Introduction

This circuit begins at the well-known hot springs Termas del Plomo. The clearly marked trail leads into Bello Valley and up to a small mountain lagoon, offering great views of the area. From here, the path descends into the Yeguas Muertas Valley before leading back to the springs. An enjoyable walk in a beautiful Andean environment that is suitable for the whole family.

Appropriate season

From November to May as the access road, which follows the course of the Yeso River to El Yeso Dam, is normally closed from the first snowfall in autumn until the end of spring.

Access

Santiago – Termas del Plomo

From southeast Santiago, follow Route G-25 towards Cajón de Maipo for 64km (approx. 1hr) along a well-maintained paved road, until you reach the mountain village of San Gabriel. Here you will come to a police checkpoint where you should notify them of your intended excursion. From here, continue for another 2km along the same road until you come to the small village of Romeral, where you should continue via the gravel road leading northeast (left) along the southeast bank of the Yeso River. Some 23km on from Romeral, the road begins to lead around the El Yeso Dam towards its eastern shore. The road then crosses the Yeso River via a bridge constructed to access the local mines in the area. See here how to reach the dam from Santiago:

The road continues east and leads past the openings to the north-facing valleys of Casa de Piedra and Aparejo. A couple of kilometres on from Aparejo Valley, the road divides. Continue to the right (east) towards the springs. A little further on you will come to the entrance of the private park Valle del Yeso, where you will be required to pay CLP$6000 (approx. US$12) per person for each day you plan to stay in the park. Continue along the road heading east until you come to the Yeguas Muertas stream, 40km from Romeral. Crossing this stream can sometimes be difficult, especially in lower vehicles. 1km on from the stream you will arrive at the hot springs Baños del Plomo (2910m altitude), located very close to the Argentinian border.

Permits / Prices

This circuit is located in the private park Valle del Yeso, and you are required to pay CLP$6000 (approx. US$12) per person for each day you plan to stay in the park.

Accommodation / Facilities

There are toilets near to the hot springs.

Recommendations

• Remember to take your swimwear to be able to bathe in the natural thermal springs at Termas del Plomo.
• Keep the trail and surrounding area clean. Do not litter and take any trash home to dispose of properly.
• The lagoon, known as Laguna de los Patos, is often visited by birds. It is advised that you do not bathe in the water to avoid scaring the wildlife, and simply admire from a distance.
• It can sometimes be difficult to cross the Yeguas Muertas stream, especially in a lower vehicle that is not a 4x4. We recommend that you park your car before the stream (there is always enough space) and carefully cross the stream on foot. It is only another 300-400m longer (10 to 20 minutes) if you begin the circuit from this point.
• The lagoon is known by two different names: Laguna de los Patos or Laguna de las Rubias.

Gear

• Trekking boots or boots with ankle support
• Windbreaker and waterproof jacket
• Trekking poles (optional), especially advisable if you plan to cross the stream Yeguas Muertas on foot
• Swimwear
• Camping Equipment (if you choose Itinerary 2)

Schedule

Itinerary 1

1. Santiago - Laguna de los Patos - Santiago

Itinerary 2

1. Santiago - Termas del Plomo
2. Termas del Plomo - Laguna de los Patos - Santiago