Andean Traverse
Antarctica by Air, Land and Sea
Argentina & Chile Patagonia Explorer
Atacama Experiences
Atacama to Sugarloaf Explorer
Chile & Argentinean Classic
Chilean Fjord Adventure
Chilean Wines - Explore Like A Local
explora Easter Island - Rapa Nui
explora Patagonia - Torres del Paine
explora San Pedro de Atacama
Falklands Wildlife
Hotel Las Torres
Lost Civilizations of South America Classic
Patagonia Complete
Rapa Nui - Easter Island
Rapa Nui Basics
Santiago - Mendoza Transfer
Santiago Like A Native
Santiago Stop Over
Santiago to Rio Explorer
South American Explorer
Southern Patagonia Cruise
The Best of The Lakes District
Tierra Atacama Activities
Tierra Chile - Top to Bottom
Torres del Paine Eco Explorer
Unique Dining Santiago
Valparaiso Like A Native
Wildlife and Battlefields
African Small Groups
Asian Small Groups
Australasian Small Groups
European Small Groups
Latin American Small Groups
Middle Eastern Small Groups

Santiago
Resting on an inland plain, with the Andes glimmering in the distance, Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the fifth largest city in South America. Santiago is a city that seems destined for growth. The Mapuche destroyed it in 1541, only six months after Pedro de Valdivia founded it, but soon the Spanish were back and building it up again.
Today, it is one of the most modern cities on the continent, home to nearly 5 million inhabitants - over a third of all Chileans. The city is bisected by the Rio Mapocho, which gently weaves through from East to West, before descending to the flood plain below. Across the river, the Bellavista neighborhood is home to many restaurants and cafes. The Parque Metropolitano is Santiago's playground, with walking trails, picnic areas, and a zoo. For stunning views of the city, visitors should head to the top of Cerro San Cristobal, accessible by bus, funicular, or by a vigorous hike.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Trip Notes
- Checklist
- Departure Dates
Duration: 3 day(s)
Price:

Day 1. Santiago
After your arrival into Santiago airport or at the end of your previous Chilean arrangements you will be met and transferred to your hotel of choice.
The rest of the day is free to relax.
Day 2. Santiago
Santiago is a city of contrasts, with traditional areas, commercial centers and modern districts.
Our tour starts at the church of San Francisco, built between 1572 and 1618. We continue to the West, pass Club Hipico, one of the most beautiful in South America due to its architecture, and continue to the city-centre, passing the palace of Cousino Macul.
We visit old and traditional neighborhoods where we are introduced to the life-style and daily life of Chile around 1900.
On our way to the center of town we pass La Moneda, the seat of the government and the Presidential palace. We then visit the historical center of Santiago, including Plaza de Armas with the Cathedral, the Central post office and the National History Museum.
We then venture to Cerro Santa Lucia the sire on which Pedro Valdivia founded Santiago in 1541. Crossing Rio Mapocho, we pass through the bohemian quarter of Bellavista before ascending Cerro San Cristobal. From here we have a beautiful view of Santiago with the Andes as background.
We continue our journey through Providencia, a traditional area of Santiago with a bustling commercial and social life, including many restaurants, pubs and boutiques.
On our way back to our hotel we pass through the modern areas of Santiago containing the large commercial centers of Santa Maria de Manquehue, Vitacura and Las Condes before reaching the feet of the Andes where we find the more upscale residential areas with beautiful houses, big gardens, and private colleges.
(NOTE: The above city tour description is to be used as a guide only as actual sites visited may vary.)
We return to your hotel of choice in the early evening. B
Overnight hotel of your choice.
Day 3. Santiago - Onward travel
Today you are transferred back to Santiago airport to connect with your onward journey. B
Additional nights are available on request.
PRICES FROM:
Exchange rates differ from time to time. For the most up-to-date prices of this holiday idea please fill out our Latin America Travel Quote form.
NOTES:
- Chilean international departure tax $30 USD. This fee should be included in your international airfare
- US$160(CA$132) reciprocity fee, payable in USD cash on arrival is charged. The receipt is regarded as a multiple entry visa and is valid until expiry of passport.
- Chilean domestic departure tax $10 USD
- Local currency is Pesos
- Time Zone: GMT/UTC -4
- Dialing Code: 56
- Electricity: 220V, 60Hz
- Weights & measures: Metric
SKIING IN CHILE
The ski resorts of Chile & Argentina offer some of the World's most outstanding skiing and are easily accessible for North American skiers and snow boarders. Excellent Argentinean & Chilean ski resorts are appreciated by the many who return year on year.
The Andes Mountains are the highest outside of Asia with reliable skiing every ski season. Contact us to plan your ski holiday in Latin America!
HOTEL CHOICES:
Santiago: Mercure Santiago, Ciudad Empresarial, Hotel Sheraton Santiago, Ritz Carlton Santiago
DEPARTURE:
Departs daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Arrival and departure transfers
- 2 nights accommodation at chosen hotel
- Santiago City Tour
- All meals as listed B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
NOT INCLUDED
- Visa fees (if required)
- Passport & Visa Costs
- Vaccination Costs
- Personal Spending Money
- Meals where not listed
- Drinks
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Airport departure taxes
- Border taxes or fees
Visas
At the time of booking we will advise you of any visas or other documentation that will be required prior to your arrival.
Costs relating to the issue of visas or related documentation are the responsibility of the traveller.
As visa requirements change it is your responsibility to ensure that the correct documentation and visas are obtained before traveling. Failure to do so may result in your not being able to join the trip.
For the latest information on visas please visit:
US Citizens
Canadian Citizens
Australian Citizens
General
Disclaimer:
Prices based on per person, twin/double share, unless otherwise noted, and pre-set group minimum numbers. Prices & itineraries are correct at the time of printing. Itineraries & prices may change due to currency fluctuations, local conditions or events outside the control of A.I and her local operators. Please see our booking terms & conditions for full details.
Equipment List / Check List:
- Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, voucher
- Health requirements arranged
- Money: travellers cheques/cash/credit card
- Money pouch
- First Aid kit
- Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
- Alarm clock and torch/flashlight
- Mosquito repellent
- Refillable water bottle and plastic mug for train journeys
- Ear plugs can be useful if you are a light sleeper
- Walking shoes with a good grip
- Camera
- Wet Wipes (disinfectant hand tissues)
