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Hi, I'm Andres, a Sernatur-certified mountain guide and outdoor experience designer based in Santiago. I've been exploring the Chilean Andes for over 15 years and this is one of my favorite places to share with visitors near Santiago. Through ChileTraverse, I design outdoor experiences that go beyond the typical tourist route, small groups, authentic territory, your pace.
Few experiences compare to watching an Andean condor soar just meters above your head. With a wingspan of up to 3.3 meters, the condor is the largest flying bird on the planet and in this hidden corner of the Cajon del Maipo, they nest in the rocky cliffs and glide on thermal currents right before your eyes.
This is a small group experience, maximum 12 people, your pace, your experience.
The drive from Santiago takes approximately 1.5 hours through stunning Andean scenery. Once at the trailhead in the Alfalfal sector, we begin our 9km round trip hike through native vegetation including quillayes, litres, espinos and cacti, climbing until we reach a natural rock amphitheater where condors and black-chested buzzard-eagles nest and fly at remarkably close range. Condor sightings are highly likely but never guaranteed. These are wild animals that may move to other areas depending on weather, season or natural behavior. Silence is essential here. We observe them with deep respect.
Pick up available in Providencia, Las Condes and Vitacura. Meeting point confirmed upon booking.
Summary
• Kind of activity: Hike and wildlife observation
• Length: Full day
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Season: Spring, summer and autumn (best season March-May and
September-November)
• Hiking length: 9 km round trip
• Max altitude: 2,031 masl (6,663 ft)
• Elevation gain: 750m (2,461 ft)
(Masl: meters above sea level)
Itinerary
• 07:00-07:30 Pick up at meeting point
• 08:30-09:00 Arrival at trailhead — Alfalfal sector
• 09:00-11:00 Hike through native vegetation
• 11:00-12:30 Condor observation at the rock amphitheater
• 12:30-13:30 Lunch break and rest time
• 13:30-15:30 Return hike to trailhead
• 15:30-16:00 Refreshments at the parking area
• 17:30-18:00 Drop off at meeting point
Timings depend on group pace and traffic conditions.
