Santiago Metropolitan Park, or Parquemet, is a vast green space on Cerro San Cristóbal, with trails, gardens and city views framed by the Andes. Walk or cycle its hills, visit the Japanese Garden or Pablo Neruda Amphitheatre, and look for the National Zoo and two outdoor pools within the park. For the summit, take the historic funicular or the cable car; the Virgin Mary statue and views over Santiago are a highlight. Its size rewards planning, so choose a route or a few stops rather than trying to cover everything on foot.
A large park on Cerro San Cristóbal
Parquemet, the short name for Santiago Metropolitan Park, covers the hills of Cerro San Cristóbal and nearby areas. It is Santiago’s largest urban park, with extensive walking and cycling routes, gardens, sports facilities and open spaces for picnics. The scale means a visit can fill several hours, especially if you combine a trail with one of the park’s attractions.
The park’s highest-profile landmark is the large statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit of San Cristóbal Hill. From the upper viewpoints, Santiago spreads below, with the Andes beyond the city. Clear weather gives the best chance of seeing the mountain range. The hill is accessible on foot and by the park’s funicular and cable car.
Trails, gardens and family attractions
Walking and cycling routes cross the park’s hills, with routes that vary in difficulty. Steeper paths call for sturdy footwear; bring water and snacks because facilities are spread across the grounds. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds and sports facilities, so it can suit a family outing as well as a longer walk.
Among the places to visit are the Japanese Garden, the Pablo Neruda Amphitheatre and the National Zoo. Two outdoor pools, Tupahue and Antilén, operate in summer. If swimming is a priority, check that the pools are in season before setting out. Pick a few stops in advance: distances within the park can make an unplanned circuit take longer than expected.
Getting to the summit
The funicular climbs the hill from the Pío Nono entrance, at Pío Nono 450 in Recoleta. It dates to 1925 and is a national monument. The cable car provides another way to travel through the park, with views over Santiago along the way. You can use the two transport options for different parts of a visit, but check their current operating details before you go.
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM. Weekend mornings can be busy, so an early start may help you avoid some of the crowds. If you plan to hike, allow time for the steep sections and the distances between attractions. A picnic is a practical way to pause between walks; bring food and water with you.
Perguntas frequentes
How long do you need at Santiago Metropolitan Park?
Allow 2 to 4 hours for a selection of trails and attractions. The park is extensive, so visiting several areas can take longer.
How do you get to the summit of Cerro San Cristóbal?
You can walk up or take the funicular or cable car. The funicular begins at the Pío Nono entrance.
Are there swimming pools in Santiago Metropolitan Park?
Yes. The park has two outdoor pools, Tupahue and Antilén, which operate in summer.
What can you visit inside the park?
Attractions include the National Zoo, Japanese Garden, Pablo Neruda Amphitheatre and the Virgin Mary statue at the summit.
