The Viña del Mar National Botanical Garden is a large park on the western side of Viña del Mar, about 8 km southeast of the city center. Its grounds hold more than 3,000 plant species, about 800 of them native to Chile. The rainforest zone, the cactus collection and the lagoon are the main draws. Paths cross the park on foot, by bicycle or by car, and entry is inexpensive. It suits a quiet walk, a picnic on the lawns or a family day out.
From the El Olivar estate to a national garden
In 1917, businessman Pascual Baburizza bought the El Olivar property and set out its layout. The garden has been open to the public since the 1930s.
In 1951 the property was donated to the Chilean State, to become a botanical garden and an agricultural experimentation station. Today the National Botanical Garden Foundation manages the site, with the aim of conserving native and exotic flora.
The garden is recovering from a recent fire. Its grounds are watered with care so that rainforest plants can grow in a dry climate.
What grows in the garden
The collection includes about 280 tree species. Among them is the Sophora Toromiro, originally from Easter Island and now extinct in the wild. Visitors can see a few specimens of it here.
The garden also holds more than 50 species of plants from the Juan Fernández Islands and 60 cactus species, including a collection from Central America.
The Valdivian Rainforest zone is one of the park's most distinct areas. Each zone has informational panels that explain the plants growing there.
Getting there
From the city center, take bus 203 from Viña along Calle Álvarez to Puente El Olivar. Cross the bridge and walk about 500 m north to the park's entrance signs. A taxi is the other option.
Inside the park, you can move around by car, bicycle or on foot.
Facilities and access
The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Paths for people with wheelchairs or reduced mobility run through the Aviary, the Humedal Giverny area and the botanical garden.
The park has large grassy fields for football, picnic tables, barbecue grills, a playground, a basketball court, a volleyball court and a tennis court. Dogs are allowed, and there is a dog park.
A small café sits at the back of the park, near the lake.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry is about 2,000 Chilean pesos per adult. Advance tickets are recommended.
How long do you need?
Plan two to three hours to cover the main zones and the lagoon.
How do you get there?
Take bus 203 from Viña along Calle Álvarez to Puente El Olivar, then walk about 500 m north to the entrance. A taxi is also an option.
Is the garden accessible for wheelchairs?
The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and paths run through the Aviary, the Humedal Giverny area and the botanical garden.
Can you eat in the park?
There is a small café near the lake, and picnic tables and barbecue grills are available across the grounds.
