La Moneda Changing of Guard & Historic Santiago Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Step into Santiago’s past on this 3-hour walking tour through the city’s historic center. Start at La Moneda Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard, then explore Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and other iconic landmarks. Stroll through charming streets like Calle Nueva York and discover hidden corners like Casa Colorada, while your guide shares vivid stories from colonial times to the present day.
You’ll see how history and modern life blend as you walk past grand architecture, lively plazas, and bustling streets. The tour ends with sweeping city views from Santa Lucía Hill — the very spot where Santiago was founded.
Ideal for anyone curious about Chile’s past and present, this small-group experience brings Santiago’s contrasts to life.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
To ensure a truly personalized experience, our tours are limited to small groups. For parties of 10 or more, we are happy make arrangements to maintain the same high-quality attention.
What To Expect
Discover Plaza de la Ciudadanía, a grand civic space in Santiago that stretches from the southern façade of La Moneda Palace to Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins. Redesigned in 2006 as part of Chile’s Bicentennial Project, the plaza features elegant water mirrors, the monumental Bicentennial Flag, and the underground Centro Cultural La Moneda, which hosts exhibitions and cultural events. It also houses the Altar de la Patria, where the remains of national hero Bernardo O’Higgins rest, alongside statues honoring Chile’s independence leaders. This plaza serves as a powerful symbol of Chile’s history, identity, and civic pride
At the heart of Santiago’s civic center, you will witness the impressive Changing of the Guard ceremony at La Moneda Palace, Chile’s presidential headquarters. This colorful and time-honored tradition features an elaborate parade of soldiers dressed in immaculate uniforms, accompanied by a live military band playing traditional Chilean marches.
Options
La Moneda Changing of Guard & Historic Santiago Walking Tour
What‘s Included
Panoramic views of Santiago from Santa Lucia Hill
Entry into select churches and historic landmarks when accessible
Certified Local Expert Guide (Portuguese/English/Spanish)
Insights into Santiago's history, culture, architecture, and traditions
First Row view of Changing of the Guard Ceremony at La Moneda Palace
Fully narrated walking tour through Santiago’s historic downtown
Guided visit to Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral and historic sights
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Outstanding tour
SistineKid,May 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nacha was an outstanding guide! Interesting and educational tour. Highly recommend!
Worth the visit
KolbFam,May 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a very good tour of Chile
Great tour around historic Santiago
Edward M,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Really great tour. The guide Emmanuel brought me around to all the historic buildings in the core of Santiago. We spoke about the history, the culture, Chile's past and future. He was extremely knowledgeable and kind, can not thank him enough for a wonder couple hours touring Santiago.
Excellent walking tour with Emmanuel
C5402VPedwardm,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Signed up the night before, very easy to do online. The tour was great, Emmanuel was extremely knowledgeable, highlighted all the main historical buildings, we discussed the architecture, the significance, etc. Very personable and a great person. I had an excellent tour!
The Parade!
franciscR9450RC,Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I loved this tour! The guide was fantastic, so knowledgeable, and made the city's history easy to follow. Watching the Changing of the Guard felt like a proper cultural experience, not just a photo-op. The walk through the historic center was beautiful, especially seeing Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral. A perfect introduction to Santiago!
Great tour!
Susan G,Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing tour and terrific guide! Highly recommend this tour to everyone, Ignacia obviously loves what she does and it shows. 10/10 would do again.
Fascinating experience and our guide named Pablo was exceptional with passion showing the beauty of Santiago.
M5138IVoscars,Jul 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An extraordinary experience! And our guide Pablo was exceptional, passionate about showing the beauties of Santiago.
Changing of the guards is great!
brianaG1019MC,Jun 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved this walking tour! And the changing of the guards ceremony was super fun! Our guide Sebastian was brilliant, sharing so many vivid stories that made every landmark truly engaging. We got to see all the key historic spots and hidden gems, really experiencing how Santiago's with a local
Related Experiences
Operated by Unplanned Detours