Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Santiago, Chile is one of the most unique and interesting cities in all of South America. Plus, if you’re planning to visit any part of Chile, you’ll probably end up flying into Santiago anyway. Why not check out some of what the city has to offer? Santiago has something for everyone from giant glass skyscrapers to old historic buildings, all with views of the Andes Mountains in the background. You can find parties, fascinating tours, delicious food, and so much more in this city. And, if you take a short drive out of the city limits, you’ll find some of the most beautiful landscapes on the entire planet.
Santiago is now the capital and largest city in Chile; however, it was founded between 10,000 and 9,000 BCE by nomadic hunter-gatherers. After that, it remained inhabited by the indigenous communities until it was colonized by Francisco Pizarro of Peru in 1540. Chile would eventually gain its independence in 1817 and remain a relatively small city for around 100 years. However, in the 20th century, Santiago experienced a population explosion that began the transformation into the sprawling metropolis that it is today. With the juxtaposition of gleaming skyscrapers, indigenous cultural influence, and historical remnants of the city’s past, Santiago is one of the most fascinating cities on Earth. And, if you really want to get a full sense of what Santiago’s all about, the best way to do so is by hiring a motorcycle and driving around on your own.
Here is everything you need to know about motorcycle hire in Santiago de Chile. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a motor scooter as well. This guide includes:
- Whether you need an international driving permit to hire a motorbike in Chile
- The best places to find motorcycle rental around Santiago
- The normal cost of motorbike hire in Santiago
- Whether it’s safe to hire a motorbike in Santiago
- The best things to do in Santiago by motorcycle
Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Rent a Motorbike in Chile?
If you’re interested in driving a motor vehicle in Chile, you should be aware that you’ll either need a valid driver’s license that’s written in English or you will need to apply for an international driving permit. While drivers from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, or any other English-speaking country should be alright to hire a vehicle with only their national driver’s license, travelers from non-English-speaking countries need to obtain an IDP in order to drive legally in Chile.
There is an application fee of $20 to get your IDP and it usually takes about two weeks to arrive in the mail. Thus, you should make sure to send in your application at least two weeks before departing for Chile. If you want to apply for your international driving permit, you can do so online here. Once you have your international driving permit, it will be valid for one full year.
Where Are the Best Places to Find Motorcycle Rental in Santiago?
If you plan on flying into Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport (SCL), which is located in the town of Puhadel just 15 kilometers outside of Santiago, you probably won’t be able to find any motorcycle rental services around the airport itself. However, once you get into the downtown area of Santiago, you should have no trouble whatsoever locating motorcycle hire.
When you get into the city of Santiago, you’ll find that most of the motorcycle rental companies are located in the eastern part of the city. You should be able to find a rental vehicle quite easily in the Suarez Mujica neighborhood and the Ossandon neighborhood. There are also a few rental services located around the Universidad de Los Andes in the east side of the city.
What Is the Average Price of Motorbike Rental in Santiago?
Compared to other South American countries, prices for pretty much everything are pretty high. However, when you compare Chile to many European nations and the United States, prices could still be considered rather low. So, if you’re looking to rent a powerful motorcycle, such as a Suzuki V-Strom 650, you can expect to pay around €150 per day. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you should be able to find scooter rental for as little as €7 per day.
Whether you’re renting a car, a motorcycle, a scooter, or any other type iof vehicle, you should always make sure that insurance is included in the stated rental price. Driving in foreign countries without insurance is, for the most part, completely illegal and could result in a massive fine if you’re caught. Plus, if you get into an accident, having insurance can save you a whole lot of money. You should also inquire with your rental company as to whether they offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly rentals if you plan on staying in Santiago for an extended period of time.
Is It Safe to Hire a Motorbike in Santiago?
If you plan on hiring a motorbike in Santiago and driving around, there are a few things you should be aware of. First of all, driving within the metropolitan areas of the city can be a bit stressful and challenging. Chilean drivers tend to be rather aggressive and often break the rules of the road, especially in the more congested areas of Santiago. The heart of the city is also often littered with traffic jams, making it difficult to get from place to place. Pedestrians also tend to be a bit cavalier in the downtown area, running across the street without checking traffic.
If you go outside the downtown area of Santiago, however, you’ll find that driving is quite easy, particularly on the large motorways. The road conditions on these motorways are pretty similar to those in most Western countries, except for the fact that there are fewer places to stop on the side of the road. Pretty much everywhere in Santiago, crime rates are relatively low, so you shouldn’t have to worry too much about getting mugged or having your vehicle stolen. Still, it’s always better to practice caution.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Santiago by Motorcycle?
Now that you’re aware of everything you need to know about renting a motorbike in Santiago, here are some of the best things to do around the city to get you started on your adventure:
Valle Nevado
Many people who visit Santiago don’t take the 90-minute drive out to Valle Nevado and experience all that it has to offer. Luckily, you rented a motorcycle and can take the scenic drive out there for some stunning views and outdoor adventures. The area is located to the northeast of the city center and it has some great offerings in terms of resturants and hotels. However, the true allure of Valle Nevado is the myriad of nature-based activities to engage in.
During the winter, Valle Nevado offers the opportunity to ski or snowboard down the slopes of the Andes Mountains, all while taking in tantalizing views of the city of Santiago. Visit the area in the summer and there tons of great hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and even several horseback riding tours being offered.
Cajon del Maipo
Another fantastic natural area just a short drive outside of the city of Santiago is Cajon del Maipo (Maipo Canyon). Hop on your motorcycle and head southeast to this breathtaking gorge where you can easily spend an entire day exploring all of the natural beauty in the area. The main attraction here is El Morado Natural Monument, a sizable mountain reserve with seemingly endless hiking trails that lead to San Francisco Glacier and Laguna Morales.
The area around Cajon del Maipo is also spotted with little towns that feature adorable family-run restaurants and great examples of adobe architecture. You can also hop off your bike and bathe in the Baños Morales, a series of thermal springs. Also, make sure to look up into the sky and see if you can spot the fabled Andean condor.
Sky Costanera
Probably the most popular tourist attraction in Santiago is Sky Costanera, a panoramic observation deck located at the top of Gran Torre Santiago, the tallest building in all of South America. Visitors can take an elevator to the very top of the tower and view the city from all angles with their own eyes or through telescopes that allow you to see the street life from a bird’s eye view.
The observation deck is open for 11 hours a day every day of the week and ticket prices are fairly affordable. You can also get some food or a drink to enjoy as you soak up the views of Chile’s capital city. If you’re in Santiago, going to the top of the city’s most iconic building is an absolute must.
Don't miss out on exploring Chile by Motorcycle
No matter what you do in the beautiful city of Santiago, you’re bound to have an amazing time. The food, atmosphere, and sightseeing in the city are all absolutely amazing. However, to give yourself the most freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas, renting a motorcycle is definitely your best move.
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