Santiago: Full Day Trekking to El Morado Glacier, Include Hot Springs Entrance.

Embark on an Andean adventure with this full-day trekking experience to El Morado Glacier from Santiago. You’ll journey through the stunning Cajón del Maipo and Arena Valley, culminating in a moderate hike to the glacier’s base. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll learn about nature and enjoy a relaxing soak at the Baños Colina hot springs. With lunch and snacks included, this tour promises an unforgettable day exploring Chile’s magnificent landscapes. But what makes this trek truly remarkable?

Key Points

• A full-day trekking tour from Santiago to El Morado Glacier, including a scenic 4×4 drive, a 2-hour trek, and a soak in Baños Colina hot springs.
• Pricing starts from $186.00 per person, with hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, lunch, and snacks included.
• Moderate fitness level required for the hike, not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions.
• Guided tours led by knowledgeable guides, with generally positive reviews but potential language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
• Participants should bring appropriate gear, such as hiking poles, swimsuits, and a change of clothes for the hot springs.

Tour Overview

The full-day trekking tour from Santiago takes participants to the stunning El Morado Glacier.

It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as a scenic 4×4 drive through the Andes with views of the Cajón del Maipo and Arena Valley.

The 2-hour trek to the glacier is followed by a soak in the relaxing Baños Colina hot springs.

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, and lunch and snacks are provided.

Knowledgeable guides lead the tour, and lunch and snacks are provided to fuel the adventurers.

While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the moderate hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking glacial vistas.

Inclusions and Pricing

Pricing for the full-day trekking tour to El Morado Glacier starts from $186.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on group size.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, lunch and a snack, and entrance to the Baños Colina Hot Spring, which typically costs around CLP$8,000 per person. Gratuities are optional.

Participants can take advantage of the tour company’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Physical Requirements and Recommendations

Though not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions, the full-day trekking tour to El Morado Glacier requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Children must be accompanied by an adult and aren’t recommended for those aged 9 and under. Participants should wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, and a change of clothes for the hot springs soak at the end of the hike.

Hiking poles and specialized shoes are also recommended for a better experience navigating the challenging terrain. Guests should prepare for a long day and challenging hike, but the scenic views are rewarding.

Guide Experience and Reviews

With 5 reviews and a rating of 4.8 out of 5, the guides for the full-day trekking tour to El Morado Glacier have received praise for their professionalism and knowledge, particularly Juan Paulo and Ramon.

Participants highlighted the guides’ expertise, which enhanced the beauty of the hike and the overall experience.

However, some communication issues were reported regarding guide language proficiency, which could impact the experience for non-Spanish speaking travelers.

Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring towels for the hot springs and have some change on hand (approximately 500 CLP) for the bathroom at the first stop.

For the best experience, hikers are recommended to use hiking poles and wear specialized shoes. Participants should also prepare for a long day and a challenging hike, but the scenic views will be rewarding.

The key tips are:

• Bring towels and change for the bathroom

• Use hiking poles and wear specialized shoes

• Prepare for a long, challenging hike with stunning views

• Bring a swimsuit and change of clothes for the hot springs

Scenic 4×4 Drive Through Andes

The scenic 4×4 drive through the Andes mountains offers participants a captivating glimpse into the breathtaking landscape of the region.

Winding roads ascend into the towering peaks, revealing panoramic vistas of the Cajón del Maipo and Arena Valley. Participants will be awestruck by the rugged, snow-capped mountains that surround them, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

The journey provides an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the Andes, setting the stage for the upcoming trek to the El Morado Glacier.

This scenic drive is an integral part of the full-day adventure, immersing visitors in the grandeur of the Chilean landscape.

2-Hour Trek to El Morado Glacier

After the scenic 4×4 drive, participants embark on a 2-hour trek to the magnificent El Morado Glacier.

The trail winds through the Arena Valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks. The hike is moderate in difficulty, requiring a moderate level of fitness.

Along the way, hikers will:

• Traverse lush meadows and cross streams

• Climb steadily uphill to reach the glacier’s moraine

• Admire the stunning blue-hued ice formations of the glacier

• Take in panoramic vistas of the Cajón del Maipo region

The trek culminates at the base of the majestic El Morado Glacier, a true highlight of the day’s adventure.

Soak in Baños Colina Hot Springs

Following the trek to the El Morado Glacier, the tour winds down with a soak in the Baños Colina hot springs.

Nestled in the Andes, these natural thermal pools offer a relaxing conclusion to the day’s adventure. Participants can enjoy the soothing, mineral-rich waters while taking in the stunning mountain scenery.

Nestled in the Andes, these natural thermal pools offer a relaxing conclusion to the day’s adventure, allowing visitors to unwind in the soothing, mineral-rich waters amidst stunning mountain scenery.

The entrance fee of approximately 8,000 CLP per person is included in the tour price, allowing travelers to fully enjoy this rejuvenating experience.

After a challenging hike, the hot springs provide a well-deserved opportunity to unwind and recharge before the return to Santiago.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Drive From Santiago to the Trailhead?

The tour includes a scenic 4×4 drive through the Andes, providing views of the Cajón del Maipo and Arena Valley. The drive time from Santiago to the trailhead is not specified, but likely takes around an hour or more.

Is There an Option to Visit the Glacier Without the Hot Springs?

There’s no option to visit the glacier without the hot springs on this specific tour. The tour package includes the glacier hike and entrance to the Baños Colina hot springs as a combined experience.

Can I Rent Hiking Equipment if I Don’t Have My Own?

Yes, you can rent hiking equipment if you don’t have your own. The tour company provides hiking poles and specialized shoes for an additional fee to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience to El Morado Glacier.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Hiking Trail?

There are no restroom facilities along the hiking trail to El Morado Glacier. Participants are advised to use the restrooms at the first stop before beginning the trek. Bringing a change of clothes is recommended.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own lunch and snacks on the tour. The tour package includes a provided lunch, but travelers are welcome to supplement this with their own food and refreshments if desired.

The Sum Up

This trekking adventure to El Morado Glacier from Santiago offers an exhilarating day immersed in nature. The scenic 4×4 drive, moderate 2-hour hike, and relaxing soak in hot springs provide a well-rounded experience. With knowledgeable guides, participants can enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes and a fulfilling day, complete with included lunch and snacks.