Climbing in Chile and the IFSC Climbing World Cup

Indoor and Outdoor Climbing in Chile

Many people learn about climbing first at a local climbing gym. In recent years, climbing has become more prominent in mainstream media. From IFSC Climbing World Cups to climbing as an Olympic sport, indoor climbing has come a long way in capturing the imagination of people worldwide. Later this month and for the first time in history, the IFSC Climbing World Cup will be held in Chile.

Most people may know of Chile as home to Patagonia, a region shared with Argentina and made famous in part by the brand that shares its name. The term Patagonia coming from Portuguese explorers describing the native peoples of the region with the term ‘patagon’. This rugged natural paradise was loosely defined until active surveying in the 19th century. It was not until the early 1990s that the local sport climbing community really took off, but summit attempts and exploration had already begun many years earlier. Today, many climbers worldwide know Patagonia as the home of world-class alpine climbing destinations like El Chalten (Argentina) and Torres Del Paine (Chile). However, there are plenty of other climbing destinations in Chile that offer equally amazing experiences. Heading to Santiago this year for the IFSC Climbing World Cup or stopping over on the way somewhere else? Visit Parque Los Silos if you want an outstanding indoor experience and Cajón del Maipo for those who love mountains.

Parque Los Silos is by far the most unique city climbing experience in Santiago. Walking along the Mapocho river from the Mercado Central de Santiago will bring you right to this unique local gem. Run by a local climbing non-profit, the gym acts as an educational hub for newcomers to the sport and an awesome place for visitors to meet local climbers. Like the name implies, you can lead climb the outside of concrete silos or try your finger strength on their well-worn outdoor bouldering walls. Either way, this experience is one you won’t soon forget. Did we mention all fees go to supporting the local community?

Situated just outside of Santiago, San Jose de Maipo is an ideal base camp for seeing Cajón del Maipo. A one hour drive or two and half hour bus ride by transit will bring you out to San Jose de Maipo. While Google won’t provide you any information on local transit, any local will tell you that heading to Las Mercedes station and grabbing a bus into the mountains is by far the cheapest form of transport. For international travelers looking to save a buck and get the most of their experience, most local guides for Cajón del Maipo live near San Jose de Maipo and will readily meet you there. The area provides plenty to do and see. Known for its volcanic hot springs, rafting, and scenic trails into the towering mountainside, the area provides the ideal experience for outdoor adventurers and general visitors alike. So next time someone brings up climbing in Chile, be sure to let them know there are more options than just Patagonia!