Bahá'í Temple of South America
A stunning architectural marvel and a sanctuary of peace, this Bahá'í Temple offers breathtaking views and a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bahá'í Temple of South America
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural marvel and a sanctuary of peace, this Bahá'í Temple offers breathtaking views and a serene escape.
"The temple's architecture and setting were serene and inspiring, making it a highlight of our trip."
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the temple and its grounds is completely free.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for an uphill walk from the bus stop or main gate.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
The Temple Itself
Nine soaring petals form a stunning, flower-like structure, symbolizing unity and peace.
Panoramic City Views
Temple Grounds
On clear days, enjoy breathtaking vistas of Santiago stretching out below.
Serene Gardens
Surrounding the Temple
Beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape and a place for quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Ascent
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the temple and its grounds is completely free.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for an uphill walk from the bus stop or main gate.
☀️ Check the Weather
Santiago can be foggy or sunny; pack accordingly for comfort.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home, as pets are not permitted.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry to the temple and its grounds is completely free.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for an uphill walk from the bus stop or main gate.
☀️ Check the Weather
Santiago can be foggy or sunny; pack accordingly for comfort.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home, as pets are not permitted.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
Appropriate attire is recommended for this place of worship.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bahá'í Temple for its stunning, unique architecture and the profound sense of peace it offers. The beautiful gardens and panoramic city views on clear days are major highlights. It's appreciated as a free, inclusive space for reflection, though the uphill journey and occasional fog can be minor drawbacks.
"As our two-week stay in Santiago was coming to an end, my fiancée and I wanted one last memorable outing. The Marriott Hotel recommended the Bahai Temple, and after checking Tripadvisor, we booked a four-hour small group tour with Gems of Chile. We were the only guests that day, which meant a private guide and vehicle, exactly how we like to travel. Choosing a Sunday proved wise, as traffic was light and the drive took only about forty minutes each way.
Our guide, Daniel, arrived on time and immediately impressed us with his excellent English. Having lived abroad for several years, he had mastered the language, and his fluency made the tour far more engaging. He shared fascinating historical context about Chile throughout the drive, making sure no time was wasted.
The first stop was at Gems of Chile’s workshop and showroom, where the family owners craft jewelry from lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone found only in Chile and Afghanistan. We toured the workshop, enjoyed a taste of pisco, and browsed their creations. I tried to buy something for my fiancée, but she preferred to continue on to the temple. After about fifteen minutes, we were back in the van and heading toward the foothills.
When we arrived, the temple grounds were lively but not overcrowded. Visitors are welcomed with an orientation from a Bahai member, who explains the faith and its history. Since there were few English-speaking visitors that day, we were given a private orientation in a conference room. I had expected a high-pressure pitch, but it was nothing of the sort, just a thoughtful and informative introduction. When I offered a donation for his time, our guide politely declined, which I found refreshing.
Daniel then explained the layout and visiting protocols, and we explored the grounds and interior at our own pace for about thirty minutes. The temple’s architecture and setting were serene and inspiring, making it a highlight of our trip.
The entire tour lasted two hours and forty minutes at the pace we set. Back at our hotel, we thanked Daniel for his professionalism, knowledge, and insights into Santiago’s fascinating political past. I told him I only review tours I truly enjoy, so here it is. Thank you, Daniel, and I highly recommend Gems of Chile for anyone visiting Santiago."
Roman
"Beautiful and peaceful place to visit a bit out of the way in Santiago. The architecture and gardens are incredible. Sadly, we couldn’t enjoy the city view because it was a foggy day. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for relaxing, and it’s open to everyone regardless of religion. There’s no entrance fee.They also give you information about the Baha'i religion and are very polite.
İf you are taking public transport you are getting of front of main entrance also if you’re taking an Uber, make sure they drop you off at the parking lot. If they leave you at the main gate, you’ll have to walk about a mile uphill to get to the temple reception. Remember to check the weather beforehand and bring sunblock or rain gear"
Taner Keleş
"Beautiful and peaceful place to visit a bit out of the way in Santiago. The architecture and gardens are incredible. Sadly, we couldn’t enjoy the city view because it was a foggy day. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for relaxing, and it’s open to everyone regardless of religion. There’s no entrance fee.
