The best walks and hikes around Santiago
4.5
(414)
1,666
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking trails around Santiago are characterized by their proximity to the Andes Mountains, offering a diverse range of natural landscapes. The region features prominent urban hills like Cerro San Cristóbal, alongside more challenging peaks such as Cerro Manquehue. Numerous natural parks, including Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón and Parque Cordillera Yerba Loca, provide varied terrain from sclerophyllous forests to high mountain passes.
Best hiking trails in Santiago
- The most popular hiking route is Caniça Trail (PR10 Seia), a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 26 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a significant elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Serra da Estrela Levada – Aqueduct of the Caniça Route loop from Lapa dos Dinheiros, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.4 km) path. This trail offers varied terrain with notable elevation changes.
- Local hikers also love the View of Serra da Estrela loop from Sabugueiro, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail leading through scenic landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 26 minutes.
- Hiking around Santiago is defined by the towering Andes Mountains, accessible urban hills, and diverse natural parks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy city walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Santiago are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 1500 hikers have used komoot to explore Santiago's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.8
(77)
263
hikers
7.23km
02:26
360m
360m
Hike the moderate 4.5-mile Tour of Caniça (PR 10) in Serra da Estrela, featuring waterfalls, ancient forests, and unique rock formations.
4.8
(22)
70
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(11)
37
hikers
4.45km
01:26
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
26
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
3.72km
01:04
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Devil's Horns are a prominent granite rock formation with two horn-like points, located in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, near Lapa dos Dinheiros and Senhora do Desterro (not in Gerês, but in Seia, Portugal). They are the highlight of a famous circular hiking trail that follows a water channel and the Caniça stream, offering stunning landscapes, lagoons, and waterfalls. 👍🥾
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The Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach is in perfect harmony with nature. Located in the parish of Lapa dos Dinheiros, on the Caniça River, a right-bank tributary of the Alva River, this bathing area is nestled in a mountainous landscape dominated by the Lapa Souto (south of Lapa) and imposing granite outcrops. With clear water, very appealing for swimming, the beach boasts the award for accessible beach and has lifeguards and a bar available to visitors. The rugged terrain of the valley causes the river to form a succession of small waterfalls nearby. The Lapa Souto, in addition to its valuable collection of centuries-old chestnut trees, is also home to a high level of biodiversity. From the bridge, a pedestrian path leads to the Moura Hole and a viewpoint over the Caniça Waterfalls. The Buraco da Moura is a natural cave system created by the sliding and accumulation of large granite blocks, which formed a complex system of rooms and galleries. How to get there? Once in Seia, follow the EN231 to S. Romão. From there, continue uphill for about 5 km, toward Loriga/Lapa, until you find the sign for Lapa dos Dinheiros on the left. Once inside the town, simply follow the beach signs. Coordinates: 40º 23′ 07.0″ N / 7º 41′ 50.1″ W
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The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Desterro stands on the banks of the Alva River as an authentic path of faith, marked by ten chapels built over more than two centuries, between 1650 and 1892. Near the village, nature itself left its masterpiece: a curious rock, sculpted by time, that resembles the head of an old woman watching over the mountains.
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Caution: collapsed path (also aqueduct) 2.5 km from the start. Possible but dangerous passage.
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The enigmatic Devil's Horns rise from the granite, defying the sky with their six-metre height. Sculpted by erosion over the centuries, they earned this bold name thanks to their sharp and imposing profile. But the charm doesn't end there: around this unique formation, there are small crystal-clear lagoons and serene waterfalls, creating a true natural refuge that seems to have come straight out of a fantasy story.
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Nestled on the banks of the Caniça river, a tributary of the Alva river, this beach area is a haven in the middle of a mountainous landscape, where ancient chestnut trees and granite blocks shape the scenery. The crystal-clear, inviting water is perfect for a refreshing dip. The beach, which has been awarded the title of accessible, has lifeguards and a bar, making the experience even more enjoyable.
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Attention! This is not an easy descent, surefootedness is required.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Santiago?
Komoot offers over 10 hiking trails around Santiago, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy urban walks and more challenging mountain ascents, all within reach of the city.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Santiago?
The ideal time for hiking in Santiago is during spring, from September to November. The weather is mild, and the landscapes are vibrant with blooming flora, offering comfortable conditions for exploration.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options near Santiago?
Yes, Santiago offers several accessible options suitable for families. Urban hills like Cerro San Cristóbal provide easy walks with panoramic city views. For a slightly more natural setting, Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón has trails of varying difficulty, some suitable for a family outing.
Can I find trails with waterfalls around Santiago?
Absolutely! Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón features a popular route leading to the beautiful Salto de Apoquindo waterfall. Further afield, Parque Cordillera Yerba Loca also offers trails that can lead to waterfalls, especially during the wetter seasons.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
For experienced hikers, Santiago's proximity to the Andes provides numerous challenging options. Peaks like Cerro Provincia offer demanding ascents with incredible views. In the Cajón del Maipo valley, trails within El Morado National Park can lead to the San Francisco Glacier, presenting a significant challenge.
Are there hiking trails accessible by public transport from Santiago?
Many trails around Santiago are accessible via public transport or guided tours, making it convenient to escape the city. For instance, Cerro San Cristóbal is easily reached, and some natural parks have bus routes or tour operators that provide transport to trailheads.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking?
Hiking around Santiago offers a diverse range of natural landscapes. You'll encounter everything from the iconic towering Andes Mountains to sclerophyllous forests typical of central Chile, urban hills with city vistas, and high mountain passes. Parks like Parque Natural Quebrada de Macul showcase unique local flora.
Are there any loop trails available for hiking?
Yes, many areas around Santiago offer loop trails, allowing for varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, trails within Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón and Parque Cordillera Yerba Loca often feature loop options that highlight different natural features.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Beyond the stunning natural beauty, you can find several points of interest. Cerro San Cristóbal features a statue of the Virgin Mary at its summit. In the Cajón del Maipo, the Mirador de Los Cóndores is an excellent spot for observing Andean condors, and the El Yeso Dam is a significant landmark surrounded by high mountain scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Santiago?
The hiking routes around Santiago are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the Andes and the city, the diverse natural environments, and the accessibility of trails from the urban center.
Are there any options for winter hiking in Santiago?
While many high-altitude trails may be covered in snow during winter, some lower elevation or urban trails remain accessible. Parque Cordillera Yerba Loca, for instance, offers opportunities for more specialized winter activities like ice climbing in certain areas, but general hiking conditions vary greatly with snow levels.
Are permits required for hiking on certain trails?
Some national parks and protected areas around Santiago, such as El Morado National Park or Parque Cordillera Yerba Loca, may require entrance fees or permits, especially for more remote or challenging routes. It's always advisable to check the specific requirements for your chosen trail beforehand.
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