Santa María

Day Trips

Arrive in Santa María and check into your cozy accommodation. Spend your morning refreshing yourself after the journey and indulging in a traditional Chilean breakfast at a local café. Once you're energized, take a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Head over to the local museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. After that, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and try some typical Chilean cuisine such as empanadas or pastel de choclo. Spend your afternoon exploring nearby artisan shops for unique souvenirs.

As the sun begins to set, find a lovely spot in a park to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Dinner can be enjoyed at a local bistro, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk, enjoying the night sky and the warm ambiance of the town.

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike in the nearby national park. The morning air will invigorate you as you journey through diverse landscapes filled with endemic flora and fauna. Bring your camera to capture the scenic beauty that surrounds you.

After a morning of hiking, find a scenic picnic spot to enjoy your packed lunch amidst nature's splendor. Spend the afternoon exploring additional trails, taking in breathtaking views, and perhaps encountering some local wildlife. For the more adventurous, consider testing your climbing skills on nearby rock formations.

Return to Santa María and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant famous for its barbecue options, sampling traditional meats and side dishes. As the evening winds down, consider visiting a local bar for some live music and to mingle with friendly locals.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then participate in a local artisan workshop where you can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery or weaving. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the region's culture and heritage. You'll leave with unique handmade items that serve as lasting souvenirs.

After the workshop, treat yourself to lunch at a popular café renowned for its fresh ingredients and picturesque patio. Spend your afternoon exploring local markets, where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and samples of Chilean delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet the vendors and hear their stories.

Experience Santa María's vibrant nightlife by dining at a restaurant known for its Chilean wine selection. Savor delicious dishes paired with local wines, while engaging in lively conversations with fellow travelers. Cap off the night by attending a cultural performance or folk music concert if available.

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast before embarking on a wine-tasting tour in the nearby valleys, such as the famous Colchagua Valley. Enjoy scenic vistas as you drive through rolling vineyards, soaking up the stunning landscapes. Your first stop is a local winery, where you will learn about the winemaking process.

Spend the afternoon hopping from one winery to another, sampling a variety of exquisite wines, including renowned reds and whites. Delight in a gourmet lunch at one of the vineyards, featuring farm-to-table ingredients that perfectly complement your wine pairings. Engage with winemakers and gain insight into their art and passion.

Return to Santa María after a gratifying day in the valleys and unwind with a relaxed dinner. Choose a quaint restaurant where you can digest the day's experiences over delectable Chilean dishes. Finish the evening sharing stories and memorable moments with your travel companions.

After breakfast, gear up for an outdoor adventure, such as canyoning or zip-lining, that the region is known for. An exhilarating experience awaits as you discover the lush landscapes from a thrilling perspective high above the trees. Join a guided group to ensure safety and adventure throughout the morning.

Following your adventure, enjoy a celebratory lunch at a local eatery and relish in the stories of your thrilling morning. Post-lunch, take the afternoon to visit natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the calming warmth of the mineral waters. Spend time soaking in the serene surroundings, allowing the tranquility to wash over you.

Return to Santa María for a beautiful evening in town, with a well-deserved dinner at a local steakhouse. Savor hearty traditional dishes along with regional delicacies, creating lasting memories of Chilean cuisine. Afterward, consider walking through the town to enjoy its harmonious night atmosphere.

Start your morning with breakfast and then set out to explore nearby historical sites, such as colonial churches and ancient ruins. Delve into the region's past as you wander through these significant landmarks, capturing stunning photos along the way. Make time for reflection at each site, appreciating the stories they hold.

After sightseeing, enjoy a leisurely lunch in a quaint village nearby, known for its friendly locals and culinary delights. Take a scenic drive back to Santa María, taking in breathtaking views of valleys, hills, and vineyards as you travel. Consider stopping at lookout points for that perfect Instagram moment.

Upon returning to Santa María, treat yourself to a delightful dinner featuring local specialties at a top-rated restaurant. Enjoy the warm ambiance and share highlights from your day with friends or fellow travelers. Finish the evening with a quiet walk or perhaps by participating in a game night at a local venue.

Enjoy a slow morning with breakfast at your accommodation or a popular café where locals gather. Afterward, set off for a guided food market tour to experience the vibrant culinary scene of Santa María. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of fresh produce and local specialties.

After your tour, try your hand at cooking during a personalized cooking class that incorporates ingredients bought from the market. Learn to prepare authentic Chilean dishes under the guidance of a talented chef and enjoy what you create for lunch. Engage with other participants and share laughter as you cook.

Conclude your culinary adventure with a dinner featuring your prepared dishes, celebrated in a communal setting with other cooking class attendees. Reflect on your day filled with flavors and experiences, making new friends and connections. As the evening settles in, find a nearby café for dessert and coffee before retiring for the night.

Take this final morning at a relaxed pace, enjoying breakfast and reminiscing about your vibrant stay in Santa María. Spend a few moments packing and preparing for departure, making sure to take a deep breath and soak in the atmosphere one last time. Consider visiting a local bakery for traditional treats to take with you.

Before your departure, take a last stroll through the local parks or visit a favorite café to savor some local coffee and pastries for lunch. If time permits, stop by any shops you may have missed or pick up final souvenirs from the market. Engage with the locals, sharing your gratitude for their hospitality.

As the sun sets, make your way to the airport or bus station, filled with fond memories and new friendships. Reflect on the beauty of Santa María, from its landscapes to its culture and warm people. Simply savor these moments as you head toward your next adventure or home.