La Campana ascent from Santiago: Hike the Coastal Range summit

Climb to a summit that frames three landscapes at once

La Campana ascent from Santiago is a full-day guided hike through the Coastal Range to a 1,920m summit with views of the Andes, Pacific Ocean and Mount Aconcagua. The route follows the path Darwin took over 180 years ago, climbing through native forest and granite slopes. Private transportation, trekking poles, water, snacks and lunch are included. Children from age 14 are welcome. Moderate fitness is required.

The experience

You start the day in Santiago and drive to Olmué in the Valparaíso Region, where the hike begins at the entrance to La Campana National Park. The ascent follows "El Andinista" path through perennial forest (boldos, litres, bellotos and canelos) retracing the expedition Darwin made nearly two centuries ago. After around two hours of walking, the vegetation opens and the landscape spreads out. You'll start to sense the Pacific to the west as oak trees appear and the path winds upward.

At 1,260m, an old quartz mine marks a rest point where you can refuel before the final push. The last hour is steeper and more demanding (granite rocks replace forest as the slope increases), but the summit at 1,920m arrives suddenly. From there, the Andes Range rises to the east, the Pacific stretches westward, and on clear days you can pick out Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, along with the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. The guide leads the descent and you return to Santiago the same day.

What’s included

• Private transportation from Santiago to La Campana National Park and back.
• trekking poles.
• bottled water and snacks throughout the day.
• lunch at the summit or during the hike.
• parking fees.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:30

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Youth (14 to 17 years) · Under 14: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Coigue Expeditions

Is this one for you?The 12-hour commitment means this hike fills your entire day, so plan it when you have nothing else scheduled in Santiago. If you arrive with a free afternoon or have limited time in the city, a shorter walk or a different activity will fit better.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (14 to 17 years). Children under 14 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long does the La Campana hike take from start to finish?

The full day is 12 hours, including the drive from Santiago, the hike itself and the return. Plan for the entire day away from the city.

What's the elevation gain and how steep does it get?

The summit sits at 1,920m (6,300ft). The first two hours are moderate through forest. The terrain opens around 1,260m, and the final hour climbs steeply through granite to the top.

What can you actually see from the La Campana summit?

The summit frames three major views: the Andes Range to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, visible on clear days. Coastal cities like Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are also visible from the top.

What's included in the tour and what do I need to bring?

Private transportation from Santiago, trekking poles, bottled water, snacks and lunch are all included. Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring sun protection and a light layer. The guide handles the rest of the logistics.

Is this hike suitable for someone who's never hiked before?

Moderate fitness is required. The final hour is demanding and the slope increases noticeably. Children from age 14 are welcome if they have the fitness level. The guide will pace the group and build in rest stops, but this is not a beginner-friendly hike.