How to get from Santiago to Cajon del Maipo

Planning a day trip from Santiago to Cajón del Maipo? This guide walks you through every way to get there—from cheap local buses to fully guided tours—so you can pick the route that fits your time, budget, and adventure level.

At A Glance (Santiago to Cajon del Maipo)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚐 Small-Group Guided Tour (Santiago → Cajón del Maipo)	~10–12h round-trip (hotel pickup + scenic stops)	First-time visitors, hassle-free day trip
🏷️ Cost: ~CLP 55,000–95,000 per person, incl. transport and basic picnic on many tours » compare Cajón del Maipo tours | hot springs & BBQ options | alt. day trips
🚌 Metro + Tur Maipo Rural Bus	~1.5–2.5h one-way (centre of Santiago → San José de Maipo)	Budget travellers, flexible itineraries
🏷️ Cost: ~CLP 3,000–5,000 per person one-way (Metro + bus combined). Check current rural bus fares and schedules on Tur Maipo.
🚗 Self-Drive Rental Car (Ruta G-25)	~1.5–2h driving one-way (depending on traffic and final stop)	Independent travellers, sunrise/sunset trips, overnight stays
🏷️ Cost: From ~CLP 30,000–45,000 per day for a small car + fuel & tolls. Compare rentals from Santiago or SCL airport on Booking.com Car Rentals.
🚕 Taxi / Ride-hailing / Private Transfer	~1–1.5h each way (door-to-door)	Groups sharing costs, late arrivals, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: Roughly CLP 45,000–80,000 per car one-way, depending on pickup point and waiting time. You can prebook a fixed-fare transfer with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, or use ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify or DiDi where available.
🏍️ Motorcycle / Scooter Rental	~1.5–2h riding each way (experienced riders only)	Experienced riders seeking a scenic Andes road trip
🏷️ Cost: From ~€40–120 per day depending on bike (plus fuel & insurance). Compare motorbike rentals in Santiago on BikesBooking.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient: If you want everything arranged for you, a small-group guided tour is the easiest: hotel pickup, local guide, and key stops such as viewpoints, hot springs or Embalse El Yeso are all bundled into one long day.
• Cheapest / most economical: Travelling on a tight budget? Take the Metro + Tur Maipo rural bus. It’s the slowest to organise but by far the lowest-cost way to reach San José de Maipo and nearby villages.
• Most flexible & scenic: Confident driver and want to stop wherever you like? A self-drive rental car lets you leave early or stay late for stargazing, detour to viewpoints, hot springs and trailheads, and even stay overnight in local lodges.
• Best for groups with luggage: If you’re a family or small group carrying gear, book a private transfer or taxi. Door-to-door rides save time when arriving from the airport or changing accommodation between Santiago and Cajón del Maipo.
• Most adventurous: Experienced riders can rent a motorcycle and ride Ruta G‑25 into the canyon. This is spectacular but involves mountain roads and variable weather—only suitable if you’re very comfortable on two wheels.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book tours and activities in advance in high season. Summer weekends and holidays are busy. Reserve your preferred Cajón del Maipo tour on platforms like GetYourGuide, Klook or Trip.com to lock in dates and pick-up points.
• Coordinate flights and overnights. If you’re flying into Santiago and heading straight to the mountains, first align your flights (for example via Booking.com Flights), then decide whether to stay one night in the city or book a lodge in Cajón del Maipo through Cajón del Maipo stays.
• Consider a rental car for multi-day trips. For multi-day itineraries that mix Cajón del Maipo with wine regions or ski resorts, compare car rental deals from Santiago or SCL airport on Booking.com Car Rentals in Santiago.
• Use public transport smartly. Metro and city buses make it cheap to reach the rural bus terminal. Check current fares and payment options (Bip! card or QR) and allow extra time during rush hours.
• Long-distance buses into Santiago. If you’re arriving from another Chilean city by bus, you can compare national bus routes and operators (like ChileBus or Pullman Bus) on 12Go before connecting onwards to Cajón del Maipo.
• Store luggage in Santiago. Doing just a day trip after hotel checkout or before a night bus? Drop big bags at a central location using services such as Radical Storage in Santiago so you only bring a small daypack into the canyon.
• Check weather and road conditions. Winter snow, landslides or maintenance can close roads higher up in the canyon. Always check the latest conditions locally (tour operators, your accommodation or official tourism channels) before driving beyond San José de Maipo.
• Pack for changing conditions. Even on hot summer days in Santiago, Cajón del Maipo can be much cooler, especially near Embalse El Yeso or hot springs. Bring layers, sun protection, water and snacks regardless of your transport option.

🚐 Option #1 — Small-Group Guided Tour (Most Popular, Hassle-Free)

No self-driving needed Guided experience Fixed schedule

• Overview: Door-to-door minivan or minibus tours pick you up from your accommodation in central Santiago neighbourhoods (Centro, Providencia, Bellavista, Las Condes) and drive into Cajón del Maipo, often visiting viewpoints, short hiking spots, waterfalls, Embalse El Yeso or hot springs before returning in the evening.
• Typical duration: 10–12 hours round-trip, with 3–5 hours total driving plus multiple scenic stops and a picnic or snack break.
• How to book (with price): Expect to pay roughly CLP 55,000–95,000 per person depending on inclusions (hot springs entry, BBQ, wine, etc.). Compare itineraries and reviews on GetYourGuide Cajón del Maipo tours, browse hot springs & barbecue options on Klook, or check alternative day trips on Trip.com.
• Pros: Stress-free logistics, local driver and guide, safe in winter, great for solo travellers and those short on time.
• Cons: Fixed timetable, limited free time, can be crowded in high season, usually more expensive than going by bus or rental car (especially for larger groups).

Step-by-step: Small-Group Guided Tour

1. Choose your style of tour. Decide whether you prefer a classic sightseeing itinerary (viewpoints + picnic), a more active hiking-focused day, or a wellness-heavy trip including hot springs and a Chilean barbecue.
2. Compare operators and inclusions. On platforms like GetYourGuide, Klook and Trip.com, filter for Cajón del Maipo and check what’s included: meals, entrance fees, hot springs access, language options, group size and hotel pickup areas.
3. Confirm pickup details. Once booked, you’ll receive an email or app confirmation. Note your pickup time and whether the tour offers hotel pickup or a central meeting point (often in downtown Santiago or Providencia).
4. Prepare for the day. Pack layers, swimsuit and towel if visiting hot springs, sun protection, personal medication and some Chilean pesos for extra snacks or optional activities.
5. Meet your guide and enjoy the ride. Be ready 10–15 minutes before pickup; traffic can be unpredictable, so guides sometimes arrive a bit early or late. Sit on the valley side of the van for the best views as you climb deeper into Cajón del Maipo.
6. Plan your return. Most tours aim to be back in Santiago by early evening. If you have a late-night bus or flight, build in buffer time or consider staying overnight rather than cutting it too close.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From central Santiago: Many tours include hotel pickup. If you’re asked to meet at a central spot (for example near Plaza de Armas or a metro station), take the Metro to the specified station and walk to the meeting point a little early.
• From Santiago Airport (SCL): If arriving the same morning, it’s safer to stay in the city the night before. Take an airport shuttle, taxi or prebooked ride (for example via Welcome Pickups) to your hotel, then join the tour from there.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Metro + Tur Maipo Rural Bus (Cheapest, Local Experience)

Low cost Local vibe Less flexible

• Overview: Combine Santiago’s Metro with a rural bus run by Tur Maipo. You’ll travel to the Estación Intermodal Bellavista de La Florida or Plaza de Puente Alto area, then board a bus up the valley to San José de Maipo, with further buses continuing to villages like San Alfonso, San Gabriel or Baños Morales in season.
• Typical duration: Around 1.5–2.5 hours one-way from central Santiago to San José de Maipo, depending on metro connections, waiting time for the rural bus and traffic leaving the city.
• How to book (with price): Public transport is usually pay-on-the-spot. Metro fares are roughly in the CLP 700–900 range per ride depending on time of day, while the rural bus to San José de Maipo typically costs around CLP 1,500–2,500 one-way. Check updated routes and schedules directly on Tur Maipo’s website.
• Pros: Very economical, departures throughout the day, a chance to travel like locals and stop in smaller villages.
• Cons: Fewer English signs, may be standing-room only at busy times, schedules can change seasonally, limited service to higher-altitude areas in winter.

Step-by-step: Metro + Rural Bus

1. Plan your target stop. For a first visit, aim for San José de Maipo, the main gateway town, where you’ll find cafes, basic services and connections to local taxis, tours and accommodations.
2. Ride the Metro to the rural bus terminal. From most central neighbourhoods, take Metro Line 5 towards Bellavista de La Florida. Get off at Bellavista de La Florida and follow signs to the intermodal terminal where rural buses depart.
3. Find the Tur Maipo bus stand. Look for buses signposted to San José de Maipo or further up the canyon. If unsure, ask staff or locals for “Tur Maipo San José de Maipo”.
4. Buy your ticket and board. Have small Chilean peso notes ready; rural buses typically accept cash on board. Sit on the right-hand side (heading out of Santiago) for great valley views as you follow the Maipo River.
5. Continue deeper into the canyon (optional). From San José de Maipo, you can transfer to other rural buses or colectivos (shared taxis) heading to nearby villages or trailheads. Always confirm last return times, especially outside summer.
6. Return to Santiago. Head back to the bus stop in San José de Maipo well before the last departure. Once in Santiago, you’ll arrive back at Bellavista de La Florida and can take the Metro to your final destination.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From central Santiago: Take Metro Line 1 to Baquedano or another transfer station, then Line 5 towards Bellavista de La Florida. Follow signs to the intermodal terminal directly connected to the metro station.
• From other districts: Use your preferred journey planner app (for example Moovit or Google Maps) to reach Bellavista de La Florida by Metro or city bus, then transfer to the rural bus.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #3 — Self-Drive Rental Car via Ruta G‑25 (Flexible, Great for Overnight)

