Quick Route Fact Sheet

Distance from Santiago	50 to 250 km depending on destination
Estimated driving time	1.5 to 4 hours per stretch
Recommended duration	Full day, 2 days, or a long weekend
Vehicle type	City car for urban/coastal routes; SUV for mountain or gravel roads

Introduction

Santiago has a huge advantage: in just a few hours you can go from the city to the mountains, the sea, a wine valley, or a town with history. For West, this type of content is key because it directly connects with the need to rent a vehicle for a few days.

How to get there and which routes to choose

For Cajón del Maipo, head out via Puente Alto and Camino al Volcán, taking Route G-25. For Valparaíso, Viña, Zapallar, or Maitencillo, use Route 68 or Route 5 North depending on the destination. For Colchagua, take Route 5 South toward San Fernando or Santa Cruz. For Pichilemu and Matanzas, the usual route is Route 78 or Route 5 South combined with inland roads toward the coast.

Recommended activities by destination

Cajón del Maipo — Ideal for mountains, picnics, hot springs, trekking, and photography. El Yeso Reservoir requires about 3 hours from Santiago, and the final stretch may have gravel, curves, and snow restrictions.

Valparaíso and Viña del Mar — Perfect for a cultural and coastal full day. Valparaíso offers hills, funiculars, murals, cafés, and viewpoints; Viña brings a coastal boardwalk, gardens, and restaurants.

Colchagua Valley — Santa Cruz is about 2 hours from Santiago. It’s a well-rounded getaway for wineries, cuisine, boutique hotels, and the Colchagua Museum.

Pichilemu — About 3.5 hours from Santiago, it’s a surfing and beach-life classic. Punta de Lobos is the icon for sunset views and board sports.

Matanzas — Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Popular among those seeking kitesurfing, windsurfing, design, small hotels, and a wilder coastline.

Zapallar and Cachagua — About 2.5 hours away. Known for their coastline, walks, coves, restaurants, and elegant scenery for quiet getaways.

Portillo and Laguna del Inca — About 2.5 hours via Route 57 toward Los Andes and then the international road. In winter, check chains, weather, and road closures.

Can you go and return the same day?

Yes: Cajón del Maipo, Valparaíso/Viña, Colchagua, Zapallar, and Portillo can be done as day trips if you leave early. Pichilemu and Matanzas are better enjoyed with an overnight stay, since the return trip can feel long.

Where to stay

For a short getaway, it’s best to choose lodging near the main activity: San José de Maipo for the mountains, Santa Cruz for wineries, Cerro Alegre or Concón for the urban coast, and Pichilemu or Matanzas for beach and sports. Boutique hotels, cabins, hostels, and nightly apartments let you tailor the trip to your budget.

Must-know West tips

• Leaving before 8:00 AM helps avoid traffic and make the most of the day.
• Book restaurants or wineries in advance during high season.
• On mountain routes, don’t rely solely on Santiago’s weather.
• For photos, prioritize sunrise or sunset at viewpoints and beaches.

Need to disconnect without planning a long vacation? Rent your vehicle at West and turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable route near Santiago.