Termas Valle de Colina

Termas Valle de Colina is a set of natural hot spring pools in the Cajon del Maipo, in the Andes east of Santiago, in the Banos Colina area of San Jose de Maipo commune on the Ruta G-25. At about 2,500 metres above sea level and beyond the village of Banos Morales, the springs lie in a high mountain valley and are reached by a long gravel road, which gives the visit the feel of a remote alpine excursion rather than a city spa outing. The setting is open-air, with pools fed by geothermal water, mountain views and a picnic area, and camping is also available for visitors who want to stay overnight. There is no treatment menu in the conventional sense; the experience is soaking in the natural hot pools, and the facilities are basic compared with hotel spas. There is no therapist-led programme, so the reputation of the site rests on its scenery, altitude and relative seclusion. The springs are open mainly in the summer months, about October to April, when the road is passable, and the road may be closed or hazardous in winter because of snow. Day entry costs about CLP 20,000, and most visitors spend a half day or a full day. Booking norms are informal, and there is no published booking channel, so visitors should check road and operating conditions locally before setting out, since schedules in the mountains can change with the weather. A vehicle with good clearance is advisable, and the route is also served by organised tours from Santiago. Visitors should bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, warm layers for the evening, water and food, as services at this altitude are limited. The high altitude can affect people with heart or respiratory conditions, and hot water immersion should be limited accordingly.