
How to get by car to Termas Valle de Colina natural pools?
Chile, south-america
10 km
2,500 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Nestled high in the Chilean Andes, just outside of Santiago, lies the Termas Valle de Colina – a series of nine natural hot spring pools perched at a cool 8,200 feet. We're talking seriously stunning views of snow-dusted peaks while you soak in mineral-rich water that can reach a balmy 122°F! You might also hear it called Baños Colina or Termas Lo Valdes.
Now, getting there is part of the fun. You’ll cruise along Camino Al Volcán (Ruta G-25), a 47-mile journey from Santiago heading towards Argentina. Think winding roads alongside a rushing river, slowly climbing into the mountains. The pavement ends at Baños Morales, and the final 6 miles get a little wild – think rocky, unpaved terrain. Seriously, you'll want a 4x4 for this one; leave the sedan at home. The road is steep in sections, so be prepared for some thrilling climbs. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's a 2-mile hike at the end of the road to the San José Volcano viewpoint.
Word to the wise: this road is NOT your friend in bad weather. Even in summer, things can get chilly, especially at night, and the weather can swing from sunshine to mist in a heartbeat. Winter? Forget about it. The road's usually snowed in. But if you time it right, this trip is an absolute MUST for any road trip enthusiast!
Where is it?
How to get by car to Termas Valle de Colina natural pools? is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -35.3267, -70.1900
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 10 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,500 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -35.3267, -70.1900
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