Top 12 Natural Monuments around Santiago
Best natural monuments around Santiago, Chile, offer a diverse range of landscapes from Andean peaks to urban green spaces. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Andes Mountains, providing opportunities for high-altitude exploration and river valleys. Santiago's natural areas serve as important ecological zones, supporting unique flora and fauna. These sites contribute to the city's environmental balance and provide accessible outdoor recreation.
Best natural monuments around Santiago
- The most popular natural monuments is Sanctuary of Christ the King…
Last updated: October 30, 2026
Monument to the Overseas Combatants 🏛️ Belém
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Eduardo VII Park Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sanctuary of Christ the King (Santuário de Cristo Rei)
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
University of Lisbon Botanical Garden
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Monumental Fountain at Praça do Império
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Santiago.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
Located in the Belem district, it was inaugurated in 1994 to honor the Portuguese soldiers (10,000) who fought and died in the colonial wars.
2
0
Eduardo VII Park stretches like a large green ribbon up the hill, offering plenty of space to breathe with its lawns and paths. From the top, you have a stunning view across Avenida da Liberdade all the way down to the Tagus River. Perfect for a quiet break, a picnic, or a relaxing stroll in nature right in the heart of Lisbon.
4
1
The Lisbon Botanical Garden, located in the parish of São Mamede, is one of the city's oldest and most important green spaces, with a rich history linked to scientific research and botanical conservation. Founded in 1873 at the initiative of Count Ficalho and Andrade Corvo, professors at the Lisbon Polytechnic School. Officially inaugurated in 1878, it was conceived as a scientific garden to support teaching and research in botany. It is part of the National Museum of Natural History and Science of the University of Lisbon.
3
0
The square Jardim da Praça do Império park is bordered by the Jerónimos Monastery (to the north), the Jardim de Belém and Jardim Afonso de Albuquerque parks (to the east), Avenida da Índia and the Cascais railway line (to the south), and the Belém Cultural Center (to the west). The Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) (to the south) and the Belém Palace (Palácio de Belém) (to the northeast) are also located nearby. José Ângelo Cottinelli Telmo designed the square, along with the monumental fountain (Fonte Monumental), in honor of the Portuguese colonial empire for the 1940 Exposition Internationale des Português (Portuguese World Exhibition). The central fountain has a diameter of almost 30 meters. The surrounding green spaces feature plants arranged to represent the coats of arms of 32 former provinces of the colonial empire. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pra%C3%A7a_do_Imp%C3%A9rio
1
1
The Monument to Overseas Combatants is a solemn tribute to the Portuguese soldiers who lost their lives during the Portuguese Colonial War (also known as the Overseas War), which took place between 1961 and 1974 in Africa.
22
0
Eduardo VII Park is one of Lisbon's most iconic green spaces, located just north of Marquis of Pombal Square and Avenida da Liberdade. It's an ideal place to stroll, relax, and enjoy spectacular views of the city.
10
0
Lisbon's central park was named as a tribute to the English monarch Edward VII, who visited Lisbon in 1903, five centuries after the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance. It ascends one of the city's hills and provides a wonderful view from the top. It's made up of symmetrical box hedging and a variety of plants, most of them found inside a cool and heated greenhouse from the 1930s, which is filled with exotic species from tropical climates. This greenhouse is one of the most important green spaces in Lisbon, considered an authentic living museum, with its small lakes and waterfalls, statuary, and hundreds of species of plants.
6
0
In a botanical garden, plants are kept looking as close as possible to what they would have in nature, without excessive human intervention (for example, pruning or cutting dry leaves). On the other hand, this ‘hands-off’ option encourages small ecosystems where insects and small animals, other plants, fungi and lichens, which are extremely important for urban biodiversity, live. In the summer, we only water what is essential. Water is a precious commodity, especially in a country like Portugal. Therefore, it is possible that water circulation is limited and that the undergrowth may become drier, especially in the summer. This is a deliberate option that does not put the plants at risk. The presence of the Garden in the heart of Lisbon mitigates the effects of rising temperatures, promoting its own microclimate and the capture of carbon dioxide.
0
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit near Santiago?
Santiago offers a diverse range of natural monuments. Among the most popular are El Morado Natural Monument, an Andean sanctuary with an ancient glacier, and the broader Cajón del Maipo area, known for its dramatic landscapes and hot springs. Within the city, Cerro San Cristóbal and Cerro Santa Lucía provide stunning views and historical significance.
Are there natural monuments suitable for families with children around Santiago?
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón offers trekking trails ranging from short and easy walks to more challenging routes, and features sculptures integrated with nature. Cerro San Cristóbal is also very family-friendly, with funicular and cable car access, a zoo, and public swimming pools during summer.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in the Cajón del Maipo region?
The Cajón del Maipo is a hub for adventure sports. You can enjoy trekking, high mountain climbing, rafting, and windsurfing. Other activities include horseback riding, fly fishing, and exploring the various hot springs like Termas Valle de Colina. For more inspiration on outdoor activities, you can explore guides like Easy hikes around Santiago.
Which natural monuments offer the best panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes?
For breathtaking panoramic views, Cerro San Cristóbal is a must-visit. Its summit provides expansive vistas of Santiago and the majestic Andes Mountains. Similarly, Cerro Santa Lucía, located in the city center, also offers stunning views from its Torre Mirador, combining natural beauty with historical charm.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at El Morado Natural Monument?
El Morado Natural Monument is characterized by an ancient glacier and an overwhelming mountain environment. Its trails lead to Laguna Morales and the impressive San Francisco Glacier. You can also discover the permanent mineral springs of Aguas Panimávidas, colored by iron, and observe unique flora and fauna, including endangered species.
Are there any historical natural monuments in Santiago?
Yes, Cerro Santa Lucía is a significant historical natural monument. Declared a Historical Monument in 1983, it's the site where Pedro de Valdivia founded the city of Santiago. It features historic landmarks like Castillo Hidalgo, the elegant Neptune Fountain, and various monuments amidst its winding pathways and lush vegetation.
When is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Santiago?
The best time to visit depends on the monument and desired activity. For high-altitude areas like El Morado Natural Monument, spring and summer (October to March) offer vibrant flora and ideal hiking conditions, while winter provides snowshoeing opportunities. Urban parks like Cerro San Cristóbal and Cerro Santa Lucía are enjoyable year-round, though summer offers public swimming pools at San Cristóbal.
What makes Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón a unique natural reserve?
Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón is a cordilleran park known for its diverse trekking trails, including routes to the Salto de Apoquindo waterfall. It features hanging bridges, diverse flora and fauna, and sculptures integrated with the natural landscape. Interestingly, remains of prehistoric animals like mastodons were found here, adding to its unique character.
Can I find hot springs near the natural monuments in the Santiago region?
Yes, the Cajón del Maipo area, which encompasses several natural monuments, is renowned for its hot springs. You can find mineral-rich thermal baths like Termas Valle de Colina, Baños Morales, and Termas El Plomo, offering relaxation and therapeutic benefits, often with opportunities for stargazing over the mountains.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted in the natural monuments around Santiago?
The natural monuments around Santiago support unique central Chilean wildlife. In areas like El Morado Natural Monument, you might encounter endangered species such as the olivillo de la cordillera and the Noah's silky mouse. The broader Cajón del Maipo region is home to diverse wildlife, including the elusive Andean cat and pumas.
Are there accessible options for visiting natural monuments in Santiago?
Yes, Cerro San Cristóbal offers excellent accessibility with funicular and cable car services that take visitors to the summit, providing panoramic views without strenuous hiking. This makes it a great option for those seeking an accessible natural experience within the city.
Where can I find more information about the Cajón del Maipo region?
For more detailed information about the Cajón del Maipo region, including its attractions and activities, you can visit visitchile.com.
Most popular attractions around Santiago
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Santiago:
