
Termas del Flaco
Chile, south-america
77.8 km
1.776 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're heading to Termas del Flaco, a super cool hot springs resort nestled high in the Chilean Andes, about 1,776 meters above sea level. We're talking the Región del Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins, specifically the Colchagua valley. To get to these amazing thermal baths (also called Baños del Tinguiririca or Las Vegas del Flaco), you'll be cruising along I-45, a gravel road that hugs the wild Tinguiririca River.
The adventure begins in San Fernando, just off the Panamericana Sur 64. From there, it's a 77.8 km journey on unpaved road that winds its way eastward into the mountains. Any car can handle it, but be prepared for a bumpy, scenic ride! Keep in mind, this dirt road is only open from December to April, so plan your trip accordingly. It's usually snowed in from May to November, so winter is a no-go! Get ready for some epic views!
Where is it?
Termas del Flaco is located in Chile (south-america). Coordinates: -34.0792, -69.7528
Road Details
- Country
- Chile
- Continent
- south-america
- Length
- 77.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1.776 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -34.0792, -69.7528
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