Buses

Transportation here rules. Sometimes. Here are two trips that are quick and accessible by bus (and a bit of walking).

1. Cajón del Maipo- a quiet and somewhat natural area, this canyon just outside of Santiago has lots of offer. I took a bus from the south end of the metro, and 2 hours later was in the sleepy town of San José del Maipo. They offer all sorts of nature tourism, like rafting, horseback riding and trekking. I just hung out for one night and trekked the next day. It's gorgeous, super close, and there are towns further down the canyon that I plan to visit (lots of camping options too). Here are some photos.

2. Climbing at Cerro Manquehuito- so I already posted some pictures of climbing outside. We went again, but this time did the whole thing without a car. The C14 will take you to the start of the quiet hill neighborhood, and a 50 minute hike past the fancy houses (we're talking gates, guards, and one with a helipad) and you're at the cliffs.

I spend about an hour and a half every day on the metro and buses. It kind of sucks, but I'm realizing how much of a wimp I was at home. Not that I look forward to spending more time on buses, but maybe I'm getting over my aversion to bus routes and waiting. Granted, the freedom of a bicycle trumps buses any day, but I will scoff no more at a warm bus on a snowy Madison night.