El Morado: Trekking to glaciers near Santiago
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
2 days for a getaway to the Andes
2 DAYS
Just hours from Santiago is the El Morado Natural Monument, a paradise for lovers of trekking and nature. This two-day itinerary, perfect for a weekend, will guide you along trails that reveal lagoons of glacial origin, imposing hanging glaciers, and relaxing hot springs. Get ready for a total immersion in the mountains!
DISTANCIA
270 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
2 days
DESTINOS
PAISAJE
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Baños Morales and El Morado
The adventure begins from Santiago, from where we will travel about 48 kilometers along the route known as Camino al Volcán to reach the Cajón del Maipo. Our first stop will be San José de Maipo, where we can stock up on supplies and check in to our accommodation before traveling to the El Morado Natural Monument.
After notifying our entry at the Conaf ranger station, we will begin the walk towards the Aguas Panimávida sector. There, we will begin an easy hike, 2 hours round trip, that will give us beautiful views towards Cerro El Morado and the surrounding nature.
To end the day, nothing better than returning to Baños Morales and immersing yourself in its famous hot springs. This restorative bath is perfect for relaxing muscles after the walk and enjoying the tranquility of the mountainous environment. Later, San José de Maipo.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Baños Morales and El Morado
The adventure begins from Santiago, from where we will travel about 48 kilometers along the route known as Camino al Volcán to reach the Cajón del Maipo. Our first stop will be San José de Maipo, where we can stock up on supplies and check in to our accommodation before traveling to the El Morado Natural Monument.
After notifying our entry at the Conaf ranger station, we will begin the walk towards the Aguas Panimávida sector. There, we will begin an easy hike, 2 hours round trip, that will give us beautiful views towards Cerro El Morado and the surrounding nature.
To end the day, nothing better than returning to Baños Morales and immersing yourself in its famous hot springs. This restorative bath is perfect for relaxing muscles after the walk and enjoying the tranquility of the mountainous environment. Later, San José de Maipo.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Adventure to the San Francisco Glacier
Today we will get up early to visit the San Francisco Glacier, an impressive ice mass. To get there from San José de Maipo, you must go into the mountains for about 50 kilometers to the Lo Valdés sector, where the turnoff to the Valle de la Arena marks the starting point of the adventure.
Here begins a trekking of approximately 5 hours (round trip) and medium difficulty. The trail goes into the Andean valley to reward you with spectacular views of the glacier. It is the perfect place to admire the ice formations from a safe distance and enjoy a picnic in a breathtaking natural environment.
Finally, return to San José de Maipo to enjoy the local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, ending the expedition on a high note before beginning the final return to Santiago.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Adventure to the San Francisco Glacier
Today we will get up early to visit the San Francisco Glacier, an impressive ice mass. To get there from San José de Maipo, you must go into the mountains for about 50 kilometers to the Lo Valdés sector, where the turnoff to the Valle de la Arena marks the starting point of the adventure.
Here begins a trekking of approximately 5 hours (round trip) and medium difficulty. The trail goes into the Andean valley to reward you with spectacular views of the glacier. It is the perfect place to admire the ice formations from a safe distance and enjoy a picnic in a breathtaking natural environment.
Finally, return to San José de Maipo to enjoy the local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, ending the expedition on a high note before beginning the final return to Santiago.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Your best option is to land at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). From the air terminal, you must go to the city to take the land route to Cajón del Maipo, where this itinerary begins.
How to get there by land
From Santiago, take route G-25 towards Cajón del Maipo. To get around on the itinerary, a private vehicle is essential, or you can hire a tour. You can get to San José de Maipo by bus and from there take tours to the destinations on this itinerary.
Climate and clothing
Cajón del Maipo has a mountain climate, which combines sunny days and variable temperatures. Dress in layers, wear trekking shoes, a hat, glasses, and sunscreen. Even in summer, the nights are cold: bring a coat and raincoat.
Must-Know Tips
It is essential and mandatory to verify the condition of the trails before traveling, as access beyond Aguas Panimávida is often closed. Always consult CONAF or the local tourism office.
