I am travelling from

The best view of Santiago

Cerro San Cristóbal is hard to overlook: this landmark hill, located in the heart of the city, is an integral part of the Santiago skyline. The views from Terraza Bellavista on top of the hill, some 300 metres above the city, are truly phenomenal. On clear days one can see the snowy peaks of the Andes Mountains.

Nature

The statue of the Virgin Mary

A mountain of attractions

In addition to having a fabulous view, Cerro San Cristóbal offers a number of other attractions. In the summer, visitors flock here to enjoy the 2 outdoor swimming pools. Children also enjoy the Parque Bicentenario de la Infancia (Bicentenary Children’s Park) which was inaugurated in 2012. This amusement park offers tree huts, water attractions and a funicular. Halfway down the hill is also a zoo. It is a small zoo but worth a visit to admire the pudu, the world’s smallest deer species and Chile’s national mascot. The Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepción, a 14-metre-high statue of the Virgin Mary, is the symbol of the mountain. A small chapel lies at the foot of the statue’s 8-metre-high pedestal.

Ascending the hill by funicular

There are several ways to reach the top of Cerro San Cristóbal, but the funicular ride is one of the most enjoyable. The cable car departs from the Bellavista district; the boarding point is at Plaza Caupolicán at the north end of Pío Nono. Halfway up the hill it makes a brief stop at the zoo. Those who enjoy a workout may also walk to the top. There also used to be a gondola to the top, but that service has been suspended indefinitely. It is not clear whether it will be repaired or completely replaced.

All

Culinary

Arts & Culture

Nightlife

Nature

Culinary

If you are a wine lover, the Chilean capital of Santiago is well worth a visit. The city is wedged between a number of famous wine regions, and only a short drive from the capital are several other interesting regions. Chilean winemakers enjoy introducing visitors to their exquisite creations.

Arts & Culture

No place in Santiago has as much historical significance as the Palacio de La Moneda. Now the home of the Chilean Government, the palace was the scene of a violent coup in 1973 that eventually cost the lives of thousands of Chileans. Today La Moneda is also an interesting architectural landmark, where you will enjoy learning about Chile’s culture and history with a visit to the cultural centre in the basement.

Nightlife

Santiago’s most charming neighbourhood of Bellavista lies between the Mapocho River and Cerro San Cristóbal. The bohemian character of this 'barrio' is reflected in the many art galleries, colourful houses and laid-back bistros. At night, the area comes alive with restaurants, clubs and bars.

Nature

Located off the coast of Valparaíso, Cachagua is a small island with a large colony of endangered penguins. This protected natural environment is uninhabited and off limits to visitors. However, visitors may circumnavigate the island on a fishing boat or by canoe for a close-up look at these waddling creatures.

Nightlife

Chileans have a reputation for being more reserved than other South Americans. But that hardly seems to apply to Santiago’s nightlife; it is just as lively and fun as in Buenos Aires and Lima. Locals party in the numerous bars and clubs of the Chilean capital as if there is no tomorrow.