- Code: TREK-090
- Level: Easy/moderate
Levels Explained
Departures:
(Every day from Sept to Mar).
Price (2005/06):

US$ 147 p/p (2 people min)

US$ 112 p/p (3 people)

US$ 94 p/p (4 people)

US$ 82 p/p (5 people)

- Suggested Reading and Links

Scouting the flight of the Condor

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From Santiago, the Maipo Valley runs deep into the Andes for some 120km until it reaches impassable gorges and rushing rivers where the terrain is only negotiable on horse or on foot. It is in the middle of this rugged scenery that one feels at the heart of the Andes, the geographic feature which domains the whole of Chile. The valley is broad where it meets Santiago and here you will find many of the vineyards whose products have made Chile famous worldwide. As one goes up the valley, mountains get higher and the valley narrower. At an elevation of 1.000m, 60km away from Santiago, the typical mountain village of San Alfonso nestles in the Cordillera. Here, overlooking the wild Maipo river, facing the steep striped sedimentary mountains and under the shade of tall waving pine trees lies Cascada de las Animas (Spirit’s Waterfall) Outdoor Center, declared Nature Sanctuary in 1995.
At this point the only way to get into the mountains is on foot, on horseback or down the river in a raft. However, if you do not want any further physical activity, there are good facilities for staying peacefully at Cascada de las Animas and enjoying a relaxing day away from the city. Experienced, skilled and good-natured guides will assist you since you arrive to Cascada de Las Animas. Their kindness and willingness will make your visit a safe and memorable experience.

ITINERARY
09:00 hrs:Pick up from the hotel in Santiago and drive 62km onwards the Andes across the Maipo river valley. On weekends the locals come out to the street to sell  “Empanadas and Pan Amasado” the most typical country meal together with honey, home made marmalade and some wooden handcrafts. 10:30 hrs: Arrive in San Alfonso or around the area at some 2.000m and start trekking following narrow and steep trails used by the arrieros (Andean cowboys) to take cattle and herds to higher grazing lands during summer. Depending on the season, there are many waterfalls, streams and pools where cold-refreshing bathes can be taken. On winter and springtime the giant Condors fly down in search of food to a lower altitude where we might have the chance to scout them. The route will vary depending on the interests and physical condition of the participants; this tour is led by our experienced guides who are happy to point out the many spectacular views, as well as the native flora & fauna along the trail. The average hiking time is 3hrs.13:30 hrs:Enjoy lunch at a restaurant. Typical meal consists normally of barbecue, grilled fish and salads served with wine and drinks.15:30- 16:00 hrs:Start driving down to Santiago with stop at the village of La Obra where the small winery of El Raco is located. The name el Raco stands for the warm winter wind that blows in the Andes forecasting the rains.17:00- 17:30 hrs:Drive back to Santiago arriving at your hotel at 18:30hrs app.