Things to Do around Santiago

From Mercado Central to La Moneda Palace, Santiago offers plenty to explore. But if you have more time and want a fuller experience of Chile, we highly recommend venturing beyond the city. This guide covers the best things to do around Santiago, from wine tours to mountains and wildlife encounters.
Within just 150 km of the capital, you'll find snow-capped peaks in Cajón del Maipo, world-class wines in Maipo and Casablanca Valleys, and even the chance to meet fluffy alpacas or spot penguins and other wildlife. But which experience should you choose? Don't worry — this guide will help you plan the perfect day trip from Santiago, Chile.

The good news is that you don't have to go far. Some of the best wineries near Santiago are just a short drive from the capital, making it easy to visit more than one in a single day — no rushing, just great wine, and even better views.
Maipo Valley – Bold Reds, History & Views
Maipo Valley is the closest wine region to the city — most wineries are just 30 to 50 kilometers from downtown. This region is especially known for its full-bodied red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. Don't miss the chance to visit one of Chile's oldest wineries, Santa Rita. Alongside excellent wine, this winery offers a rich cultural experience, such as the Andean Museum, a beautiful park, and the opportunity to stay overnight at Casa Real, a charming boutique hotel on the winery grounds.
Other internationally renowned names in the valley include Undurraga and Concha y Toro, both known for their large-scale production and global reach. If you're a serious wine connoisseur looking for something special, Concha y Toro offers an exclusive experience dedicated to its iconic label — Don Melchor. To try it, head to Casa Don Melchor, where you can enjoy private tastings, tour the historic house and discover the story behind one of Chile's most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignons. This is one of the best wine tours from Santiago for premium red wine lovers. Whether you're looking for a classic tasting or a full vertical tasting experience of Don Melchor vintages, there's something here for every interest and budget.
Would you prefer something more personal? Then check out boutique wineries in Maipo Valley like El Principal, Odfjell, or Antiyal — smaller estates that offer intimate tastings and a closer connection to the winemakers themselves. And it's not just about the wine. Many wineries in Maipo Valley sit at the foot of the Andes, offering spectacular views as you sip and explore. It's where wine, nature, and history come together in the best possible way.
📌 Check our tours — Chile Tours

Casablanca Valley is your go-to if you're more into crisp whites than bold reds. This region is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, thanks to the cool coastal breeze from the nearby Pacific Ocean, which gives the wines their refreshing character and elegance. It's often named among the best white wine regions in Chile.
Casablanca Valley is between Santiago and Valparaíso, making it a perfect stop for heading toward the coast. It's about 75 to 90 kilometers from Santiago — roughly an hour to an hour and a half by car. There's a great variety of wineries, each offering a different experience. Here some options:
Casas del Bosque is one of the most well-known wineries in the valley. It is surrounded by carefully kept gardens and a lovely courtyard—a perfect spot to relax. The restaurant Tanino serves creative Chilean dishes paired with the estate's best wines.
Bodegas RE is all about creativity: old traditions with modern winemaking. Its blends are bold and imaginative, and the tastings are artistic and personal.
Kingston Family Vineyards is a boutique, family-run estate offering small-batch Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Its laid-back terrace overlooks the valley, a perfect place to relax with a glass in hand.
Attilio & Mochi is a boutique vinery and a hidden gem of Casablanca Valley. They produce small batches of expressive wines, including orange and fortified styles. The owners often host tastings, giving the visit a personal touch.

Whether you're into big brands or sustainable wineries in Casablanca Valley, you'll find something that suits your taste and travel style.

