops at the Maipo River and a viewpoint, and a visit to a local café.
- The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with a focus on safety and accessibility for all participants.
- Customers have provided mixed reviews, with some issues noted around missed stops and the picnic, but positive feedback on the guide’s performance.
- The tour offers a convenient door-to-door service, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.
Tour Overview
The "Embalse el Yeso: Full-day tour with picnic" takes visitors on an 11-hour adventure through the Andes Mountains in the Cajón de Maipo region.
At an altitude of 2,500 meters, the tour offers stunning scenery, including stops at the Maipo River, a secret location, and a viewpoint.
The highlight is a guided tour of the El Yeso Dam, followed by a 1.5-hour picnic in a scenic area.
The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, with pickup included from Santiago.
While not suitable for those with certain health conditions, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Andes.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in San Jose De Maipo
Itinerary Highlights
Pickup from Santiago kicks off the day-long adventure, followed by a series of scenic stops.
The tour includes photo opportunities at the Maipo River, a secret location, and a viewpoint. The highlight is a guided tour of the impressive El Yeso Dam, lasting two hours.
Travelers can then relax during a one-hour break at a local café. Optional stops include visiting Casa Chocolate in San Jose de Maipo and a traditional village.
The day culminates with a 1.5-hour picnic in a scenic area before the return to Santiago.
With a mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences, this tour offers an immersive Andean adventure.
Inclusion and Exclusions
This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a picnic, and visits to several notable locations such as the Maipo River, Las Melosas Waterfall, Yeso Valley viewpoint, Casa de Chocolate, and San Jose Square.
Lunch is also provided. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, or those over 70 years old.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, but no refunds are given for cancellations within 24 hours.
Certain items like high-heeled shoes, weapons, large bags, and alcohol aren’t allowed on the tour.
Important Information
According to the information provided, those interested in the El Yeso Dam tour must be aware of the cancellation policy and what to bring.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but no refunds are given for cancellations less than 24 hours prior. Plus, the tour may be rescheduled due to weather conditions.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and a garbage bag.
High-heeled shoes, weapons, large bags, smoking in the vehicle, alcohol, drugs, and nudity aren’t allowed.
Lastly, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, or those over 70 years old.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Based on the single review provided, customer feedback for the El Yeso Dam tour appears mixed. The overall rating of 2/5 suggests many visitors were dissatisfied with the experience.
Issues like missed stops, an inadequate picnic, and miscommunication regarding pickup area indicate poor organization and execution. However, the review did note the guide’s positive performance, providing a glimmer of hope.
With only one review available, it’s difficult to draw firm conclusions. Potential customers should weigh this limited feedback carefully and consider if the tour aligns with their expectations.
Improvements in logistical planning and communication could enhance the overall experience for future visitors.
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Pickup and Drop-off
The El Yeso Dam tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Santiago. Guests are conveniently collected from their accommodations in the city and transported to the starting point of the adventure.
After a full day exploring the stunning Andes Mountains and visiting the El Yeso Dam, the tour returns participants safely to their Santiago hotels. This door-to-door service ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the region without worrying about logistics.
The included pickup and drop-off are a valuable part of the tour, making it accessible and convenient for visitors to the Cajón de Maipo area.
Guided Tour Activities
The guided tour activities at the El Yeso Dam offer visitors a comprehensive exploration of the area’s natural wonders. After a photo stop at the Maipo River, the tour takes guests to a secret location for more stunning mountain views. Next, the group heads to the El Yeso Dam viewpoint, where they can admire the dam’s impressive structure and the surrounding landscape. The highlight of the tour is the 2-hour guided visit to the dam itself, providing an in-depth look at this remarkable engineering feat. While an optional stop at a local café is available, the tour also includes a 1.5-hour picnic in a scenic area, allowing visitors to savor the region’s natural beauty.
| Activity | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Maipo River | 20 minutes | Photo stop |
| Secret location | 30 minutes | Photo stop |
| Viewpoint | 20 minutes | Photo stop |
| El Yeso Dam | 2 hours | Guided tour |
Scenic Picnic Area
After exploring the dam and its impressive engineering, the tour moves to a scenic picnic area where visitors can savor the region’s natural beauty.
Located in a serene valley, the picnic spot offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes Mountains. Guests can relax on provided blankets and enjoy a delicious spread of local delicacies, including fresh bread, cheeses, and seasonal fruits.
The tranquil setting allows travelers to fully enjoy the area’s tranquil ambiance, providing a rejuvenating break from the day’s activities.
This picnic interlude is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to savor the Cajón de Maipo’s stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?
The best time of year for this tour is during the spring and summer months, when weather conditions are more favorable and the scenic Andes landscapes are at their most picturesque. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor activities and picnic without the challenges of inclement weather.
Is There Any Wildlife to Be Seen Along the Way?
The tour route passes through the Andes Mountains, where visitors may spot Andean condors, guanacos, and other high-altitude wildlife. However, wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed as they are unpredictable and depend on the season and conditions.
Can We Stop for Additional Photos or Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour includes several photo stops along the way, allowing participants to take additional pictures at scenic viewpoints. There are also opportunities for short breaks during the 11-hour excursion, such as at a local café.
Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available for the Picnic?
The tour provider offers dietary accommodations for the picnic upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the company of any dietary needs when booking the tour.
Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites or Attractions?
The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but customers can likely request to visit specific sites or attractions in the area, subject to the tour operator’s approval and availability. Customization options may incur additional fees.
The Sum Up
This full-day tour to the El Yeso Dam offers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes Mountains. With scenic stops, a guided exploration of the dam, and a relaxing picnic, it’s an unforgettable way to take in the region’s natural splendor. The convenient pickup and focus on safety make this tour a hassle-free way to discover the wonders of the Maipo River valley.
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