San Cristobal Hill (Cerro San Cristobal)

The basics

The hill's walking trails, picnic spots, and amphitheater are all dwarfed by the 72-foot (22-meter) Virgin Mary (Virgen de la Inmaculada) statue, erected in the 1930s on the highest point in the park (Pope John Paul II hosted mass here in 1984). Most guided tours of Santiago visit San Cristobal Hill, with some mountain bike tours offering a fun and popular way to get to the top. Alternatively, take a ride on San Cristobal's funicular, a steeply pitched railway starting at the PÌo Nono park entrance, or the slightly less expensive cable car, located at the Pedro de Valdivia Norte entrance. Both the funicular and the cable car make stops at the swimming pools and Chilean National Zoo on the way to the top.

Things to know before you go

• The park itself is free, but there are parking fees and separate admission costs for the pools, the Chilean National Zoo, and the amphitheater.

• Choose a tour that combines a day of shopping, sightseeing, or wine tasting with a visit to San Cristobal Hill.

• Half-day sightseeing tours last about three to four hours, while full-day options are about eight hours long.

• The Mirador Terraza Bellavista viewpoint, near the top of the funicular, hosts a snack shop and some souvenir stands.

How to get there

San Cristobal Hill is located about 5 miles (8.3 km) from central Santiago and the Plaza de Armas.

When to get there

The park is open daily, with the funicular running Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6:45pm and on Monday from 1 to 6:45pm. Each attraction within the park has its own opening hours.

Things to do with kids in Santiago

San Cristobal Hill is a great destination for both local and traveling families in Santiago. Other popular family-friendly sites include the Chilean National Zoo (set halfway up San Cristobal), the city's two swimming pools (Piscina Tupahue and Piscina Antilén), and the Plaza de Juegos Infantiles Gabriela Mistral, a playground with an interactive fountain.

Are there any guided tours of San Cristobal Hill?

Yes, guided tours of San Cristobal Hill (Cerro San Cristobal) are available. The hill is often included within itineraries of many Santiago highlights tours, with some including transportation and/or tickets for the San Cristobal funicular or cable car.

Can you hike up San Cristobal Hill?

Yes, you can hike up San Cristobal Hill. Several trails, with varying levels of difficulty, offer beautiful views of Santiago. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water if planning to hike. If you’re a cyclist, there are mountain bike tours available, which can include bike hire.

Is it worth visiting San Cristobal Hill?

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting San Cristobal Hill. In addition to its unrivaled panoramic views, the hilltop offers various attractions, including the National Zoo, the Japanese Garden, and a small sanctuary with an impressive statue of the Virgin Mary. Don’t forget to buy Chilean treats from local vendors, too.

What are the opening hours of San Cristobal Hill?

Much of the landmarks on San Cristobal Hill are open between 6am and 7pm, although this varies between attractions. From Tuesday to Sunday, the funicular operates from 10am–6:45pm, and on Mondays from 1pm–6:45pm. The cable car runs Tuesday through Sunday, 10am–6:45pm. Note that the funicular closes on the first Monday of every month for maintenance.

How do I get to San Cristobal Hill?

To reach San Cristobal Hill, walk from Baquedano metro station to Pío Nono station and take the funicular to the top. Alternatively, you can walk from the Los Leones L1 metro station to the cable car station and ascend the summit. Other options include hiking, cycling, taxis, a tour, or a hop-on hop-off bus.

What is the best time to visit San Cristobal Hill?

The best time to visit San Cristobal Hill is in the late morning or late afternoon, when the weather is pleasant. Avoid midday heat if possible, especially in the summer months from December to February. The city’s smog is less visible earlier and later in the day, allowing for spectacular, unobstructed views.