You can't leave Santiago without visiting the Cajón del Maipo area. It's easy to organize a one-day excursion to this gorge in the Andes with a guided tour, rented car, or bus. You can hike in the national reserve and take a break at one of the restaurants and cafes. Whether you want to hike in the mountains, relax in natural hot springs, or simply enjoy the views, there's something for everyone here.
Embalse El Yeso
While it's beautiful year-round, it's especially stunning in winter, when the surrounding mountains are covered in snow and the contrast with the blue water is simply unforgettable. Bring sunscreen and layers—it can be sunny but windy at high altitude.
Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the best light for photos.
Baños Colina Hot Springs
A series of natural thermal pools terraced into the mountainside, offering spectacular views of the Andes. The road is unpaved and rough, so hiring a driver with a 4x4 vehicle is best. Good to know: the setting is rustic — bring flip-flops, a towel, and drinking water. Despite the basic facilities, the scenery and the experience are worth it.
El Morado Hike
If you're up for a real mountain adventure, the El Morado hike is one of the most spectacular routes near Santiago. The trail is located inside the El Morado Natural Monument, near the village of Baños Morales, about 2.5 hours by car from the city.

The hike takes you through the Andean valley surrounded by towering peaks, ending at the foot of the San Francisco Glacier. The trail is around 8 kilometers round trip and takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the views. The first 30 minutes involve a steady climb, after which the path flattens out as you walk deeper into the valley. One of the highlights along the way is Laguna Morales, a small glacial lake perfect for a break or picnic.
📌 Tips: This hike is available from October to May. In winter, snow often makes the trail impassable or dangerous.
📌 Book our tour — El Morado National Park & San Francisco Glacier: Day Hike from Santiago
Horseback Riding
Ride through the foothills of the Andes on a guided horseback tour. Several local farms and tour companies offer half-day trips that include incredible scenery and a calm, nature-focused experience. A great option for couples or families.
Whitewater Rafting
From October to March, the Maipo River comes alive with rapids perfect for adventure-seekers. Rafting trips depart from San José de Maipo and usually include all equipment and safety instructions. Expect class III–IV rapids, crystal-clear water, and a whole lot of fun.
Local Cuisine
Don't miss the chance to eat like a local. In San José de Maipo and nearby villages, rustic restaurants serve traditional Chilean dishes like oven-baked empanadas, pastel de choclo, and cazuela (a warming stew). Keep an eye out for roadside vendors selling miel con nueces — honey with walnuts — a sweet treat of the region.

Alpaca Farm
Just a short drive from Santiago, you can visit a working farm and get up close with these gentle animals. Learn about their care, walk with them through the fields, and enjoy a peaceful countryside setting. It's a perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and cuteness overload. It's ideal if you're looking to visit an alpaca farm near Santiago.
Humboldt Penguin Colony – Isla Cachagua
Located near the coastal town of Zapallar, just over two hours northwest of Santiago, Isla Cachagua is a small protected island home to a colony of Humboldt penguins. The birds can be observed from the mainland, and while you're there, don't miss the chance to walk down to Las Cujas Beach — a picturesque cove with turquoise waters and golden sand.
📌 Tip: Bring binoculars to view the penguins from the shore better.
📌 You can see alpacas and penguins in one day — Penguins and Alpacas Tour from Santiago!

Before you head out on your adventure beyond Santiago, here are a few helpful tips to make your day trip smooth, enjoyable, and free of surprises:
Book in advance. Most wineries — especially the boutique ones — require advance reservations. While a spontaneous trip sounds fun, you might be turned away if you just show up. Better safe than sorry!
Consider tours with transport. If you're not planning to drive, there are plenty of guided tours that include transportation from Santiago. They make the experience easy and stress-free — especially if you plan to do wine tastings.
Wineries have set hours. Most are open between 10 AM and 5 PM, so plan your day accordingly to make the most of your visit.
Look for extra experiences. Some wineries offer more than just tastings. You can bike through the vineyards, take a walk among the vines, or even ride horseback. It's a great way to turn a tasting into a full experience — whether you're going with friends, family, or on a romantic date.
Boutique or big-name? Think about what kind of experience you want. Boutique wineries in Chile often offer more intimate visits, but you'll usually need to contact them directly to arrange a tasting. Larger wineries have set tour times and online booking systems, making planning easier.

Wherever you decide to go beyond Santiago, one thing is certain: a day trip will open up a whole new side of Chile — one filled with wine, mountains, nature, wildlife, and unforgettable moments.