Santiago de Chile

Santiago is the capital and economic center of Chile. With its many museums, events and theaters, restaurants, bars and other entertainment and cultural opportunities, it is also the political and cultural center of the nation. Its central location in the nation makes it a great base for visiting other areas, and it is feasible to ski in the nearby Andes and later be on the beach in the same day.

Districts

Central Santiago The traditional financial area of the city, full of colonial architecture and paseos (streets turned pedestrian walkways).

Providencia A solidly upper middle class comuna home of many of the entertainment neighborhoods, including Suecia and the area surrounding Manuel Montt. It also comprises Parque Bustamente, a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood with many hostels and cafés, and Parque de Las Esculturas, a prime park for morning runners

Sanhattan and eastern Santiago (Ñuñoa, Macul, La Florida, Penalolen, La Reina, Las Condes, Vitacura, Lo Barnechea) The new financial neighborhood of the city, full of tall buildings, swanky bars, and high-end hotels. This part of the city stretches all the way to the Andean glaciers at the city borders.

Bellavista and northern Santiago (Recoleta, Independencia, Conchali, Renca, Quilicura, Huechuraba) The Bohemian quarter of the city full of cafes and late night restaurants.

Western and southern Santiago (Barrio Brasil, Barrio República, Quinta Normal, Estación Central, Lo Prado, Cerro Navia, Pudahuel, Maipu, Cerrillos, Pedro Aguirre Cerda, Lo Espejo, San Miguel, San Joaquin, La Cisterna, San Ramón, La Granja, El Bosque, La Pintana) Contains Barrio Brasil, a neighborhood of students, artists, affordable restaurants, and happy hour as well as the western and southern parts of the city, including both the city's airport and central train station.

Santiago Halal Travel Guide

Santiago is a fast-growing city in the Santiago Región Metropolitana, in the central valley of Chile between the Andes mountain range to the east and the Coastal Range to the west. The metropolitan area has about 7 million inhabitants.

Founded in 1541 as Santiago de Nueva Extremadura by the Spaniard Pedro de Valdivia, it has been the heart of the nation since colonial times and has evolved to the cosmopolitan city it is today. For visitors it's both the gateway to the nation and a destination in its own right with an eclectic architecture, a vibrant culinary and cultural scene, surrounded by the mighty Andes welcoming skiers, trekkers and friends of soft drinks.

History

The Santiago valley has been inhabited for thousands of years by different tribes. The Inca empire, and with them the Inca road network, extended here in the late 15th century. Not long after emerged the Spanish conquistadors, and on February 12, 1541, Pedro de Valdivia founded "Santiago de Nueva Extremadura" as the capital of the Captaincy General of Chile. During the following centuries functioned as the headquarters of the Spanish for their wars against the native Mapuche people further south, during which time the city was ruined two times by earthquakes.

From the 19th century onwards, Santiago followed a similar path as many other South American cities. Independence was followed by rapid expansion and modernization and many of the city's major buildings, cultural institutions and parks were established at this time. Also the railway network to other parts of the nation was greatly expanded. European immigration was from the 1930s onwards followed by immigrants from rural Chile and the city already had 3 million inhabitants by the middle of the 20th century.

The next major event in the city's history took place in 1973, when Marxist president Allende was ousted in a military coup orchestrated by the Western powers. The military dictatorship that followed lasted until 1990. Today, Chile is a safe, democratic and stable country and one of the richest in Latin America.

Geography

Santiago sits in the middle of the Maipo river valley, at the place where it is joined by its tributary Mapocho, and the city is surrounded by mountains of various elevations and the highest of them Tupungato (6,570 m). Many of them are active volcanoes, and the soil has been covered in ash for millenia making it very fertile and high-quality grapes and other fruits are widely grown just outside the city.

The city sits between 400 and 540 meters above the sea level, but with many "hill islands" here and there including Santa Lucia, Cerro Calan and Cerro San Cristobal and the most emblematic top of the city. The Andes on the east side are noticeably higher than the Chilean Coastal Range on the west, wherefore east and west are often referred to as "up" or "down" by local residents.

The administrative conurbation of Santiago is made up of 37 municipalities, of which the most important is Santiago Centro, where the main public institutions of the nation and the old town are found. The east of the city is the financial center of the nation.

Climate & Weather

Like most of the central part in the nation, Santiago has a typical Mediterranean climate. The climate is chilly and rainy in the winter, and temperatures can fall to around 0°C at night. It very rarely snows in the city itself, and during the winter it will more likely be raining with snow falling to the east up in the Andes. It gets progressively hotter towards the summer. Summers are fairly dry although you may experience some humidity at times, and temperatures can surpass 35°C. Due to the relative lack of vegetation in the region, temperatures fluctuate wildly between day and night year-round. It is not uncommon to suffer from the heat in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt during the day but require a jacket at night.

Santiago is notorious for its poor air quality, which is due to the inversion effect in the basin and other factors. The air quality can be unhealthy in large part due to high concentrations of particulate matter (especially in the winter).

Visitor information

• Sernatur - State Tourism Agency | Av Providencia 1550 -33.42719, -70.61710 ☎ +56 2 27318336 and +56 2 27318337 - The main visitor information office.

Santiago Central Mosque

Santiago de Chile, the vibrant capital of Chile, is home to a diverse and dynamic community, including a growing number of Muslims. Among the key landmarks for this community is the Santiago Central Mosque, known locally as "مسجد," which serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for Muslims in the region.

Santiago Central Mosque (مسجد)

Rating: 4.6 (337 reviews)
Location: Campoamor 2975, Santiago, Chile 7770353

Architectural Beauty and Design

The Santiago Central Mosque stands out not only as a place of worship but also as an architectural gem in the city. The mosque’s design reflects a blend of traditional Islamic architectural elements with local influences, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The minaret, a defining feature, rises elegantly, calling the faithful to prayer and symbolizing the mosque's presence in the city.

A Center for Worship and Community

As the main mosque in Santiago, the Santiago Central Mosque plays a crucial role in the religious life of the Muslim community. It hosts the five daily prayers, Jumu'ah (Friday) prayers, and special prayers during Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The mosque's spacious prayer hall can accommodate a significant number of worshippers, ensuring that everyone has a place to perform their prayers comfortably.

Educational and Cultural Activities

Beyond its primary function as a place of worship, the Santiago Central Mosque is a center for learning and cultural exchange. The mosque offers various educational programs, including Quranic studies, Arabic language classes, and lectures on Islamic teachings. These programs are designed to cater to all age groups, from children to adults, fostering a deeper understanding of Islam among community members and visitors alike.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The mosque actively engages with the broader Santiago community through outreach programs and interfaith dialogues. These initiatives aim to promote mutual understanding and respect between different faith groups, highlighting the mosque's commitment to peace and community cohesion. The mosque often organizes open days and guided tours, inviting people of all backgrounds to learn about Islam and the role of the mosque in the community.

A Welcoming Atmosphere

One of the defining features of the Santiago Central Mosque is its welcoming atmosphere. The mosque's administration and community members ensure that all visitors, whether they are Muslims or people of other faiths, feel welcomed and respected. This inclusive approach has made the mosque a beloved institution in Santiago, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among its diverse visitors.

The Santiago Central Mosque is more than just a place of worship; it is a beacon of faith, education, and community engagement in Santiago de Chile. Its beautiful architecture, vibrant community activities, and commitment to outreach make it a significant landmark for both Muslims and the broader Santiago community. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, a visit to the Santiago Central Mosque offers a unique and enriching experience, providing insight into the Islamic faith and the dynamic community it serves.

Travel to Santiago

Upon entry, all Muslims are issued a tourist card good for 90 days. Take care not to lose the stamped tourist card as it is required to exit the nation. If you happen to lose it you must get it reissued by the PDI (Policía de Investigaciones) before attempting to leave the nation.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Santiago

• Aeropuerto Internacional Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez IATA Code: SCL, commonly called Pudahuel Airport after the municipality, - Is the main Chilean gateway for international flights. The travel duration to the downtown has been drastically reduced with the construction of a tollway and the Costanera Norte.

Travelers from Albania, Australia, and Mexico, must pay a reciprocity fee upon entry to the nation by air. This is in response to these same countries' visa fees for Chilean citizens. The one-time charge must be paid in cash (USD) or credit card before passing through immigration and is valid for the life of the passport. The fee for Albanians is US$30, US$117 for Australians, and US$23 for Mexicans. There is no fee to enter by land. If paying by cash be aware that the bills must be in near "perfect" condition, no ripped bills.

There is no public transportation from Santiago airport. There are however airport buses running on two slightly different routes to the downtown: CentroPuerto (CLP$1,800 one-way, CLP$3,200 return) runs every 10 min, and /TurBus (CLP$1,800 one-way, CLP$3,200 return) every 30 min. CentroPuerto's buses are blue and single level; Turbus's buses are double-decker. Both buses can be caught by walking outside the terminal at exit 5. Both buses have booths after immigration that will accept credit cards, otherwise tickets can be purchased on the bus in cash. They can get very crowded and will allow people to stand in the aisle. Both buses stop at the Pajaritos Metro station en route. Due to the heavy traffic east of Pajaritos it is a good idea to get off here and take the Metro line 1 towards Los Dominicos to the downtown (15-20 min).

Transvip runs a shared-ride shuttle service and have a counter immediately after customs, before you exit into the main terminal. A ride to the downtown (as of March 2022) runs CLP$7,000. Beware of people posing as Transvip staff (even with official looking lanyards) who insist you have only paid for a “reservation”. They will attempt to scam you by taking you to an ATM, withdrawing money and then charging CLP$200,000 for a private shuttle ride.

Private taxis will charge about CLP$21,000 for a trip to downtown or Providencia. Unofficial taxis may take advantage of unknowing foreigners and charge as much as CLP$200,000 for a trip to downtown or Providencia. It is easy to identify unofficial taxis, most drivers will not have any type of identification and will insist on taking you to the ATMs around the airport where they will convince you to take out the highest allowed amount (CLP$200,000). Common sense and sticking to official taxis will get you to the city with no problem.

• From Europe, British Airways operates to London (14 hours), Air France operates to Paris (14 hours), Iberia to Madrid (13 hours), and LATAM to Frankfurt with a stop in Madrid (18 hours). Air France uses Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, Iberia Airbus A340 aircraft, and both LATAM and British Airways use Boeing 787 aircrafts.
• From Latin America, LATAM has the most extensive network to and from Santiago, with Flights from Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Sao Paulo, Quito, Guayaquil, Bogotá, Caracas, La Paz, Santa Cruz, Mexico City, Havana, Punta Cana, among others. LATAM has direct connecting Flights from Sao Paulo and Rio, and Copa Airlines operates three daily non-stop Flights from Panama City. Also Aerolineas Argentinas, Gol, Varig, Aeroméxico and Pluna operate from Santiago.
• From North America, American Airlines and LATAM operate Flights from Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas. Some flights have layovers in Guayaquil or Lima, but all of them offer non-stop services. Delta Air Lines operates direct connecting Flights from Atlanta. Air Canada operates a flight from Toronto six days per week. Many of these flights are overnight, and most use widebody aircraft such as the Boeing 767.
• From Oceania, Qantas operates a direct flight from Sydney four times a week using a B747. LATAM also operates one daily flight from Sydney to Santiago via Auckland. It's at least 12 hours each way. LATAM also operates a Tahiti - Easter Island - Santiago route.

Travelers from Asia and Africa will have to transfer at least once. Santiago being antipodal to central China, you're in for an extremely long trip from most parts of Asia; depending on where you're starting the shortest route may be via the North American west coast, Oceania, Europe or a combination of the Middle East and Brazil. Some East Asian airlines fly to Sao Paulo, but these flights include a stop — Avoiding travel through often in the United States. From most of Africa and the shortest route would be flying to Sao Paulo and transfering there.

Being one of the longest countries in the world, flying is by far the quickest way for getting in from elsewhere in Chile. You'll in most cases have two airlines to pick from; LATAM and the semi-low-cost Sky Airline with a slightly smaller network.

If you are renting a vehicle and the rental vehicle company counters are all together to your left after clearing customs in the international terminal. There is a separate set of rental vehicle counters before customs (so you can rent a vehicle while waiting at the baggage claim), but they are not always staffed. After you get your contract, you have to walk outside, turn left, and walk east and then cross the street to the south to a small lot where the rental cars are kept and present your contract to the attendant on duty to obtain your rental car. When you return the vehicle, you must return to the same lot. Because the airport rental vehicle lot is far too small, traffic jams and delays are frequent, so arrive early. At return and the attendant inspects the vehicle and fills out a return checklist form in carbon copy and then gives you one of the copies, which you bring back to the inside counter to close out your contract.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Santiago

Trenes Metropolitanos provides multiple commuter and interregional trains from the Estación Central train station (Metro Estación Central, Line 1) to the vast and agriculture valley to the south. The central station, designed by Gustave Eiffel, used to be the center of an extensive passenger railway network, which has been closed down just like in the rest of South America.

• Metrotren is a commuter rail that runs to San Fernando by way of Rancagua with five departures daily, prices up to CLP$1,950.
• TerraSur runs to Chillán with three departures daily. It is recommended to book ahead during the high season (Austral summer) as seats fill up quickly. Prices are up to CLP$22,000 for first class and CLP$10,800 for second class.
• Expreso Maule runs an interregional express service to the sixth and seventh regions (O'Higgins and Maule) once daily, prices up to CLP$3,850.

By car

Entering Santiago by car, you'll probably find yourself on the Autopista Central (Ruta 5) and the Chilean leg of the Pan-American Highway. To use this freeway you need a "TAG" toll transponder, or a day pass which you can buy from service stations. One day passes are CLP$4,400. You can also buy it after accidentally passing through it without one.

If you rent a vehicle at the airport or anywhere in Santiago and the rental vehicle company is required to include a TAG toll transponder in the vehicle and charge you for it.

Travel on a Bus in Santiago

Buses are the main mode of transportation between cities, and most cities in Chile have a bus connection to the capital. For some close, large cities, like Valparaiso or Viña del Mar there may be a bus departing as frequently as every 15 minutes. Prices of bus tickets vary according to demand and type of seat (regular seat, semi-bed or bed). Buses are in general clean and comfortable, but this may not always be the case with the toilets on board. There are several bus terminals in the city and the biggest being Terminal Santiago.

The bus ride between Santiago and Mendoza in Argentina has stunning vistas and takes about eight hours, depending on the time spent at the Cristo Redentor checkpoint. The border crossing is at about 2,800 m in the Andes. Fruit, vegetables or animal products are not allowed in either direction; all luggage will get checked at the border crossing. One-way fares are listed at around CLP$21,000 (semicama) CLP$25,000 (cama) in high season, but are often cheaper if booked in advance and in the off season. There are also buses to and from San Juan, Argentina|San Juan (one way fares listed at around CLP$19,500) and Neuquen, Argentina. One-way fares to Lima are listed at around CLP$85,000. - Terminal Santiago | alt - Estación Central, ex Terminal Sur Avda. Lib. Bernardo O'Higgins 3850 -33.4540, -70.6882 Metro Universidad de Santiago ☎ +56-2-23761750 - fax = Price Opening Hours: - Bus companies serving international and domestic destinations are in the Terminal Santiago (Alameda 3848, Metro Universidad de Santiago [Line 1], ☎ +56 2 23761755). In the terminal there is a food court with local fast food restaurants and a McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant). May be extremely overcrowded prior to and on national holiday. Not dangerous, but be beware of pickpockets and people trying to sell you stolen goods (iPods and cell phones are a common target).

• Metro Universidad de Santiago ☎ +56-2-22707425 - fax = Price Opening Hours: Turbus and Pullman operate a private station next door at Terminal Alameda (Metro Estación Central [Line 1], ☎ +56 2 27762424) for domestic and international departures. There is a hotel and a few convenience shops in the terminal.
• Terrapuerto Los Héroes | Tucapel Jiménez 21 -33.4448, -70.6582 Metro Los Héroes ☎ +56-2-24239530 - fax = Price Opening Hours: A few kilometers east of the main terminals is the Terminal Los Héroes (Tucapel Jiménez 21, Metro Los Héroes [Line 1], ☎ +56 2 24200099). Services to the north and to Mendoza. Of note here is the bus line Cruz del Sur, which is one of the few companies with regularly scheduled departures to towns in Argentine Patagonia and Punta Arenas.
• Terminal San Borja | San Borja 184 GPS -33.4550, -70.6798 Metro Estación Central ☎ +56-2-27760645 - fax = Price Opening Hours: - Services to the north of the nation, Litoral Central and the western part of the Santiago region.
• Terminal Pajaritos - Opening Hours: - Services to Viña del Mar, Valparaíso and the airport.

How to get around in Santiago

Transantiago

Transantiago runs the metro and main bus lines in the city. Fares on public transport can be paid only with a bip! card. Bip! cards can be purchased and recharged at any metro station (CLP$1,500 for the card, minimum recharge CLP$1,000) or at a Centro bip!]. They are good for both the metro and bus and allows you unlimited transfers between the two within a two hour period — you still have to swipe your card when boarding the next metro train or bus, but there is in general no deduction. In the peak period, when traveling with a ticket activated on a metro and you're transfering to a bus (or the other way around) there will be a small deduction.

You cannot return the card nor get a refund, think twice before adding too much money. However, you can use the card for several people, you just have to swipe for the second person as well. So, you might decide to only get one instead of two if you are traveling together. The free transfer between metro and bus for the other person does probably not work then.

The fare depends on when you've started your journey; tickets cost CLP$740 for trips commenced during the peak periods (7-9AM, 6-8PM), CLP$660 for shoulder periods (6:30-7AM, 9AM Monday - 6PM, 8-8:45PM) and CLP$640 for low periods (before 6:30AM and after 8:45PM).

By metro

The metro system is the second largest in Latin America and has five lines and 108 stations, with many holding rotating art exhibitions. The lines 1, 2 and 5 pass through the historical center and 4 and 4A mostly serve the east of the city. As it is a very popular mode for getting around and the metro can be crowded during rush hours.

Trains run between roughly 6AM and 11PM; each station posts the exact hours above the staircases leading down into the stations. Buses run parallel to subway lines after hours.

Travel on a Bus in Santiago

Transantiago buses are mostly modern and run around the clock on the main lines. If you know a little (Spanish), you can find route information on the Transantiago website.

On Sundays between 10AM and 6PM, Transantiago operates a "cultural circuit"] , where a specially-marked bus runs between major tourist and cultural destinations for the normal fare.

Best way to travel in Santiago by a Taxi

Taxis are a relatively affordable and safe way to get around the city. Flag drop costs CLP$300 plus CLP$120 for every 100 meters. Official taxis are black and yellow and easily identifiable. Radiotaxis are also common and a good idea late at night. Suburban areas are sometimes served by taxis operating fixed routes and fixed rates.

By bike

Santiago has a rapidly-growing network of bike lanes and paths. Bicineta has an up to date map of bike routes.

• Bikesantiago - Bike sharing program with monthly and annual memberships. Must register to use the service.

By tour bus

• Turistik Santiago Hop on – Hop off - ☎ +56 2 28201000 | Opening Hours: 9:30AM Monday - 6PM CLP$19,000A red double-decker bus that passes through the main tourist attractions of the city, including the Central Market, Plaza de Armas, Bellavista, and Parque Metropolitana, among others. Pass is good for the day with departures every half hour during operating hours.

What to see in Santiago

See #Districts for listings.

La Moneda vista desde Plaza de la Constitución - Palacio de La Moneda

The Historical Center is the place to go for historical sights. For over five centuries this has been a governmental seat, and you can find buildings of great historical significance here. One of them is the modernist colonial Palacio de la Moneda, built for minting of coins. From the mid 19th century it has also been the residence of the president until the coup of 1973 when it was bombed. The damage was repaired and it's still the residence of the president today.

South of the palace is Alameda and the main drag of the city with the central university building (Casa Central de la Universidad de Chile) and the San Francisco church and the Santa Lucia hill with great views of the old town. Plaza de Armas opposite the university building is the most lively area of the downtown and in addition to vendors you can often find artists, comedians and singers performing here. Nearby you can find the Metropolitan Gothic Church and the Palace of the Royal Court (nowadays a museum) and the mayor's residence.

Going north from Plaza de Armas you'll come to the Mercado Central, with plenty of restaurants. East along the Mapocho river's southern bank you'll be at Parque Forestal and Museo de Bellas Artes as well as the vibrant neighborhood of Lastarria with plenty of cafés, restaurants and art galleries.

Bellavista north of the river is a nightlife hotspot and there you can also visit the mythical home of the poet Pablo Neruda. You can also take the funicular or walk up the Cerro San Cristóbal for some of the best views of Santiago and the Maipo Valley. Southeast there is Providencia where you can find trendy shops and further away Sanhattan's skyscrapers including Gran Torre Santiago and the tallest in Latin America and second tallest in the Southern Hemisphere. Westwards there's Quinta Normal, a huge park surrounded by museums.

Best things to do in Santiago

See #Districts for listings.

• Santiago is known as a cultural hotspot. Among other things and the city is home to an impressive jazz scene, with several intimate clubs scattered throughout the city, a famous one being Club Jazz in the Nuñoa neighborhood. In the Providencia neighborhood a jazz festival takes place each January with both local and foreign bands playing. For current theater, dance, and concert listings can be found in the El Mercurio newspaper. For a broad variety of art and culture, visit one of several cultural centers around the city, featuring exhibitions, performances and workshops. At some of these you can buy local art and handicraft too (refer to the Buy section for more shopping).
• You can also take a pleasant walk in one of Santiago's many parks. Some of these, like Cerro Santa Lucia and Parque Metropolitano offer great views over the city. If you want something more than just hiking or taking the cable vehicle up a little hill, take on the higher "hills" outside the city. Contact one of the local mountaineering clubs and go on a trek to some of the highest mountains in the world outside Asia, or if you like skiing, hit the slopes of El Colorado (Chile).

• Paso de Uspallata (between Chile and Argentina) - 32.8247281, -70.0708213 - US$30 per day vehicle rental fee - Rent a vehicle for 1 or 2 days from Santiago and go visit the Cafes near Los Andes and the beautiful Uspallata Pass with Monumento del Cristo Redentor and the Aconcagua Provincial Park for some hiking and the impressive El Puente del Inca and/or even laid-back Mendoza and its vineyards. The pass road itself is gravel road and a detour from the tunnel which most people use between Chile and Argentina. The views from the pass into Chile and Argentina are breathtaking, and the drive itself is exciting (not just along the gravel road). If you rent the vehicle at around 16:00 and start in the morning near Los Andes or even closer to the pass, it might be better due to lesser clouds in the morning. Note and the border crossing into Argentina, which is 10 kilometers or so behind the actual border, can take 2-6 hours with cars queuing for many kilometers before the tunnel underneath the pass. Since you actually do not want to take the tunnel, you should find a way to pass the waiting cars, maybe with the help of a local border police car. The gravel road to the pass starts about 100 m before the tunnel. If you just go to the Uspallata Pass and return to Chile without entering Argentina, do not tell the customs office on the way back that you went to see the Christ statue—it seems that the statue is on the Argentinian side. On the way back, you will be checked by customs for not allowed goods and food, even if you did not cross into Argentina—so, best to leave everything (even the fruit cocktail) in Chile before you go to the pass.

How to work legally in Santiago

In order to work legally in Chile, a working permit needs to be obtained, which can be accomplished with the sponsorship of an employer. Many people work illegally, but it is definitely best to have a permit.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Santiago

See #Districts for listings.

Santiago has a lot of shopping malls all around the city. In the malls you can find a variety of retail stores and Falabella, París and Ripley and the most famous department stores in Chile.

Downtown and Providencia

For shopping in central Santiago, head to Paseo Ahumada, a section full of different shops between the main street Alameda and Plaza de Armas.

If you prefer buying handcrafts and the ones in the Centro Artesanal Santa Lucia are good and relatively affordable compared with other handcrafts stores. Other handcrafts centres are in Bellavista (though a bit more expensive).

Providencia has a large selection of shops along Avenida Providencia.

East

The largest malls are Parque Arauco and Alto Las Condes, both have good restaurants and the former also has free music and shows. You can get to Parque Arauco from Metro Escuela Militar (Line 1) and to Alto Las Condes from Metro Los Domínicos (Line 1); ask local residents for directions if you're unsure of how to take buses.

Alonso de Córdova Street and Nueva Costanera Avenue are very exclusive areas where you can find high fashion and luxury stores like Louis Vuitton, Hermés or local designers. In this area you find great restaurants and art galleries.

