Viña del Mar Excursions

One of the benefits of studying abroad is the ability to venture outside your host city and explore the surrounding area. Excursions are offered for all semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered two to three excursions and summer students are typically offered one to two excursions. You will receive a calendar of the specific CEA excursions offered for your program during orientation. To give you an idea of the possibilities, we have collected typical experiences from some of the day trips and weekend tours offered to our students in the past.

Tour of Valparaíso

See the main attractions of Valparaíso, one of Chile’s most important cities, while learning about the rich cultural and historical background of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Once known as “the Jewel of the Pacific,” Valparaíso was an important stop for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through the Straits of Magellan. Among other important historical significances, Valparaíso is home to the oldest Spanish language newspaper still in publication. Take a boat ride across the bay, a tour through the historic center, and gaze at the sweeping port from the hills that stretch above the city.

Tour of Santiago

The capital of Chile, Santiago has all the hustle and bustle of a big city set against the backdrop of the stunning Andes Mountains. Nestled into Chile’s central valley, Santiago contains many hidden treasures and cultural charm. Between the government buildings, museums, churches, market, parks, and cultural centers, this important city has a lot to offer.

Visit to Mapuche “Ruca”

The Mapuche are indigenous to Chile. Their history is as rich as it is dramatic. Learn the story from the Mapuche themselves as you engage with this unique culture in a traditional Mapuche “ruca”, or hut. You will also have the opportunity to experience first-hand  Mapuche dances, rituals, and a traditional meal.

Tour of Valparaiso Wineries & Grape Harvest

Chile’s booming wine industry hosts their grape harvest from mid March until the end of April. Students experience first-hand the harvesting and wine-making process at a winery in Valparaiso. Wine-sampling local wines and indulging in an appetizing Chilean meal completes the day in delightful and satisfying way.

Villa Grimaldi

Located on the outskirts of Santiago, this was the main detention center during the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Between1974-78, roughly 5,000 people were brought here and tortured, of which 240 people did not survive. Now, a “Park for Peace,” the site is a national monument dedicated to human rights and is meant to honor the victims of the Dirección de Inteligencia Nacional (DINA), the Chilean secret police.

National Congress of Chile

As you will undoubtedly discover for yourself, Chile’s political structures have seen dramatic changes in recent history. Although not the capital, Valparaiso is the seat of government in Chile. Students will get a chance to tour the legislature buildings, and learn about the political systems in Chile.

Pablo Neruda’s House & Museum in Isla Negra

Named by the famous Chilean writer, Pablo Neruda, Isla Negra or “Black Island” was his home for 34 years. Now a museum, students can see the house where his poetry was penned in green ink and learn about the poet turned politician’s life. The isle and area surrounding it are still a haven for artists and writers working today.