Cajón del Maipo

A stunning canyon about 45 kilometers south of Santiago featuring dramatic mountain scenery, hiking trails, river activities, and mountain villages along the Maipo River. It's the closest wilderness destination to the capital offering adventure activities and alpine landscape.

Things to do

• Hiking to El Morado — Trek to this glaciated peak offering panoramic views of the Andes and access to pristine alpine lakes.
• White Water Rafting on the Maipo River — Navigate Class III and IV rapids through the canyon's narrow gorge for an adrenaline-filled experience.
• Visit San José de Maipo Village — Explore this charming mountain town with local artisan shops, restaurants, and access to waterfall trails.
• Rock Climbing at Cascada de las Ánimas — Scale natural rock formations and waterfalls in a scenic canyon setting with multiple difficulty levels.
• Horseback Riding Through Mountain Trails — Ride across Andean foothills and through river valleys with local guides familiar with traditional routes.
• Visit Cascada de la Leche — Hike to this milky-white waterfall fed by glacial meltwater, a moderate walk from the main road.

Food to try

• Empanadas de Queso y Champiñones — Local bakeries serve fresh baked empanadas filled with local cheese and wild mushrooms from the canyon.
• Trout from the Maipo River — Fresh-caught or farm-raised trucha prepared grilled or fried, a signature dish at riverside restaurants.
• Pastel de Choclo — This traditional Chilean corn pie is served in local fondas and combines corn, meat, and hard-boiled eggs.
• Mote con Huesillo — A refreshing regional beverage of wheat grains with dried peaches, popular for its cooling properties in warmer months.
• Asado Campestre — Argentinian-style grilled meats common at rural lodges and mountain restaurants, reflecting Andean ranch traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Mountain Weather Changes — Afternoon storms are common in the Andes; start hikes early and be prepared for rapid weather shifts and altitude effects.
• Support Local Families and Lodges — Many accommodations and guides are family-run; booking directly supports small communities and preserves authentic experiences.
• Spanish Language Helpful — While some guides speak English, learning basic Spanish phrases enhances interactions with locals in villages and rural areas.
• Bring Cash for Small Vendors — Remote shops and street vendors in mountain villages often operate cash-only, so carry Chilean pesos for local purchases.