From Santiago: Cajón Del Maipo and Volcán San José Hike 8K

The Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José hike offers an exhilarating day trip from Santiago. Spanning 8 kilometers, this tour showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty, including rivers, waterfalls, and the majestic 5,800-meter volcano. Priced at £113.50 per person, the 10-hour excursion provides transportation, a bilingual guide, and refreshments, catering to nature lovers of varying fitness levels. With a small group size, hikers can enjoy personalized attention and insights as they enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or seeking an adventurous escape, this hike promises an unforgettable experience just outside the city limits.

Key Points

• This 8km hike through Cajón del Maipo offers stunning views of glaciers and the majestic Volcán San José (5,800m).
• The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, a boxed lunch, water, and wine.
• The hike is suitable for most fitness levels and caters to a diverse international audience.
• Participants can enjoy a 1-hour break to relax and appreciate the natural surroundings with wine and local snacks.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 166 reviews, praising the guide’s insights and the scenic beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José Hike is an 8-kilometer activity priced from £113.50 per person.

This 10-hour tour is likely to sell out, but travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The hike takes visitors through the Cajón del Maipo gorge, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, and the 5,800-meter high active Volcán San José.

The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, a boxed lunch, water, and wine, as well as pickup from various locations in Santiago.

Hike Through Cajon Del Maipo

Hiking through the Cajón del Maipo gorge is the highlight of this excursion. The 8-kilometer hike takes you along rivers, past waterfalls, and provides stunning views of glaciers and the 5,800-meter-high Volcán San José.

Your bilingual guide will share geological and cultural insights as you explore this breathtaking landscape just 100 kilometers from Santiago. You’ll have a chance to enjoy wine and local snacks during a break, soaking in the serene surroundings.

This small-group tour is perfect for nature lovers seeking beautiful vistas, and the hike is suitable for most fitness levels.

Scenic Views and Highlights

Throughout the hike, captivating vistas unfold before visitors. As they trek through the Cajón del Maipo gorge, they’re greeted by stunning waterfalls cascading down the rugged cliffs. The glistening rivers and glaciers that feed into them provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the towering 5,800-meter Volcán San José looms in the distance. Hikers can enjoy a well-deserved break to savor local wines and snacks, surrounded by the region’s natural splendor.

Scenic Highlight	Description
Waterfalls	Cascading down the gorge walls
Rivers & Glaciers	Feeding the lush, vibrant landscapes
Volcán San José	Majestic 5,800-meter active volcano
Picnic Break	Chance to relax and appreciate the views

Itinerary and Logistics

The excursion begins with convenient pickup locations throughout Santiago, allowing participants to join the adventure with ease.

After the 2-hour scenic drive, the guided tour and hiking portion commences, spanning 5 hours through the stunning Cajón del Maipo gorge.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to views of waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, and the majestic 5,800-meter high Volcán San José.

A 1-hour break with wine and local snacks provides a chance to refuel before the 2-hour return journey.

With a small group size limited to 12 participants, the hike is led by bilingual guides fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience for all.

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Group Size and Languages

With a small group size limited to 12 participants, the Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José hike is led by bilingual guides fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese.

This allows the tour to cater to an international audience and ensure everyone can fully engage with the geological and cultural insights provided throughout the experience.

The intimate group setting also enables personalized attention from the guides, allowing them to tailor the pace and focus to the needs of each participant.

What’s Included and Recommended

The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, a boxed lunch, water, and wine.

The organizers recommend bringing a few essential items:

• A windbreaker, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect from the elements
• Sturdy hiking shoes for the terrain
• Sunscreen and long pants for added protection

However, the hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

The tour emphasizes the scenic views and beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal experience for nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on 166 reviews, the tour boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ ability to provide geological and cultural insights, as well as offer alternative hike routes for a more enjoyable experience. Guests rave about the scenic views and well-organized picnic breaks, making this hike a must-do for nature lovers seeking beautiful landscapes.

The tour is recommended for those who can handle the moderate difficulty level, as it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José Hike is straightforward. You can reserve your spot without any upfront payment.

Key things to know about the booking and cancellation policy:

1. Free Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
2. Reserve Now, Pay Later: Secure your place without an immediate payment.
3. Limited Group Size: The tour is capped at 12 participants, ensuring a small and personalized experience.

This flexibility and convenience make it easy to plan your adventure to explore the stunning landscapes of Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Hike?

The weather during the hike can be variable, with potential for sunshine, wind, and cooler temperatures due to the high elevation. Hikers are advised to pack appropriate layers and sun protection for the conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes a boxed lunch, water, and wine, hikers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks. However, the tour doesn’t provide additional storage or cooling for personal items.

Is the Hike Suitable for Children?

The hike isn’t recommended for children. It’s a strenuous 8km trail that may be challenging for young hikers. The operator advises it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no permanent restroom facilities along the trail, but the tour guides will make stops at designated resting areas where temporary portable toilets may be available. Hikers should plan accordingly.

How Difficult Is the Terrain of the Hike?

The terrain of the hike is moderately challenging, with some steep and uneven sections. Participants should have a good level of fitness and hiking experience to comfortably navigate the 8-kilometer route through the gorge.

The Sum Up

The Cajón del Maipo and Volcán San José hike is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure near Santiago. With breathtaking landscapes, a knowledgeable guide, and a small group size, this 10-hour tour offers a personalized and immersive experience for hikers of various fitness levels. The tour’s reasonable price and inclusion of transportation and refreshments make it an attractive option for those looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: