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Field trips for Santiago, Chile

We highly recommend students participate in the following organized field trips, which are included in your program fees. Some trips may be mandatory for specific classes and will be led by the Resident Director, instructors, or International Office staff.

Please note that destinations may only be available during certain terms and are subject to change at the discretion of the Resident Director or on-site staff.

The following are possible field trip destinations, with further details provided upon arrival.

A view of the white beaches and coast line of Algarrobo, Chile.Algarrobo day trip

Explore the Coast of Poets (Litoral de Los Poetas) in Algarrobo. You’ll discover the works of renowned Chilean poets, including Pablo Neruda, Vicente Huidobro, and Nicanor Parra. You’ll also visit Tricao, the largest aviary on the continent, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by diverse protected fauna.

Students pose in front of Ocoa Valley after a hike.Ocoa Valley

This trip to the first national park of the central region of Chile features an attractive valley in the coastal mountain range. Ocoa has great biodiversity and was the source of much of Charles Darwin’s research work in South America. The trip includes a 12 km hike in the Palmar de Ocoa, the most important palm tree reserve in the country, and concludes with a traditional South American meal of empanadas.

Students sitting in next to a statue in Isla Negra with a view of the ocean behind.Pomaire and Isla Negra

Discover the melding of ancient indigenous communities and Spanish conquest influence in Pomaire, which is also one of the country’s most important craft centers for pottery: purchase the signature red clay pieces inexpensively for souvenirs, or try your hand at the potter’s wheel. Isla Negra is the coastal town where Pablo Neruda lived and spent his last days. Explore the poet’s house, which has been turned into a museum, and learn about Neruda’s collections while enjoying views of the ocean and local history.

Students exploring the Andes mountains in Chile.San José de Maipo

San José is a small and beautiful town located in the pre-Andean region only 60 minutes away from Santiago. Discover what life is like up in the mountains while enjoying abundant nature all around. The trip includes a hike by the river, a visit to San José town, and group rafting in the San José River, as well as a traditional Chilean meal.

Students standing in the dunes with sandboards in Viña del Mar.Valparaíso and Viña del Mar

Valparaíso is considered one of Latin America’s most original cities, with a colorful, bohemian vibe and breathtaking architecture left over from European immigration in the 19th century. In the coastal city of Viña del Mar, located an hour and a half from Santiago, you’ll have the opportunity to visit lovely gardens, parks, cliffs, and beaches — everything that makes the city a longtime popular getaway destination.

Please note: this trip includes a significant amount of walking.

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