Termas de Banos Morales

Termas de Banos Morales are small public thermal baths in the village of Banos Morales, in the commune of San Jose de Maipo in the Cajon del Maipo, in the Andes southeast of Santiago. The village sits at the end of the paved road, and the baths are a modest, informal facility rather than a luxury spa, with simple thermal pools fed by mountain spring water. The setting is a high-altitude Andean valley, and the surrounding landscape is dramatic, with peaks, rock walls and glacial streams. The baths are a typical stop for visitors who come to hike to Monumento Natural El Morado, since the trail to the glacier and lagoon begins nearby, and a soak afterwards is a common way to ease tired legs. There is no treatment menu and no therapist-led service; the experience is soaking in thermal pools, and the facilities are basic. The site's reputation rests on its location and affordability rather than on any pampering, and day entry costs only about CLP 5,000, much less than a city hotel spa. A visit usually lasts one to two hours. The baths open daily in season, which largely corresponds with the warmer months, and conditions at this altitude can change quickly, with snow possible in winter that affects road access. Booking is informal, with entry paid on arrival, and visitors should check operating status locally before travelling, because opening schedules are seasonal. The village is about 90 minutes to two hours from central Santiago by car, and a day trip from the capital by private vehicle or organised tour is common. Visitors should bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and warm clothes for after the soak, and should drink water, as heat and altitude together can cause dizziness.