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

Nestled just outside Santiago, the Cajón del Maipo region offers a picturesque escape into Chile’s stunning mountain landscapes. This 8-kilometer hike to Volcán San José promises breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and the chance to take in the area’s natural wonders. Accompanied by an experienced guide, participants can look forward to a well-rounded excursion that includes transportation, a delectable lunch, and a wine tasting – all culminating in an unforgettable day spent amidst the region’s captivating scenery. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or simply a chance to disconnect, this hike may just be the perfect addition to your Chilean itinerary.

Key Points

• This 8-kilometer guided hike from Santiago offers scenic views of waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, and the active Volcán San José.
• The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, lunch, and a wine tasting for $150 per person.
• The hike is suitable for ages 8-65 and is classified as easy to intermediate, with potential weather changes.
• The tour starts at 6 AM from various pickup locations in Santiago and returns after a 2-hour journey.
• Hikers can expect a picnic with local snacks and the opportunity to taste renowned wines from the region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This tour offers an exhilarating hike through the stunning Cajón del Maipo and a view of the majestic Volcán San José.

The 8-kilometer hike lasts 10 hours and costs $150 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. The group size is limited to 12 participants, and it’s available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese.

Pickup is provided from various locations in Santiago starting at 6 AM. The itinerary includes a guided hike, scenic views, a picnic, and wine tasting.

The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, lunch, and tips. Participants should bring appropriate gear and be aware of the difficulty level and potential weather changes.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour departs from Santiago and journeys to the captivating Cajón del Maipo, where participants embark on a guided 5-hour hike through the scenic gorge.

Along the way, they’ll witness breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, and glaciers. The highlight is the view of the towering 5,800-meter-high active Volcán San José on the Chile-Argentina border.

After the hike, the group enjoys a picnic with local snacks and a wine tasting, before the 2-hour return trip to Santiago.

With 19 pickup and drop-off location options available, this tour offers a convenient and immersive exploration of Cajón del Maipo’s natural wonders.

Inclusions and Recommendations

Included in the tour price are transportation, a bilingual guide, insurance, a boxed lunch, water, and wine, as well as tips.

The tour organizers recommend bringing a windbreaker, sunglasses, a sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and long pants. Participants should also pack a daypack.

The hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. The tour is recommended for ages 8 to 65, with an easy to intermediate difficulty level.

However, the itinerary may change due to weather conditions, such as rain or snow.

Participant Information

Aged 8 to 65, the tour is recommended for participants seeking an easy to intermediate difficulty hike. The terrain and conditions are subject to change due to weather, so hikers should be prepared for rain or snow. Here’s a breakdown of the participant information:

Age Group	Difficulty	Weather
8-65 years	Easy to Intermediate	Rain or Snow

The hike is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. With stunning views of waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, and the active Volcán San José, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on 166 reviews, customers have awarded the tour an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Reviewers were particularly impressed with the knowledgeable guides, who earned a 4.9/5 rating. The transportation (4.8/5) and overall service (4.8/5) also received high marks, with customers praising the tour’s organization (4.8/5).

Positive feedback highlighted the stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, rivers, and glaciers, as well as the enjoyable picnic and wine tasting.

While the hike is suitable for ages 8 to 65, it may not be recommended for those with mobility issues or medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the moderate difficulty level.

Departure and Transportation

The tour departs from Santiago, whisking participants away to the scenic Cajón del Maipo region via a 2-hour van ride. Pickup is available from various hotels, hostels, and private residences in the Santiago area, starting at 6:00 AM. The transportation is rated 4.8/5 by previous customers, with praise for the reliability and comfort of the vans.

Pickup Locations	Pickup Time
Various Hotels	6:00 AM
Hostels	6:15 AM
Private Residences	6:30 AM
Apartment Rentals	6:45 AM
Airbnb Accommodations	7:00 AM

Returning to Santiago, the 2-hour van ride completes the well-organized transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Scenic Vistas and Attractions

The iconic Volcán San José, towering at an impressive 5,800 meters, stands as a majestic backdrop for the hike through the Cajón del Maipo gorge.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning views of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and towering glaciers.

The tour’s highlight is a picnic with local snacks and a wine tasting, allowing participants to savor the region’s culinary delights.

The hike is suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels, making it an accessible and enjoyable adventure for everyone.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Local Cuisine and Refreshments

During the tour, participants get to indulge in a delightful picnic featuring local snacks and a tasting of the region’s renowned wines.

The picnic lasts for about an hour, allowing travelers to refuel and savor the flavors of the Cajón del Maipo region.

The spread includes:

1. Empanadas – traditional Chilean pastries filled with savory ingredients.
2. Pisco Sour – a classic Chilean cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, and egg white.
3. Quinoa Salad – a nutritious and flavorful dish incorporating the ancient grain quinoa.
4. Artisanal Cheeses – a selection of locally produced cheeses to complement the other picnic items.

This culinary experience is a delightful addition to the overall hiking adventure, allowing participants to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?

The hike includes a boxed lunch and water, but you’re welcome to bring your own additional food and drinks if you prefer. Snacks, sandwiches, or a thermos of coffee could be a good addition.

Is There an Option for a Private or Smaller Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private option for smaller groups. The group size is limited to 12 participants, and there’s no minimum requirement, so travelers can book a private tour if they prefer a more intimate experience.

Do I Need to Have Prior Hiking Experience for This Tour?

The tour is suitable for hikers of all levels, including beginners. While no prior hiking experience is required, the activity is rated as easy to intermediate difficulty. Proper hiking attire and gear are recommended for the 8-kilometer trek.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

The tour is recommended for ages 8 to 65. There are no strict age requirements, but children should be able to complete the easy to intermediate hike. The guide can provide adjustments for younger or older participants.

Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Hike Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer options to extend or shorten the hike duration, which is set at 10 hours. However, the guided hike in Cajón del Maipo is tailored to participants’ abilities, ranging from easy to intermediate difficulty.

The Sum Up

This 8-kilometer hike in the Cajón del Maipo offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty. With breathtaking views of Volcán San José and opportunities to explore waterfalls, rivers, and glaciers, the tour provides a memorable day in the Chilean outdoors. Suitable for a wide range of participants, this excursion promises a scenic and enjoyable experience for all.

You can check if your dates are available here: