Cajón del Maipo
Región Metropolitana de Santiago
Cajón del Maipo is a spectacular canyon nestled in the southeastern Andes of Chile's Santiago Metropolitan Region. It encompasses the upper basin of the Maipo River, which carves a narrow valley surrounded by towering mountains, including active volcanoes like San José. The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring several tributary rivers such as El Volcán, Yeso, and Colorado, as well as minor streams. The main settlement, San José de Maipo, serves as the gateway to this mountainous region. Visitors are drawn to the canyon for its diverse outdoor activities including hiking, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, kayaking, and river rafting. Notable natural attractions include the Embalse El Yeso reservoir, a crucial water source for Santiago, and the El Morado Natural Monument, home to the San Francisco glacier. The region also offers thermal baths such as Baños Morales and Baños Colina, and a ski center at Lagunillas. Its proximity to Santiago (approximately one hour) makes it a popular ecotourism destination, combining breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural and historical significance.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit Cajón del Maipo is during the warmer months for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter offers skiing opportunities. It is advisable to purchase tickets or book tours in advance, especially for popular spots like El Morado Natural Monument and thermal baths. Public transportation is available via Metro Las Mercedes and bus services to San José de Maipo, but renting a car can provide greater flexibility. Visitors should prepare for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for mountain activities. Discounts may be available for groups or local residents.
Fatti interessanti
- •Cajón del Maipo is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the region, including Marmolejo, the southernmost mountain over 6,000 meters in the world.
- •San José volcano, part of the surrounding mountains, last erupted in 1960.
- •The German Andean Club built one of Chile's first mountain refuges in 1932 at Lo Valdés, which is still in use.
- •The canyon's toponymy is almost entirely Spanish, despite indigenous peoples historically inhabiting the area.
- •In 1986, an assassination attempt on Augusto Pinochet took place at the 'cuesta de Las Achupallas' within the canyon.
Storia
Cajón del Maipo has long been inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Poyas, Chiquillanes, and Puelches.
In 1817, it played a strategic role during Chile's independence struggle when José de San Martín sent troops through the canyon to distract royalist forces.
The German Andean Club built one of Chile's earliest mountain refuges in Lo Valdés in 1932, which remains operational today.
The region also witnessed political violence, notably the 1986 assassination attempt on Augusto Pinochet at Las Achupallas pass.
Over time, the area has evolved from indigenous lands and strategic military routes into a renowned destination for ecotourism and mountain sports.
Guida del luogo
San José de Maipo
The main town and capital of the commune, serving as the gateway to Cajón del Maipo with cultural sites, local markets, and access to outdoor excursions.
Embalse El Yeso
A large reservoir providing potable water to Santiago, surrounded by impressive mountain scenery and popular for hiking and photography.
El Morado Natural Monument
Protected area featuring the San Francisco glacier, alpine landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and nature observation.
Thermal Baths (Baños Morales, Baños Colina, Termas del Plomo)
Natural hot springs offering relaxing thermal waters set against the backdrop of the Andes, popular with visitors seeking wellness experiences.
Lo Valdés Mountain Refuge1932
Historic mountain shelter built in 1932 by the German Andean Club, serving hikers and climbers exploring the Andes.