7. Santiago: Cajon del Maipo Trip Termas and Embalse el Yeso
Discover the magnificent Andes Mountains on a guided day trip from Santiago. Pass by the Tinoco Tunnel, admire the picturesque Cajón del Maipo gorge, and enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Termas Colinas Hot Springs. Start your tour early in the morning with a convenient pickup directly from your accommodation. Hop into the air-conditioned van and set out towards the Cajon del Maipo. As you travel, admire the wonderful views of this natural landscape full of high mountain passes, lakes, and forests. Hear about the area's traditions and listen to folktales told by your guide. Along the way, pass the Tinoco Tunnel, a dark, disused train tunnel that runs along the Camino Al Volcán, a remnant from the region's railway days. Listen as your guide tells you about the history of this unusual attraction and the tragic story behind the shrines located at the tunnel's entrance and exit. Not far from here, you'll reach the Termas Colinas Hot Springs. Relax in any of the seven pools with temperatures ranging from 130ºF to 86ºF, heated by the nearby volcano. Stop here to enjoy a picnic-style lunch served with a glass of wine and some juice. After that we will go to Embalse el Yeso. This large reservoir was created in 1964 by damming the Yeso River and now serves as one of the major sources of water for Santiago. Stop here to enjoy a picnic-style lunch served with a glass of wine and some juice. And finally, we make one more stop at Casa de Chocolate so you can taste the delicacies that are sold there. Then, sit back and relax as you set out on your return journey to Santiago, where your driver will drop you off directly at your accommodation.