Things To Do
in Santa María

A classic Chilean barbecue dish featuring grilled meats seasoned with local spices. Best enjoyed at local family-owned restaurants like Asados Don Juan.

Must-Try!

Savory pastries filled with a delicious mix of ground beef, onions, raisins, and olives. Try the best ones at Donde La Cuca or La Chingana.

A hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, corn, and pumpkin. La Casa de la Cazuela is renowned for its authentic cazuela.

A gratin dish made from ground beef, onions, chicken, and olives, all topped with a creamy layer of ground fresh corn. Head to Rincon de Adela for a mouthwatering experience.

This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local snacks like sopaipillas and empanadas. Don't miss trying chochoyotes, a traditional corn-based street food specialty.

In the heart of Santa María, the Plaza de Armas comes alive with numerous street food stalls offering everything from anticuchos (grilled skewered meat) to fresh seafood ceviche.

In Santa María, Chile, tipping practices are generally informal but common in the service industry. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service is satisfactory. However, tipping is not mandatory, and many locals may round up the bill or leave small change in cafes and bars. In other services like taxis, rounding up the fare is also a common practice.

Payment methods in Santa María include cash and electronic transactions. While Chilean pesos are the primary currency, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Mobile payment technologies are becoming increasingly popular as well, especially among younger populations. Some small businesses might only accept cash, so it's advisable for visitors to carry some cash when exploring the area.

Summer in Santa María is characterized by warm temperatures, often ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This is an ideal time for outdoor activities, exploring vineyards, and enjoying local festivals. Expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for hiking and visiting nearby attractions.

Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The landscape transforms with beautiful fall colors, making it a picturesque season for photography. It's also the harvest season for local grapes, and visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings. Rainfall begins to increase as winter approaches.

Winter in Santa María is cool and can be wet, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Expect occasional rain and overcast skies. This is a great time to experience the local culture, visit museums, and enjoy cozy indoor activities like wine tasting or culinary experiences. Heavy snowfall can occur in the nearby mountains, attracting skiing enthusiasts.

Spring features mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) and is a season of blooming flowers and greenery. It’s a fantastic time for outdoor activities and enjoying the local flora, including a variety of wildflowers. Spring is also associated with various local festivities and agricultural fairs, making it a lively time to visit.

Located in Balmaceda, this is the primary airport serving the southern region of Chile.

Situated in Punta Arenas, this airport provides international services to and from Antarctica and various countries.

Located in Santiago, this is the largest international airport in Chile, serving as a major hub.

Located in Iquique, this airport serves international flights to and from northern Chile.

While traditional Chilean cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Santa María now offer an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look out for dishes featuring fresh produce, quinoa, and legumes.

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find several gluten-free options at restaurants and cafes in Santa María. These may include corn-based dishes, fresh seafood, and specific gluten-free menu items.