13 Best Santiago Chile Day Tours: The Complete Guide [2024]
Are you looking for the best Santiago Chile day tours? You’ve come to the right place, as they’re all listed here!
How do I know these are the best Santiago Chile day tours? I recently spent several months exploring South America, including a week in Santiago and its surrounding regions. Plus, I’ve vetted all the tours in this article, as well as the reviews, so you can be sure they’re all highly rated.
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👍 BEST SANTIAGO CHILE DAY TOUR
Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book this Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs, Waterfall & Chilean BBQ Tour, for the complete 5-star Santiago experience!
Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile and the country’s largest city. Nestled amidst some of Chile’s most beautiful and fascinating landscapes, and with a rich history and culture, there’s so much to see and do in Santiago.
Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic day tours to help you explore the city and surrounding regions so you can get the most out of your stay. But with so much variety, it can be difficult to choose which tours to do.
To help you out, I’ve narrowed down the top Santiago Chile day tours. In this list you will not only find the most highly rated tours, but also the most interesting and comprehensive day tours, to ensure you experience as much as possible during your time in Santiago.
With everything from sightseeing, wine tasting, and hot springs to hiking, wildlife and adventure, there’s something for every type of traveler on this list! So read on for the 13 best Santiago Chile day tours, to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.
Quick Guide: Santiago Day Tours
Top 13 Santiago Chile Day Tours
1. Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs & Chilean BBQ Experience
Discover the best of the Santiago region with this Cajón del Maipo, hot springs and Chilean BBQ tour.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s one of the most comprehensive and unique Santiago Chile day tours. With something for everyone, the tour has several highlights including the Maipo Canyon, thermal hot springs, a 4×4 adventure, spectacular waterfalls, a traditional Chilean BBQ feast & much more!
✅ Small-group day trip discovering the Cajón del Maipo
✅ Includes admission to the ‘Termas Valle de Colina’
✅ Relax in hot springs heated by the nearby volcano
✅ Stop at the Chocolate House
✅ Traditional Chilean Barbecue dinner
✅ Includes wine, beer, juice & bottled water
✅ Panoramic sunset views of the volcano and Andes Mountains
✅ Stargaze by the campfire
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off included
What makes this Cajón del Maipo tour the best is that it includes so many memorable and unique activities in one day. Not only will you get to experience the majestic Maipo Canyon, but you will also see spectacular waterfalls, volcanos and mountains, visit key attractions like the Chocolate House, and enjoy stargazing around a campfire.
Plus the tour includes a stop at the Termas Valle de Colina natural hot springs, where you will get to relax in 7 natural pools heated by the nearby volcano, ranging in temperatures from 130ºF to 86ºF (55ºC to 30ºC).
And, to top it all off, indulge in a traditional Chilean barbecue feast including appetizers, grilled vegetables, sausages, choripanes and beef (or vegan/vegetarian options). And all of this is accompanied by plenty of Chilean wine, beer and juice!
Note – this tour operates from 3 pm to 1 am in the summer season (November to April) and from 6 am to 5 pm in the winter season (April to October).
2. Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards from Santiago
To spend the day exploring Chile’s best red wine region book this Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards from Santiago.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 9 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It’s one of the only tours which gives you a full Maipo Valley experience. You will have the opportunity to explore a family-run farm and three of the valley’s best wineries. Plus, you will get to try more than 10 different wines, and have a pisco tasting!
✅ Visit 4 traditional family-run vineyards
✅ Taste premium and signature wines and Pisco
✅ Tour a farm, vineyards, production warehouses & wine cellars
✅ Interact with alpacas and other animals
✅ Receive a wine glass and small bottle of wine to take home
✅ Experience different agricultural productions
✅ Includes hotel pickup & drop-off
✅ Wheelchair & stroller accessible
This Maipo Valley tour is one of the top wine experiences in Chile, and it’s the most comprehensive winery tour available from Santiago. You will get to experience both wine production and agriculture in the Maipo Valley, and taste some of Chile’s best wines. Plus, this tour has hundreds of 5-star reviews!
The Maipo Valley is where the first vines were planted in Chile in the 1540s. And to this day, it remains the heart of Chile’s wine making industry, which you will get to experience on this tour. With both large and more intimate wineries on the itinerary, you will get a true sense of Chilean wine culture, and have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wines.
3. Full-Day Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar
For a day of colour, sightseeing and discovering local culture, book this Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar from Santiago.
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This is the most popular tour to discover the historic Valparaiso port and beach town of Viña del Mar, with thousands of 5-star reviews! Plus you will get to experience the Chilean countryside on the way, including a wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley.
✅ Full-day tour of two of Chile’s most iconic coastal cities
✅ Travel through Chile’s spectacular countryside
✅ Wine tasting stop in the picturesque Casablanca Valley
✅ Optional seaside lunch in Viña del Mar
✅ Explore the beach and boardwalk
✅ Guided tour of Valparaiso’s colourful hills, alleyways, and street art
✅ Includes Funicular Ride in Valparaiso
✅ Learn about the port’s fascinating history
✅ Includes luxury coach hotel pickup and drop-off
Valparaiso and Viña del Mar are two must-visit coastal towns from Santiago. This full-day tour will give you the opportunity to explore both, in a small-group setting, with an experienced guide who can teach you about the history and culture of the region.
Plus, you will get to experience the picturesque Chilean countryside on the way, by stopping at Chile’s top white wine region for a tasting!
If you’re only visiting Santiago for a few days, this is the ideal day trip out of the city. You will get to see some of the most beautiful regions surrounding Santiago and fit multiple must-do experiences into one day!
4. Authentic Andes Adventure: Private Horse Riding Tour
For an authentic Chilean adventure book this Private Horse Riding Tour in the Andes mountains!
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 4 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? Discover the Andes on horseback and experience Gaucho culture with this guided tour and picnic, suitable for first-time riders!
✅ Private morning or afternoon tour
✅ Authentic Chilean Experience in the Andes
✅ Discover unbeatable views in Chile’s rural countryside
✅ No experience necessary: suitable for first-time riders!
✅ Learn riding safety, techniques and how to ride on mountain trails
✅ Picnic with cheese & wine included
✅ Learn about Gaucho culture and native flora and fauna
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off available
The best part about this tour is that you get to experience an authentic Chilean adventure in the foothills of the Andes. Your guide will not only take you on a tour of the beautiful rural Chilean countryside, but will also teach you about horse riding, the local geography and landscapes, and traditional Gaucho culture.
This is a fantastic tour if you want to include an adventurous activity in your Santiago itinerary. And, as this is a half-day tour with both morning and afternoon times available, it can easily fit into your schedule.
5. Andes Mountains Full-Day Hiking Tour
For a true Andes Mountain adventure, take this full-day small-group guided hiking tour through the Cajón del Maipo.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 12 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This is the best way to experience the rugged landscapes and pristine beauty of the Andes mountains from Santiago!
✅ Guided small-group tour
✅ Hike through the Maipo Canyon towards San Jose Valcano
✅ Breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers and rivers
✅ Enjoy a scenic picnic in a secluded spot
✅ Includes gourmet sandwich lunch, snack and wine
✅ Relax at a pristine waterfall
✅ Moderately difficult hike at a leisurely pace
✅ Round trip transportation included
It turns out you don’t have to visit Patagonia to get an epic Chilean hiking adventure! Just a short drive from Santiago you will find the breathtaking Maipo Canyon, full of jagged peaks and pristine glaciers, waterfalls and rivers. You might even spot the majestic condor flying high above!
This guided tour includes everything you need to get the most out of your Andes trekking experience. With round trip transportation, a gourmet picnic lunch and professional guides to teach you about the history and geography of the landscapes along the way, this will be a particularly memorable hiking experience.
Keep in mind that this is a moderate hike so you do require a moderate level of fitness. It’s also recommended that you wear hiking shoes or boots, and bring a backpack with sunscreen, a sun hat and a warm jacket.
6. Casablanca Valley Wine Tour and Tasting
For a true 5-star experience, ideal for white wine lovers, book this Casablanca Valley Wine Tour & Tasting Including 3 to 4 Vineyards.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This is the most highly rated tour of Chile’s best white wine region, and includes 3-4 vineyards with tastings!
✅ Viator Experience Badge of Excellence
✅ Full-day wine tasting tour in the Casablanca Valley
✅ Taste the best white wines in Chile
✅ Enjoy stunning scenery and panoramic views of the valley
✅ Sample award-winning and organic wines
✅ Guided tasting sessions and learn about winemaking
✅ Lunch Stop at a Fantastic Local Restaurant
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off included
If you’re a white wine lover, then this tour is the one for you! The Casablanca Valley is Chile’s top white wine region. In particular, it’s best known for its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
But it’s not just the excellent white wines that you can enjoy here. The valley also produces some excellent Pinot Noir. And, on this tour, you will get to sample a variety of white, red and sparkling wines, including organic and award-winning wines.
This whole tour is really enjoyable from start to end. With knowledgeable guides, comprehensive tastings and stunning scenery throughout the entire day. Plus, the variety and quality of the wines and knowledgeable guides make it a really special experience.
7. Full-Day of Outdoor Activities & Wildlife Tour
For adventurous travellers, outdoor enthusiasts and animal lovers, book this full-day tour of exciting outdoor activities and wildlife spotting!
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 9-13 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This is the most adventurous tour on the list, offering exhilarating experiences like sand boarding and paragliding, as well as the chance to see Humboldt penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat!
✅ Comprehensive small-group tour Led by an experienced guide
✅ Boat ride to see sea lions and Humboldt Penguins in the wild
✅ Sandboard down the Concon Dunes
✅ Visit Valparaiso and Viña Del Mar
✅ Includes a traditional Chilean picnic lunch and locally-produced wine
✅ See ancient volcanic rocks and native flora and fauna
✅ All equipment provided, including sandboards and binoculars
✅ Option to go paragliding
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
This is the ideal tour for active travellers who are looking for a full day of adventure! Heading out of Santiago, you will get to visit some of Chile’s most iconic coastal towns and pristine coastline. Plus, enjoy non-stop activities including a boat ride, wildlife spotting, sand boarding, a picnic, coastal walks & more!
The only reason this tour isn’t higher up the list is because it’s not the cheapest of Santiago Chile day tours. However, given all the memorable experiences it packs into one exciting day out, most would agree it’s well worth the money!
8. Private Full-Day Santiago City Tour
Discover the history, culture and highlights of Santiago on this highly rated private full-day Santiago City Tour!
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 7 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? With the full attention of a knowledgeable guide, you will get to intimately explore Chile’s historic capital city, discovering famous sites, beautiful architecture and hidden gems.
✅ Private tour with a knowledgeable and entertaining local guide
✅ Get inside knowledge and navigate like a local
✅ Tour can be customized to suit your interests
✅ Visit all of Santiago’s key attractions and sites
✅ Learn about the architecture and significance of key buildings
✅ Visit the city’s largest market
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
No list of Santiago Chile day tours would be complete without a tour of the city itself!
This day tour is ideal for anyone wanting to spend the day discovering and learning about the city of Santiago and Chile’s history. Plus, as this is a private tour you will have the full attention of your guide, to make sure all your questions are answered and so you can get the most out of the day.
This tour is the best way to experience as much of Santiago as possible in one day. And the key advantage of taking a private tour is that it can be personalized to suit you, so you will get to see everything that’s of interest to you in the city.
➡️ BOOK: Private Full-Day Santiago City Tour
9. Cajón del Maipo Sightseeing and Spa Tour with Lunch
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, food and relaxation on this Cajón del Maipo, pool and spa tour with lunch from Santiago.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 8 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? It offers a great mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with the opportunity to visit one of the most important attractions near Santiago and relax at a luxury spa all in the same day!
✅ Explore the breathtaking Cajón del Maipo
✅ Learn about the area’s mining history and significance in colonial time
✅ Visit the region’s first self-sustaining hotel, El Morado Lodge & Spa
✅ Includes lunch and drinks at the lodge’s restaurant
✅ Relax and rejuvenate in the spa, pools and sauna
✅ Visit the Chocolate House in San Alfonso
✅ Indulge in delicious ice cream and chocolates
✅ Key photo stops in El Morado
✅ Includes round-trip transportation
This is the ideal tour for anyone looking to relax and unwind on their Chilean vacation, without missing the key tourist attractions. This sightseeing and spa tour offers the perfect balance of both, so you can experience the best of the Andes.
This tour will also ensure you’re well fed, as it includes a delicious lunch with a view at the lodge. And you will get to stop at the Casa Chocolate Tienda Boutique, for some tasty sweet treats and ice cream!
10. Private Andean Tour from Santiago
If you’re looking for a more intimate Andes experience, book this private Andean half-day tour from Santiago, 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 private tour packs a lot into just half a day, with stops at several prominent ski resorts near Santiago and a cheese and wine picnic at Condor’s lookout!
✅ Enjoy a private mountain tour for up to 5 travellers
✅ Visit multiple ski resorts around Santiago for diverse mountain views
✅ Marvel at the grandeur of the Andes from different angles
✅ Indulge in a wine and cheese tasting overlooking Condor’s Lookout
✅ Morning tour, ideal for travellers short on time
✅ Snowshoes, poles and binoculars provided if needed
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
This is the ideal tour for those who are looking to explore as much of the Andes as possible in a short space of time. Plus, you will have the undivided attention of your own private guide. They will be able to answer all your questions, tailor the experience around your interests and ensure you get the best views.
After a big morning of exploring the Andes, the highlight of this tour is the cheese and wine lunch overlooking the Mirador de Cóndores. You might even spot the majestic Condor flying high above as you enjoy a relaxing lunch!
11. Observatory Stargazing Tour from Santiago
If you’re interested in astronomy and want to experience the Andes at night, book this observatory stargazing tour from Santiago!
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 5 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? For a unique Santiago experience, catch the last of the daylight and learn about astronomy as you admire the stars in the Andean skies!
✅ Stargazing above the Andes Mountains
✅ Witness the transition of the Andean sky from daylight to nighttime
✅ Hosted at a private observatory with an experienced astronomer
✅ Includes wine, cheese and snacks
✅ One of the best places for stargazing in the world
✅ Use specialized telescopes to spot stars, planets & more
✅ Learn fascinating insights about astronomy
✅ Early-evening tour, ideal for those short on time
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
The skies around Santiago are some of the clearest in the world – you can even see stars in broad daylight here! Therefore it’s one of the best places for astronomy.
This tour will ensure you get to experience the best of the skies above the Andes Mountains, with an evening of stargazing led by an experienced astronomer.
On top of the astronomy experience, the tour also includes wine, cheese and appetizers, for a complete and memorable evening.
12. Full Day Tour to Siete Tazas from Santiago
For a day out in one of the most beautiful national parks near Santiago, book this full day tour to Siete Tazas.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10-11 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? This tour is the perfect blend of pristine nature, interesting culture, adventure and relaxation, all in one day!
✅ Visit Radal Siete Tazas National Park
✅ Experience seven cascading waterfalls
✅ Swim in the crystal-clear pools beneath the majestic waterfalls
✅ Relaxing picnic lunch amidst stunning natural scenery
✅ Includes all park entrance fees
✅ Drive through picturesque Chilean countryside
✅ Stop at a local village to sample traditional Chilean food
✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off
Radal Siete Tazas National Park is located around 260 kilometres (162 miles) south of Santiago. Named after its 7 waterfalls, the park’s pristine beauty and crystal-clear water is a true Chilean oasis.
On this day tour to Siete Tazas, not only will you get to witness the park’s immense beauty, but you will also get to experience Chilean culture, history and cuisine, with a stop at a local village.
However, the highlight of this trip is getting to swim in the clear blue waters of the park’s stunning waterfalls, where you will feel like you’re on a paradise island!
13. Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Tour
Visit South America’s pioneer ski centre and see the pristine Inca lagoon on this Portillo and Laguna del Inca day tour.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability
Why choose this tour? Experience the region’s dramatic landscapes, enjoy panoramic views and visit Chile’s most famous ski area!
✅ Full-day trip in the Andes Mountains
✅ Visit South America’s first and most famous ski resort
✅ Panoramic views of the Inca lagoon and snow-capped mountains
✅ Stop at the Salto del Soldado viewpoint
✅ Learn about the history and legends of the region
✅ Free time to explore the resort and surrounding landscape
✅ Includes return transportation
Portillo is one of the most famous places in Chile. It’s South America’s original ski resort and is known for it’s spectacular views, striking turquoise Lagoon and the hairpin turns on Highway 60 leading up to it!
And even if you’re not a skier, Portillo is still worth visiting for the spectacular views, excellent service and fascinating attractions along the way.
This tour will ensure you make the most of your day in the Andes with stops at key sites along the way and excellent photo opportunities. Plus, in Portillo you’ll have time to explore on your own and enjoy some delicious local food at the on-mountain restaurant.
Santiago Chile FAQs
How many days is enough in Santiago Chile?
5 to 7 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Santiago, to properly explore the city and the surrounding regions. However, if you’re short on time, 2 to 3 days is more than enough to get a taste of what Santiago has to offer, and to take a day trip outside the city!
How should you spend one day in Santiago?
If you only have one day in Santiago, I would recommend taking a guided city tour, to ensure you see and experience as much as possible in the time you have!
Is a day trip to Valparaiso worth it?
Yes, a day trip to Valparaiso is absolutely worth it! The colourful port town has a fascinating history, culture and street art scene to explore. And, while there you can also visit the neighbouring town of Viña del Mar for some time at the beach.
What is the closest wine region to visit from Santiago?
The Maipo Valley is the closest wine region to Santiago, at about a 1-1.5 hour drive away. The other nearby wine regions are up to a 2.5 hour drive from the city, but can easily be visited on a day tour.
READ MORE: The 11 Best Wine Tours from Santiago Chile
Is Santiago Chile safe?
Santiago is generally considered a safe city. However, as of 2023, according to travel advisories petty crime like theft, pick-pocketing, scams and muggings have been on the rise. Therefore, you should always exercise caution, book experiences, transport and accommodation through trusted providers, and be careful with your belongings.
What is the best time of year to visit Santiago?
Santiago is a great year-round destination. The summers are hot and dry (September to February) and this is the best time to visit Chile’s wine country, go hiking and visit the beach. Whereas in winter (June to August) you can go skiing and explore the city in more comfortable temperatures.
Is Chile an expensive place to visit?
Chile is one of the most expensive country’s in South America. However, compared to many other places around the world, it’s actually very affordable. Especially if you’re visiting from a country with a stronger currency, you can expect your money to go further here.
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.
READ MORE
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