Things To Do
in Chicureo Abajo

Chicureo Abajo is a leafy suburban enclave on the outskirts of Santiago, perched in the Andean foothills. The area blends quiet residential streets with green spaces, farms, and hillside viewpoints. It serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in Cajón del Maipo while offering easy access to Santiago's facilities.

Visitors enjoy scenic drives, local markets, and a pace that feels a step removed from the city bustle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Chicureo Abajo
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Chilean pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Chicureo Abajo, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant gardens. Embrace the beauty of the natural surroundings with a hike around the nearby hills for some stunning views of the Andes.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Artisan Market where you can find handmade crafts and delicious local delicacies. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a quaint restaurant, sampling regional cuisine that showcases the flavors of the area. Afterward, engage in an outdoor activity such as horseback riding, exploring the scenic trails with a guided tour.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience, where you can savor some of the best Chilean wines while overlooking beautiful landscapes. Come back to town for dinner at a cozy restaurant, choosing from a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.

day 2
Nature Immersion
morning
:

Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventure-filled day. Venture into the surrounding nature reserves for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife, taking advantage of the serene morning hours. The fresh air and tranquil landscapes will invigorate your spirit and set a positive tone for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Return from your nature excursion and grab lunch at a local eatery, sampling fresh farm-to-table dishes. In the afternoon, take a guided bike tour through the rural paths of Chicureo Abajo, soaking in the idyllic countryside scenery and learning about local flora and fauna. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the natural beauty of the region.

evening
:

As evening approaches, unwind at a local park, perhaps with a picnic dinner featuring snacks and drinks from your earlier adventures. Enjoy the sound of the evening chatter from locals as you relax and watch the sunset. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, check out a cultural event or local music performance in town to end your day on a lively note.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee at café$2-4
🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range)$25-40
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city outskirts)$600-950
🚗Gasoline per liter$1.0-1.4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Santiago with easy access to urban amenities
  • Scenic hills and a calm, residential vibe
  • Good base for Cajón del Maipo outdoor trips
  • Friendly locals and a family-friendly environment
  • Limited nightlife and dining options within Chicureo Abajo itself
  • Public transport is less developed compared to central Santiago
  • Traffic into and out of the area can be heavy during peak hours
  • Seasonal weather can be windy in the hills
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Gracias." - Thank you.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hablo poco español." - I speak a little Spanish.
  • "Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?

Places to Visit in Chicureo Abajo

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador Chicureo Valley

A panoramic overlook over the rolling hills and housing clusters of Chicureo Abajo, especially striking at sunrise.

Maipo River Banks

Rugged river shores with reed beds and vineyards in the distance, ideal for landscape shots.

Cerro Los Zorzales Lookout

A hilltop spot where city lights on clear nights and golden hour views converge.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chicureo Abajo

Chicureo Abajo features Chilean flavors with a hillside influence, focusing on fresh produce, casual eateries, and home-style cooking.

Chicureo Abajo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastel de Choclo

A classic Chilean corn pie with meat and olives; ideal for a hearty lunch at traditional eateries.

Must-Try!

Empanadas de Pino

Baked or fried pastries filled with seasoned beef, onions, olives and egg.

Asado Chileno

Chilean-style grilled meats, often served with pebre and potatoes.

Pebre con pan

Herby Chilean sauce served with bread; a must-try starter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Colina (local market)

Fresh produce, bakery goods, and ready-to-eat bites from stalls.

Street stalls near town squares

Empanadas, completos (hot dogs), mote con huesillo and other quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a Mediterranean-like climate: warm, dry summers with cool nights and wet, cooler winters. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is more frequent from late autumn through winter, with occasional snow at higher elevations.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly hola or buenos días goes a long way; handshake or cheek kiss between acquaintances may occur in informal settings.

Language

Spanish is the community language; English is less commonly used in everyday transactions.

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable wear for day trips; modest attire when visiting churches or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist areas; use registered taxis or rideshares, keep valuables secure, and have a local map. Earthquake safety is a general consideration in Chile; know evacuation routes in hotels or lodgings.

Tipping in Chicureo Abajo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, 10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up at casual spots is common.

Payment Methods

Cash in pesos and card payments are widely accepted; many places also support mobile payments and receipts.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry, hot days with plenty of outdoor visibility; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan water-filled activities in the mornings and evenings.

Autumn

Mild temperatures, fall colors in hillside forests; great for hiking and photography with softer light.

Winter

Cool and wetter conditions; occasional snow in higher elevations; pack layering and waterproofs.

Spring

Moderate temperatures; blooming flora along trails; ideal for outdoor exploration and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Chicureo Abajo at Night

Chicureo Abajo has a limited nightlife scene, centered on family-friendly bars, cafés, and small venues. For a broader evening, residents often head to Santiago's neighborhoods like Bellavista or Barrio Italia for live music, wine bars, and late-night eateries. Weekend events at local haciendas or clubs can offer dancing and social gatherings, especially in the summer months. Transportation back to Chicureo is usually by taxi or rideshare after a night out.

Hiking in Chicureo Abajo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cajón del Maipo trails

Several trails in the Cajón del Maipo region offering canyon and mountain scenery within a short drive.

Reserva Nacional Río Los Perros (nearby areas)

Forest and river scenery with moderate trails suitable for day hikes.

Cerro El Peñón Trail

Hill route offering city views and sunset photography opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Chicureo Abajo by plane.

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)

Main international airport serving Santiago; about 25-35 minutes by car from Chicureo Abajo on clear roads; taxis, rideshares, and long-distance buses available.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chicureo Abajo is primarily a car-dependent suburb with a few walkable hubs around markets and cafes; some hillside trails are accessible on foot, but most longer routes require driving. Sidewalks and pedestrian paths exist in residential areas, though some routes are steep or uneven. In town centers, you can comfortably stroll for errands and dining, but a vehicle is recommended for exploring the wider region.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families seeking a quieter suburban lifestyle with access to schools and parks.

Professionals

Young professionals and couples who commute to Santiago for work or study.

Expats

A smaller but noticeable number of expatriates drawn to the area’s pace and proximity to the capital.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across Chile; local clubs and casual play are common in residential areas.

Golf

Several scenic courses in the region offer hillside landscapes and vineyard views.

Horseback Riding

Equestrian clubs nearby offer lessons and guided rides through countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Weekday traffic into and out of Santiago can be heavy, especially during morning and evening rush hours. The area relies mainly on private cars; limited rail-based transit serves the wider region. When planning day trips into Cajón del Maipo or downtown, allow extra time for road conditions and possible mountain passes in winter.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chicureo Abajo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer vegetarian options; look for salads, quinoa, roasted vegetables, and dairy-free dishes; ask for pebre-free or cheese-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via private clinics and public hospitals in nearby Colina, with several clinics offering emergency services. For major care, residents typically travel to Santiago’s private hospitals or public hospitals in Puente Alto or San Bernardo depending on location.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide