Things To Do
in Quilicura
Quilicura is a northern Santiago commune known for its blend of industrial zones, residential neighborhoods, and growing commercial activity. It functions as a practical base for exploring the greater Santiago area, with easy road connections and access to shopping centers. The area is evolving, with new developments and local markets that reflect everyday Chilean life.
Expect a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool, wetter winters, making it suitable for urban exploring and nearby nature trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk through Parque Cívico, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and the peaceful atmosphere. As the sun rises higher, take some time to appreciate the sculptures and installations that tell the story of Quilicura's culture. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local café to savor the morning vibes.
After a delightful morning, head to Parque El Tranque for a picnic lunch by the water. You can rent a paddleboat and enjoy the serene landscape while soaking up the sun. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails in the park, observing local wildlife and immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to indulge in traditional Chilean cuisine. Try dishes like pastel de choclo or empanadas, paired with a nice glass of Chilean wine. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Kick off your day by visiting the Quilicura Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture. The market is bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional snacks. Take your time to interact with the locals and sample some delicious breakfast options, like completos or breakfast empanadas.
Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby artisan shops, where you can find unique handmade goods and souvenirs to take home. Engage with the artisans to learn about their crafts and the stories behind their creations. Afterward, relax at a nearby café and enjoy a cup of Chilean coffee while people-watching.
In the evening, enjoy a cooking class that focuses on traditional Chilean dishes. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn how to prepare classic meals and savor the flavors of your creations. Conclude the day by enjoying your culinary masterpieces along with new friends you made during the class.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚌One-way local public transport | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center | $450-700 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable dining and easy access to everyday Chilean life
- Good base for exploring Santiago with well-connected road links
- Limited nightlife within Quilicura itself; more options require travel
- Industrial areas can feel busy and less scenic in some parts
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está [lugar]?" - Where is [place]?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Soy vegetariano" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Quilicura
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping views of Santiago valley at sunrise or dusk; accessible via short drive or transit to a nearby transport hub and a climb or funicular portion.
Colorful murals and busy plaza scenes that capture daily life, markets, and local architecture in the heart of Quilicura.
Contemporary architecture and urban backdrops ideal for cityscape photography, especially at golden hour.
Contrast between industrial zones and distant hills, offering moody skies and lines of infrastructure perfect for architectural photography.
Food in Quilicura
Quilicura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A corn casserole baked with seasoned ground meat, onions, and sometimes olives or eggs. Commonly found in local casual eateries and traditional Chilean homes.
Must-Try!
Golden pastries stuffed with beef, onions, and spices; a staple at markets and bakeries.
A comforting chicken or beef soup with vegetables like corn, potatoes, and pumpkin—popular for a hearty midday meal.
A Chilean hot dog loaded with avocado, tomato, sauerkraut, and mayo; a common street food option from vendors and casual eateries.
A fresh Chilean salsa made with cilantro, onion, pepper, and oil; great as a dip for bread or empanadas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, meat, prepared foods, and regional snacks. Look for empanadas, mote con huesillo, and seasonal fruits.
A modern retail complex with a food court featuring quick bites, Chilean staples, and international options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In formal settings, a handshake; with friends, a light cheek kiss or hug is common. Use polite language and say 'por favor' and 'gracias' regularly.
Being on time is appreciated in most contexts; greeting and conversation often begin with small talk. Respect personal space in public settings and queues.
Safety
Tipping in Quilicura
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10–15% is customary if service is not included. Rounding up the bill at casual places is common. For taxi rides, tipping is optional and based on service.
Cash (Chilean peso) is widely accepted, along with credit and debit cards. Most places support contactless payments and Transbank WebPay; some street vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 25–35°C) with dry conditions. Seek shade, hydrate, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings. UV exposure is high; carry sunscreen and a hat.
Mild days with cooler mornings and evenings. Occasional light rain; great for walking and city exploring with fewer crowds.
Cool to chilly with more frequent rain. Average daytime temperatures around 6–16°C. Pack a rain jacket and sturdy footwear for wet streets.
Pleasant and breezy with mild temperatures. Can see surprise showers; good for outdoor photography and parks.
Quilicura at Night
Hiking in Quilicura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-and-hill trails with panoramic views of Santiago; a popular day hike accessible within a short drive from Quilicura.
Urban-to-suburban hillside trails offering city views and a modest ascent, reachable by car or transit from Quilicura.
Airports
How to reach Quilicura by plane.
Santiago's main international gateway, located roughly 15–25 miles from Quilicura. Accessible by taxi, rideshare, or airport bus connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with diverse neighborhoods, ranging from working-class to middle-income residents.
Visible presence of Peruvians, Bolivians, Colombians, Haitians, and others, contributing to cultural diversity and varied dining options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Chile, with local leagues and casual pickup games common in parks and schools.
Played in community centers and schools; easy to join a pickup game if you have a ball and friendly locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quilicura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes revolve around vegetables, grains, and dairy. Look for salads, empanadas with cheese or vegetables, pastel de choclo sin carne, and ask for 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne'. In markets, you can often request fruit, bread, and simple veggie sides; Communicate dietary needs in Spanish: 'Soy vegetariano' (I am vegetarian).