13 Best Santiago Chile Day Tours [2025 Guide]
Looking for the best Santiago Chile day tours? You’re in the right place — I’ve rounded up the top day trips from Santiago to help you make the most of your time in the region.
I spent a month travelling through Chile, including spending time in Santiago and its surrounding regions, taking day trips and exploring everything the area has to offer. What I loved most is the variety — from mountain adventures and outdoor activities, to fantastic wineries and charming coastal towns, there’s something for every kind of traveller.
I’ve done the research, compared dozens of tours, and vetted the reviews to handpick the very best options. So with this list, you can be confident that you’re in for a great experience!
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Our Top 3 Picks
Top Pick: Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs & Chilean BBQ Experience
If you only book one day tour from Santiago, make it this one. This small-group adventure is the perfect mix of scenery, relaxation, and Chilean culture — with natural hot springs, mountain views, and a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars. It’s immersive, unique, and easily the most memorable tour on the list!
What travellers have said:
“Amazing tour – 100% recommend” – Kelly
“Once-in-a-lifetime experience outside of Santiago” – Stacey
“Best start to our trip!” – Emily
“Every part of tour was great!” – Patrick
“10/10 recommend” – Lancaster
“The highlight of our time in Santiago!!” – George
How to Choose the Right Santiago Day Tour
Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Looking for adventure?
The Andes hiking or full-day outdoor and wildlife tour will be right up your alley.
Short on time?
Opt for a half-day Andes excursion, or stay in the city with this customizable Santiago city tour.
After something unique?
Try the stargazing observatory tour or horseback riding with a Gaucho picnic.
Love wine?
Go for a Casablanca or Maipo Valley wine tour — both offer top-tier tastings.
Want to fit the most into one day?
The Valparaíso & Viña del Mar tour combines historic towns, colourful street art, beachside views, and a wine stop — a great all-round day trip.
Looking to relax?
Choose a spa day in Cajón del Maipo or soak in natural hot springs with sunset views.
Travelling with others?
Private tours offer flexibility and a more personalized experience for couples or groups.
13 Best Santiago Chile Day Tours
Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile and the country’s largest city — surrounded by some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country. From the snow-capped Andes to historic coastal cities, picturesque wine country, and much more, there’s a huge variety of day trips you can take right from the city.
The good news? There are plenty of excellent tours to help you make the most of your time here. The tricky part is deciding which ones are actually worth it.
To help you choose, I’ve rounded up the best Santiago Chile day tours — not just the most popular, but the most interesting and well-reviewed, based on my own research and experience visiting the region. Whether you’re into sightseeing, wine tasting, hiking, wildlife, or soaking in hot springs, there’s something on this list for every kind of traveller.
So here are the 13 best day tours from Santiago, Chile, for an unforgettable trip.
1. Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs & Chilean BBQ Experience
Discover the best of the Santiago region on this all-in-one day trip featuring hot springs, mountain views, waterfalls, stargazing, and a traditional Chilean BBQ.
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s the most unique and well-rounded experience on the list — combining nature, culture, and food in one unforgettable day. You’ll drive through the stunning Maipo Canyon in a 4×4, soak in natural hot springs, and end the day with a fireside Chilean feast under the stars. If you only have time for one day tour from Santiago, make it this one!
✅ Small-group tour to Cajón del Maipo
✅ Entry to Termas Valle de Colina hot springs
✅ Soak in thermal pools with mountain views
✅ Visit the quirky Chocolate House
✅ Traditional Chilean BBQ dinner (veg options available)
✅ Drinks included (wine, beer, juice, water)
✅ Sunset views and stargazing
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
This tour packs in incredible scenery, a bit of adventure, and a lot of local flavour. The thermal pools range from 55ºC to 30ºC (130ºF to 86ºF), and the relaxed, social BBQ dinner — complete with wine and a mountain backdrop — is the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Note: Operates 3 pm–1 am in summer (Nov–Apr) and 6 am–5 pm in winter (Apr–Oct).
2. Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards from Santiago
Spend a day exploring Chile’s most iconic wine region on this top-rated Maipo Valley wine tour — featuring four vineyard stops, premium tastings, and a glimpse into local agricultural life.
⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s the most comprehensive wine tour from Santiago, offering a deep dive into the Maipo Valley — the heart of Chile’s winemaking industry. You’ll visit a working farm and taste more than 10 wines across four vineyards, including family-run estates and historic wineries. There’s even a bonus Pisco tasting and a chance to meet alpacas along the way!