If you’re taking an Uber, make sure they drop you off at the parking lot. If they leave you at the main gate, you’ll have to walk about a mile uphill to get to the temple reception. Remember to check the weather beforehand and bring sunblock or rain gear. Also, remember to wear clothing that’s appropriate for a place of worship."
Valek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the metro to Grecia station (Line 4), then catch a bus such as 506, 507, 511, 517, 519, D03, or D07. From the bus stop, it's about a 30-minute uphill walk to the temple. +2
It's accessible via public transport or Uber. For public transport, take the metro to Grecia station and then a bus. If using Uber, ensure they drop you at the parking lot to avoid a long uphill walk from the main gate.
Consider contacting the Santiago Bahá'í Facebook group for local advice or arrange an Uber to the parking lot for a more direct approach.
Yes, you can take a taxi or Uber. It's recommended to ask the driver to drop you off at the parking lot to shorten the uphill walk to the temple reception.
The travel time can vary, but with a combination of metro and bus, followed by a walk, it can take around an hour. An Uber might be quicker, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Bahá'í Temple and its gardens is completely free of charge.
The temple is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Weekday hours are typically 9 AM to 12 PM and 2:30 PM to 6 PM, while weekend hours are usually 9 AM to 6 PM. It is closed on Mondays. +1
No advance booking is required as the entrance is free and open to all.
No, the Bahá'í Temple is closed on Mondays. It is open from Tuesday through Sunday.
Yes, the temple is open to people of all religions, cultures, ethnicities, and races, embodying its message of unity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique architecture, wander through the serene gardens, enjoy panoramic city views on clear days, and learn about the Bahá'í faith.
Absolutely! The temple's unique design and the surrounding gardens offer many beautiful photo opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always good to be mindful of the sacred nature of the space and any posted restrictions.
The temple's design features nine petals, symbolizing the unity of nine major world religions and the oneness of humanity. +1
While not always formally advertised, you can receive an orientation from a Bahá'í member upon arrival to learn about the faith and the temple.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the temple's petal-like structure from various angles, the surrounding gardens, and the city skyline from the viewpoints.
While personal cameras are fine, large professional equipment or tripods might require special permission. It's best to check on-site or beforehand.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light.
Be respectful of the sacred space; avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or in designated quiet areas.
Expect stunning architectural shots, serene landscape photography, and panoramic city views on clear days.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a peaceful environment where families can enjoy nature and learn about a different faith in a welcoming setting. Remember to bring snacks and water, and check the weather to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own water and snacks will also help keep costs down, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without additional expenses. The stunning architecture and serene gardens offer immense value for zero entry fee.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to explore the surrounding gardens for landscape shots and the panoramic city views (weather permitting) for a broader perspective. Be mindful of respectful photography practices within this sacred space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Unity
The temple's construction utilized materials like cast glass and concrete, allowing for its intricate, flowing lines. The central dome, reaching skyward, is a focal point, drawing the eye and the spirit upwards. Visitors often remark on the sense of peace and awe they experience upon seeing and entering the temple, a testament to its thoughtful design and spiritual purpose.
This architectural marvel is one of only ten such Bahá'í Houses of Worship worldwide, making it a significant landmark not only for Santiago but for the entire continent. Its presence is a beacon of spiritual reflection and a symbol of interfaith harmony.
Navigating to the Temple: A Traveler's Guide
Be aware that even after disembarking the bus, there's a significant uphill walk, often estimated at around 30 minutes, to reach the temple itself. For those opting for ride-sharing services like Uber, it's crucial to instruct the driver to drop you off at the designated parking lot. Being dropped off at the main gate will result in a much longer, strenuous uphill hike.
Travelers suggest contacting the Santiago Bahá'í Facebook group for the most up-to-date and personalized directions, as local insights can be invaluable.
Experiencing Serenity and Views
On clear days, the temple grounds offer spectacular panoramic views of Santiago. This vantage point allows you to appreciate the vastness of the city nestled against the backdrop of the Andes mountains. However, be prepared for foggy days, which can lend a mystical, fairytale-like quality to the landscape, though they obscure the city views.
Whether you're seeking spiritual reflection, a moment of calm, or simply a beautiful place to visit, the Bahá'í Temple provides a unique and enriching experience for all.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit