El Morado Hanging Glacier
Full day
Santiago
Day tours
Many people think that to see a glacier you must travel all the way to Patagonia. Surprisingly, just a few kilometers from Santiago, in the Cajón del Maipo, you can admire one of the most stunning glaciers in central Chile, the Hanging Glacier of El Morado, a tongue of ice that falls vertically from 4,647 meters above sea level. This is a small group experience, maximum 12 people, your pace, your experience. The drive from Santiago takes approximately 2 hours through stunning Andean scenery, with views of San José volcano at 5,856m, ancient rock walls, fossils, and Andean condors. Once at Arenas Park, we begin our 9km round trip hike to the glacier lake, guided by a Sernatur-certified bilingual guide with Wilderness First Responder certification. Pick up available in Providencia, Las Condes and Vitacura. Meeting point confirmed upon booking.
Quick Facts
Activity: Hike
Duration: Full day
Difficulty: Moderate
Season: Year-round, weather dependent (snowshoes required in winter)
Hiking length: 9 km (5.5 mi) round trip
Max altitude: 3,260 masl (10,695 ft)
Elevation gain: 660 m (2,165 ft)
What's Included
Small group experience (max 12 people)
Pick up 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 shoes 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 Hotel pick up
09:30-10:00 The hike starts (Arenas Park entrance)
12:30-13:00 Morado Lagoon and glacier lookout
13:30-14:30 Lunch break and chilling time
14:30-17:00 Back to the hike starting point
17:00-17:30 Refreshments at the parking area (Arenas Valley)
21:00-21:30 Hotel drop off
These timings will depend on the group pace, traffic, and weather conditions.
Price
Solo travelers: $250,000 CLP Groups of 2+: $180,000 CLP per person
Book Now
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 reschedule will be offered.
