Yeso River, Central Valley Travel Guide

4.5 (22)

Escape to the Andes and discover the turquoise beauty of the Yeso River, a natural paradise near Santiago perfect for adventure and relaxation.

The Yeso River, nestled in the Andes near San José de Maipo, offers stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. A popular spot for hiking and white-water rafting, it's an ideal escape into Chile's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Yeso River

San Jose de Maipo, Santiago Metropolitan Region, CL

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yeso River.

Visit during the summer months (December-February) for the best weather and optimal river activities.
Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique turquoise color of the river.
Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to hike the trails along the river.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the riverbank while taking in the scenic views.

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Explore Yeso River on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Yeso River, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach the Yeso River using public transport, begin at the Plaza de Maipu Metro Station in Santiago. Take bus number 73 to San José de Maipo, a journey of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in San José de Maipo, transfer to a local taxi or rideshare service to reach the Yeso River, roughly 20 minutes away. Expect to pay around 5,000-8,000 CLP for the taxi fare.
Car

If driving from Santiago, take Route 5 South (Panamericana) for about 36 kilometers. Exit onto Route 73 towards San José de Maipo and continue for approximately 12 kilometers until you reach the town. From there, follow signs to the Yeso River, heading east on Camino al Yeso for about 10 kilometers. The road leads directly to the river area, where parking is available. Be aware that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to road conditions.

Discover more about Yeso River

The Yeso River, located in the Santiago Metropolitan Region near San José de Maipo, is a captivating natural paradise showcasing the beauty of the Chilean landscape. The river's crystal-clear, turquoise waters meander through the rugged Andes Mountains, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.The Yeso River is a major tributary of the Maipo River and serves as a vital source of water for Metropolitan Santiago. The El Yeso Dam, completed in 1964, was created by damming the river and forming a reservoir with a capacity of 250,000,000 m³.Visitors can enjoy hiking trails along the riverbanks, offering stunning scenery and fresh mountain air. For thrill-seekers, the Yeso River is renowned for its white-water rafting experiences, with guided tours available for all skill levels. During warmer months, the river's tranquil pools are perfect for a refreshing swim.