Viña del Mar Travel Forum

4 Aussie guys looking for answers...again.

Off to Chile.......fairly opened and unplanned as yet. Tossing between Santiago or Vina del Mar or a combo of both. Is there an exodus from the cities during mid Jan for the coastal towns? With our last week there we see it as a place to unwind before we go back home. By unwind we mean sleep every 2nd night instead of not at all. Also, would love info on rafting day trips...class IV rapids are cool.

Would love to meet up with English speaking locals & fellow travellers. We will be there for a wek from 10 Jan 05

Cheers,

All right: there's a massive migration from Santiago to the central coast between January and February (but the mass goes in January), and summer weekends can be hellish... and exciting as well (if you like that).
If you want heavy partyin', Viña and -mainly- Reñaca are your scene; if wanting a more relaxed setting -but with party as well- go to te beaches south of Valparaíso, this is, from Algarrobo (posh) to Cartagena (the opposite, in all senses, to Algarrobo... it's your choice).

Whitewater rafting is at its peak in January here; where do you want to raft? Cajon del Maipo is in Santiago, and has lots of chances to do this, although the southern rivers are a good (and maybe better) choice too.

I'll be leading an expedition across the Andes from Jan.13, and will be climbing a 5500 before that, but if I can help you, just tell me.

Daniel

*"Tossing" between Santiago and Viña... what did you mean, fellas?

Santiago and Vina are very closed together, so you can go back and forth the 2 cities. Now, as Daniel says, Santiago is not the place to be during summer days. The weather will be very hot and most of the people go out to coastal cities as Vina del Mar. Vina will be packed, so if you're looking for fun, beach, parties and booze, then it's your place.
For rafting, I'd recommend the southern rivers (as Glospi said), but it's a little bit far from Vina and Santiago. Can't do everything and not move!!!
Cheers,
Jorge

I live in Renaca for some of the year and can tell you that accommodation in both Vina and Renaca during Dec 23rd to March 1st is at a premium. If you have not made an advanced booking or have friends there you can forget it! The whole are is complete chaos but there is aparty sprit there with people sitting out on the beaches all night long. Leave valuables at home if you go. Good luck.