Steps from Metro Los Domínicos (Line 1) is Pueblito Los Domínicos. It is more expensive but has a wide variety of local handcrafts and antiques, as well as a small exhibition room and a bonsai exhibition behind it. It is very pretty with an artificial stream in a colonial-looking atmosphere. Half of the people there are usually tourists during the summer, so you won't be alone!

Plaza Nuñoa has some small shops in the plaza where you can buy books from Latin America (Neruda, Allende, Cortazar) and also handcrafts.

North

If you're already kind of familiar with Santiago, you can also go to Barrio Patronato which is near the downtown area and it's easy to reach by metro (Metro Patronato, Line 2). There you'll find affordable clothes, food and products of all kinds, as well as some foreign stores (mainly Chinese, Koreans, Peruvians and from the Middle East), thus allowing you to save quite a bit of money. It would be better to go alongside a local, though, since it's easy to get lost due to the very short and slim streets and the very high quotient of visitors. Beware of pickpocketers.

South

Similarly, those who want more surprises and know the basics about Santiago can go to the famous Persa Bio Bio in the Franklin area, also not too far from downtown and near to Metro Franklin (Line 2). It can be described as a giant flea market that opens every weekend and offers antiques, tools, handmade furniture, many food stores, etc. Again, it's not a place for novices: a local's presence would be desired.

Halal Restaurants in Santiago

See #Districts for listings.

Santiago de Chile, known for its rich cultural diversity, is home to a variety of Halal restaurants that cater to the Muslim community and food enthusiasts alike. Here are some notable Halal eateries in Santiago's central area, offering an array of flavors from Middle Eastern, Indian, and Arab cuisines.

Arabian Fast Food

Located at Catedral 1462, this Lebanese restaurant has a rating of 3.9 stars from 30 reviews. It opens at 1 PM and is known for its quick and tasty Lebanese dishes, making it a good spot for a satisfying meal on the go.

Makani - Shawarma

With an impressive rating of 4.7 stars from 171 reviews, Makani - Shawarma specializes in Egyptian cuisine. Situated at Av. Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 240, Local 3, it opens at 11 AM and is celebrated for its delicious shawarma and authentic Egyptian flavors.

Restaurante Omar Khayyam

This Middle Eastern restaurant is a popular choice with a rating of 4.4 stars from 799 reviews. Located at Av. Perú 570, it opens at 12 PM and offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

KéWap

KéWap, a highly-rated shawarma restaurant with 4.7 stars from 189 reviews, can be found at Portales 6142. Opening at 12 PM, this eatery is known for its flavorful and well-prepared shawarmas.

Al-Jazeera

Al-Jazeera, located at Huérfanos 1385, has a rating of 4.3 stars from 573 reviews. This restaurant opens at 12:30 PM and offers a wide range of Middle Eastern dishes in a comfortable dining setting.

New Horizon

New Horizon is an Indian restaurant with a stellar rating of 4.6 stars from 1,286 reviews. Situated at Merced 565, it opens at 12:30 PM and is known for its delicious Indian cuisine, available for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery.

Food Top Comida Árabe Venezolana

This restaurant, located at Teatinos 614, has a rating of 3.0 stars from 2 reviews. It opens at 6 PM and offers a mix of Arab and Venezuelan cuisine, catering to diverse taste preferences.

Yabal al Arab

A fast food eatery with a rating of 4.3 stars from 340 reviews, Yabal al Arab is located at 1470, Rosas. It opens at 11 AM and offers dine-in, takeaway, and no-contact delivery options, making it a convenient choice for quick meals.

Shawarma Nabil

This highly-rated restaurant with 4.8 stars from 131 reviews is located at Miraflores 324. Opening at 9:30 AM, Shawarma Nabil is known for its excellent shawarma and other Middle Eastern dishes.

Comida Árabe El Libanés

Located at Franklin 602, this restaurant has a rating of 4.4 stars from 186 reviews. Opening at 9 AM, it offers a variety of Arab dishes and is known for its friendly service and authentic flavors.

El Emir Plaza de Armas

With a rating of 4.7 stars from 15 reviews, El Emir Plaza de Armas, located at 21 de Mayo 580, offers brunch and a selection of Halal dishes, making it a great spot for a mid-morning meal.

Restaurant Harissa

Located at Eusebio Lillo 430, Restaurant Harissa has a rating of 4.6 stars from 243 reviews. It opens at 10 AM and offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery.

These Halal restaurants in Santiago de Chile offer a rich tapestry of flavors and dining experiences, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy delicious and authentic Halal cuisine.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Santiago

Santiago - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Santiago, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Santiago. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Santiago and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Santiago. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Santiago. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Santiago: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Santiago.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Santiago: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Santiago, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Santiago.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Santiago, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Santiago, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Santiago and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Santiago, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Santiago, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Santiago without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Santiago is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Santiago.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Santiago is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Santiago, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Santiago Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Santiago

eHalal Group Santiago is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Santiago. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Santiago.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Santiago ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Santiago. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Santiago, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Santiago are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Santiago

See #Districts for listings.

