Santiago in 1 Days - Visit the turquoise Embalse El Yeso surrounded by Andean peaks
In Collaboration with Brothers Tours Chile. Updated on February 18, 2026.
Discover the turquoise waters of El Yeso Reservoir and relax in the natural hot springs of Baños de Colina. Enjoy scenic mountain views, a gourmet picnic, and small-group travel from Santiago. Private transportation and entrance fee are included; lunch and breakfast are not included. Pick-up from hotels in Santiago begins at the start time and the guide will confirm the exact pick-up time the day
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Brothers Tours Chile, inspired by the tour Reservoir Thermal Hill and Picnic Tour from Santiago. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit the turquoise Embalse El Yeso surrounded by Andean peaks
- Soak in the natural thermal pools of Baños de Colina
- Included gourmet picnic in a quiet mountain setting
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Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day small-group tour from Santiago combining a visit to Embalse El Yeso, a soak in the Baños de Colina hot springs, a stop at a mountain café for artisanal chocolates, and an included gourmet picnic. Total tour duration is approximately 11 hours; pick-up from your Santiago hotel begins at the published start time (guests should be ready in the lobby 10–15 minutes before).
Arrive at Embalse El Yeso (turquoise reservoir)
Arrive at the iconic turquoise-blue reservoir surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy free time to explore, take photos, and immerse yourself in one of Chile’s most stunning landscapes.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a windproof jacket and layers—mountain weather changes quickly and it can be much colder than Santiago.
- Carry a camera or phone with extra battery; mobile signal is limited near the reservoir so take photos while you can.
- Respect fenced areas and do not attempt to climb restricted slopes; stay on maintained viewpoints for safety.
Relax at Baños de Colina (natural thermal pools)
Relax in the natural thermal pools of Hill Baths, nestled high in the Andes. Soak in mineral-rich waters while admiring the breathtaking mountain views — a true wellness experience in nature.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a swimsuit, a quick-dry towel, and a dry change of clothes for the return drive.
- Shower and rinse off before entering the pools if facilities are available; follow local pool rules posted on-site.
- Avoid alcohol before the hot springs and limit soak times if you feel lightheaded; altitude and hot water can increase fatigue.
Short stop at a mountain café for artisanal chocolates
End the day with a sweet touch at this charming mountain café known for its artisanal chocolates and cozy atmosphere. Depending on the conditions, the visit may be panoramic or include a short stop.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want a specific chocolate or hot drink, ask the guide for suggestions—local specialties can change seasonally.
- Carry a small amount of cash if you wish to buy additional chocolates or small souvenirs; card acceptance can be limited in remote cafés.
- This stop can be short if road conditions require it; keep personal belongings with you rather than leaving items on the vehicle.
Gourmet picnic in the mountains (included)
Enjoy an included picnic in a serene mountain setting with cheeses, wine, juice, cookies, and other local treats — a perfect moment of relaxation surrounded by pure air and stunning nature.
- Monday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday10:15 AM – 8:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the operator in advance of any dietary restrictions so the picnic can be prepared accordingly.
- Bring a small blanket or scarf for added comfort; picnic seating areas are natural and may be uneven.
- Take time to enjoy the views and a quiet moment together—dispose of all waste in the guide's provided bags to keep the area clean.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Experience, Restaurant, Meal |
Why this experience
You'll trade the city buzz for turquoise alpine waters and mountain solitude in one unforgettable day. Embalse El Yeso sits cradled by Andean peaks, the water so vivid it feels almost unreal — a stark contrast to the dusty Santiago basin below. You'll soak in natural thermal pools at Baños de Colina, where hot mineral water flows into cool mountain streams, then settle into a gourmet picnic spread with artisanal mountain chocolates and local wine as the peaks frame every bite. This is the escape Santiaguinos dream about when the city heat closes in.
The journey itself is part of the magic. You're driven high into the Andes, winding through canyons where the landscape shifts from scrub to stone to snow-capped ridges. Along the way, you'll stop at a mountain café for handmade chocolates — a ritual touch that turns a hiking day into a sensory experience. The guide handles all logistics, timing, and navigation, so you're free to soak, eat, photograph, and simply breathe in the altitude and silence.
Before you go
- Best time: Spring and autumn. Spring offers wildflower blooms and clear skies; autumn brings crisp air and fewer crowds. Summer can be extremely hot in the city, though the reservoir is refreshing. Avoid winter — snow and cold make the mountain passes challenging.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. Thermal pools and picnic are included. Bring extra cash for the mountain café if you want additional treats.
- Difficulty: Moderate. The hike to the reservoir is steady but not strenuous (2-3 hours round trip). The thermal pools require basic swimming comfort.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen (high altitude = intense UV), warm layer (mornings are cool), hat, water bottle. Closed-toe hiking shoes are essential.
- Getting there: Pickup from central Santiago hotels. Return by late afternoon. Confirm pickup location when booking.
- Accessibility: Limited. The hike involves uneven terrain and altitude gain. Not suitable for mobility challenges or those with altitude sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
How high is the reservoir? Embalse El Yeso sits at approximately 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). Most people acclimatize without issue in a day trip, but if you're sensitive to altitude, take it slow and drink plenty of water.
Are the thermal pools safe? Yes. Baños de Colina are naturally heated and maintained. Water temperature varies by pool (some are quite hot), so test before diving in.
What's included in the picnic? Typically includes wine, cheese, cured meats, bread, chocolates, and snacks. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated if you mention them when booking.
Can I go if I'm not a strong hiker? The pace is relaxed and the trail is well-established. You're expected to be comfortable walking for 2-3 hours, but it's not technical climbing. Go at your own pace — your guide will wait.
Complete your trip in Santiago
After soaking in mountain thermal pools, stay grounded with other Andes adventures. Explore the wild Cajón del Maipo canyon with a gourmet brunch at the Yeso Reservoir, or experience the coastal contrasts on a Viña del Mar and Valparaíso wine tour — both offer different rhythms of the region.
- Full-day trip to Cajón del Maipo with gourmet toast brunch
- Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, and Casablanca wine tasting day trip
- Cerro San Cristóbal cable car and Bellavista walking tour
Browse all Santiago itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
