The Santiago Cable Car (Teleférico Santiago) is one of Chile’s most popular tourist attractions, offering spectacular panoramic views of the capital, the Andes Mountains, and the sprawling city below. Located inside Parque Metropolitano de Santiago (Parquemet), the cable car is both a convenient way to explore San Cristóbal Hill and an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Whether you’re visiting Santiago for a few days or planning a longer stay, riding the cable car is one of the best ways to discover the city’s largest urban park. This guide covers everything you need to know about Santiago Cable Car tickets, prices, routes, operating hours, and helpful travel tips.
What Is the Santiago Cable Car?
The Santiago Cable Car is a modern gondola lift system that carries visitors above the trees of San Cristóbal Hill, connecting several of the park’s most popular attractions.
The ride offers stunning 360-degree views of:
- Santiago’s skyline
- The Andes Mountains
- Parque Metropolitano
- San Cristóbal Hill
- The Virgin Mary Statue
- Urban neighborhoods surrounding the park
The system is popular with tourists, families, photographers, and local residents alike.
Where Is the Cable Car Located?
The cable car operates inside Parque Metropolitano de Santiago, one of the largest urban parks in Latin America.
The two main access points are:
- Oasis Station (Pedro de Valdivia entrance)
- Pío Nono Station (near Bellavista)
Both lines connect through the summit area, making it easy to combine the cable car with other attractions inside the park.
Santiago Cable Car Ticket Prices
Several ticket options are available depending on the type of visit you want.
Common ticket choices include:
Round-Trip Ticket
Perfect for visitors who simply want to enjoy the cable car ride and return to their starting station.
Prices start at approximately:
- From CLP $4,050 (Oasis round trip).
One-Way Ticket
Ideal if you plan to continue exploring the park on foot or by funicular.
Prices start at approximately:
- From CLP $3,150.
Vive el Parque Pass
One of the best-value options for visitors.
This pass typically includes unlimited rides during the day on:
- Teleférico Santiago
- Historic Funicular
- Panoramic buses
Prices generally start around CLP $11,500.
Special Packages
Seasonal packages may include additional attractions such as:
- Manuel Foster Observatory
- Ice cream or refreshments
- Combined park experiences
Availability varies throughout the year.
Where to Buy Tickets
You can purchase tickets in several ways.
Online
Buying online is the easiest option.
Benefits include:
- Faster entry
- Secure payment
- Digital ticket
- Advance planning
At the Ticket Office
Tickets are also available at station ticket counters, subject to availability.
Self-Service Kiosks
Some stations feature automated kiosks where visitors can purchase tickets quickly.
Payment Methods
The cable car accepts multiple payment methods, including:
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Cash (Chilean pesos) at ticket offices
- Online card payments
Cash is useful if purchasing tickets in person.
Cable Car Stations
Oasis Station
The most popular departure point.
Nearby you’ll find:
- Pedro de Valdivia entrance
- Parking
- Bicycle paths
- Restaurants
This station is recommended for most visitors.
Tupahue Station
Located midway up the hill.
Nearby attractions include:
- Tupahue Swimming Pool
- Picnic areas
- Walking trails
- Scenic viewpoints
Many visitors stop here before continuing to the summit.
Cumbre Station
The highest station on the route.
From here you can easily reach:
- Virgin Mary Statue
- Sanctuary
- Viewing terraces
- Historic Funicular
- Hiking trails
This is the park’s most popular destination.
Pío Nono Line
The newer line provides convenient access from the Bellavista neighborhood.
It’s an excellent choice if you’re already exploring:
- Bellavista
- Patio Bellavista
- Pablo Neruda attractions
- Santiago’s nightlife district
Both cable car lines connect near the summit.
Operating Hours
The cable car generally operates:
Tuesday through Sunday
10:00 AM – 6:45 PM
The last descent is usually around 6:45 PM.
The system is normally closed on Mondays for scheduled maintenance. Operating hours may vary on holidays or due to weather conditions.
How Long Is the Ride?
The journey from Oasis Station to the summit typically takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on stops and passenger flow.
The slow-moving gondolas provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to ride are:
Morning
- Cooler temperatures
- Fewer crowds
- Clear mountain views
Late Afternoon
- Golden-hour lighting
- Beautiful sunset colors
- Excellent city photography
Avoid midday during summer if you prefer cooler weather.
Attractions Near the Cable Car
A cable car ticket gives you easy access to many of Santiago’s top attractions.
Popular stops include:
- San Cristóbal Hill Summit
- Virgin Mary Statue
- Japanese Garden
- Tupahue Pool
- Botanical areas
- Hiking trails
- Scenic viewpoints
- Historic Funicular
- Panoramic buses
Many visitors spend half a day exploring the park.
Can You Combine the Cable Car and Funicular?
Yes.
In fact, many travelers ride the cable car uphill and return via the historic funicular.
This combination offers two unique perspectives of the park while allowing you to experience two of Santiago’s iconic attractions.
The Vive el Parque pass is designed for exactly this type of visit.
Getting There
Metro
The easiest way is using Santiago Metro.
For Oasis Station:
- Metro Line 1
- Pedro de Valdivia Station
- About a 15–17 minute walk
For Pío Nono Station:
- Metro Line 1
- Baquedano Station
- About a 10-minute walk
These are the most convenient public transportation options.
Tips for Visiting
Buy Tickets Online
This saves time, especially on weekends and holidays.
Bring Sunscreen
The Santiago sun can be intense throughout the year.
Carry Water
You’ll likely spend several hours exploring the park.
Bring a Camera
The panoramic views are among the best in the city.
Check the Weather
Clear days provide spectacular views of the Andes, while heavy smog or rain may reduce visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cable car worth it?
Absolutely.
It offers some of the best panoramic views of Santiago while providing access to several of the city’s most popular attractions.
Can I buy tickets on the same day?
Yes.
Tickets are usually available online and at station ticket offices, although weekends can be busier.
Is the cable car family-friendly?
Yes.
Families with children regularly use the cable car, and the ride is smooth and suitable for most ages.
Are pets allowed?
Policies vary depending on the type and size of the animal. Service animals are generally permitted, while restrictions may apply to pets. Check the latest rules before your visit.
How much time should I allow?
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 hours exploring Parque Metropolitano, especially if combining the cable car with the funicular, walking trails, and scenic viewpoints.
The Santiago Cable Car is much more than a mode of transportation—it’s one of the city’s signature attractions and an essential experience for anyone visiting Chile’s capital. Whether you choose a simple round-trip ride or a full-day Vive el Parque pass that includes the funicular and panoramic buses, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, convenient access to San Cristóbal Hill, and plenty of opportunities to explore one of Latin America’s largest urban parks.
From the peaceful gardens and hiking trails to the iconic Virgin Mary Statue and sweeping views of the Andes, a ride on the Teleférico Santiago combines nature, history, and unforgettable scenery into one memorable adventure. Planning ahead by purchasing your tickets online and visiting during clear weather will help you make the most of this must-see Santiago experience.