What is the difficulty level and do I need prior experience?

It's easy and accessible: about 9 km and only 450 m of elevation gain up to 3.120 m, next to the San Francisco lagoon and glacier. You don't need any prior experience; it's ideal for beginners or for families. The guide adjusts the pace.

Where is it located and where does the route begin?

The El Morado Natural Monument is located in the Baños Morales area, in the Cajón del Maipo, Metropolitan Region, approximately 2 hours from Santiago. The route follows a marked trail within the CONAF park; at the exit, we will coordinate your entry and pick you up at your accommodation.

What is the route like and how long does it take?

Approximately 9 km round trip with 450 m of elevation gain, on a leisurely day hike. The marked trail winds through meadows and past meltwater streams to the San Francisco lagoon and glacier, offering views of the El Morado massif. The descent follows the same route.

What is the best time to upload it?

Spring, summer, and autumn are when the park is open and the lagoon looks its best. In winter, it may close or require snowy conditions.

Is it possible to climb without a guide?

It's one of the most accessible routes in the Cajón del Maipo and can be done independently by paying the CONAF entrance fee. With a guide, you also get transportation from your accommodation, environmental interpretation, safety, and all the logistics taken care of—ideal if it's your first time or if you're coming from outside Santiago. We offer it as a guided tour, private or group.

Backpack (30+ liters), trekking boots (high-top recommended), comfortable clothing, a jacket for low temperatures, gloves and a hat, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and at least 2 liters of water. We will confirm the equipment based on the conditions.

Can I go alone, with children, or with pets?

You can go alone: many people come solo and make new friends on the mountain. It's also one of our most family-friendly routes, ideal for children who are used to hiking. Pets are not allowed (it's a CONAF park), out of respect for the environment and other visitors.

Do you have options for vegetarians, celiacs, or other diets?

Yes. We adapt the food to your needs: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or others. Just let us know when you book and we'll take care of the rest.

How do I make a reservation?

Complete the form on this page. We will confirm the date and details, send you the payment link, and, after payment, a medical form.

What happens if I cancel or there's bad weather?

There is a cancellation policy with refunds or credits depending on the deadline. Events are only canceled due to extreme weather conditions or security risks; in that case, we offer rescheduling or a refund.

El Morado Monument: Easy Trek to the San Francisco Glacier

A gentle yet powerful trek that takes you to the foot of an ancient glacier. Ideal for those looking to get started in the mountains with safety, beauty, and pauses to admire the surroundings and themselves.

This is for me

Mode

Private

Season

All year

Type

Mid-Mountain

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

Noon

SAN FRANCISCO GLACIER: CONTEMPLATION ROUTE

An accessible version of a mountain classic, ideal for those looking to take in the scenery without rushing.

This trek begins in the heart of the Maipo Canyon, in the El Morado Natural Monument. The easy route winds gently past meltwater rivers, green meadows, and majestic walls that herald the presence of the glacier. All in a protected environment, perfect for reconnecting with nature without extreme demands.

At a leisurely pace, we reached a viewpoint where the beauty of the San Francisco Glacier unfolds like a living postcard. Here, it's not about getting there quickly, but rather about absorbing the landscape, taking a deep breath, and letting the mountain do its silent work.

A gentle journey that doesn't demand much from the body, but still gives a lot to the soul.

Altitude

3120M

Distance

Elevation

450M

Estimated time

Moments that make a difference

The moments that turn this outing into a unique experience.

You will walk along a path that invites calm

A wide valley, green meadows, and melting rivers accompany you as you slowly advance toward the mountain.

You will contemplate a glacier from a natural viewpoint

Without any great physical effort, you will reach a point where the San Francisco Glacier reveals itself in all its splendor.

You will breathe the mountain range without demands

This accessible route allows you to experience the Andean immensity through your body, emotions, and conscious pause.

ITINERARY

Pickup time: 7:00 am
Transfer to the starting point: 2 hours
Gentle walk along trails
Rest time in the lagoon
Descent by the same route
Return to lodging
*Estimated walking time: 5 hrs

INCLUDES

mountain guide (English/Spanish)
Transport from your accommodation
Box lunch and walking ration itinerary
Professional pictures edited
Symbolic summit award
Post-trekking iced drinks
Trekking poles available
Emergency satellite communication
A first aid kit
Accident insurance

NOT INCLUDED

Personal mountain equipment
Meals outside the program
Voluntary tips
*Optional equipment rental

The Puma seal behind every experience

We design private experiences with security, intimacy, and attention to detail.

We are Vicho and Javi, founders of Puma Adventures. Every experience is designed according to our standards of safety, personalized service, and attention to detail. Although the outing may be led by different professionals from our team, the Puma touch is present before, during, and after the mountain adventure.

One-on-one attention

Every person matters. We design flexible, at-your-pace experiences with small groups and real-time presence. Here You are not a number: you are part of the process.

Human accompaniment

We listen to you, we understand you, and we walk with you. From the first conversation to the last step. No one is left alone. No one is left behind.

Overcome your limits

The mountain is just the stage. The real challenge is within. We will accompany you through it with respect, challenge, and restraint.

Professional security

Royal certifications, rigorous planning, and conscious presence. We don't just do mountaineering: we do it well, with both our heads and our hearts.

