Hot springs tour from santiago with lunch

Relax for several hours at Baños Colina hot springs, enjoying the soothing, milky-blue mineral waters of Maipo Canyon, southeast of Santiago. With a local guide, you’ll venture into the village of San José for coffee before winding down a dirt road toward the rustic, outdoor thermal pools at the base of a volcano. Enjoy a picnic lunch and soak in the therapeutic mineral baths, nestled between Andean mountaintops, before returning to your hotel.

Your tour to the soothing thermal baths of Baños Colina hot springs (Termas de Baños Colina) begins with pickup from your Santiago hotel and a drive to the village of San José del Maipo, located in Maipo Canyon (Cajon del Maipo). Take in the sights on approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Santiago, with a rugged unpaved journey towards the end of the drive.

Stroll through the streets with your knowledgeable guide and see crafts made from lava rock and alabaster. Stop for a cup of coffee (included) before heading to the market, where you can purchase snacks such as almonds and stone fruit common to the region.

Next, head toward the border of Argentina. The winding road heads east along the River Maipo; you will pass fields of pines and a small mining outpost. Enjoy an outstanding view of a cascading waterfall at the end of the paved road.

Finally, you’ll see San José volcano before reaching Baños Colina hot springs at its base, 8,366 feet (2,550 meters) above sea level. When you arrive at the rustic thermal springs, walk up a short path to a series of natural hot pools. Put on your bathing suit (changing rooms and shower are available) and dip into the water for a lazy afternoon soak. Choose from eight terraced baths of varying temperature, ranging from 77 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (25-60 C). Built into the hillside, the hottest pools start at the top.

Enjoy stunning views, including the snowcapped peaks of the Andes, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. If you’re lucky, you might see condors flying above or notice a herd of wild horses grazing nearby. Explore the rugged terrain on foot if you’d like and enjoy a picnic lunch before jumping back into the water.

The therapeutic quality of the mud and calcium-rich mineral water will leave your skin silky and your mind tranquil. After spending several hours at the hot springs, you’ll get back to your hotel in Santiago feeling renewed.

Make sure to bring bathing gear and towel, warm layers for chilly afternoons, comfortable shoes and sun protection (sunglasses, sun block and hat).