Santiago, Chile: A Quick Stop on Your South American Adventure

After 23 days across 9 cities in 4 South American countries, I learned one thing: this continent isn’t meant for rushed checklists. Its magic unfolds slowly—ideally over 1.5 months. But for us working mortals with limited time, we returned home exhausted but with our souls (and camera rolls) refreshed by the beauty. Itinerary Snapshot Auckland → Santiago → Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls → Rio → Lima → Cusco → Puno → La Paz → Uyuni (Salt Flats) → Atacama Desert → Santiago → Auckland Santiago serves as a practical transit hub—1.5 days max is plenty. What to Do in Santiago 🔹 Cerro San Cristóbal (San Cristóbal Hill): Buy tickets at the base. Take the cable car straight to the summit for panoramic city views. 🔹 Citywalk Route: Plaza de Armas (see the Metropolitan Cathedral, City Hall, and Postal Museum). La Moneda Palace (Presidential Palace): Watch the military drill in the square every other day. Iglesia de San Francisco: Santiago’s oldest surviving church (earthquake-proof thanks to Inca-style stone foundations!). Skip Cerro Santa Lucía unless you’re desperate for hills. Check out subway station murals for local art. 🔹 Fresh Produce: Head to Vega Central Market for fruits and snacks. Where to Shop & Eat 🛍️ MUT (Mercado Urbano Tobalaba): Trendy food hall with great eats, near South America’s tallest skyscraper. Stay & Avoid 🏨 Avoid: Casa Bellavista Hotel (tiny “matchbox” rooms, outdated facilities). 🌟 Stay in Providencia: Safer, upscale neighborhood with boutique hotels, cafes, and shops. Getting Around 🚖 Transport: Uber everywhere—safe and affordable. Pro Tips Service Charges: Restaurants auto-add 10% “tip”—politely ask to remove it if service was poor. Money: Use credit cards in Santiago. Save cash for Cusco, Bolivia, and Atacama—cash payments often secure 10% discounts, especially for desert tours. #ChileTravel #SouthAmericaAdventures #SantiagoDeChile #BudgetTravelTips #CityGuides #SoloTravel #CulturalExploration