Santiago is a city caught between mountains and concrete.
An urban sea of buildings, where small green islands rise unexpectedly from the streets.
These are the cerros isla—natural hilltops that have resisted the city’s relentless expansion.
Often overlooked, they are sanctuaries filled with stories, biodiversity, and much-needed breathers for those looking to escape the city—without actually leaving it.
They are guardians of the landscape, silent witnesses to our history, and invisible allies in the fight against climate change.
In summer, they help regulate temperature, absorbing the heat intensified by concrete.
They are home to native birds, reptiles, and plants—keeping life alive in the heart of the metropolis.
And though they may seem forgotten, more and more people are rediscovering them, walking their trails and appreciating their immense value.
There are 26 cerros isla in Santiago. Some have already become urban parks, while others are still waiting for their chance to be protected.
Cerro San Cristóbal
The most iconic of them all.
Its summit offers one of the best panoramic views of Santiago.
Along its slopes, you’ll find hiking trails, the National Zoo, and the sprawling Metropolitan Park.
A classic outdoor destination for locals.
You can go up by funicular, come down by cable car—or take to the trails on foot, by bike, or running.
Cerro Huelén – Santa Lucía
A small hill, rich in history.
This is where Santiago was founded in 1541.
Its gardens, fountains, and viewpoints make it the perfect spot for a break in the heart of the city.
Climb to the highest lookout tower—an ideal starting point to understand Santiago and its geography.
Cerro Renca
One of the tallest—and least explored—cerros isla.
From its peak, you get sweeping views of the city and the Andes Mountains. It’s also a key spot for birdwatching and biodiversity observation.
Cerro Chena
Located in San Bernardo, this hill is a sacred site for Indigenous peoples and a haven of natural preservation.
Efforts are underway to turn it into a major urban park.
Cerro Calán
In Las Condes, this hill is home to an astronomical observatory and has been transformed into a natural urban park.
Perfect for short hikes and panoramic views—without leaving the eastern part of Santiago.
More Than Viewpoints: Cerros Isla as Climate Refuges
In a city where urban heat continues to rise, these hills are cool islands.
Their vegetation helps reduce temperatures, absorbs pollution, and brings moisture to the air.
Their soil also allows rainwater to seep into the ground—helping prevent city floods.
But they’re not just climate heroes.
They’re vital refuges for urban biodiversity, sheltering species that have disappeared from other areas.
And for people, they offer space to disconnect, move our bodies, and clear our minds.
The Challenge: Protecting What Remains
Many of these hills are degraded, unprotected, and threatened by real estate development.
How can we explore them responsibly and help protect them?
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion.
- Pack out all your trash.
- Keep pets under control—they can harm native wildlife.
- Support conservation initiatives like Fundación Cerros Isla.
Santiago could triple its green space if these hills were protected and transformed into urban parks.
Some already are.
Others are still waiting.
Discover them. Walk their trails. Help keep them alive.
At Ecordua, we take you to experience the best of nature in and around Santiago.
Join us for authentic experiences—carefully designed routes that explore cerros isla and other destinations in a respectful, meaningful way.
