Located at 3,260 m (10,700 ft) in the Andes, the Morado Hanging Glacier is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks near Santiago. The journey begins in Cajón del Maipo, the most iconic mountain valley of central Chile.
After a two-hour drive through dramatic gorges and ravines, we arrive at Las Arenas Valley, where the trail begins near “Choriboulder,” a popular spot for bouldering. From here, a three-hour hike takes us through wide valleys and up a moraine ridge to reach the glacier itself.
The reward is breathtaking: a glacier hanging from El Morado Mountain, melting into a turquoise lagoon filled with icebergs, all surrounded by steep, jagged peaks. The setting feels like a hidden amphitheater of ice and rock.
Along the way, we encounter pristine rivers, snow-capped summits, and open skies where the Andean condor often soars overhead. Breathing in the crisp mountain air and standing before the Morado Glacier is an unforgettable experience of connection with the Andes.
Summary
- Activity: Hike
- Tour length: Full Day
- Difficulty: Easy
- Season: October to May
- Total distance*: 9.5km (5.9mi)
- Elevation gain: 640m (2,100ft)
- Max elevation: 3,260m (10,690ft)
* Back and forth
Price Per Person
| PAX | USD |
|---|---|
| 4 + | 160 |
| 3 | 180 |
| 2 | 220 |
| 1 | 330 |
Itinerary
- 07:30: Pick up at the hotel.
- 08:15: Join the Maipo sector.
- 10:00: Arrival to “Choriboulder” sector. Beginning of the trek.
- 12:30: Arrival to El Morado Glacier. Lunch time.
- 13:00: Tour around the lagoon and the great walls of ice.
- 13:30: Start the descent.
- 15:00: Returning to Santiago in our transport.
- 17:30: Back in your hotel.
Include
- Transport
- Bilingual guide (english-spanish)
- Box Lunch: 2 sandwichs, cereal bar, chocolate, cookies, fruit, isotonic drink and water
- Radio
- First aid kit
- Park entrance fee
- Trekking poles
Not included:
- Accident insurance
- Personal clothing
Recommendations
- Bring warm and windproof clothes.
- Sun glasses.
- Sun protector.
- Hut.
- High shoes.
- Thermal t-shirt (if possible, bring long sleeves)
Testimonials
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Pictures taken on January 15, 2015 (summer).
Las Arenas Valley
Las Arenas Valley
The hike starts up the river, enclosed by the mountains through the valley of Las Arenas, in english 'The Sands'. Cajón del Maipo, Chile.
Glacier & Lagoon
Glacier & Lagoon
A body of ice floats in the waters generated by the hanging glacier.
Cerastium
Cerastium
Grows in the andean soil in humid grounds.
Giant Bird
Giant Bird
Its wings spread can reach up to 3.3m (10.8ft) in length.
Andean Hike
Andean Hike
Bottom right, dwarfed by the mountains, is our group hiking back at the side of the lagoon in summer.
Lengüilla
Lengüilla
Under full sun exposure –as they like– the petals of Cistanthe picta look bright and velvety.
Cloud Shadows
Cloud Shadows
Some clouds floated above the valley darkening the mountains and forming different shapes of the scenery.
El Morado Hanging Glaciar
El Morado Hanging Glaciar
We have witnessed numerous ice breaks from this pendant that provoke a shuddering roar that echoes in the valley.
Cabra
Cabra
This 'cabra' –as we call them– knows how to stand in front of a camera feeling secure and calm.