All types of accommodation, from top class hotels to backpacker hostels are available. As a general rule, lodging gets more luxurious and expensive the further east you travel.

• Agustina Suite Apart Hotel Santiago
• Amistar Apart Hotel Santiago
• Austral Suites Apartment Providencia
• Best Western Hotel Los Espanoles Santiago
• Best Western Majestic City Center Hotel
• Best Western Plus Hotel Los Espanoles Santiago
• Best Western Premier Marina Las Condes Santiago
• Ceasar Business Hotel Santiago
• Crowne Plaza Hotel Santiago
• Director Vitacura
• Edificio Club Presidente Santiago Apartment
• Four Points Sheraton Hotel Santiago
• Galerias Hotel Santiago
• Gen Suite & Spa Hotel Santiago
• Grand Hyatt Santiago
• Hilton Garden Inn Santiago Airport
• Holiday Inn Express Santiago
• Holiday Inn Santiago Airport
• Hotel Boutique Le Reve
• Hotel Kennedy Santiago
• Hotel Plaza San Francisco
• Hotel Santiago Park Plaza
• Infinity By Ameristar Hotel Santiago
• Intercontinental Hotel Santiago
• Lastarria Boutique Hotel Santiago
• Manquehue Hotel Santiago
• Monarca Hotel Las Condes
• NH Ciudad De Santiago
• Noi Vitacura Hotel
• Novotel Vitacura Hotel Santiago de Chile
• Oporto Hotel Boutique Santiago
• Park Apartments For Rent Santiago
• Park Suite Apartment Huerfanos Santiago
• Plaza El Bosque Park Hotel Santiago
• Plaza El Bosque Suites Hotel Santiago
• Radisson Petra La Dehesa Hotel Santiago
• Radisson Plaza Santiago Hotel
• Regal Pacific Hotel Santiago
• San Cristobal Tower Hotel Santiago
• Santa Magdalena Apartments
• Santiago Hillside Hotel
• Santiago Marriott Hotel
• Sheraton Hotel Santiago
• Soho Santiago Apart Hotel
• The Ritz Carlton Hotel Santiago
• Torremayor Hotel Santiago
• Tulip Inn Presidente
• Urbano Suites Apart Hotel Santiago
• Versalles Suites Santiago Hotel
• W Santiago Hotel

Stay safe as a Muslim in Santiago

Santiago is infamous for its smog, which is worse during the winter (May–September). The local residents welcome the rain which falls during winters as it cleans the air. Be sure to carry bottled water with you during the summer. Be prepared for sauna-heat on the metro during summer.

When getting around

By South American standards Santiago is a safe city, but visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes (Chileans derogatorily refer to the pickpockets as "lanzas", from the verb "lanzar", "to throw upon" in English). Avoid parks at night and don't wear expensive looking jewelry or watches even during the day, unless you are in Las Condes or Vitacura. If you're alone, avoid large crowds of people, especially downtown.

If you happen to have bad luck and get robbed, do as you're told by the criminal and if you don't understand (Spanish), give away the wallet. Not doing so can provoke an attack until you give away your wallet. Don't try to stand up to them and once again: do as you're told.

Keep your camera concealed, use it to take a photo and then hide it while not using it. If you're getting robbed and the criminal has spotted the camera expect to give it away too if you want to stay out of trouble.

If someone approaches you on the streets and promises to get you better chances at changing your dollars or euros into Chilean pesos, never accept their deals. They're con-people who take advantage of foreigners not knowing the details about currency and confuse them with big words to take their cash away. Only change your money in legal currency exchange centers, which may take more time but are much more trustworthy. There's one in the airport, but they are also easy to find in the downtown and financial areas, or in the malls.

Overall, Santiago is very safe if you travel by car.

The metro is regarded as safer for travelling amongst the local residents, even though security has increased in the buses after the introduction of TranSantiago. But some local residents still prefer using the metro especially when it gets darker, since almost all the stations have guards. Don't expect the staff to speak much English. In peak hours the metro runs really full so try to keep your backpack on the front and belongings in front pockets.

Dangerous areas

There are some neighbourhoods/barrios that should be avoided. The few carabineros and local residents that speak English will know which areas are to be avoided since some of them can actually be visited by metro. Some people at local and Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) are more likely to speak English.

If you see fewer tall buildings and more houses with locked windows and entrances and then turn back. The changes happen very slowly, unlike some other Latin American cities, so you'd have to travel quite a lot from a wealthy safe neighbourhood to a dangerous ghetto. Avoid especially La Legua (not to be confused with La Ligua in the V Región) which is famed in Chile for its high crime rates. Single police cars won't even enter the area.

Try staying away from the following comunas: Lo Espejo, La Pintana, Puente Alto (especially the Plaza de Armas), La Cisterna, San Joaquín, El Bosque (not to be confused with the avenue and neighbourhood around Metro El Golf, which is in Las Condes), San Ramón, Pedro Aguirre Cerda and La Granja unless you know exactly where you're going. Though these places are not completely unsafe for the most part and they can obtain a few unsafe spots and don't have much touristic significance.

