Cascada de las Ánimas

Cascada de las Ánimas is an eco-tourism centre and nature sanctuary in San Alfonso, in the Cajón del Maipo valley about 60 kilometres from Santiago, and a good way to swap the city for the mountains for a day or a weekend. The protected area covers more than 3,600 hectares of mountains, valleys, springs and waterfalls, and the company has more than 25 years of experience in tourism.

The activity list is long. Rafting on the Río Maipo is the headline experience, and there are also horse rides, guided hikes through the sanctuary, a canopy zipline over the river, kayaking and a climbing wall. For a gentler stay, the centre offers yoga, astronomy tours, a spa, a pool, camping and picnic areas, and a farm and garden. It calls itself a Chile adventure resort, and the range means families and mixed groups can each find something.

You can visit for the day or stay overnight. Accommodation runs from premium suites at the Cascada Lodge and riverside suites to dome lofts, cabins and simple rooms, which makes it a good base for a slower break in the mountains. Overnight guests can join evening activities such as the astronomy tours, which are harder to fit into a day trip.

Bookings are made directly with the centre: call +56 2 2582 9430, the mobile line +56 9 9870 3912 or the reservations number +56 9 4244 8065, or email [email protected]. Lodge reservations have their own lines, +56 2 2582 9436 and +56 9 6527 2315. Book rafting and riding in advance, especially at weekends and in summer, and check minimum ages and fitness requirements for each activity.

The centre is at Camino al Volcán 31087 in San Alfonso. Leave plenty of time for the drive up the Cajón del Maipo, and check road conditions in winter. Bring layers, sun protection and sturdy shoes, as mountain weather changes quickly, and a change of clothes if you are rafting.

Cascada de las Ánimas suits active travellers, families with older children and couples looking for a mountain escape close to the capital. Combine it with a wine visit in Pirque on the way, or with Turistik's Cajón del Maipo tour if you prefer organised transport.