When you live in a city with more than 5.6 million other folks, it can be hard to find peace, quiet, and a little bit of nature. That’s why Santiago, Chile’s Parque Metropolitano, with nearly 1,800 acres of open space, is so popular with locals, tourists, and kids.
San Cristobal Hill, one of several hills within the park, was first used by astronomers who installed an observatory in 1903. A few years later, in 1908, a huge Virgin Mary statue was added to the hill. Over the years, local leaders have developed the land into the enormous public park it is today. There’s lots to do for free here, as well as paid attractions.
I visited on a warm weekday in March and found many people out enjoying a day in the park. Here are seven reasons why you’ll love Parque Metropolitano, too.
1
You can walk or bike up San Cristobal Hill
Santiago city views from the hiking trail. / Photo by Teresa Bergen
Local folks were out in their exercise clothes for a 30-minute trail hike to the top of San Cristobal Hill. It’s free, plus you’ll get incredible city views and a good cardio workout. Or you could bike up the paved road.
2
Visitors can see the Virgin Mary
Photo by Teresa Bergen
Whether or not you’re religious, the historic Virgin Mary atop the hill is a stunning statue and peaceful spot. It’s also an excellent place for people-watching.
3
It's close to the Chilean National Zoo
Photo by Nicolas Millacura
Visit the zoo for an up-close look at Chilean animals like flamingos, condors, and guanaco. Catch an educational program about conservation.
4
You can explore the Mapulemu Botanical Garden
Photo by Rjcastillo
Learn about local flora at the 10-acre Mapulemu Botanical Garden. Or just enjoy the flowers.
5
Guests can ride the funicular or gondola
Photo by Teresa Bergen
If you want to skip the steep walk up (and/or spare your knees from walking downhill), the funicular is fun and provides easy city views. There’s also a gondola.
6
The pools are perfect for swimming
During summer — that’s November through March in Chile — you can take a dip in the park’s two ginormous open-air pools. The Tupahue pool is 82 meters (269 feet) long, and the Antilén pool is 92 meters (301 feet) long. Both are 25 meters (82 feet) wide.
7
Kids will love the Bicentenary Children's Park
The Bicentenary Children’s Park is a special place for kids, with a hillside full of slides, treehouses, and water features.
Disclaimer: While this article was not sponsored, Explora Atacama hosted the writer during her visit to Chile. As always, Outdoors Wire operates independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
