Santiago
Day Trips
Ski the Andes - June to Sept. you can ski in resorts 40km east of Santiago. There is good skiing, trails, lifts and ski classes for kids at the resorts of El Colorado - Farellones, La Parva, and Valle Nevado.
Arrayan Nature Sanctuary - If you need a day in the country, the Arrayan Nature Sanctuary is less than an hour from Santiago. There are trails in the mountains that run along streams for hiking or horseback riding. Pack a picnic, relax and run around.
Pomaire - This village north of Santiago is famous for its pottery. Watch potters at work, some potters continue to use ancient indigenous designs. Look for miniature figures for nativity scenes, tiny cooking pots or small clay pigs for good luck.
Cajon del Maipo - The Maipo River canyon is a popular recreation spot, with hiking, horseback riding and wonderful scenery. Mountain streams cascade through volcanic mountains, with views of some of the highest mountains in Chile.
Cascadas de las Animas - Cascadas de las Animas ("waterfall of the spirits") is the perfect spot for families. Go for horseback rides (kids under five can ride with their parents) or white water rafting (minimum 8 years). There's miles of easy trails through cactus, oaks and eucalyptus, where you'll see jack rabbits, foxes and a huge variety of birds. Hot springs - Relax in the hot springs of Banos Morales, Termas del Plomo, or Termas de Colina. It can be snowing while you're soaking in the hot springs. El Morado National Park (Parque Nacional El Morado) - Within the park, hike on good trails to small glaciers, high mountain lakes with spectacular views of the snow covered mountains. Alternatively, rent horses to explore the park. The park is closed in winter (May to Sept.) Pirque - The town of Pirque has a crafts fair (artisania feria) on the weekend. This is also a wine growing area, and you can tour the vineyards, such as Concha y Toro, Santa Rita, Santa Carolina and Cousin o Macul vineyards.
