It's not mandatory, but it is recommended. This backpacking trip requires carrying your own backpack for several days, walking on uneven trails and camping without comforts. While the technical difficulty is moderate, it's important to be in good shape and willing to adapt to the environment, and previous experience with backpacking or camping trips helps a lot in enjoying it more.
A real backpacking journey through Cajón del Achibueno, with no luxuries or frills. We walk through damp forests, rivers and ravines, carrying the essentials in our backpacks and choosing the route together.
PriceFrom US$1,650 |
Backpacking in Cajón del Achibueno
4 to 7 days of total immersion in one of the best-kept secrets of the Maule region
This isn't a classic trek. It's a journey of deep exploration, where every step depends on the group, the weather and the shared energy. We move with everything on our backs, camp in remote places with no comforts and decide the final destination together. It could be Laguna Achibueno, the Cuéllar lagoons or even the Cascada de las Ánimas… What matters isn't the exact destination, but what's revealed along the way.
Over 4 to 7 days we'll hike an out-and-back route, connecting with damp forests, powerful rivers, hidden waterfalls and landscapes that change as we gain altitude. It's an experience for those looking for real backpacking: carrying, walking, improvising and being present. Depending on the option, we can arrange porterage or support, but the essence is self-sufficiency.
A journey to experience the mountains unadorned. Raw, beautiful, honest.
“A backpacking experience that adapts to your pace and level.”
Moments that make the difference
The moments that make this trip a one-of-a-kind experience.
You'll walk little-traveled trails
You'll cross forests, rivers and ravines where nature is still in charge.
You'll sleep under a clear sky
Every night, the fire, the stars and the silence will remind you of what matters.
You'll discover hidden corners
Waterfalls, lagoons and secret landscapes that aren't on any map.
ITINERARY OPTIONS
Duration: 4 or 5 days
Maximum altitude: Approx. 2,200 m
Level: Moderate to Demanding
Description:
A deep hike through the heart of Cajón del Achibueno, crossing forests, rivers and ravines to reach the remote Cuéllar Lagoons. Ideal for those looking for real disconnection, an unhurried pace and little-explored landscapes.
Duration: 4 or 5 days
Maximum altitude: Approx. 2,000 m
Level: Moderate to Demanding
Description:
A gradual climb to one of the most beautiful corners of the Achibueno: the lagoon the valley is named after. Ancient forests, crystal-clear pools and starry nights will be part of the journey.
Duration: 6 or 7 days
Maximum altitude: Approx. 2,200 m
Level: Demanding
Description:
A complete route through Cajón del Achibueno, connecting both lagoons on a fully self-sufficient circuit. For those looking for a true exploration journey with a loaded backpack and nights camping under the sky of the deep Maule.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
REQUIREMENTS
The Puma seal behind every experience
We design private experiences with safety, closeness and attention to detail
We're Vicho and Javi, the founders of Puma Adventures. Every experience is designed to our standard of safety, closeness and attention to detail. Even when the trip is led by different professionals on our team, the Puma seal is there before, during and after the mountain.
EXCELLENT
Based on 171 reviews
Based on 171 reviewsI cannot emphasize enough how much I have appreciated this experience with Vicho and Javi.
The adventure itself a lovely mix of challenges and magic. Most of all, this couple were the best people to share this experience with, I appreciate all their knowledge, expertise, mental and physical support, thoughtfulness, hospitality, friendliness and flexibility according to my needs and preferences. This was especially important for me since this was the first time I did something of this kind, and I felt safely out of my comfort zone.
Until next time!
Trekking incrível nos Andes
A experiência com Raquetes de neve foi maravilhosa e recomendo totalmente. O local da trilha foi lindo. Desde o início tratei com os donos da agência, que são muito atenciosos, muito focados e dedicados para que a experiência seja incrível. Quando estiver no Chile novamente, irei procurá-los para outro trekking de montanha.
Agência muito segura e profissional. São muito atenciosos e amigável. Recomendo a todos. Quando retornar ao Chile, farei nova atividade com a Puma Adventures.
Increíble experiencia! Vicente y Javiera estuvieron atentos a cada detalle y a la necesidad de cada miembro del grupo. Sin duda volvería a realizar un trekking con ellos. Fue un día soñado!
Excelente
Fue una experiencia muy gratificante, los guías muy amables y preocupados, disfrutamos de paisajes maravillosos .
Todo lo que buscas en un guía. Comunicación fluida y rápida antes de contratar, profesionalidad, atención continua… detallistas y muy amables. Repetiré seguro!
We had the best experience with Vicente on our climb. We are new to hiking and he was patient with us and gave great instruction. I would recommend him to all who want to try hiking in Chile. The hike was worth the breathtaking views once we reached the top. We made it just in time for sunset!
Tuvimos una hermosa experiencia en la montaña gracias a nuestro guia Sebastian! Nos compartió muchísima información interesante durante nuestro trekking y toda la jornada fue muy disfrutable. Recomiendo 100%
Went on a solo guided hike up Cerro Provincia in Chile, Sebastian was incredibly knowledgeable and make it such an awesome experience! The Puma team kept me up to date and informed well before the trip making booking from South Africa so easy. I got picked up from my hotel, had great lunch included in the hike! with a beer to finish it off! Can Recommend!
Gran aventura en Santiago.
Son sumamente profesionales, atentos y cordiales. La seguridad del cliente es muy importante. Los recomiendo ampliamente.
Super excursion con un guia muy prifesional y agradable que conoce muy bien la région. Paisajes magnificos y recuerdos fabulosos.
Escalada en cajón del Maipo
Muy recomendable, el guía muy bueno
✅ This experience is for you if...
⛔️ It's not for you if…
Frequently Asked Questions
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🥾 Do I need previous experience for this activity?
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📍 Where is Cajón del Achibueno?
Cajón del Achibueno is in the foothills of Linares, in the Maule Region, about 5–6 hours south of Santiago.
It's an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic backpacking experience, wild camping surrounded by lush nature: crystal-clear rivers, native forests, waterfalls and hidden lagoons. A still little-explored area, perfect for deep, flexible journeys. -
🎒 What should I bring?
For this activity, bring:
- 60+ liter backpack
- Hiking shoes, ideally mid or high-cut
- Comfortable hiking clothes
- Warm layers for low temperatures
- Gloves and beanie
- Sun cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water bottle, at least 2 liters
We'll confirm the gear based on the weather conditions. -
🧍 Can I go on my own?
Of course! Many people come on their own and end up making new friends on the mountain.
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🧑🧑🧒🧒 Can I bring children or pets?
Children are welcome, as long as they have the right gear and are used to walking.
Our activities are not suitable for pets, out of respect for the environment and other participants. -
🥗 Do you have options for vegetarians, celiacs or other diets?
Yes. We adapt the food to your needs: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other restrictions. Just let us know when you book and we'll take care of the rest.
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📝 How do I book?
Just fill out the form on this page. Once we receive it, we'll confirm the date and all the details so you get the best possible experience. Then we'll send you the payment link and, after payment, you'll fill out a medical form.
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❌ What happens if I cancel or can't make it?
We have a clear cancellation policy, with refunds or credit depending on how far in advance you cancel. You can read it in full in our terms and conditions.
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⛈️ Is it canceled if the weather is bad?
It's only canceled due to extreme weather or safety risks. In that case, we offer to reschedule or refund your money.
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📊 Experience fact sheet
Total distance: Between 30–60 km (round trip, depending on the route)
Elevation gain: Approx. 1,500 to 2,300 m
Estimated maximum altitude: 2,200 m
Hiking time per day: about 5 to 7 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate to demanding (with a loaded backpack)