Best Day Trips from Santiago

Landscape of Cajon del Maipo

Santiago is a vibrant capital, but some of the most memorable experiences lie just beyond the city. Within a short drive, you’ll find boutique vineyards, authentic adventures, and breathtaking landscapes that reveal another side of Chile. Here are three unforgettable escapes to try.

1. Boutique Wineries in the Maipo Valley

The Maipo Valley is Chile’s most historic wine region, often referred to as the birthplace of Chilean viticulture. Surrounded by the Andes, the valley produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and other reds with remarkable depth and elegance. While larger estates are popular, the real magic lies in the smaller, boutique vineyards where hospitality feels personal and every glass tells a story.

/// Viña El Principal

At Viña El Principal, the experience is intimate and authentic — a chance to walk through the vineyards, taste wines guided by passionate experts, and even enjoy a picnic overlooking the vines. The quiet setting, framed by the mountains, makes it perfect for slowing down and savoring the moment.

/// Viña Haras de Pirque

Viña Haras de Pirque is another gem. Its unique horseshoe-shaped winery building, set against dramatic landscapes, is as striking as its wines. Here, tastings highlight elegant reds and crisp whites, paired with breathtaking views of the valley. It’s a boutique experience where you feel connected not only to the wine but also to the land and the people who craft it.

2. Horseback Riding in the Maipo Valley

Few activities capture the soul of Chile like horseback riding through the Maipo Valley. This 3.5-hour ride takes you across vineyards, rivers, and mountain trails, offering ever-changing views of the Andes in the background. The horses are calm, well-trained, and ideal even for beginners, while the guides make sure you feel comfortable at every step.

Halfway through, the adventure pauses for a traditional Chilean asado. Picture a rustic outdoor table set with grilled meats, fresh salads, local bread, and Chilean wine — flavors that taste even better after a morning outdoors.

We did this ride with maipo.travel, led by Felipe Arriagada and his warm, attentive team. Their passion for sharing local traditions makes the experience feel less like a tour and more like a day spent with friends. It’s the kind of adventure that leaves you not just with photos, but with memories of connection, flavors, and landscapes that linger long after.

3. Exploring Cajón del Maipo

For those seeking raw natural beauty, Cajón del Maipo is unmissable. Just an hour and a half from Santiago, this valley unfolds into a dramatic landscape of rivers, cliffs, and towering peaks. The drive itself is stunning, with winding roads revealing new perspectives of the Andes at every turn.

The region offers endless opportunities for exploration: gentle hikes along rivers, hidden trails shaded by native trees, and lookout points with panoramic views. For many, the highlight is Embalse El Yeso, a turquoise reservoir surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Its color shifts with the light, creating a surreal scene that feels almost otherworldly.

Spending time here is more than sightseeing — it’s an immersion into silence, scale, and the raw power of nature. Whether you hike, picnic, or simply sit and take in the view, Cajón del Maipo is the perfect counterbalance to Santiago’s urban energy.

Practical Tips

Whether you’re sipping boutique wines, riding through valleys on horseback, or standing in awe before Andean landscapes, these escapes reveal the soulful side of Chile — intimate, authentic, and unforgettable.

Best time to visit: Between October and April, when days are sunny and temperatures are mild.

Transport: Renting a car gives you flexibility, especially for Maipo Valley and Cajón del Maipo. For wineries, consider booking a guided wine tour if you plan to taste.

Distances: Maipo Valley is about 1 hour south of Santiago; Cajón del Maipo around 1.5 hours east; Valparaíso and Casablanca are 1.5 hours west if you want to extend your trip.

Cash & connectivity: Many rural areas have limited signal and not all venues accept cards — bring cash and download offline maps.

Packing tip: Bring sunscreen, layers, and a reusable water bottle. Even short distances can mean strong sun or temperature drops near the Andes.