Hidden Gems in Santiago Chile

Unearthing the Gems of Santiago: Beyond the Tourist Trail

While Cerro San Cristobal and the Mercado Central are iconic must-sees, Santiago holds many secret treasures for adventurous tourists looking to go beyond the typical. Here are some hidden gems waiting to be discovered in this vibrant Chilean city:

Art & Culture:

  • Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights): This museum, dedicated to Chile’s struggle against human rights abuses during the Pinochet regime, is a powerful and moving experience. It’s not just about the past though - it also features contemporary art exhibitions and installations that explore themes of social justice and human rights.

  • Museo de Arte Precolombino (Museum of Pre-Columbian Art): Explore a fascinating collection of artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures across South America, including the Mapuche, Inca, and Pre-Columbian. This museum offers a unique glimpse into ancient civilizations and is often overlooked by tourists.

  • Parque Forestal: A beautiful green space in the heart of the city, this park boasts hidden sculptures, charming cafes, and access to Santiago’s cultural scene along Avenida Alameda.

  • Museo de la Moda (Museum of Fashion): Delve into the world of Chilean fashion through the ages at this lesser-known gem.

Food & Drink:

  • Street Food Adventures: Explore local neighborhoods like Bellavista and Providencia for hidden gems beyond the tourist hotspots.

  • Mercado de la Reina (Queen’s Market): This charming market, a bit off the beaten path, is home to local artisans and vendors selling unique Chilean delicacies.

  • Hidden Cafes & Restaurants:

    • El Hoyo: A hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Santiago known for its delicious “pastel de choclo,” a traditional Chilean dish of corn casserole.
    • La Fuente: This popular restaurant offers a variety of classic Chilean dishes, including the “cazuela,” a hearty stew.

Nature & Outdoors:

  • Parque Nacional Juan Fernández: A remote island archipelago (home to Robinson Crusoe Island) known for its unique flora and fauna, including the endemic “robins” hummingbird.

Experiences:

  • Visit a local “fogón”: These outdoor grills are popular gathering spots in Chile. Experience the traditional way of cooking over an open fire by joining a local family for a “picada,” a Chilean social tradition centered around sharing snacks and drinks while standing around a grill.

  • Explore hidden alleyways:

    • The “Pasaje” scene: Wander through the charming, hidden passages (like the famous Pasajes in Bellavista) of Santiago to find unique murals, cafes, and shops. Many of these are filled with small art galleries, independent bookstores, or even just quirky street art that you can enjoy.

  • Take a “Tour de Picadas” in the Andes: Explore the mountains surrounding Santiago and discover the beauty of the Andes Mountains.

Let’s delve into a few specific experiences:

  • Hidden Gem #1: Hike Cerro Manquehue: This lesser-known mountain is just as beautiful as its popular neighbor, Cerro San Cristobal, but offers a more tranquil experience away from the crowds.
  • Hidden Gem #2: Discover hidden bars in Lastarria: This trendy neighborhood has some great hidden gems for drinks and nightlife.

Nature & Outdoors (cont.):

  • Enjoy the Andes Mountains: Explore the beauty of the Andes Mountains with a “Tour de Vinó” experience - a unique Chilean tradition where you can visit wineries nestled in the Andean foothills, offering stunning views and delicious wine.

  • Experience the magic of the Atacama Desert: This is a must-visit for its surreal landscapes, ancient ruins, and breathtaking stargazing opportunities.

Hidden Gems Beyond the City:

  • Hike to the top of Cerro San Cristobal: Enjoy the panoramic views from the summit, a great way to experience the unique beauty of the “Chilean Andes” landscape.
  • Visit the Observatorio Cerro Tololo: This observatory is home to some of the world’s most powerful telescopes and offers visitors a chance to learn about astronomy and the cosmos.

Why these are hidden gems:

These locations offer a more authentic glimpse into Chilean culture and landscapes, taking you off the beaten path and away from the typical tourist destinations.

Tips for Visiting:

  • Check for guided tours: Many of these “hidden gems” are best experienced with local expertise.
  • Learn some basic Spanish: While English is spoken in some tourist areas, knowing a few phrases like “Hola” (hello) and “Gracias” (thank you) will go a long way.
  • Bring cash: Some “Tours de la Reina” may not accept credit cards, so it’s always good to have some local currency on hand.

Remember:

These are just suggestions; there are many other hidden gems in Santiago waiting to be discovered!