Condor Watching Hike in the Andes
Full day
Santiago
Day tours
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 one of the largest flying birds on the planet, and in this hidden corner of the Cajón del Maipo, they nest in the rocky cliffs and glide on thermal currents right before your eyes.
This is a small-group experience, with a maximum of 12 people, so the pace adapts to you. The drive from Santiago takes about 1.5 hours through stunning Andean scenery. Once at the trailhead in the Alfalfal sector, we begin a 9 km round-trip hike through native vegetation, including quillay, litre, espino 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, and they may move to other areas depending on weather, season or natural behavior. Silence is essential here: we observe them with deep respect.
Pickup is available in Providencia, Las Condes and Vitacura. The exact meeting point is confirmed upon booking.
Quick Facts
Activity: Hike and wildlife observation
Duration: Full day Difficulty: Moderate
Season: Spring, summer and autumn (best March-May and September-November)
Hiking length: 9 km round trip
Max altitude: 2,031 masl (6,663 ft)
Elevation gain: 750 m (2,461 ft)
What's Included
Small-group experience (max 12 people)
Pickup and drop off in Providencia, Las Condes or Vitacura
Bilingual guide (English & Spanish) — Sernatur certified & WFR
Snowshoes are provided when required by snow conditions.
Park entrance fee
Private 4x4 vehicle from Santiago
Snacks and refreshments after the hike
What's Not Included
Gratuities
Travel insurance
What to Bring
Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hiking boots or similar
Trekking poles (optional)
Base layer + warm layer + windproof jacket (3-layer clothing system)
Hiking pants or leggings (shorts optional on sunny summer days)
Small backpack
Water (1.5–2 liters per person)
Packed lunch and snacks
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.
Price
Solo travelers: $230,000 CLP Groups of 2+: $170,000 CLP per person
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Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the start of the tour. Cancellations made within 48 hours are non-refundable. In case of cancellation due to weather or safety conditions, a full refund or rescheduling will be offered.
Important Notes
This experience operates subject to weather and safety conditions. In case of severe weather or high winds, ChileTraverse reserves the right to cancel or modify the experience. A full refund or rescheduling will be offered.