     
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Carlos Rodriguez 
 15 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everything you could want in a guide. Clear and fast communication before booking, professionalism, constant attention… detail-oriented and very friendly. I'll definitely be back!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Dawn Osborn 
 31 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 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 everyone who wants 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!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Silvana Massaro 
 3 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. Impeccable organization and a great experience Every time I go out with Javi and Vicho, I feel safe and confident. The outings are always very well organized and are happy experiences, even when some are more challenging. I love how they plan every detail to guarantee unforgettable moments. I've never come back without feeling happy to have participated.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Carolina Carrica 
 24 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a wonderful experience in the mountains thanks to our guide Sebastian! He shared so much interesting information with us during our trek, and the whole day was very enjoyable. I highly recommend him!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Vey 
 10 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went on a solo guided hike up Cerro Provincia in Chile, Sebastian was incredibly knowledgeable and made 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!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Steve Vey 
 10 June 2026
 
 
 Verified Awesome! Went on a solo guided hike up Cerro Provincia in Chile, Sebastian was incredibly knowledgeable and made 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!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Err2222 
 7 June 2026
 
 
 Verified Great adventure in Santiago. They are extremely professional, attentive, and friendly. Customer safety is very important to them. I highly recommend them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Isabelle Braud 
 10 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic excursion with a very professional and friendly guide who knows the region very well. Magnificent scenery and fabulous memories.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Danilo S 
 14 April 2026
 
 
 Verified Rock climbing in the Maipo Canyon Highly recommended, the guide was very good.
  
 
 
  
 
 
   trust index rating-score: 5.0 or 5, based on 165 reviews

✅ This experience is for you if...

Do you want to disconnect without complications: everything is resolved.
It inspires you glacier and the immensity of the mountain.
You have no experience, but it encourages you start with something calm.
You like to walk calmly and enjoy the scenery.
You value friendly, safe, and personalized service.

⛔️ It's not for you if...

You want a demanding physical or technical challenge.
You are looking for speed, intensity or performance.
You are not interested in walking: you prefer another form of tourism.
You only enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities.
You get bored if the walk is short or easy.

A private experience, tailor-made for you

Starting at $450 USD for a private experience

We design the outing just for you, without external groups
You choose the date, we adapt
We're going to look for you, wherever you are
Everything essential included, so you can live without worrying
An experience tailored to you, without haste, without noise

Get a quote via WhatsApp

FAQ

🥾 How difficult is it and do I need previous experience?

It's easy and accessible: about 9 km and only 450 m of elevation gain up to 3.120 m, next to the San Francisco lagoon and glacier. You don't need any prior experience; it's ideal for beginners or for families. The guide adjusts the pace.
📍 Where is it located and where does the route begin?

The El Morado Natural Monument is located in the Baños Morales area, in the Cajón del Maipo, Metropolitan Region, approximately 2 hours from Santiago. The route follows a marked trail within the CONAF park; at the exit, we will coordinate your entry and pick you up at your accommodation.
🧭 What is the route like and how long does it take?

Approximately 9 km round trip with 450 m of elevation gain, on a leisurely day hike. The marked trail winds through meadows and past meltwater streams to the San Francisco lagoon and glacier, offering views of the El Morado massif. The descent follows the same route.
📅 What is the best time to upload it?

Spring, summer, and autumn are when the park is open and the lagoon looks its best. In winter, it may close or require snowy conditions.
⛰️ Is it possible to climb without a guide?

It's one of the most accessible routes in the Cajón del Maipo and can be done independently by paying the CONAF entrance fee. With a guide, you also get transportation from your accommodation, environmental interpretation, safety, and all the logistics taken care of—ideal if it's your first time or if you're coming from outside Santiago. We offer it as a guided tour, private or group.
🎒 What should I bring?

For this activity consider:

- Backpack +20 liters
- Trekking shoes
- Comfortable clothes for hiking
- Coat or windbreaker
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- 2 liters of water minimum

We will confirm the equipment depending on weather conditions.
🧍 Can I go alone, with children or pets?

You can go alone: many people come solo and make new friends on the mountain. It's also one of our most family-friendly routes, ideal for children who are used to hiking. Pets are not allowed (it's a CONAF park), out of respect for the environment and other visitors.
🥗 Vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary options?

Yes. We adapt our meals to your needs: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other restrictions. Just let us know when booking, and we'll take care of the rest.
📝 How do I make a reservation?

You must complete the form on this page. Once we receive it, we will confirm the date and all the details. Then we will send you the payment link, and after payment, you will need to complete a medical form.
❌ What happens if I cancel or there is bad weather?

We have a clear cancellation policy, with refunds or credits depending on when you cancel. We only cancel due to extreme weather conditions or security risks; in those cases, we offer rescheduling or a full refund.

What our pumas say

Those who visited the El Morado Natural Monument with us

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Second time hiking with Javiera and Vicente, and once again an impeccable experience. I've already done two routes with them: Cerro El Pintor and Monumento Natural El Morado, both very well planned and with a high level of professionalism. The best part, without a doubt, is their motivation and constant support throughout the entire hike. They're amazing!"
— Raúl Gil · Local Guide · Google Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"A fantastic excursion with a very professional and friendly guide who knows the region very well. Magnificent scenery and fabulous memories."
— Isabelle Braud · Google Reviews

Puma Adventures ★ 5,0 on Google (80 reviews) · #1 Outdoor Activities Las Condes on TripAdvisor

Trekking to the El Morado Natural Monument

GENTLE PRIVATE TREKKING AMONG MOUNTAINS AND GLACIERS