The Embalse El Yeso is the primary source of drinking water for the city of Santiago.
The reservoir holds approximately 253 million cubic meters of water.
The surrounding Andes mountains in this area feature deposits of gypsum, which gives the river its name (El Yeso).
The region experiences significant seismic activity due to its proximity to the Andean fault lines.
The dam itself is an earth-fill structure completed in 1964.
Vegetation in this zone is sparse and categorized as high-mountain scrub adapted to alpine conditions.
Refugio El Yeso serves as a high-altitude waypoint located within the Cajón del Maipo mountain region. It provides proximity to the Embalse El Yeso, a massive reservoir created by damming the Yeso River at an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters. The facility is situated in a high-Andean landscape characterized by jagged, snow-capped peaks and volcanic geology. It acts as a base for hikers and tourists accessing the reservoir's turquoise glacial waters. The site experiences extreme temperature fluctuations due to its elevation. It is frequently used as a stopover for those navigating the road toward the international border pass into Argentina.
The crest of the dam wall providing a panoramic view of the reservoir backed by the surrounding peaks.
Carry extra layers of clothing, as temperatures drop rapidly once the sun goes behind the surrounding peaks.
Bring physical maps or offline GPS, as mobile reception is virtually non-existent in the canyon.
Drink significantly more water than usual to mitigate the effects of the high altitude.
Do not attempt to drive to the reservoir during winter months without 4x4 vehicles and tire chains, as snowdrifts frequently block the path.
The road to the reservoir is often closed by local authorities during winter months or after significant snowfall for safety reasons.
Practice strict Leave No Trace principles; all trash must be carried out as there are no waste management facilities.
