El Yeso Reservoir: a practical guide for your first visit

El Yeso Reservoir is one of the most photographed landscapes in central Chile: a turquoise lake surrounded by mountains that are snow-capped in winter and spring. It sits in the upper Cajón del Maipo, at about 2,500 meters above sea level, and is one of Santiago's main drinking-water reserves. If it is your first time, this guide will help you plan the day.

Where it is and how long it takes

The reservoir is a little over 100 km from Santiago. The drive takes around two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic and stops. The road climbs through Cajón del Maipo past San José de Maipo and San Alfonso; the last few kilometers are gravel, winding and without cell signal in several stretches.

The best time to go

• Spring and summer: the road is usually clear and the days are long. In spring there is still snow on the peaks, which makes the view even better.
• Autumn: fewer visitors and warm colors in the valley. Afternoons get cold quickly.
• Winter: with snow or ice, the police may restrict access or require snow chains. It is worth keeping your date flexible.

What to pack

• Layers: at altitude the wind and temperature change within minutes, even in summer.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat: at 2,500 meters the sun is much stronger.
• Water and snacks: there are almost no services at the reservoir.
• Shoes with good grip for walking along the shore and viewpoints.
• A bag for your trash: whatever you bring, you take back.

Take care on site

Because it is a drinking-water reserve, swimming or going into the water is not allowed. Walk at an easy pace: altitude can cause tiredness or headaches for some people, especially after a fast climb. Drinking water and avoiding sudden effort helps. If you have a health condition, check with your doctor beforehand.

Stops worth making on the way

The drive is part of the experience. San José de Maipo has a quiet square and a colonial-era adobe church, and San Alfonso has small shops and places for a warm meal on the way back. There are several viewpoints over the Maipo River along the road.

Go with Paseito

With a private transfer you don't have to worry about gravel roads, curves or parking: we pick you up at your place in Santiago, the driver knows the road and the price is per trip, not per person. See the El Yeso Reservoir tour or, for a more relaxed day, the Cajón del Maipo trip.