Maximum flexibility Good for overnights Mountain driving

• Overview: Rent a car in Santiago or at SCL airport and drive southeast along Ruta G‑25 through Puente Alto and into Cajón del Maipo. This gives you total control over your schedule and the freedom to reach trailheads, hot springs and viewpoints that are hard to access by bus.
• Typical duration: Around 1.5–2 hours from central Santiago to San José de Maipo in light traffic; add time for stops or if you continue further into the canyon.
• How to book (with price): Small cars often start around CLP 30,000–45,000 per day (plus insurance, tolls and fuel). Compare offers from multiple rental brands at the airport or in the city via Booking.com car rentals at SCL or Santiago city rentals.
• Pros: Stop where you like, ideal for sunrise/sunset or overnight stays, easier with kids or gear (kayaks, climbing equipment, camera gear).
• Cons: Requires confident driving on mountain roads and in city traffic; in winter or after heavy rain some stretches can be icy, snowy or affected by rockfall. Parking at popular spots can be limited on weekends.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive Rental Car

1. Pick up your car. Arrange pickup from either the airport or a central Santiago office. When booking on Booking.com, filter by transmission (manual/automatic) and make sure you include sufficient insurance for mountain driving.
2. Set your navigation. Use your GPS or phone to set San José de Maipo, San Alfonso or a specific lodge or hot spring as your destination. Download offline maps in case of patchy reception deeper in the canyon.
3. Exit Santiago via Ruta G‑25. Drive towards Puente Alto and follow signs for Cajón del Maipo / San José de Maipo along Ruta G‑25. Expect some traffic lights and local traffic until you clear the built-up area.
4. Drive carefully in the canyon. Once in the mountains, roads narrow and curves tighten. Keep your speed moderate, watch for cyclists and motorbikes, and avoid driving in the dark if possible.
5. Park responsibly. Use designated parking areas at viewpoints, villages and trailheads. In more remote areas, avoid blocking private access roads and leave no trace.
6. Return before late night. If you’re not staying overnight, plan to be back in Santiago before very late evening to avoid fatigue and reduced visibility on the mountain road.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From Santiago city centre: Pick up your car at a central rental office, then follow signs for Puente Alto and Ruta G‑25. Many rentals in the centre are reachable by Metro or short taxi ride.
• From Santiago Airport (SCL): Collect your car from an on-airport desk, then follow the highway into the city and onwards towards Puente Alto and Cajón del Maipo. Allow extra time for traffic at peak hours.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #4 — Taxi, Ride-Hailing or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door Comfort)

Door-to-door Great with luggage Higher cost

• Overview: Arrange a car and driver to take you directly from your hotel or the airport to Cajón del Maipo and back. This can be a licensed taxi, a prebooked transfer service, or (where permitted) a ride-hailing service.
• Typical duration: Around 1–1.5 hours each way depending on traffic and your final destination in the canyon.
• How to book (with price): Expect roughly CLP 45,000–80,000 per car one-way for a private transfer, depending on distance and waiting time. You can prebook fixed-fare rides with Welcome Pickups in Santiago or GetTransfer, and use ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Cabify or DiDi in the Santiago area (availability in the canyon itself may be limited).
• Pros: Fast and comfortable, ideal if you’re short on time or travelling with kids, elderly family members or heavy luggage. No need to navigate or drive.
• Cons: More expensive than buses or self-drive (unless split among several people), and you must clearly agree on waiting time and return arrangements if the driver is staying with you.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Private Transfer

