A high-altitude Andean lake in the upper Cajon del Maipo with dramatic ridges and a quiet shoreline walk.
Laguna Negra is a glacial lake at about 2,700 m near the Embalse El Yeso, notable for its dark water set against bare Andean ridges. Walkers can explore the shoreline and short side trails; the terrain is open and windy. Swimming and boating are restricted because the lake is part of the water-supply network, so the experience is about scenery, not recreation in the water. Access is by road from San Jose de Maipo, and the upper road can close in winter or after storms, so check conditions before driving.
| Distance | About 6 km round trip to the shoreline viewpoints |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 to 4 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | No public bus; organised day tours from Santiago, ride-hailing to San Jose de Maipo then tour/taxi, or driving about 2 hours from central Santiago. |
| Best season | November-April |
| Address | Laguna Negra, Camino al Volcan, San Jose de Maipo, Chile (via Lo Valdes road; approximate) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- San Jose de Maipo, Cajon del Maipo
- Trail type
- Alpine lake walk
- Terrain
- Open shoreline and dirt track
What to bring
- 2 litres of water
- Warm layers
- Sun protection
- Hiking shoes
- Snacks
Location
Laguna Negra, Camino al Volcan, San Jose de Maipo, Chile (via Lo Valdes road; approximate)
-33.6600, -70.1300 View on map
Highlights
- High Andean lake scenery
- Remote atmosphere
- Short flat walks
- Photography at sunrise
- Nearby El Yeso reservoir
Tips for visiting
- Check road status before leaving: closures are possible.
- Bring warm layers: wind at the lake is strong.
- Swimming is not permitted.
- Take a full tank and cash: no services nearby.
When to visit
Late spring to early autumn, early morning.
Accessibility
Viewpoints near the road are accessible; the shoreline path is natural.
Frequently asked questions
Can I swim in Laguna Negra?
No, the lake is part of the water-supply system and swimming is restricted.
Is there public transport?
Not directly; most visitors drive or join tours.
Is altitude an issue?
At around 2,700 m mild altitude effects are possible for unacclimatised visitors.