A FEW OF MY FAVOURITE HIKES IN SANTIAGO, CHILE
Having spent six amazing weeks in Peru hiking more or less non-stop, I couldn't wait to get to Santiago, where I could rest I could rest up for a few days before embarking on a month of hiking through Patagonia.
Or so I thought...
As it turns out, once you've caught that hiking bug, you begin to have withdrawal symptoms when you stop. So I set out exploring the city and its surrounding mountains.
Hiking in Santiago
As a city, Santiago has probably been one of my least favourites. Congested and polluted, I honestly didn't warm up to the centre that much. Thankfully I booked an Airbnb outside the centre with a gym and a pool and with Chile heading into summer it was perfect timing.
Not to mention some beautiful sunsets in the evening.
Here's what I got up to during my time in Santiago.
Perfect day in Santiago
Cerro Santa Lucia
Not so much of a hike but more of a gentle stroll up a hill. With pretty views, flowery gardens and an old fort and castle, it's worth a visit on a clear blue sky day.
Watch out of the steps on the way up. Some of them can be pretty narrow and slippery.
Cerro Santa Lucia
How to get there: Located next to Santa Lucia subway station on Av. Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins.
Cerro San Cristobal
Getting to the top of Cerro San Cristobal is around a 45 minute - 1 hour stroll. The panoramic views of Santiago from the top are beautiful and the sunsets are even more spectacular.
If you don't fancy the walk, you can also take the funicular up to the top. Although I'd really recommend the walk! Coming down during twilight hours, the city lit up into a spectrum of dusty pink and purple hues.
Santiago, Chile
How to get there: It's walkable from subway station Baquedano, or Plaza Italia. You can access the funicular by walking a few minutes from the Pio Nono bridge.
Cerro Manquehuito
Now this one's a real hike. If I'm going to be honest, I got totally lost on this trail and hiked way higher than I needed to go. At the start of the hike, you'll see a map. Try to follow the route, although it's not the best-marked trail.
I followed the signs to Manquehuito Este. I'm not sure which way I went but from the top looking down, I could see where I was supposed to be.
And the views were phenomenal!!
At the top of Manquehuito... or at least I think that's where I ended up!
The ground can be really dry and on my way down, I pretty much slid the whole way on my bum. Pretty sure I went the wrong way down too but which ever way it was really slippery!
Perching my camera on a rock
How to get there: Head to metro station Escuela Militar. From here you can get bus C14 which will drop you off near Gran Via, just before Av. Jose Alcalde Delano. From here you'll walk around 40 minutes along Via Roja, to the start of the hike.
Via Roja is a very wealthy area and many roads will say 'privado'. Don't worry, you're going the right way. The start of the hike begins, where you'll have to cross this fence.
There's an open door in the corner
Alternatively, I found out on my way down that there are collectivos leaving from Escuela Militar, that will take you to the start of the hike. It was pretty hard to find information on this, so best thing to do is ask around when you arrive at Escuela Militar.
Cerro Manquehue
This is Manquehuito's big brother shall we say. I didn't do this one myself but it's about a two hour hike up and the views are equally, if not more spectacular.
If you do decide to hike this one, be sure to hike on a low pollution day. Sometimes there's so much smog in Santiago, that the views appear to be cloudy.
How to get there: The start of the trail is the same as that of Cerro Manquehuito. You'll have the option to hike either one.
Embalse el Yeso
I really wanted to do this but let it go mainly due to the cost. Embalse el Yeso is a reservoir located around two hours outside of Santiago. It looks amazing. From the snow-covered mountains, crystal clear reflections over the lake, it's the perfect day out.
How to get there: Most tours ranged between $50-$100 USD. The best way to experience it would be to rent a car for a day and drive there. This is also a little pricey but if you team up with some travel buddies, you'll be able to share the cost.
Where to stay in Santiago
A bustling city, Santiago boasts many options. If you're not a fan of urban chaos, you might prefer staying in anAirbnb outside the city centre.
Quiral Hotel Boutique: Starting from $69 a night, this quiet property based near the centre of town in residential area is great for a few nights in the city.
Hotel Ismael: With beautiful spacious rooms, this hotel it perfect for those looking for a cosy stay.
The Hip Santiago Hotel: Located in the Bellavista area with lots bars and restaurants, this hip hotel is the kind of place you'll want to stay again on your return.
Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:
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World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡
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