Introduction

A jewel in Cajón del Maipo, the Nieves Negras Glacier can be found in the upper sector of the Colina river basin. It is a giant glacial tongue almost 2000m high and it descends down the southern slope of the San José Volcano. On the whole its size has been conserved due to the fact that it is hidden between large mountains which protect it from the sun and high temperatures. Given the glacier’s geographical prominence in the region, other nearby areas such the Nieves Negras meadow and pass have been named after it.

It was relatively unknown until recently, but in the last few years it has been gaining popularity due to its impressive beauty. Despite this, it is still possible to complete this route without being surrounded by crowds. This excursion, leading through Andean landscapes typical of this latitude, can be combined to with a trip to the thermal springs located at the start of the route.

Appropriate season

Summer and Autumn are the best time to visit, and ideally from the middle of January until the first snowfall (around May). During Spring and the start of Summer the River Colina increases in size due to the melting ice in the mountains, making the route a little more difficult.

Access

From Santiago follow route G-25 which leads into Cajón del Maipo, and you will reach the Andean village of San Gabriel where there is a Police post – it is recommended that you advise them of your excursion. To this point from Santiago is 64km along a well-maintained paved road, and takes approx. 1h. Continue along this road which snakes along the southern bank of the River Volcán and after another 20km you will reach the rural village Lo Valdés (1845m). The road up until this point is paved.

From Lo Valdés, continue along the southern bank of the River Volcán. 7km from the village there is a river which you will need to cross. From here the road continues for 5km, following the river until reaching Baños Colina, where you will have to pay to enter even if you do not visit the thermal springs (in 2015 the entry cost CLP$8000 (approx. USD$16) per person per day).

Visit Google maps to see the journey between Las Vizcachas and Termas de Colina.

From the entrance to Baños Colina (approx. 2400m), continue for 1km along the same road until arriving at the end (a large slope stops you from going any further). At this point there is enough space to turn around and park. The road from Lo Valdés to Baños Colina is suitable for any type of car, but be aware that this may not be the case during the first snowfall in Autumn/Winter. There is no public transport to Baños Colina.

Permits / Prices

The entry fee to Baños Colina is CLP$8000 (approx. US$16) per person per day regardless of if you use the thermal springs or not. Children between 4 and 13 years old pay CLP$6000 (approx. USD$12), and children under 3 enter for free.

Accommodation / Facilities

There is no accommodation as such on the excursion, but at the start of the route there is a refuge nearby the thermal springs. It costs CLP$30,000 (approx. USD$60) per person and you must book in advance. The entrance fee includes use of campsites close to the thermal springs.

Recommendations

• If you go as a group, you may be able to negotiate the entry free.
• When you return from the glacier, we recommend that you pass by the thermal springs and take an invigorating bath. 

Gear

• Boots and clothing suitable for trekking
• Warm clothing
• Sandals or flip-flips for crossing the river
• Trekking poles (optional).

Schedule

1. Santiago – Glacier viewpoint - Santiago