1. Decide on a one-way or round-trip. For day trips, it’s often easier to book a round-trip with a pre-arranged pick-up time in Cajón del Maipo, especially where mobile coverage is weak.
2. Choose your provider. Compare rates and vehicle types on Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, or ask your hotel to recommend a reliable local taxi company.
3. Book in advance. Once you know your dates and approximate timetable, book your transfer and provide exact pickup and drop-off addresses, plus an emergency contact number.
4. Confirm waiting time and extra stops. If you want to visit multiple spots (for example a viewpoint plus hot springs), clarify whether your driver will wait and how any additional hours will be charged.
5. Have a backup plan. Save the number of your driver and your accommodation. In case of delays or weather changes, you can adjust your return time where possible.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From central Santiago: Your driver will usually pick you up directly at your hotel or apartment. Make sure your address is clear (building, apartment number, entrance) to avoid confusion.
• From Santiago Airport (SCL): Meet your driver at the arrivals area with a name sign or follow the instructions in your booking confirmation. Some services track your flight for delays.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🏍️ Option #5 — Motorcycle / Scooter Rental (For Experienced Riders)

High adventure Flexible stops Weather-dependent & advanced

• Overview: Confident riders can rent a motorcycle or scooter in Santiago and ride towards Cajón del Maipo via Ruta G‑25. The road offers fantastic Andean scenery but includes curves, occasional gravel sections and changing weather.
• Typical duration: Around 1.5–2 hours each way from central Santiago to San José de Maipo, not counting scenic/photo stops.
• How to book (with price): Daily rental prices vary widely by bike type; typical rates start around €40–120 per day. Compare available bikes, gear and insurance on BikesBooking’s Santiago listings.
• Pros: Freedom to stop anywhere, excellent for photography, a memorable way to experience the climb into the Andes.
• Cons: Only for experienced riders with proper licensing and gear; exposure to the elements; road conditions can change quickly with rain, ice or rockfall.

Step-by-step: Motorcycle / Scooter Rental

1. Choose a suitable bike. For mountain riding, favour a motorcycle with adequate power and good brakes rather than a small city scooter, especially if you’re riding two-up.
2. Book online and prepare documents. Reserve through platforms like BikesBooking, ensuring you have the correct driving licence category, passport and credit card for the security deposit.
3. Gear up properly. Wear full protective gear (helmet, gloves, jacket, trousers and boots). Bring warm layers and waterproofs even in summer—temperatures drop quickly with altitude.
4. Ride via Ruta G‑25. Navigate out of Santiago towards Puente Alto and then follow the same Ruta G‑25 car route into Cajón del Maipo. Keep speeds moderate and watch for gravel, potholes and buses on tight bends.
5. Plan fuel and daylight. Fill up before leaving the city and aim to return before dark; street lighting is limited in some canyon sections.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From central Santiago: Most rental shops are in central or easily accessible neighbourhoods. Use Metro or a short taxi ride to reach the pickup location, then ride out towards Puente Alto and Cajón del Maipo.
• From Santiago Airport (SCL): It’s usually easier to spend a night in the city and collect your bike the next day rather than riding straight from the airport after a long flight.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Santiago to Cajon del Maipo)

How long does it take to get from Santiago to Cajón del Maipo?
Most travellers take about 1.5–2 hours one-way from central Santiago to San José de Maipo by car, taxi or tour minivan. Public transport (Metro + rural bus) usually takes closer to 2–2.5 hours, depending on connections and traffic. If your tour includes multiple stops or hot springs, expect a full 10–12 hour day door-to-door.

Do I need a 4×4 to visit Cajón del Maipo?
For reaching San José de Maipo and popular lower-valley spots, a regular car usually suffices in good weather. However, in winter or when heading to higher, rougher roads (for example around Embalse El Yeso or remote trailheads), conditions can be icy or muddy, and rainfall or snow may affect access. In those cases, a high-clearance vehicle, snow chains or going with a professional tour operator is strongly recommended.

Is it safe to drive or visit Cajón del Maipo independently?
Cajón del Maipo is a popular weekend escape for locals and visitors. Most travellers who drive themselves have no issues, provided they respect speed limits, stay alert on curves and avoid driving tired or in bad weather. As anywhere, don’t leave valuables visible in parked vehicles and follow local advice about trail conditions, river levels and weather alerts.

Can I visit Cajón del Maipo as a day trip, or should I stay overnight?
A day trip from Santiago is perfectly doable and very common. If you want to enjoy several hikes, hot springs and stargazing without rushing, consider staying at least one night in the valley—there are plenty of cabins and lodges you can book via Booking.com’s Cajón del Maipo listings. Overnight stays also mean you can start early to beat the crowds at popular viewpoints.

When is the best time to go to Cajón del Maipo?
Summer (December–March) offers warm days, long daylight hours and generally easier driving conditions, but it’s also the busiest time. Spring and autumn can be quieter with pleasant temperatures and colourful landscapes. Winter brings snow-capped peaks and atmospheric views, yet some higher roads and attractions may close or require special equipment; tours remain one of the safest ways to visit in that season.