Things To Do
in San José de Maipo

A rustic, brothy stew of meat (chicken or beef), potatoes, corn and squash — widely available in local restaurants and ideal after a day outdoors.

Must-Try!

Classic baked empanadas filled with beef, onion, olive and egg; sold in bakeries and food stalls around the plaza.

A popular sweet, non-alcoholic summer treat made from cooked wheat (mote) and dried peaches (huesillos), often sold by street vendors in warmer months.

Grilled meats (beef, pork, or lamb) served in local parrillas and mountain restaurants — a social and filling meal after hiking.

Small stalls and bakeries around the main square that serve empanadas, sopaipillas, fresh coffee and homemade bread — great for quick, inexpensive bites.

Occasional markets featuring local cheeses, preserves and baked goods where you can sample regional products and pick up picnic items for hikes.

A handshake and eye contact are common for initial meetings; friends often greet with a single light cheek kiss. Use polite forms (por favor, gracias) and a respectful tone with elders.

Be considerate of local property and livestock; ask permission before photographing people or private homes and follow guidance on trails and grazing areas.

Appointments and tours usually run on time, but social gatherings can be more relaxed — clarify timing for pick-ups and transport.

Leave no trace: pack out rubbish, avoid making new fire pits, and stick to marked trails to protect fragile mountain ecosystems.

In restaurants, a 10% service charge is commonly added; if not included, leaving 10% for good service is customary. Tip guides, drivers and porters directly in cash; small tips for café servers or hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants, guesthouses and shops, but many small vendors and rural services are cash-only. Carry Chilean pesos for markets, taxis and day-trip purchases; ATMs are available in town but more reliable in Santiago.

(December–February) Warm to hot and dry in lower valleys with clear skies — high season for hiking and reservoir visits; bring sun protection, water and plan for weekend crowds from Santiago.

(March–May) Cooler days, crisp air and beautiful colors on native vegetation; generally stable weather and fewer visitors, making it a pleasant time for hikes.

(June–August) Cold with frequent snow at higher elevations and possible icy roads; some trails and routes can be closed and 4x4 or chains may be necessary for higher passes.

(September–November) Warming temperatures and wildflower season in lower areas; weather can be changeable with occasional late snow at altitude — layer clothing for variable conditions.

Santiago’s main international airport is the main entry point for visitors and is roughly a 1–1.5 hour drive from San José de Maipo depending on traffic; car rental, private transfers and buses connect to the city and the Cajón del Maipo region.

A smaller general aviation aerodrome in eastern Santiago used for private flights and flight training; useful for private charters and close to eastern city neighborhoods.

Chile’s most popular sport; local communities follow national and club teams passionately and informal matches are common in town fields.

The rugged terrain and trails around the Cajón del Maipo attract trail runners and endurance athletes year-round.

Dirt tracks, fire roads and downhill runs in the canyon make mountain biking a popular local sport, with rentals and guided rides available seasonally.

The steep canyon walls and Andean peaks offer routes for sport climbing, trad climbing and alpine ascents — many climbers base in San José de Maipo.