How to plan your tour from Santiago: Cajón del Maipo and El Yeso Dam with a Picnic

Are you planning a trip to Santiago? Do you want to escape the city and experience the natural beauty of the Andes Mountains? If so, book the Cajón del Maipo and El Yeso Dam with a Picnic tour. This guided day trip takes you on a picturesque journey through the Maipo Canyon and allows you to marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Andes. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour from Santiago:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your tour is to book it. You can book the Cajón del Maipo and El Yeso Dam with a Picnic tour through GetYourGuide. This platform allows you to easily book tours and experiences in cities around the world. The tour is offered by a trusted local operator, and it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned van, a guide, a picnic snack, and a glass of wine. Book the Tour Here

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

Once you have booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for it. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for the weather and the terrain. Bring a jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash in case you want to purchase souvenirs or additional snacks along the way.

Step 3: Enjoy the Tour

On the day of your tour, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Santiago in an air-conditioned van. The tour takes you through the Tinoco Tunnel and into the Cajón del Maipo gorge. You’ll see picturesque landscapes and discover the natural beauty of the Maipo Canyon in the Andes. Along the way, your guide will provide information about the region and its history. The highlight of the tour is the El Yeso Dam, a large reservoir that serves as a major water source for Santiago. You’ll enjoy a light picnic lunch overlooking the shimmering dam and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you sip on a glass of wine. This is the perfect opportunity to relax and take in the stunning scenery.

Step 4: Return to Santiago

After your picnic, the tour will return to Santiago. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or a designated meeting point. This is the perfect time to thank your guide and fellow travelers for a memorable day and reflect on the beautiful natural landscapes you experienced.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cajón del Maipo and El Yeso Dam with a Picnic tour is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Santiago and experience the natural beauty of the Andes Mountains. By following these simple steps, you can plan your tour and make the most of your time in this stunning region of Chile. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santiago

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Santiago or simply curious about this city, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.

1. Where is Santiago located?

Santiago is located in the central valley of Chile, surrounded by the Andes mountain range to the east and the Chilean Coastal Range to the west. It is situated at an elevation of 520 meters above sea level and has a population of over 7 million people in the metropolitan area.

2. What is the climate like in Santiago?

Santiago has a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (December to February) are hot and dry, with temperatures ranging between 28 and 34 degrees Celsius. Winters (June to August) are mild with temperatures ranging between 3 and 15 degrees Celsius. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are pleasant with moderate temperatures.

3. What is the best time to visit Santiago?

The best time to visit Santiago is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, if you enjoy hot weather, then summer (December to February) is the best time to visit.

4. What are the popular tourist attractions in Santiago?

Santiago has many popular tourist attractions, including:

• The Metropolitan Cathedral
• The Palacio de la Moneda (The Presidential Palace)
• The Cerro San Cristobal (San Cristobal Hill)
• The Mercado Central (Central Market)
• The Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
• The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts)
• The Parque Bicentenario (Bicentennial Park)

5. What is the food like in Santiago?

Santiago has a diverse cuisine with influences from Spanish, Mapuche, and other indigenous cultures. Some popular dishes include:

• Empanadas: pastry filled with meat or cheese
• Completo: hot dog with tomato, avocado, and mayonnaise
• Cazuela: a hearty soup with meat, vegetables, and potatoes
• Pisco sour: a popular cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, and egg whites
• Churrasco: a steak sandwich with tomato, avocado, and mayonnaise

6. What is the currency used in Santiago?

The currency used in Santiago is the Chilean peso. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants, shops, and hotels.

7. What is the transportation system like in Santiago?

Santiago has a modern transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and a metro system. The metro system is efficient, affordable, and covers most of the city. It is also the safest form of transportation in the city.

8. What are the safety concerns in Santiago?

Santiago is generally a safe city, but like any major city, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. It’s recommended to avoid walking alone at night in certain areas and to be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

9. What is the language spoken in Santiago?

The official language of Chile is Spanish, and it is the most widely spoken language in Santiago. However, English is also spoken in many tourist areas and by those in the hospitality industry.

10. What is the dress code in Santiago?

Santiago is a modern and cosmopolitan city, and visitors can wear casual and comfortable clothing for most activities, including sightseeing and dining out. However, if you plan to visit religious sites or high-end restaurants, it’s recommended to dress modestly and more formally.

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Santiago is a beautiful and diverse city with a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural surroundings, Santiago is a must-visit destination in South America. With proper planning and precautions, visitors can enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santiago

Santiago is the vibrant capital city of Chile, full of culture, history, and natural beauty. As a tourist, it can be challenging to decide which places to visit and how to make the most of your time in the city. In this guide, we will walk you through the best activities, attractions, and places to visit, ensuring that you have the best possible experience while in Santiago.

1. Visit the Cerro San Cristobal Hill

Cerro San Cristobal is a must-visit destination in Santiago. It is the highest point in the city, providing stunning views of the cityscape, the Andes Mountains, and the surrounding natural environment. It is accessible via a funicular from the Bellavista neighborhood, or you can hike the several trails to reach the top. At the top of the hill, there is a statue of the Virgin Mary and a sanctuary dedicated to her, making it a popular pilgrimage site for local religious people.

2. Take a Walk around the Barrio Bellavista

Barrio Bellavista is where you can experience the city’s artsy and bohemian side, characterized by a mix of graffiti-filled walls, colorful houses, and street art. It is full of restaurants, cafes, bars, and art galleries. You can also visit La Chascona, the former home of the famous Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

3. Visit the Centro Cultural Palacio de La Moneda

Centro Cultural Palacio de La Moneda is a cultural center located in Santiago’s heart. It is housed in the Palacio de la Moneda, the presidential palace that showcases Chilean culture and history. The center features permanent and temporary exhibitions, galleries, theaters, cinemas, and a plaza perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

4. Explore the Mercado Central de Santiago

The Mercado Central de Santiago is a bustling indoor fish market. It has been operating since 1872 and is still one of the liveliest markets in Santiago. Here, you can buy local seafood and other local specialty products to take home, as well as sample some of the freshest seafood dishes in the city.

5. Go Wine Tasting in Maipo Valley

Maipo Valley is the wine region closest to Santiago, a mecca for wine enthusiasts. It produces some of Chile’s best wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, and Malbec. You can take a guided tour of the vineyards, tasting rooms, and production facilities. You can also enjoy a scenic picnic with a bottle of wine and some local cheese.

6. Take a day trip to Valparaiso

Valparaiso is a charming colonial city located on the coast of Chile. It is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and stunning architecture. Here, you can explore its historic sites, visit art galleries and museums, and sample some of its delicious seafood dishes. It is only a short bus or train ride from Santiago, making it an ideal day trip destination.

7. Hiking in Cajon del Maipo

Cajon del Maipo is a nature reserve located near Santiago, popular for outdoor and adventure activities. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, rock climbing, and trekking. It features hot springs, glaciers, rivers, and waterfalls, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and escape from the bustling city life.

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Santiago, Chile is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to see and do. It has something for everyone, from the bohemian vibes of Barrio Bellavista to the stunning views of Cerro San Cristobal Hill. Foodies will enjoy Mercado Central, wine lovers can explore Maipo Valley, and those seeking adventure can hike in Cajon del Maipo. A trip to Santiago is a perfect way to experience the many wonders Chile has to offer.