If you have an adventurous spirit, you have to go trekking in Santiago. It is one of the proposals that makes the Chilean capital one of the most vibrant cities in Latin America.
Santiago de Chile has an impressive mountain range, which allows it to offer a variety of hiking routes. They range from easy walks to climbs that will raise your adrenaline level.
Just like the trails in Puerto Natales and Pucón, the natural attractions of the routes in Santiago are of incomparable beauty. You will find forests, waterfalls, cascades, viewpoints to appreciate the city from above, and snow-covered hills in the winter season.
So, trekking in Santiago is one of those unmissable activities to enjoy the city and its surroundings.
Take note, because we will tell you which are the best places to go trekking, the essential equipment, where to fly with us to Santiago, and tips that will help you live this popular sport to the fullest.
Trekking routes in Santiago
The first thing you need to know is that Santiago’s trekking routes have different levels . The recommendation is to sign up for the one that best suits your expectations and physical condition.
These are the most famous trekking spots according to the degree of difficulty:
The Guayacan Trail
The difficulty level is moderate. It is located in Mahuida Park and completing the route takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
The entire trail is marked, the landscape is characterized by the presence of guayacanes and a ravine that preserves its original state from 400 years ago.
You will be pleased to know that basic services are available at the rest stops.
Farellones de Colina circuit trail
With a medium level of difficulty, the Farellones de Colina circuit attracts Chileans and tourists from abroad alike. It is located in the Farellones de Santa Elena Natural Park . It is 8 km long with enviable views of the Andes mountain range.
The route is designed to take you into the forest, observe imposing cliffs and an incredible panoramic view of the city. The tour takes 2 hours, round trip.
Carbon Hill Trail
It is one of the peaks of the Metropolitan Park of Santiago (Parquemet) . Its level of difficulty is low at the beginning and, as you ascend, the slope becomes steeper. So, you better prepare yourself for the adrenaline.
Upon reaching the summit, you will have a nearly 360-degree panoramic view of Santiago de Chile. The journey takes 4 to 5 hours round trip.
Trekking equipment and tips
Hiking in Santiago is an unmissable activity, which should not only be enjoyable, but also safe. So, you should have the right equipment and follow some basic tips. We explain them below:
Essential equipment
- Hiking boots: Make sure they are durable and comfortable, providing support and traction on all types of terrain.
- Clothing appropriate to the season: Before signing up for a route, check the weather and bring appropriate clothing to protect you from the sun, cold or rain. A parka or windbreaker jacket is essential at any time of year.
- Backpack : Should be ergonomic, with compartments to carry water, snacks, a first aid kit and other essentials.
- Sun protection: No matter how cloudy the day is, you should always wear sunscreen, a hat or cap, and sunglasses.
Tips for a great trekking experience in Santiago
Are you going to hike one or more trails in Santiago? If you follow these tips you will have a great trekking experience:
- Plan your route: A few days before setting out on the route, research the type of trail you want to take, the level of experience you need, and how long the route will take, among other details.
- Respect nature: Preserving the environment is important so that others can enjoy the trip, just like you. So, stay on marked trails, take all the trash you generate, do not collect plants, flowers or rocks, observe animals from a distance and avoid making fires.
- Hydrate and eat: Bring enough snacks to replenish energy and water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Stay alert to weather conditions: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so you should be alert to any changes and prepared for possible eventualities.
Personalized recommendations based on experience level
To make the most of each climb, you must do it according to your physical abilities and the experience you have in this sport. So:
- If you are a beginner , start with short routes on slightly uneven terrain and preferably do the route with a group and professional guides.
- Once you have a medium level of experience , gradually increase the difficulty, do exercises that make the climb easier and keep familiar with navigation systems such as GPS, maps and compasses.
- When hiking at an advanced level , try to maintain good physical condition, learn about risk management and first aid in the mountains and invest in specialized equipment.
Find your next adventure
If you are inspired to go trekking in Santiago , then pack all the necessary equipment so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest and book a flight from our website.
We are your best option for traveling to the Chilean capital, with direct flights from Argentina with departures in the cities of Buenos Aires, Mendoza and Bariloche. We also depart from Brazil from Rio de Janeiro, Florianópolis, Sao Paulo, Salvador de Bahia, Brasilia, Porto Alegre and Belo Horizonte.
While to get to Santiago from Peru, you can take a flight in Lima, Cusco, Iquitos, Piura, Tumbes and Arequipa.
If you are in the United States, fly with us from Miami, from Cancun in Mexico, from Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, and from Bogota in Colombia. We look forward to seeing you!
Hiking in Santiago, an experience you have to live
If you want a quiet walk or to feel the adrenaline rush of a challenging summit, trekking in Santiago is the best option.
We recommend that you include the El Guayacan trail, the Farrallones de Colina and Cerro el Carbón in your itinerary. There are other options that are also popular, such as Alto del Naranjo, Salto de Apoquindo, Pochoco and El Roble, among others.
So, pack your backpack, hop on a SKY plane and experience Santiago. Before you venture out, be sure to download this ebook: “ Guide for your first trip abroad ”, which contains valuable information if you are about to embark on a new adventure in another country.