The safest comunas are Providencia, Vitacura and Las Condes. All of them have lots of local security guards, besides Carabineros, and local residents are more likely to speak English, especially young people. They are not completely safe, though: petty theft still takes place, so keep your eyes open in the streets. Lo Barnechea can be tricky as it is the only comuna that has both extremely wealthy and extremely poor neighbourhoods ever since Pinochet's dictatorship; "La Dehesa" is wealthy and safe, "Cerro Dieciocho" is as dangerous as La Legua.

Football

If you are going to see a football match, be careful with the "barras bravas" who are the most fanatic but also dangerous fans. They are often involved in troubles with the police both inside the stadium and outside. Avoid buying tickets in the sections where the bravas dominate, which are often behind the goals. The middle section is the safest but if you have a friend who wants to support Colo-Colo and another Universidad de Chile for example, avoid showing it. Even if the middle section is safe, showing different shirts can cause you trouble. Either go with the same shirts or dress neutral. Other football matches not being the "Superclásico" between Universidad de Chile against Colo-Colo should be pretty safe.

Walking to the stadium you will find people begging for some pesos so they can see the match. Avoid giving them if you want to stay out of trouble.

The barrio around the Estadio Nacional is normally peaceful, but you have to walk purposefully and keep your eyes on other people when it's crowded. It's better to take a taxi to the arena, or a rental vehicle if you can find a place to park it.

Other

Never join a protest, because it can end badly. If you are caught in one, don't hesitate to hide in a restaurant, shop or something similar.

Chilean Police (Carabineros) are in general trustworthy, at least in comparison to other Latin American countries. Although you can hardly find one who can speak English and they will try to answer your questions, solve your problems or give you directions. Never attempt to bribe a police officer; Chile has the least corrupt police force of Latin America.

However remember that the Chilean police is a militarized police. Therefore the police special forces can be violent or unreasonable if they think you have done or will do something illegal or inappropriate, so be careful.

Telecommunications in Santiago

If you wish to mail a letter or postcard and the largest post office is the Correo Central on the north side of Plaza de Armas, a Neoclassical building with French influences. There are several smaller postal offices around the city, often close to the larger avenues.

However, Chilean mail has become infamous for not getting things delivered or mailmen opening the letters trying to find money or any valuable items (mostly on mail coming from abroad).

The largest and most trustworthy private mail company is Chilexpress, which has agencies in almost all mid-sized cities. Prices are a bit higher, though.

Cope

Embassies & Consulates in Santiago

China - Pedro de Valdivia 550, Providencia ☎ +56 2 22339880 +56 2-2341129

Egypt | Dr. Roberto del Rio 1871, Providencia ☎ +56 2274-8881 +56 222746334

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Santiago

Mountains

The mountainous outdoors with nature reserves and ski resorts are just around the junction. The skiing season is from May to August.

• Ski resorts northeast of Santiago reachable by vehicle within a hour and a half include Farellones, Valle Nevado, La Parva and El Colorado (Chile)|El Colorado.
• The ski resorts of Portillo and Valle Nevado are two to three hours away on the road to Mendoza.
• Rancagua is 85 kilometers to the south and has some thermal springs and hiking opportunities nearby.
• Cajón del Maipo, beautiful in spring, some 75 km south east of Santiago, day trip. Some nice places for lunch and tea; many of them only open on weekends.
• Sierras de Bellavista (150 kilometers south of Santiago) is a wonderful little mountain village, especially after a rainy day. Alpine scenery.
• Other nearby nature reserves include Monumento Natural El Morado, Reserva Nacional Río Clarillo and Santuario de la Naturaleza Yerba Loca
• The villages and towns in the surrounding Maipo valley is also a great place for seeing the Chilean way of life, buying handicrafts, tasting and savoring local cuisine.

The coast

The Pacific Ocean is less than 100 kilometers from Santiago, and easily accessible.

• Vina del Mar, 90 minutes away is the beach capital of the nation, and it also has nice parks, gardens, restaurants, cafes and casinos.
• Valparaíso, next to Vina del Mar is one of the largest ports on the Pacific, but certainly not a dirty industrial behemoth. It's also a famous for its world legacy listed and very Bohemian old town on the mountain sides.
• Isla Negra, a village on the coast, south of Valparaíso. The main and most beloved house of Pablo Neruda is there. This is probably the most interesting of his three houses to visit and the best conserved as it is the only one that the military didn't sack during the coup d'état in 1973. To get there, you can take the Pullman bus (CLP$3,700, 2 hr) from Terminal Alameda (Metro Universidad de Santiago). You can also take the Turbus bus to San Antonio (CLP$1,000-2,000, 1.5 hr) from Alameda as well, and then take a local bus in front of "laPolar" (CLP$450, 30 min) that goes along the beautiful coast. Tours of the house cost CLP$3,000 and last a half an hour. Then you can go to the beach.

Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.