Flying into Santiago, we knew that it would be quite cool after a week in Brazil – and after all, it is ski season, and Chile is becoming renowned for its skiing – but apart from that, we really had no idea what to expect. And for me, Santiago was a real surprise.
The city of Santiago is located in a valley, surrounded by mountains and is located approx. halfway along Chile’s coastline. The Andes adorn one side of this massive city; and the views of the snow-capped mountains were spectacular.
A real highlight was the journey by funicular to the top of San Cristobal Hill- the views were magnificent. A 22m statue of the Virgin Mary; a sanctuary dedicated to the Immaculate Conception and there is a small chapel and an amphitheatre, all located at the top of the hill, and well worth a visit.
The city is modern, and home to the Presidential Palace, an impressive cathedral and city square (The Plaza de Armas) and classic museums filled with Chilean culture and heritage exhibits. There is also a bohemian and cultural area, which is home to modern bars, restaurants and cafes – a really great place to hang out. We also came across a modern day shopping mall area, huge farmer’s market area and market stalls lining the great river – a true, modern city and not quite what we were probably expecting.
Journeying out from the main city we visited the beachside cities of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar, which were both a complete contrast to Santiago. Filled with favelas, wild and colourful street art which was a complete contrast to the more traditional, old style buildings, it really was something a little special.
We explored the ‘wine country’, which is only an hour’s drive from Santiago city and enjoyed a wonderful lunch and wine tasting at the Matelic vineyard. This fabulous wine region produces sauvignon blancs, pinot noirs, shiraz and a host of other wines – having a similar climate to New Zealand and the USA. The wines are great and the vineyards are set in beautiful terrain.
Our time in Santiago was short but these couple of days were the great end to a perfect South American adventure. Santiago was a complete contrast to Brazil (they could not be more worlds apart), but it was another fantastic spot and the perfect stopover to explore the regions of South America. Santiago is one of the main ‘hubs’ from Australia so the perfect gateway to journey on to Peru, Argentina and of course, Brazil.
And whilst we did not get to ski, Chile is fast becoming renowned for its skiing and winter adventures, so why not consider for your next ski trip?
Whatever you decide to do, Santiago is a great city and definitely the ideal place to stop over for a few days so that you can explore this surprising city.