Overview
Take a trip to Santiago on your Chile Vacation
When on a Chile vacation, the cultural, political and financial centre of the country as well as its capital, Santiago is located in the country’s central valley, dominated by the Andes to the east and a smaller coastal mountain range in the west.
Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia founded Santiago in February 1541. By the end of the century, the town was still quite small with infrastructure only beginning to expand in the 18th century. As a result of the California gold rush in the middle of the 19th century which triggered a great deal of exports, Santiago’s population began to grow.
After a coup d’état in 1973 which saw liberal president Salvador Allende removed by the military regime of General Pinochet, Santiago witnessed a great deal of violence and atrocities aimed at those who were believed to be anti-Pinochet. In 1990, a democratically elected leader was put in power and the city, and the country gradually began to recover.
Today, Santiago is a modern city that appears more Western than many of its neighbours. A cultural hub, Santiago hosts many universities as well as a thriving arts and culinary scene. While there is much to do within the city itself, its stunning setting among the Andes ensures that there are opportunities for exciting activities like trekking, hiking, kayaking and more just beyond the city limits on Chile vacations.
Today, Santiago is a modern city that appears more Western than many of its neighbours. A cultural hub, Santiago hosts many universities as well as a thriving arts and culinary scene. While there is much to do within the city itself, its stunning setting among the Andes ensures that there are opportunities for exciting activities like trekking, hiking, kayaking and more just beyond the city limits on Chile vacations.
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Aerial view of the financial district
One of Santiage icon locations, Palacio de la M...
santiago chile tours
Plaza de Armas
The famous Statue of Virgin Mary in Santiago is...
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ExcellentBased on 5,239 ReviewsI can't tell you enough how much I love to work with Callie. She is a life saver and I love how attentive she is. Every time I give her an itinerary for a client- she really knocks it out of the park with the proposal. If there are any issues- she is on it right away. Her work ethic is outstanding.Michelle LabarcaI had the pleasure of working with Amelia on a booking for a family of 4 to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. She executed everything perfectly, was attentive to needs and the family was over the top happy with their vacation. She was quick to answer questions and provide helpful feedback. Highly recommended!Jessie WilliamsWe were trying to navigate Swiss Travel Center to book a 10 day train trip through Switzerland. It was exactly what we wanted but navigating their site was extremely difficult for us. Goway Travel picked up on our plight and put us in contact with Jacqueline Fagooli, one of their agents. From there on everything was so smooth. Their efficiency, communication, and thoroughness were beyond our expectations. The trip was fabulous and kudos to Jacqueline and Goway for their help in making it so.Carolyn McCormackThe destination specialist I've worked with (Kim Rawlings) has provided exceptional service. She is very knowledgeable of her region and everything they have to offer. She is very prompt in her communication and follow-up. She listens and is very attentive to my client's needs and wants. Kim's personality makes one feel like they've known each other for years.
If GoWay had a customer service model, Kim is it.T. Jackson, Tribe Trek TravelWe had a wonderful and amazing two weeks in North-West Scotland. Shoutout to Jacqueline at Goway Toronto and the driver/guides with Rabbie's minibus tours (Stefan and Willie). Well-chosen hotels and no worries with dietary requirements; every detail was taken care of. Thank you!
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