Things to do in Santiago De Chile
Santiago de Chile is a breathtaking city and rewards those willing to negotiate its hills with a treasure trove of delights. The city is large and notoriously smoggy in the summer months; meaning walking tours are not especially recommended. Luckily there is a modern metro system with stops at the majority of places on a visitor's itinerary. However, for a real experience and to see more of the city, take a taxi ride between attractions.
A good day out can be enjoyed at the Parque Metropolitano on Cerro San Cristobal. This enormous expanse of greenery is central Santiago's largest open space and attracts walkers, joggers, cyclists and others for its spectacular views. Overseeing the park is a 14 metre high statue of the Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepcion. The area also has nearby swimming pools, a zoo and attractive gardens to explore. To get there without walking up a steep incline for 2,000 metres, visitors can opt for a gondola ride that leaves from Avenue El Cerro or take the funicular railway, which departs from the Bellevista area.
For those who like their museums, there are a number to enjoy in Santiago. The pick of the bunch is the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolumbino. The museum houses relics from around 4,500 years of pre-Columbia civilisation and there are separate halls showing artefacts from all over Central and South America. The highlight for many is the exhibition of Chinchorro mummies from Chile's indigenous past, which are many thousands of years older than the Egyptian versions. Although only some items are labelled in English, there is plenty for the non-linguist to get stuck in to. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Fans of 1970s art are in for a treat at the Museo de la Solidaridad Salvador Allende. The gallery is housed in an old mansion and all the exhibits were gifts from artists who were in support of the socialist Allende government. Following the coup in 1973, the collection was sent off to the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo before returning in 1990 following the demise of the military junta. Works by artists such as Miro, Calder, Tapies, Matta, and Yoko Ono adorn the walls and there are many sculptures and paintings by less well-known but hugely talented artists, both local and international.
The Cementerio General is a popular spot for locals, although to get much out of it your knowledge of famous Chileans will have to be good. Many of the country's great and good now lie here, including the former revolutionary president, Allende himself.
For the heart of Santiago, head to the Plaza de Armas. Splendid government buildings surround the large square, which includes the governor's palace among its many famous structures. All distances in Chile are measured from this square.
Keen skiers are well catered for in the nearby edge of the Andes. Many good resorts are within an hour's drive of the city centre, including Farrellones, Valle Nevado and La Parva. The especially good Portillo resort is three hours away but is well worth the effort.
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Things to do
