The best walks and hikes in Peñalolén
4.9
(388)
3,158
hikers
40
hikes
Hiking in Peñalolén, a commune in the precordillera of Santiago, Chile, offers diverse landscapes within the Andean foothills. The region is characterized by its sclerophyllous forest, home to native tree species like quillay and peumo, and features numerous streams and waterfalls. This natural environment provides panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes mountains, serving as a vital "green lung" for the Metropolitan Region.
Best hiking trails in Peñalolén
- The most popular hiking route is Sendero Los Peumos en el parque…
Last updated: July 15, 2026
4.6
(29)
246
hikers
6.24km
02:04
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(12)
60
hikers
14.9km
05:23
830m
820m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(13)
56
hikers
17.6km
06:02
910m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
4.05km
01:52
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
45
hikers
20.5km
05:44
370m
370m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
7.74km
02:13
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
7.54km
01:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.52km
01:42
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Not so comfortable but useful cycle path
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Santiago is not the most overwhelming city, but it is still worth spending a few days there.
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Beautiful viewpoint! Los Peumos trail, a lovely route to end with a refreshing swim
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At the entrance of the Zorro Vidal trail, at the foot of San Cristóbal hill, you can contemplate a beautiful panoramic view of the city of Santiago.
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The Mirador de la Roca viewpoint, in the Aguas de Ramón Natural Park, is a natural balcony with sweeping views of the valley and the rugged foothills of the Andes. Access is via a well-marked trail that combines shade with more exposed sections. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the scenery before continuing your hike; wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on hot days.
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The Altas Cumbres viewpoint, in Aguas de Ramón Natural Park, offers a sweeping view of the foothills mountains and the valleys surrounding Santiago. It's a very rewarding end to a steady, well-marked climb. Sturdy footwear and plenty of water are recommended, as much of the route is exposed and sunny.
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From the viewpoint, the city unfolds at your feet like a network of avenues, parks, and rooftops that fade into the horizon. Around it, the mountains rise in a vast natural amphitheater, displaying varying shades of green and gray that frame the landscape. A truly breathtaking sight.
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This is the entrance to one of the most beautiful natural parks in Chile, and it's right next to the great city of Santiago. The possibilities for exploration here are truly endless.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Peñalolén, and what are their difficulty levels?
Peñalolén offers over 40 hiking trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 8 easy trails, 21 moderate trails, and 12 difficult trails, ensuring options for every hiker.
Are there any hikes in Peñalolén that feature waterfalls?
Yes, Peñalolén is known for its beautiful waterfalls. The Salto de Apoquindo Trail in Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón leads to the prominent Salto de Apoquindo waterfall. Additionally, Parque Natural Quebrada de Macul features the nearly 10-meter-high Cascada de Macul, accessible via trails like the Sendero Bosque de Peumos.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Peñalolén?
Hiking in Peñalolén takes you through diverse landscapes, primarily characterized by sclerophyllous forest, an ecosystem unique to Chile's central zone. You'll encounter native tree species such as quillay, litre, maitén, and peumo, alongside streams and rivers. The trails also offer panoramic views of Santiago on one side and the majestic Andes mountains on the other.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Peñalolén?
Yes, Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón offers trails suitable for families and children, such as the 'Canto de Agua' route. Parque Mahuida also provides a blend of hiking trails and adventure activities, making it a versatile outdoor destination for families.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks along the trails in Peñalolén?
Many trails offer stunning views. In Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón, you can find routes like the Ruta al mirador de la Roca y del Encaño, providing scenic overlooks. Higher elevations in this park can lead to peaks like Cerro San Ramón. Parque Mahuida also features trails leading to Cerro La Cruz, offering expansive vistas.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Peñalolén?
The hiking routes in Peñalolén are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 344 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the beauty of the native sclerophyllous forests, and the stunning mountain and city views.
Are there any free parks for hiking in Peñalolén?
Yes, Parque Natural Quebrada de Macul is notable for being the only free park in the precordillera of the Metropolitan Region. It offers a range of trails and promotes environmental education and conservation.
Can I reach the hiking areas in Peñalolén using public transport?
Peñalolén is a commune nestled in the precordillera of Santiago, making some parks like Parque Mahuida relatively accessible, situated just 15 km from Santiago's city center. While specific public transport routes to trailheads are not detailed, its proximity to Santiago suggests various public transport options to the general area, from where local connections or short taxi rides might be needed to reach park entrances.
Are there any educational trails or unique experiences in Peñalolén's parks?
Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón features a 'Ruta Paleontológica,' an educational circuit showcasing paleontological remains. Parque Natural Quebrada de Macul also focuses on environmental education and the conservation of its unique ecosystem.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Peñalolén?
Peñalolén's location in the Andean foothills means it experiences a Mediterranean climate. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer the most pleasant weather for hiking, with milder temperatures and less extreme heat or cold. Summer can be hot, and winter might bring cooler temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations.
Are there any long-distance or challenging hikes in Peñalolén?
For those seeking a challenge, the Salto de Apoquindo Trail is a difficult 9.2-mile (14.9 km) path with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Ruta al mirador de la Roca y del Encaño por el paso Los Peumos, a 7.4-mile (11.9 km) difficult trail in Parque Natural Aguas de Ramón.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The sclerophyllous forest ecosystem of Peñalolén supports a variety of fauna. You might spot foxes, Chilean snakes, and various bird species such as the tenca and zorzal, contributing to the region's rich biodiversity.
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