Santiago in 1 Day for Friends - Embalse El Yeso (El Yeso Reservoir) viewpoint
In Collaboration with TAC Turismo . Updated on February 11, 2026.
8–10 hour small-group day trip from Santiago to Cajón del Maipo. See El Yeso Reservoir, viewpoints and waterfalls, learn local history from your guide, and finish with a picnic at Salto del Yeso. Note: winter road closures may require visiting alternative Cajón del Maipo sites.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with TAC Turismo , inspired by the tour Full Day Trip to Cajón del Maipo Yeso Reservoir + Toast. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Embalse El Yeso (El Yeso Reservoir) viewpoint
- San José de Maipo village stop
- Salto del Yeso picnic and short hike
- Multiple canyon viewpoints en route
- Local artisan ice cream stop on return
Itinerary
Day 1
Early morning pickup in Santiago, full-day exploration of Cajón del Maipo with stops at local villages and viewpoints, picnic at Salto del Yeso, then return to Santiago with an ice-cream stop.
Hotel pickup & departure from Santiago
Shared round-trip transfer: pickup from hotels in the serviced Santiago neighborhoods or departure point as communicated by the operator. Group meets on-board minivan and guide briefs the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Be in the hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time; guide will reconfirm pickup the evening before when possible.
- Carry a small daypack only; storage on the minivan is limited—avoid oversized suitcases.
- If you are outside the listed pickup neighborhoods, be prepared to meet at the designated departure point (Hotel Best Western Estación Central) as advised by the operator.
Stop: San José de Maipo (breakfast on own)
Short stop in the town of San José de Maipo for breakfast (not included). Time to stretch, use facilities and sample a local café if desired.
Tips from local experts:
- Most cafés accept card, but bring small CLP cash for street vendors or quick purchases.
- Facilities are limited—use the café restroom before leaving town if you need one.
- If you prefer a quick takeaway, ask for a coffee to go so the group stays on schedule.
Short roadside stop (Peach) en route
Short photo/stretch stop at a local village/roadside viewpoint noted in the itinerary (referred to in the program as 'Peach'). Quick chance for photos and to enjoy canyon scenery.
Tips from local experts:
- Stay with the group and follow the guide's instructions when stopping on the roadside for safety.
- Winds can pick up in exposed areas—keep cameras and hats secured while taking photos.
- Expect uneven ground; wear sturdy shoes even for short photo stops.
Tinoco Tunnel stop
Brief stop at the Tinoco Tunnel area for views and photo opportunities along the canyon road.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a quick viewpoint stop—keep personal belongings with you as there is no formal storage.
- If you have motion sensitivity, keep water and a light snack handy; roads are winding between stops.
- Follow the guide's safety briefing—stopping areas can be narrow with passing traffic.
Mirador del Río Yeso / Embalse El Yeso viewpoint
Arrive at viewpoints overlooking Embalse El Yeso (Yeso Reservoir) to enjoy panoramic mountain and reservoir views. Short photo stops here.
Tips from local experts:
- Temperatures at the reservoir can be several degrees cooler—bring a windproof layer even in spring.
- Walk slowly near edges and follow marked viewpoints; there are steep drop-offs in some areas.
- If road access is restricted due to conditions, the guide will select the nearest safe viewpoint to the reservoir.
Stop at Las Cáscaras viewpoint
Explore a canyon viewpoint area referenced in the itinerary as Las Cáscaras for additional scenery and short walks.
Tips from local experts:
- Terrain can be rocky; closed-toe shoes are recommended for any short walks from the vehicle.
- Bring sunglasses and sunscreen—UV exposure is stronger at altitude.
- Carry a reusable water bottle; the guide will advise on water refills before the picnic.
Salto del Yeso Park + Picnic
Main stop for a short walk to Salto del Yeso waterfall and a picnic prepared by the operator. Time to relax, take photos and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Tips from local experts:
- The picnic is provided; if you have dietary restrictions notify the operator in advance.
- Paths to the waterfall include uneven rocky steps—use caution and appropriate footwear.
- Keep a small plastic bag for wet or muddy items; picnic areas can be damp near the waterfall.
Ecological skating rink (seasonal — winter only)
Seasonal skating rink referenced in the program. This stop is only available in winter when operational; in spring it is normally not open and will be skipped.
Tips from local experts:
- This activity is seasonal and will be skipped if not operational—no advance arrangements are needed in spring.
- If the rink is open in winter, bring warm gloves and check with staff for rental availability.
- Confirm with the guide whether this stop is included on your departure day before packing special gear.
Hidden waterfall (short visit)
Short walk to a smaller, less-visited waterfall (listed in the itinerary as Hidden Waterfall). Opportunity for close-up nature photos and a brief walk.
Tips from local experts:
- The path to the hidden waterfall is narrow—stay with the guide and wear non-slip shoes.
- Avoid swimming; water temperatures are cold year-round and currents can be strong.
- Bring a lightweight towel or spare layer—spray and mist near the falls can dampen clothing.
Return transfer to Santiago
Board the minivan for the return drive to Santiago. Short stop for artisan ice cream en route as time allows.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a 1–1.5 hour return drive depending on traffic; secure personal items before boarding.
- If you want ice cream on the return stop, have small cash ready—some artisan vendors prefer cash.
- Notify the guide of any preferred drop-off location within the serviced neighborhoods at the start of the day.
Stop: La Casa de Chocolates (artisan ice cream, not included)
Quick stop to sample artisan ice cream or chocolates in/near San José de Maipo (not included). Short time to purchase a treat before final drop-off.
Tips from local experts:
- Service at artisan shops can be busy—order quickly if the group needs to stay on schedule.
- Check opening hours with the guide; some shops close earlier in low season.
- Carry small change for quick orders; many small vendors accept only cash.
Drop-off at hotels in Santiago (service complete)
Return to the original pickup area and drop-off at hotels or designated meeting point within the serviced neighborhoods.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready with all your belongings before the vehicle arrives at the drop-off to keep the schedule for other guests.
- If you require a different drop-off point than your pickup, confirm this with the guide at the start of the day.
- If you plan to continue exploring Santiago after the tour, ask the guide for quick recommendations based on time of day.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 9 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Meal, Neighborhood, Attraction, Outdoor, Experience, Restaurant |
