Cerro La Campana in the Valparaíso Region: tips for beginners

Below you will find clear information about Cerro la Campana, where it is located, how to get there from Santiago and Viña del Mar, and the park's access hours. We also give you practical tips so you can plan your visit without any inconveniences.

What is Cerro La Campana?

Cerro La Campana is one of the most important natural landmarks in the Valparaíso Region. It is part of La Campana National Park, one of the oldest protected areas in Chile.

It is recognized for its biodiversity, historical value and panoramic views. It is also an ideal place for bird watching in the foothills of the Andes. From its summit it is possible to observe, on clear days, the mountain range and the Pacific Ocean.

This hill reaches 1,880 meters of altitude. Its ascent is considered of medium difficulty, with a path of about 7 kilometers one way. However, despite its difficulty, many visitors do it for the first time with proper planning.

For those who are new to mountain hiking, Cerro La Campana is an excellent alternative. It allows you to learn to dose your effort and to read the terrain, since it has steep slopes. In addition, it offers well-marked routes and rest areas to eat and recharge your batteries.

Where is Cerro La Campana?

Cerro La Campana is located in the Province of Quillota, Valparaíso Region. It is located between the municipalities of Olmué and Hijuelas and is part of the Olmué Valley. Its access is mainly through two sectors: Sector Granizo, in Olmué and sector Ocoa, in the commune of Hijuelas. For beginners, the Granizo sector is usually the most recommended. It has more direct trails and better infrastructure for visitors.

Access from Santiago and Viña del Mar

From Santiago, the trip to Cerro La Campana takes about an hour and a half, being route 68 the most used to get there. Then continue along the road to Olmué.

From Viña del Mar, the trip takes approximately one hour. Take Route 62 to Limache. Then continue to Olmué and the Granizo sector.

Both accesses are signposted. It is advisable to leave early during weekends and high season, since the flow of visitors tends to increase during the spring and summer.

Park hours and hiking times

La Campana National Park has seasonal access schedules. And if you are looking to reach the summit, you can only do so on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, where each day has only 40 spaces. Therefore, we recommend you to buy the La Campana Park: Summit Sector pass at least one week in advance.

You can buy the ticket and check more info here. The price is 4.200 Chilean pesos (5USD). Also, the entrance hours are strict. The Park opens at 8 am, and for those who will climb to the summit, the maximum entry time is 9 am.

Climbing time: It varies, but it takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.

Descent time: People should begin the descent at 2:00 p.m. at the latest, since the park closes at 5:30 p.m. and the descent usually takes between three and four hours.

For beginners, it is essential to enter as early as possible. This allows for greater safety and less exposure to the heat. An important fact here is that no one can climb alone to the summit, it must always be in pairs or groups.

The total time to reach the summit of Cerro La Campana usually varies, especially according to weather conditions, since in hot weather groups should rest more to recover. Take note!

Tips: food and rest

In the Granizo sector there are rest areas and restrooms available at the park entrance.

During the ascent there are no food sales services, so it is essential that each group bring their lunch, high carbohydrate snacks that provide immediate energy such as bananas, bread with honey, dates or sweet gummies. It is also recommended to carry at least two liters of water per person for the entire route.

Basic precautions for beginners

Cerro La Campana requires good advance planning. The weather can change quickly during the ascent. It is essential to check the forecast before setting out, and always wear sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun.

It is essential to wear trekking shoes with good grip, since the route has sectors with loose rock and steep slopes. It is recommended to dress in layers because the wind in the high areas can be intense.

In addition, you should never start the ascent without registering your entrance at the porter's lodge, as this procedure is key to safety. It is also important to respect the park signs. Do not take shortcuts or leave the main trail. This helps prevent accidents and protects the ecosystem.

Finally, it is necessary to bring back all waste. Cerro La Campana is a protected area of high ecological value.

Enjoy Cerro La Campana!

Cerro La Campana is an ideal experience for beginners in mountain hiking. Its environment allows you to learn about rhythm, hydration and planning.

Choosing a day with good weather conditions makes a big difference. It is also key to respect the times recommended by the park rangers and all the recommendations that they can give you in the place.

Taking short breaks helps to maintain constant progress, as well as listening to your body, since fatigue can be underestimated and can affect you later on in the trip.

Visiting this park is an opportunity to get to know one of the most representative landscapes of Valparaíso. In addition, it allows you to get closer to the natural heritage of central Chile. With preparation, respect for the environment and responsible planning, your experience at Cerro La Campana will be memorable.