The best family-friendly hikes and walks in La Cisterna
4.9
(21)
176
hikers
6
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in La Cisterna provide access to a unique blend of urban landscapes and natural elements within the broader Santiago Metropolitan region. The area is characterized by prominent urban hills like Cerro Santa Lucía and Cerro San Cristóbal, offering viewpoints over the city. While La Cisterna itself is largely residential, its location allows for exploration of diverse terrains, from city walks to routes with views of the distant Andes Mountains. The network of trails caters to various…
Last updated: July 21, 2026
4.8
(9)
108
hikers
16.7km
04:43
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
22
hikers
23.8km
06:35
390m
390m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7.84km
02:10
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Santiago is not the most overwhelming city, but it is still worth spending a few days there.
0
0
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.
0
0
During the hike up San Cristóbal Hill, the views of Santiago, Chile, gradually unfold through patches of vegetation. From the slopes, the immense urban tapestry stretches out toward the horizon. It's a panorama that blends nature and metropolis in a single glance.
0
0
The Virgin of the Immaculate Conception symbolizes the purity and grace of Mary, conceived without original sin. She is traditionally depicted wearing white and blue robes, with her hands clasped and the moon at her feet, a symbol of light and hope. On San Cristóbal Hill, her image rises like an icon, watching over the city from its heights.
0
0
The oldest building in Santiago and probably also the oldest church in Chile.
0
0
Good view of the city. BUT: Too many people because it's a tourist hotspot
0
0
The park can only be entered from the north or south. All other entrances are closed. You must register at the entrance with your name and pass number. Admission is free.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in La Cisterna?
There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails in and around La Cisterna, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, ensuring there's something for every family.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near La Cisterna?
Hiking near La Cisterna offers a unique blend of urban landscapes and natural elements. You'll find paths that lead through city parks, historic urban hills like Cerro Santa Lucía, and routes that provide panoramic views of Santiago with the majestic Andes Mountains in the background. The trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for families.
Are there any easy, short circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for a pleasant and manageable walk, consider the Plaza Montt-Varas – Chamber of Deputies of Chile loop from Universidad de Chile. This easy route is just over 5 km and takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, perfect for families looking for a shorter outing.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in La Cisterna?
The best times to visit for family hiking in La Cisterna are typically during spring (September to November) and fall (March to May). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making for comfortable conditions on the trails.
Are there any family-friendly routes that offer great viewpoints?
Absolutely! Many routes offer fantastic views. For instance, the Cerro Santa Lucía – Vicuña Mackenna Square loop from Santa Isabel is an easy 7.5 km trail that provides picturesque views from the historic Cerro Santa Lucía, a prominent urban hill in Santiago.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in La Cisterna?
The family-friendly trails in La Cisterna are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars from numerous reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, the accessibility of the trails, and the rewarding views from urban hills.
Are there any moderate family hikes for slightly older children or more active families?
For families seeking a bit more challenge, the Cerro Santa Lucía – Vicuña Mackenna Square loop from Parque Almagro is a moderate 9.8 km route. It offers a good balance of distance and elevation, taking around 2 hours 30 minutes to complete.
Can we find longer family hikes that still offer manageable difficulty?
Yes, if your family enjoys longer excursions, consider the View of Santiago – Cerro Santa Lucía loop from Santa Lucía. This moderate 16.5 km route takes approximately 4 hours 40 minutes and offers extensive views of Santiago, combining urban exploration with natural beauty.
Are there options for public transport to reach the trailheads?
La Cisterna is an urban commune within Greater Santiago, which means many trailheads are accessible via Santiago's extensive public transport network. While specific routes vary, using the metro and bus system can often get you close to the starting points of these family-friendly hikes.
Are there any trails that combine urban exploration with natural areas?
Many routes in the area beautifully integrate urban and natural elements. For example, the Patio Bellavista – Cerro El Carbón loop from Parque Almagro, though more challenging at 23.9 km, showcases the city's diverse environment, leading through varied urban and natural terrain.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