✅ Visit 3 wineries + a family-run farm
✅ Taste 10+ wines and Pisco
✅ Tour vineyards, wine cellars, and production areas
✅ Interact with alpacas and farm animals
✅ Includes souvenir wine glass and bottle
✅ Hotel pickup & drop-off
✅ Wheelchair/stroller accessible
The Maipo Valley is where Chile’s first vines were planted in the 1540s, and it remains a cornerstone of the country’s wine culture. This tour gives you a well-rounded view of the region, with stops at both large estates and small-scale producers — ideal for wine lovers looking to dive into Chile’s rich winemaking heritage.
Of all the Santiago wine tours, this one is my top pick for a well-rounded, immersive day out in Chilean wine country.
3. Full-Day Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar
For a day of colour, beaches and local culture, book this popular tour from Santiago to the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar.
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? With thousands of 5-star reviews, this is the most popular day trip from Santiago to Chile’s iconic coastal towns. You’ll travel through Chile’s picturesque countryside, explore the historic port and street art of Valparaíso, stroll the beaches of Viña del Mar, and enjoy a wine tasting en route in the Casablanca Valley — Chile’s top white wine region.
✅ Explore two iconic coastal cities
✅ Wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley
✅ Guided tour of Valparaíso’s hills and street art
✅ Funicular ride included
✅ Optional seaside lunch
✅ Beach and boardwalk stop
✅ Learn about the region’s history and culture
✅ Hotel pickup/drop-off via luxury coach
Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are must-see destinations near Santiago, and this full-day tour is a great way to experience both without the hassle of planning transport. With a small group and knowledgeable guide, you’ll cover a lot in one day — city views, coastal charm, and Chilean wine all included.
If you’re visiting Santiago for a few days, this is a must-do day trip out of the city!
4. Authentic Andes Adventure: Private Horseback Riding Tour
For a unique and authentic Chilean adventure book this private horseback riding tour in the Andes mountains!
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 4 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? You’ll explore the stunning foothills of the Andes on horseback, guided by a local who shares insights into Gaucho culture, native flora, and Chilean geography. No riding experience? No problem — this tour is suitable for beginners, with full instruction provided.
✅ Recommended by 100% of travellers
✅ Private morning or afternoon tour
✅ Ride through the Andes foothills
✅ No experience needed
✅ Learn riding techniques and trail safety
✅ Cheese and wine picnic included
✅ Discover Gaucho culture
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off available
This tour is perfect if you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your Santiago itinerary. It’s scenic, cultural, and a fun way to get off the beaten path — all in just half a day.
5. Andes Mountains Full-Day Hiking Tour
For a true Andes adventure, take this full-day guided hiking tour through the Cajón del Maipo — a must for nature lovers and hikers alike.
⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 12 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This is one of the best ways to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Andes from Santiago, with glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain views just a short drive away.
✅ Small-group guided hike
✅ Trek toward San José Volcano
✅ See rivers, waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife
✅ Scenic picnic lunch with wine
✅ Moderately difficult hike at a relaxed pace
✅ Includes round-trip transportation
You don’t have to travel to Patagonia for a jaw-dropping hiking experience — this trail through the Maipo Canyon is filled with dramatic peaks, flowing rivers, and the chance to spot condors soaring above.
The tour includes transport, a gourmet picnic, and knowledgeable guides who’ll share the history and geology of the area along the way.
Keep in mind that this is a moderate hike, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Don’t forget comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a warm layer — and get ready for one of the top outdoor adventures you can take from Santiago!
6. Casablanca Valley Wine Tour and Tasting
For a full-day wine experience in Chile’s top white wine region, book this Casablanca Valley wine tour and tasting — perfect for white wine lovers.
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s the most highly rated wine tour in the Casablanca Valley, known for producing some of the country’s best Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
✅ 2024 Viator Experience Award Winner
✅ Visit 3–4 vineyards with tastings included
✅ Award-winning and organic wines
✅ Taste premium white, red, and sparkling wines
✅ Learn about winemaking
✅ Scenic views in Chile’s beautiful countryside
✅ Lunch at a top local restaurant
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
If you’re a white wine fan, this tour is for you! You’ll visit several of the valley’s top wineries, tasting not only exceptional whites but also Pinot Noir and sparkling varieties.
With knowledgeable guides, panoramic views, and a leisurely pace, this is one of the most enjoyable wine tours from Santiago.
7. Full-Day of Outdoor Activities & Wildlife Tour
For active travellers and animal lovers, this full-day tour offers a unique combo of outdoor adventure and wildlife spotting along Chile’s stunning coastline.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 9-13 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s the most action-packed tour on the list — with sandboarding, wildlife viewing, and even the option to go paragliding!
✅ Recommended by 100% of travellers
✅ Small-group guided tour
✅ Boat ride to spot sea lions and Humboldt penguins
✅ Sandboard the epic Concon Dunes
✅ Visit Valparaiso and Viña del Mar
✅ See volcanic rock formations
✅ Traditional Chilean picnic with local wine
✅ All equipment included (boards, binoculars)
✅ Optional paragliding experience
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
This tour is perfect if you want a full day of excitement outside the city. You’ll explore Chile’s iconic coastline, spot wildlife, and enjoy a mix of culture and adrenaline — all in one memorable outing.
While it’s not the cheapest option, it delivers incredible value for the range of experiences packed into one day. This is one of my favourite tours on the list, and we think it’s well worth the money!
8. Private Full-Day Santiago City Tour
Discover the history, culture and highlights of Chile’s capital on this highly rated private Santiago City Tour.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 6 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? With a knowledgeable local guide and a fully customized itinerary, this tour offers the perfect way to explore Santiago’s architecture, markets, and historic landmarks — all at your own pace.
✅ Private tour with expert local guide
✅ Customizable itinerary
✅ Visit Santiago’s top landmarks and hidden gems
✅ Learn about history, culture, and architecture
✅ Explore Santiago’s largest market
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the city’s culture and history — especially first-time visitors. With personalized insights and a flexible schedule, it’s the best way to see the city in a day and make the most of your time in Santiago.
9. Cajón del Maipo Sightseeing and Spa Tour with Lunch
Enjoy a full day of scenic beauty, food, and relaxation with this Cajón del Maipo sightseeing and spa tour from Santiago.
⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 8 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It combines breathtaking mountain views with a touch of luxury — explore one of Santiago’s top day trip destinations and unwind at a scenic spa and lodge.
✅ Explore the Cajón del Maipo canyon
✅ Visit the El Morado Lodge & Spa
✅ Pools, spa, and sauna with mountain views
✅ Learn about the area’s colonial and mining past
✅ Enjoy a delicious lunch with drinks
✅ Stop at the quirky Chocolate House
✅ Sample ice cream and handmade chocolates
✅ Round-trip hotel transportation
This is the perfect day tour for anyone who wants to unwind while still seeing the best of the Andes. With scenic stops, a relaxing spa session, and a delicious meal with a view, it’s a well-rounded experience that covers both nature and comfort.
10. Private Andean Tour from Santiago
If you’re looking for a more intimate Andes experience, book this private half-day Andean tour from Santiago — perfect for groups of up to 5 travellers.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 5 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This half-day tour makes the most of your time, with stops at scenic ski resorts and a relaxing cheese and wine picnic at Condor’s Lookout — all with a private guide.
✅ Private tour for up to 5 travellers
✅ Visit multiple ski resorts near Santiago
✅ Enjoy panoramic views of the Andes
✅ Wine and cheese picnic at Condor’s Lookout
✅ Morning tour — great for tight schedules
✅ Snowshoes, poles, and binoculars included
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of the Andes without committing to a full-day adventure. With a knowledgeable guide to tailor the experience, you’ll cover a lot of ground and enjoy stunning mountain vistas.
The highlight? A scenic cheese and wine picnic overlooking Mirador de Cóndores — where you might even spot a majestic condor soaring overhead!
11. Observatory Stargazing Tour from Santiago
If you’re into astronomy or just want a unique Andes experience, book this observatory stargazing tour from Santiago, for a magical evening under the stars.
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 5 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? Santiago is one of the best places in the world for stargazing — and this tour lets you admire the Andean skies through high-powered telescopes, guided by a professional astronomer.
✅ Stargazing in the Andes Mountains
✅ Hosted at a private observatory
✅ Spot stars, planets & constellations
✅ Learn fascinating astronomy insights
✅ Wine, cheese & snacks included
✅ Watch the sky transition from sunset to night
✅ Early-evening tour — great if you’re short on time
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
With some of the clearest skies on Earth, Chile offers incredible stargazing — even near Santiago. This tour takes you to a private observatory in the mountains, where you’ll enjoy a relaxed evening of astronomy, wine, and unforgettable views.
12. Full Day Tour to Siete Tazas from Santiago
For a nature-filled escape from the city, book this full day tour to the stunning Siete Tazas National Park.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10-11 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s the perfect combo of waterfalls, culture, and countryside — with time to swim, relax, and explore off-the-beaten-path Chile.
✅ Visit Radal Siete Tazas National Park
✅ See seven cascading waterfalls
✅ Swim in crystal-clear pools
✅ Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch
✅ Drive through picturesque countryside
✅ Stop at a local village for traditional Chilean food
✅ All park entrance fees included
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
Located about 260 km (162 miles) south of Santiago, Siete Tazas is a true natural gem. You’ll hike through pristine landscapes, cool off in turquoise pools, and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature. The added cultural stop at a nearby village gives you a taste of rural Chilean life — making this one of the most unique Santiago day tours on the list.
13. Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Tour
Visit South America’s original ski resort and marvel at the stunning Inca Lagoon on this full-day Andes adventure from Santiago.
⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? You’ll experience dramatic mountain scenery, panoramic views, and one of Chile’s most iconic destinations — even if you’re not hitting the slopes.
✅ Full-day trip to the Andes Mountains
✅ Visit Chile’s most famous ski resort
✅ Soak in views of the turquoise Inca Lagoon
✅ Stop at the Salto del Soldado viewpoint
✅ Learn the history and legends of the region
✅ Free time to explore and grab lunch at the resort
✅ Round-trip transportation included
Portillo is known for its dramatic setting — from the hairpin turns of Highway 60 to the vibrant blue waters of Laguna del Inca. This tour lets you soak it all in without needing ski gear. Along the way, you’ll stop at scenic lookouts and learn about the area’s history before arriving at the resort, where you can wander, relax, and enjoy a meal with mountain views.
Santiago Day Tours Compared
Tour Name | Main Activity | Type | Duration | Top Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cajón del Maipo & Hot Springs Sunset Tour | Sightseeing & Hot Springs | Small Group | 10 hrs | BBQ dinner, hot springs, stargazing, mountain views |
Maipo Valley Wine Tour (4 Vineyards) | Wine Tasting | Small Group | 10 hrs | 4 vineyards, 10+ tastings, pisco, farm visit |
Valparaíso & Viña del Mar Tour | Sightseeing | Small Group | 10 hrs | Street art, history, beach, wine stop |
Andes Horseback Riding Tour | Horseback Riding | Private | 4 hrs | Scenic ride, picnic, Gaucho culture |
Andes Hiking Tour | Hiking | Small Group | 12 hrs | Glaciers, rivers, picnic lunch |
Casablanca Valley Wine Tour | Wine Tasting | Small Group | 10 hrs | Organic wines, views, lunch stop |
Outdoor Adventure & Wildlife Tour | Wildlife & Adventure | Small Group | 9–13 hrs | Penguins, boat ride, sandboarding |
Private Santiago City Tour | Sightseeing | Private | 6 hrs | Custom itinerary, historic sites |
Cajón del Maipo Spa Tour | Spa & Sightseeing | Small Group | 8 hrs | Pool, sauna, Chocolate House |
Private Andes Half-Day Tour | Sightseeing | Private | 5 hrs | Cheese & wine, ski resorts, viewpoints |
Observatory Stargazing Tour | Astronomy | Small Group | 5 hrs | Stargazing, wine & cheese, telescopes |
Siete Tazas Waterfalls Tour | Nature & Sightseeing | Small Group | 10–11 hrs | Waterfalls, swimming, village visit |
Portillo & Laguna del Inca Tour | Sightseeing | Small Group | 10 hrs | Lagoon views, ski resort, Andes scenery |
Final Thoughts – Best Santiago Day Tours
Taking a day tour is one of the best ways to experience Santiago and the surrounding regions. And luckily there are plenty of fantastic Santiago Chile day tours to choose from!
Whether you’re looking to get off the beaten path on a unique outdoor adventure, sample local wines in Chile’s top wine regions, or visit pristine landscapes and learn about the local culture, there will be a tour to suit your interests in Santiago. And hopefully this list has helped you narrow down the options so you can make the most of your trip.
Still unsure which tour is right for you? View all Santiago Chile day tours.
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