Banos Calino Hot Springs and Andes Trip

Shannon and I had seen a lot of the Andes from the Argentinian side in Bariloche and Southern Patagonia so we couldn't resist the opportunity to see the range from the Chilean side.  We went on an organized trip with a group of about 8 other folks.  The trip started with an early van pick up and a long, occasionally bumpy ride up a long valley to the base of the San Jose volcano.

We started our adventure on a quick hike.  We immediately learned that many of our trip partners were in... less than favorable shape... or maybe we've become fast hikers?  Probably some combo of both.  We ended up making it up to a beautiful meadow where we relaxed, took in the mountain views and waited for the others.

After heading down from the volcano we headed to the hot springs named Banos Calino.  For us, the springs were the main attraction since we'd already done so much hiking.  We soaked in the mineral water and slathered mud with awesome Andes views.

After our return to Santiago we went out to eat and got a local dish we'd seen all around town, Chorrillanas.  It's french fries, with onions, eggs, and steak on top.  Heart attacks imminent.

We saw some great street dancing in the our neighborhood (The Brazil District) park.before returning to our hostel for the night after a full fufilling day.