Embalse El Yeso
An impressive artificial lake
El Yeso Reservoir is Santiago's main water reserve and dazzles with its turquoise waters in the heart of the Andes Mountains. This artificial lake, fed by the Yeso and Maipo rivers, offers one of the most impressive landscapes in the Cajón del Maipo.
It is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges that remain snow-capped for much of the year. You will find ideal routes for cycling, kayaking and hiking, where you may even spot condors, guanacos and culpeo foxes.
Plan your trip to Embalse El Yeso
How to get there
How to get there by air
Land at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). From Santiago, Route G-25 (Camino al Volcán) takes you to the reservoir. The journey is about 100 km and lasts about 3 hours. We recommend coordinating your trip by hiring a specialized tour.
How to get there by land
From Santiago, take Route G-25 towards the Cordillera, passing through San José de Maipo. The entire journey lasts about 3 hours. The final stretch is mountainous and gravel, so a 4×4 vehicle is essential. Also, check the access hours and winter closure due to snow.
Must-Know Tips
Access to the shore of the reservoir is restricted to the public for safety reasons, so it can only be observed from the main road. The road is high mountain and may be closed in winter due to snow. Bring warm clothing and sun protection.
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