Pomaire Chile
Pomaire: A charming Chilean village famed for its vibrant pottery and delicious traditional cuisine, just a short trip from Santiago.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Pomaire Chile
Best Time
Lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pomaire: A charming Chilean village famed for its vibrant pottery and delicious traditional cuisine, just a short trip from Santiago.
"Pomaire is a magical town where mud has a memory, offering a taste of authentic Chile.
"🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and workshops. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
While some places might accept cards, cash is often preferred for smaller artisan purchases. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Pottery Workshops
Throughout Pomaire
Discover the magic of 'greda' (clay) as local artisans craft beautiful pottery. Watch them work and find unique souvenirs.
Traditional Chilean Cuisine
Various restaurants
Indulge in hearty Chilean dishes like empanadas, pastel de choclo, and humitas. Don't miss the famous 'empanada de kilo'.

Pomaire's Charm
Village streets
Wander through the picturesque streets, soak in the local culture, and enjoy the romanticized atmosphere of this Chilean gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Clay and Cuisine
Getting to Pomaire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and workshops. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
While some places might accept cards, cash is often preferred for smaller artisan purchases. :moneybag:
🍽️ Try the 'Empanada de Kilo'
A must-try! These massive empanadas are a Pomaire specialty.
📸 Capture the Clay Art
Pomaire is a photographer's dream with its unique pottery and rustic charm. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and workshops. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Crafts
While some places might accept cards, cash is often preferred for smaller artisan purchases. :moneybag:
🍽️ Try the 'Empanada de Kilo'
A must-try! These massive empanadas are a Pomaire specialty.
📸 Capture the Clay Art
Pomaire is a photographer's dream with its unique pottery and rustic charm. :camerawithflash:
🚌 Bus to Pomaire
Buses from Santiago's Terminal San Borja are a convenient option. Ask to be dropped at the Pomaire crossing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pomaire's authentic Chilean charm, delicious traditional food, and the unique experience of its pottery artisans. It's a highly recommended day trip from Santiago for those seeking culture and flavor. Some find it can get very crowded on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Pomaire from Santiago by bus, head to the Terminal San Borja. From there, you can take a bus towards Melipilla and ask the driver to drop you off at the Pomaire crossing. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes.
Yes, you can catch buses from Pomaire back to Santiago. Look for buses at the designated stops near the village. It's advisable to confirm return schedules, especially if traveling on weekends.
Driving to Pomaire from Santiago is also a straightforward option, taking about 50 minutes. There is usually parking available in the village, though it can get busy on weekends.
The travel time to Pomaire from Santiago is typically around 50 minutes by car or bus, depending on traffic conditions.
Several bus companies operate routes from Santiago's Terminal San Borja towards Melipilla, which will stop at or near Pomaire. It's best to check at the terminal for the most current options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pomaire is a village, not a ticketed attraction, so there is no general entrance fee to explore the town and its shops. You only pay for any pottery you wish to purchase or food you consume.
Most artisan workshops in Pomaire are open daily, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. It's a good idea to visit during daylight hours to see the artisans at work.
No, booking in advance is not necessary for a day trip to Pomaire. It's a destination you can visit spontaneously.
Artisans are generally active throughout the day, especially when there are visitors. Weekends tend to be busier, so you'll likely see more activity then.
Yes, Pomaire is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it remains open on public holidays. Expect larger crowds during these times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the traditional Chilean dishes like 'pastel de choclo' (corn pie), 'humitas' (corn tamales), and especially the famous 'empanada de kilo' (kilogram-sized empanada).
Many restaurants in Pomaire serve delicious empanadas, including the renowned 'empanada de kilo'. Restaurants like San Pedro and El Cototudo are often recommended.
While traditional Chilean cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants may offer vegetarian options like vegetable empanadas or salads. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.
Meal prices can vary, but a typical main course might range from CLP 10,000 to CLP 16,000. Empanadas and simpler dishes are more affordable.
Yes, you can enjoy Chilean wine with your meal. Some establishments may also offer wine tastings or sell bottles to take home.
📸 📸 Photography
Pomaire offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the intricate details of the pottery in workshops to the rustic charm of the village streets and the vibrant colors of local crafts.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the workshops to capture the artisans at work. It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-ups of individuals.
The golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer beautiful soft light for photography. However, the vibrant atmosphere during the day also provides great shots.
The main street lined with pottery shops and workshops is a great place for photos. Look for unique clay creations and traditional Chilean architecture.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for village scenes, and a prime lens is good for low-light conditions inside workshops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds, making it easier to navigate with little ones. The open spaces and the novelty of the crafts can keep children entertained for hours. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the village.
💰 Budget Travelers
For meals, opt for the famous empanadas or a 'menu del día' (set lunch menu) which often offers good value. While artisan pottery can range in price, you can find smaller, more affordable pieces as souvenirs.
couples
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps sharing a large empanada or a traditional Chilean dish. Strolling hand-in-hand through the streets, browsing the pottery, and soaking in the authentic atmosphere makes for a memorable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Pomaire Pottery
When exploring the shops, you'll find a wide variety of pomaire pottery for sale. Look for pieces that resonate with you, whether it's a practical kitchen item or a decorative piece for your home. The quality and craftsmanship are generally excellent, making these items wonderful souvenirs. Remember that while many places accept cards, having some cash on hand can be beneficial for smaller purchases or for supporting individual artisans directly.
Beyond the typical pottery, Pomaire also offers other artisanal crafts, including textiles and wooden items. The overall atmosphere of the village is one of tradition and creativity, making it a delightful place to wander and discover unique handmade treasures.
A Taste of Traditional Chile
Many restaurants in Pomaire offer a true taste of Chilean home cooking. You can expect generous portions and flavorful dishes, often accompanied by local wines. Some establishments, like Restaurante San Pedro and El Cototudo, are frequently mentioned for their quality and traditional recipes. The experience of dining in Pomaire is not just about the food but also about the atmosphere – often lively, with a strong sense of local culture and hospitality.
While the focus is on traditional meat dishes, some places may offer vegetarian alternatives, so it's always worth asking. The overall dining experience in Pomaire is a significant part of its appeal, making it a perfect day trip for food lovers looking to explore Chilean cuisine.
Getting to Pomaire: Practicalities
Upon arrival at the Pomaire crossing, you can either walk into the village or wait for a local 'liebre' (a smaller, shared taxi or van) to take you further in. The walk is pleasant and allows you to start soaking in the rural atmosphere. For those who prefer to drive, Pomaire is easily accessible by car, with a similar travel time from Santiago. Parking is generally available, though it can become more challenging on busy weekends.
When planning your return, ensure you know the bus schedules from Pomaire back to Santiago. While buses run regularly, confirming the last departure times can prevent any last-minute stress. The ease of access is a major draw for visitors looking for a quick escape from the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit