Central Andes
Ski runs, hot springs and Andean valleys at Santiago's doorstep
About this destination
The Andes that frame Santiago to the east are not merely a backdrop, they are a destination. The Cajón del Maipo cuts 80 km into the mountains from the southern edge of the capital, rising from apple orchards to glacial lakes and volcanic peaks. In winter, four major ski resorts (Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado, Portillo) draw skiers from across South America. In summer, the same terrain becomes a hiking, mountain biking and hot-spring paradise. The Cajon del Maipo is accessible enough for a day trip, but rewards those who stay longer with landscapes that grow more dramatic the further east you drive.
Highlights
- Cajón del Maipo
- Valle Nevado ski resort
- Portillo and Laguna del Inca
- Termas El Plomo hot springs
Must-see stops
Cajón del Maipo
A deep Andean canyon carved by the Maipo River, stretching from San José de Maipo to the El Morado Natural Monument. The road climbs through orchards, villages and dramatic rock formations.
Laguna del Inca
A high-altitude lake near Portillo whose colour shifts from jade to deep blue depending on the light. Inca legend says the lake holds the body of a princess. The setting is extraordinary.
Valle Nevado
Chile's most modern ski resort, just 60 km from downtown Santiago. In summer the lifts carry hikers to 3,600 m viewpoints with panoramic views across the Andes to Argentina.
Termas El Plomo
Remote thermal pools deep in the Cajón del Maipo, accessible by a rough track. Soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow-capped peaks at 2,000 m is one of the great Santiago day trips.
Combine with
These destinations pair well with Central Andes.
