Begin with 8am pickup at your accommodations in Santiago, then begin the 3-hour trip to Cajón del Maipo in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. Keep your eyes on the sky on the way to the canyon, as this wild, scenic area is home to many birds, including the Andean condor: the black and white vulture is the largest flying bird in the world, with a wingspan that can reach almost 11 feet (3.35 meters).
You’ll drive through a series of picturesque mountain towns that offer a unique glimpse of Chile’s rural life, then pass by the abandoned Tinoco Tunnel that once brought trains through the Andes Mountains.
Leave the pavement behind on the track to El Yeso dam, where you’ll find a scenic reservoir surrounded by high, snowy peaks. Refuel with a picnic lunch of barbecued meat alongside a bottle of wine, with time to soak up the peaceful atmosphere in the mountains. If you choose, you also have the option that includes entrance to Baños Colina Hotsprings, a natural place with thermal waters until 70ºC.
The hotsprings are a hidden, majestic and silent place at the foot of the Andes. It's said that a hot bath in the springs can be combined in harmony with a fresh drizzle. Located 104km from Santiago and 3,500 meters above sea level, these natural pools are arranged as outdoor terraces, formed by calcareous deposits of thermal water with temperatures of up to 70ºC. You can enjoy a relaxing and therapeutic bath of mineral water and mud while observing the fascinating natural surroundings by the river. You'll arrive by the way to the volcano. Passing San Gabriel (Carabineros), a dirt road begins and you'll travel 14 Kms. before reaching the thermal center. It is recommended you visit Baños Colina between the months of October and March; although it is open all year round, the climatic conditions, especially in winter, are extreme and there may be inconveniences along the way.
At 3pm, start the return trip to Santiago, where this tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel by 6pm.