Climb into the high Andes for a full-day soak in geothermal pools below San José volcano. This 7–8 hour trip mixes a scenic G25 drive through Cajón del Maipo with three hours of hot-spring bathing and postcard views.
Climb into the high Andes for a full-day soak in geothermal pools below San José volcano. This 7–8 hour trip mixes a scenic G25 drive through Cajón del Maipo with three hours of hot-spring bathing and postcard views.
Steam rises off a ring of mineral-rich pools as the Andes hold a cold sky above you — snow crusts the scrub, and below it the earth warms. On this full-day excursion you climb toward San José volcano to reach the Colina hot springs, a sequence of baths that span roughly 60°C down to 30°C, framed by glaciated ridgelines and the long sweep of Cajón del Maipo.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Condorexplorer · Cajón del Maipo, Santiago Metropolitan Region
Steam rises off a ring of mineral-rich pools as the Andes hold a cold sky above you — snow crusts the scrub, and below it the earth warms. On this full-day excursion you climb toward San José volcano to reach the Colina hot springs, a sequence of baths that span roughly 60°C down to 30°C, framed by glaciated ridgelines and the long sweep of Cajón del Maipo.
The route follows the G25, a high Andean corridor carved during colonial and mining eras and now prized for its panoramic views of reservoirs, volcanic cones, and steep river-cut canyons. Geologically, San José is a stratovolcano built from layers of lava and ash; geothermal heat feeds the springs below, while the nearby Embalse El Yeso reservoir illustrates the region’s role in Santiago’s water supply. Local culture blends mountaineering, small mountain settlements, and rustic refugios where shepherding and seasonal tourism meet.
Practically: expect a 7–8 hour outing with provided transport from Santiago, short walks at altitude (around 2,500 m), and a three-hour soak window at the baths. Temperatures change fast — post-soak chills are real — so bring a dry change of clothes, sturdy footwear for uneven footing, and water. The pools are natural but managed; follow staff guidance on pool etiquette and avoid soaps. This trip suits those wanting a low-effort alpine soak with high-altitude scenery and winter snows, not a technical climb. Timing your visit for clear weather gives the best views; winter delivers snow drama but can mean icy access.
Leave no trace, respect fragile puna vegetation, and be prepared for simple facilities at the springs.
The itinerary includes about three hours at the Colina hot springs, with pools ranging from ~60°C to ~30°C so you can move between temperatures.
The experience is rated easy but involves stepping over uneven ground to access pools; discuss mobility needs with the operator before booking.
Yes — especially in winter months the area is commonly snowy and temperatures drop quickly after exiting the water, so dress warmly.
Facilities are basic; you should bring a towel and spare clothes. The operator provides access to the springs but amenities are limited compared with resort spas.
Condorexplorer operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Steam rises off a ring of mineral-rich pools as the Andes hold a cold sky above you — snow crusts the scrub, and below it the earth warms. On this full-day excursion you climb toward San José volcano to reach the Colina hot springs, a sequence of baths that span roughly 60°C down to 30°C, framed by glaciated ridgelines and the long sweep of Cajón del Maipo.
Steam rises off a ring of mineral-rich pools as the Andes hold a cold sky above you — snow crusts the scrub, and below it the earth warms. On this full-day excursion you climb toward San José volcano to reach the Colina hot springs, a sequence of baths that span roughly 60°C down to 30°C, framed by glaciated ridgelines and the long sweep of Cajón del Maipo.
The route follows the G25, a high Andean corridor carved during colonial and mining eras and now prized for its panoramic views of reservoirs, volcanic cones, and steep river-cut canyons. Geologically, San José is a stratovolcano built from layers of lava and ash; geothermal heat feeds the springs below, while the nearby Embalse El Yeso reservoir illustrates the region’s role in Santiago’s water supply. Local culture blends mountaineering, small mountain settlements, and rustic refugios where shepherding and seasonal tourism meet.
Practically: expect a 7–8 hour outing with provided transport from Santiago, short walks at altitude (around 2,500 m), and a three-hour soak window at the baths. Temperatures change fast — post-soak chills are real — so bring a dry change of clothes, sturdy footwear for uneven footing, and water. The pools are natural but managed; follow staff guidance on pool etiquette and avoid soaps. This trip suits those wanting a low-effort alpine soak with high-altitude scenery and winter snows, not a technical climb. Timing your visit for clear weather gives the best views; winter delivers snow drama but can mean icy access.
Leave no trace, respect fragile puna vegetation, and be prepared for simple facilities at the springs.