A gentle climb in the high Andes to a lagoon at the foot of the El Morado glacier, with hanging ice and 4,490 m peaks as backdrop.
Monumento Natural El Morado is a CONAF-managed park in the upper Cajon del Maipo, reached at Baños Morales. The main trail climbs gradually through a glacial valley to Laguna El Morado, a turquoise lake directly beneath the Morado glacier and the peak of the same name. A side trail leads to the mirador of the Morales glacier. The park is open mainly in the warm season, roughly November to April, and closes in winter because of snow. Altitude effects are possible for people who have just arrived from sea level, and access roads are occasionally closed, so check CONAF's site or call the park before travelling.
| Distance | About 5 km each way (10 km round trip) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 to 5 hours round trip |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Bus from Metro Line 4 Las Mercedes or Puente Alto toward San Jose de Maipo and Baños Morales via private operators (Cajon del Maipo bus services; limited weekday service in winter); drive about 2 hours from central Santiago. |
| Best season | November-April |
| Address | Monumento Natural El Morado, Baños Morales, San Jose de Maipo, Chile |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Baños Morales, San Jose de Maipo, Cajon del Maipo
- Trail type
- High-mountain day hike
- Terrain
- Glacial valley path and moraine
What to bring
- 2 litres of water
- Hiking shoes
- Sun protection
- Warm layer
- Snacks
- Cash for CONAF entry
Location
Monumento Natural El Morado, Baños Morales, San Jose de Maipo, Chile
-33.7830, -70.0640 View on map
Highlights
- Laguna El Morado with glacier backdrop
- High-altitude views over Cajon del Maipo
- Hot spring villages nearby (Baños Morales)
- Well-marked trail
- Good for a first Andean day hike
Tips for visiting
- Start in the morning: the trail is exposed and afternoon winds rise.
- Check CONAF opening and road status before going.
- Acclimatise: the lagoon sits at about 2,500 m.
- Bring cash: entry is paid at the gate.
- Plan your return bus: services are limited.
When to visit
Late spring to autumn (November-April), morning start.
Accessibility
The first section is gentle but the trail is natural dirt with rocks; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Frequently asked questions
When does the park open?
Generally in the warm season, about November through April; confirm on conaf.cl.
Is a guide needed?
No. The main trail to the lagoon is signed and used by independent visitors.
How much is entry?
CONAF charges a small fee, different for Chilean residents and foreign visitors; confirm the current price before travelling.