Cerro San Cristóbal
Santiago's iconic green lung, offering breathtaking panoramic views, a majestic Virgin statue, and scenic cable car rides.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Cerro San Cristóbal
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Santiago's iconic green lung, offering breathtaking panoramic views, a majestic Virgin statue, and scenic cable car rides.
"The best views of Santiago are from the top of Cerro San Cristobal!"
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for the cable car and funicular for the best value and experience.
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Consider walking down via Pedro de Valdivia for a different perspective and to explore Barrio Bellavista.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Virgin Mary Statue
Summit
Iconic monument offering breathtaking panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes.

Teleférico Santiago
Base to Summit
Scenic cable car ride providing stunning city vistas as you ascend the hill.

Funicular
Base to Summit
Historic funicular offering a charming and efficient way to reach the top.

Observatorio Manuel Foster
Summit
Historic observatory offering a glimpse into astronomical history and city views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Getting Around the Hill
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for the cable car and funicular for the best value and experience.
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Consider walking down via Pedro de Valdivia for a different perspective and to explore Barrio Bellavista.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the top are spectacular, perfect for photography.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan to walk or hike parts of the hill.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for the cable car and funicular for the best value and experience.
🚶♀️ Walk Down for Views
Consider walking down via Pedro de Valdivia for a different perspective and to explore Barrio Bellavista.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from the top are spectacular, perfect for photography.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan to walk or hike parts of the hill.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cerro San Cristobal for its breathtaking panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes, making it a must-visit for any traveler. The iconic Virgin Mary statue and the scenic cable car and funicular rides are major highlights. While generally well-loved, some find the zoo underwhelming, and prices for food and transport can add up for budget travelers.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Cerro San Cristobal by public transport, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Many visitors opt to take the metro to Baquedano or Bellas Artes and then walk or take a bus to the base of the hill. Some entrances, like the one via Pedro de Valdivia, offer access to the Japanese Garden and then the cable car.
Limited parking is available at various access points around the hill, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's often easier to use public transportation or ride-sharing.
Yes, you can walk up the hill via several paths and trails. The walk can be strenuous but rewarding with beautiful scenery.
The most popular ways to reach the summit are by the Teleférico Santiago (cable car) or the funicular. A combined ticket offers flexibility.
Yes, the hill is well-served by public transport. You can take the metro to nearby stations and then walk or take a local bus to the entrances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cerro San Cristobal is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday and on holidays, typically from 10 AM to 7:45 PM. The cable car and funicular have specific operating hours, so it's best to check their schedules in advance.
Entry to the park itself is free. However, there are charges for the cable car and funicular. A combined ticket for both can cost around CLP 6,100 per person. Prices may vary.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance, especially for the combined cable car and funicular, can save time and ensure availability, particularly during peak seasons.
Yes, some areas and trails, like the 'sendero paseo metropolitano', offer free access. You can also walk up the hill without purchasing tickets for the cable car or funicular.
The combined ticket typically includes a round trip on the cable car and a one-way trip on the funicular, or vice versa, allowing you to experience both modes of transport and access different viewpoints.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Virgin Mary statue, the Teleférico Santiago, the funicular, the Metropolitan Zoo (though some find it underwhelming
), the Manuel Foster Observatory, and various viewpoints offering stunning city panoramas.You can enjoy panoramic views, take photos, ride the cable car and funicular, visit the Virgin statue, explore gardens, and enjoy local snacks like Mote con Huesillo.
Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination with plenty of space to roam, beautiful views, and activities suitable for all ages.
The summit near the Virgin Mary statue offers the most expansive views. Other viewpoints along the cable car and funicular routes also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, there are many green spaces and designated areas where you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and small eateries on the hill, including the popular Café Tudor, where you can enjoy coffee and snacks.
A must-try local beverage is 'Mote con Huesillo', a sweet peach drink with wheat. You can also find other traditional Chilean snacks.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option and is permitted in many areas of the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit near the Virgin statue offers iconic shots of the city. The cable car and funicular rides themselves provide excellent photo opportunities of Santiago.
Late afternoon during the golden hour offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Early mornings can also be stunning with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas for safety and privacy reasons. It's advisable to check specific regulations before flying a drone.
You can capture panoramic city views, the iconic Virgin Mary statue, the funicular and cable car, and natural landscapes within the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Cerro San Cristobal: Transport Options
For the more active traveler, walking is a viable and rewarding option. Various trails and paths wind up the hill, offering opportunities to discover hidden spots and enjoy the natural surroundings. One recommended route involves entering via Pedro de Valdivia, visiting the Japanese Garden, and then taking the cable car up. Alternatively, you can access free trails like the 'sendero paseo metropolitano' for a more natural ascent.
When planning your transport, consider purchasing a combined ticket for convenience and value. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, making the cable car and funicular rides more enjoyable. Always check the latest operating hours for both the park and its transport systems before your visit.
The Iconic Virgin Mary Statue and Summit Views
The area around the statue is the primary viewpoint of the entire park. From here, you are treated to an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view of Santiago, stretching out to the distant Andes mountains on a clear day. It's a breathtaking sight, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle.
Many visitors find the experience of standing at the summit, gazing at the sprawling city below, to be a highlight of their trip. It's an ideal spot for photography, reflection, and simply appreciating the scale and beauty of Santiago.
Exploring the Green Heart of Santiago
Beyond the main attractions, the park features the Japanese Garden, a serene space perfect for a peaceful stroll. For those interested in history and science, the Manuel Foster Observatory provides a glimpse into astronomical pursuits. The park also hosts various events and activities, especially during warmer months, making it a dynamic destination.
Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a leisurely walk, a family outing, or simply a place to relax and enjoy nature, Cerro San Cristobal offers a multifaceted experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there's plenty to explore.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit