The Green Lungs: Exploring Metropolitan Park by Bike

Escape the concrete without leaving the city. A guide to riding San Cristóbal Hill and other great parks, enjoying the best panoramic views of Santiago surrounded by nature.

Why ride through Santiago’s Green Lungs?

Santiago is a city of contrasts, but its greatest treasure is the network of parks that allow you to disconnect from urban noise in minutes. If you are looking for sustainable tourism in Chile, there is no better way to do it than on two wheels.
From the iconic San Cristóbal Hill to the modern Bicentenario Park, the capital offers routes that combine a physical challenge with breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. With over 722 hectares, the Metropolitan Park (San Cristóbal Hill) is the city's true "green lung," acting as a natural filter and a thermal regulator for the capital.

Strategic Access Points: Connecting the City

To plan your ride, you first need to know where to enter. Here are the key spots for cyclists:

Pío Nono Access (Closest to La Bicicleta Verde)
Located at the end of Pío Nono Street in the Bellavista neighborhood. This is the closest entrance to our office at Constitución 153, Providencia. It is the classic and most vibrant entry point, perfect for those who rent a bike with us and want to start their climb toward the summit immediately.

Pedro de Valdivia Norte Access
Located in Providencia, this is a favorite starting point for many local riders due to its constant shade and smoother gradient. While it is the base for the Santiago Cable Car (Teleférico), please note that bicycles are NOT allowed inside the cable car cabins. This access is strictly for those looking to conquer the climb on two wheels or to enjoy the scenic paved road that leads to the summit.

La Pirámide Access (The River Connection)
This entrance in Vitacura is essential for urban cycle-tourism. It connects directly with the Andrés Bello Bike Path (Mapocho 42K), allowing you to transition from the Mapocho riverbank to the mountain trails in no time.

From Road to Trail: Paths for Everyone

San Cristóbal Hill is versatile and welcomes all riding styles:

The Asphalt Challenge (Road & City Bikes)

The paved roads are perfect for those seeking speed or a scenic ride. The climb via Pío Nono is steeper and more technical, while the Pedro de Valdivia route is more consistent and shaded.

Mountain Biking (MTB in Santiago)

If you crave dirt and adrenaline, the hill has specific sectors for Mountain Biking:

• Cross Country (XC) Trails: Such as the "Paseo Metropolitano," a nearly flat dirt path that circles the hill with incredible views.
• Singletracks and Downhill: Routes like "Zorzal" or "La S" offer tight turns and technical sections for experienced riders.

Must-See Attractions on Two Wheels

Riding the hill is a complete cultural and natural experience. On your way, you will find:

• Mapulemu Botanical Garden: 4.5 hectares dedicated to Chile's native flora. It is the perfect place to appreciate the biodiversity of the central zone.
• Japanese Garden: A peaceful oasis with lotus ponds and traditional bridges. Please note that bicycles are not allowed inside the garden. It is essential to bring your own bike lock to secure your bicycle at the racks located at the entrance while you explore this area on foot.
• National Zoo: An iconic stop for those visiting the park with family. You can see fascinating animals such as the towering Giraffes, the adorable Red Panda, and the Darwin’s Frog, a tiny native treasure that the zoo works hard to conserve through their specialized programs.
• Flora & Fauna: Keep your eyes peeled; while you’ll frequently see Black-chested Buzzard-eagles soaring majestically above the peaks, if you’re quiet enough, you might even catch a rare glimpse of a Culpeo fox or various colorful hummingbird species hiding in the native bush.
  

The Summit Reward: "Cyclist to Cyclist"

There is no greater tradition in Parquemet than reaching the summit terrace to enjoy an ice-cold Mote con Huesillo (a traditional peach and husked wheat drink) or warm empanadas. It’s a place where you share the road with other riders in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, celebrating the effort of the climb.

Get Ready for Adventure!

Whether you're looking for an intense MTB workout or a relaxed family stroll through the botanical gardens, San Cristóbal Hill has it all. Don't let a lack of gear hold you back: at La Bicicleta Verde, we are ready to gear you up with the best bike and the best local tips.

Ready to conquer the summit? Book your bike here or join one of our guided tours to experience the best of Santiago on wheels.