A turquoise high-Andean reservoir surrounded by snow peaks, with short viewpoint walks and one of the most photographed vistas of the Cajon del Maipo.
Embalse El Yeso is a reservoir supplying part of Santiago's drinking water, set at about 2,500 m among glaciers and ridges. Visitors walk short routes along the access road and viewpoints. The access is controlled and entry fees have been reported (roughly CLP 3,000-3,500, about USD 3-4), with time windows for going up and coming down. Vehicle access is generally closed from about April to August because of snow, in which case visitors can walk about 25 minutes from the barrier. Swimming is prohibited. Conditions and access rules can change at short notice, so confirm with the operator or Aguas Andinas.
| Distance | Short walks of 1 to 4 km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 to 2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | No scheduled public bus; tours from Santiago or drive via Ruta G-25 about 2 hours from the city. |
| Best season | November-April (vehicle access usually closed April-August) |
| Address | Embalse El Yeso, Ruta G-25 (Camino al Volcan), San Gabriel, San Jose de Maipo, Chile |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- San Gabriel, San Jose de Maipo, Cajon del Maipo
- Trail type
- Reservoir viewpoint walk
- Terrain
- Gravel road and shoreline
What to bring
- Warm layers
- Sun protection
- Water
- Camera
Location
Embalse El Yeso, Ruta G-25 (Camino al Volcan), San Gabriel, San Jose de Maipo, Chile
-33.6670, -70.0880 View on map
Highlights
- Turquoise reservoir with glacier backdrop
- Short, flat walks
- Dramatic Andean scenery
- Photography
- Combined with Cajon del Maipo tour
Tips for visiting
- Check access and ticket windows before going.
- Bring warm layers and sun protection.
- Swimming is not allowed.
- Do not rely on mobile coverage.
When to visit
November-April mornings.
Accessibility
Viewpoints close to the parking area are accessible; trails beyond are natural.
Frequently asked questions
Can I swim at El Yeso?
No. It is a drinking-water reservoir and swimming is prohibited.
Is there an entry fee?
A fee has been reported; confirm the current rate and rules before travelling.
Is it open in winter?
Vehicle access is typically closed April to August; a walk-in option may exist.