The reservoir is fed primarily by the Yeso River, a tributary of the Maipo River.
Construction of the dam was completed in 1964 to secure water supply for the rapidly growing Santiago population.
The water within the reservoir is notable for its intense, mineral-rich turquoise coloration.
The reservoir sits directly at the base of the Marmolejo volcano, one of the southernmost 6,000-meter peaks in the world.
The surrounding landscape is part of the San José de Maipo commune, known for its significant seismic activity and geological importance.
Embalse El Yeso is a large reservoir located in the Andes Mountains, serving as the primary source of drinking water for the Santiago Metropolitan Region. It sits at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters above sea level within the Cajón del Maipo canyon. The reservoir is contained by a massive 54-meter high earth-core rockfill dam. It holds up to 253 million cubic meters of water, creating a turquoise alpine lake framed by high Andean peaks. The area remains a popular destination for hikers and nature observers due to its high-altitude geological formations. Access to the reservoir is managed via a rugged mountain road that transitions from paved to dirt surfaces. The environment is arid, with extreme temperature fluctuations between seasons.
The elevated vantage points along the dam wall provide an unobstructed panoramic view of the reservoir and surrounding peaks.
Bring layers of clothing as temperatures drop significantly once the sun dips behind the mountain ridges.
Ensure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition, as the road involves high altitudes and unpaved sections.
Carry plenty of water and sun protection, as the high altitude increases UV radiation and dehydration risks.
Attempting the drive in a small city car or during heavy winter snowstorms without specialized mountain driving experience.
Access may be restricted or closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall and risk of landslides.
Stay on designated paths to avoid erosion; do not swim or enter the water as it is a protected drinking water source.
