Santiago Town Oasis
Discover Santiago's hidden gems: from breathtaking sunset views at Cerro Calán to lush desert oases and unique stays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunset
Santiago Town Oasis
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Santiago's hidden gems: from breathtaking sunset views at Cerro Calán to lush desert oases and unique stays.
"While some hotels boast great locations and pools, beware of potential bed bug issues and noise."
🚗 Desert Drive Caution
High-clearance or AWD recommended for some desert oasis routes.
💧 Stay Hydrated in Desert
Bring ample water and sun protection for desert excursions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cerro Calán Sunset
Las Condes
Panoramic city views and a breathtaking sunset. An easy hike to a memorable vista.
Santiago Oasis (Baja California Sur)
Near Santiago, Baja California Sur
A lush desert oasis with waterfalls and vibrant greenery. Perfect for a refreshing escape.
Secret Airbnb Disco
Santiago
Unique Airbnb experience featuring a private pool and a hidden disco for a fun night in.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunset Views
Desert Oasis Adventure Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Desert Drive Caution
High-clearance or AWD recommended for some desert oasis routes.
💧 Stay Hydrated in Desert
Bring ample water and sun protection for desert excursions.
🌅 Sunset Spot Strategy
Arrive early at Cerro Calán for the best sunset views, especially on weekends.
🤫 Unique Stays
Consider unique Airbnbs with private pools and secret features for a memorable stay.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Desert Drive Caution
High-clearance or AWD recommended for some desert oasis routes.
💧 Stay Hydrated in Desert
Bring ample water and sun protection for desert excursions.
🌅 Sunset Spot Strategy
Arrive early at Cerro Calán for the best sunset views, especially on weekends.
🤫 Unique Stays
Consider unique Airbnbs with private pools and secret features for a memorable stay.
🚶♀️ Easy City Walks
Las Condes is generally safe for walking and exploring city attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for accommodations in Santiago are mixed. While some praise the location, cleanliness, and amenities like pools, others report significant issues with bed bugs and noise disturbances. Management's response to complaints has also been a point of contention for some guests.
"WARNING!! WARNING!!! WARNING!!!
Think twice about staying at this hotel, beds are infested with BED BUGS!!!! It's literally impossible to sleep, we reported the incident at 2am at recepción, unfortunately they didn't even bother to move us to another room nor give importance to this matter! We left this place without sleep and without any refund or apology, it's a shame because the place looks Im great conditions!!"
Mar Aguirre
"Too much noise coming from second floor and annoying guest’s and no management to complain"
juan humberto valdes españa
"Older hotel great location great place to stay staff is okay"
Junior Mcdonough
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The oasis near Santiago, Baja California Sur, is about 1.5 hours from Cabo San Lucas. A long, sandy road leads to the canyon, so high-clearance or all-wheel drive is recommended, though not always required.
Yes, Las Condes is generally considered a safe area for walking and exploring museums and attractions.
Cerro Calán is located in Las Condes. It's an easy 2km walk, accessible by car to the Camino del Observatorio.
Information on public transport varies. For desert oases, private transport or tours are common. For Cerro Calán, local buses or ride-sharing services can be used to reach the Las Condes area.
For off-road adventures to desert oases, 4x4 Jeeps or vehicles with high clearance are ideal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cerro Calán is free to enter. It's open daily from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM, with the last access at 7:45 PM.
The canyon oasis is on private property and has an entrance fee. Costs can vary, so it's best to check locally or with tour operators.
For unique stays like those with secret discos, booking in advance through platforms like Airbnb is essential.
Santiago Project by Aluminak is a nature and art space in Ilocos Sur. Specific hours may vary, but it's a recommended spot for exploration.
The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route, not a ticketed event. You can walk sections of it freely.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can hike to waterfalls like Sol de Mayo, explore the lush greenery, and enjoy the refreshing water. Off-road adventures are also popular in the area. 
The walk to the viewpoint at Cerro Calán is an easy 2km, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Expect a private pool and a hidden disco area for entertainment. It's a unique lodging experience for a fun night.
Yes, guided off-road Jeep tours are available that often include visits to Santiago town and desert oases like Fox Canyon.
It's a space in Ilocos Sur that combines nature and art, offering a unique experience for visitors interested in local creativity and landscapes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Cerro Calán itself is a viewpoint, the surrounding Las Condes area in Santiago has numerous restaurants and cafes.
Yes, you can often find fresh salsa, homemade chips, and cold drinks from local vendors near the oasis areas.
Oasis Food Park in Santiago, Dominican Republic, offers a variety of food options typical of a food park.
The small town of Santiago offers local dining experiences, often featuring regional specialties.
Dining options would depend on the Airbnb's amenities. Some may offer kitchens, while others are near local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire viewpoint offers stunning panoramic shots of Santiago, especially during sunset. Capture the city lights as they twinkle on.
Capture the contrast of lush greenery against the desert landscape, waterfalls, and the vibrant flora.
Absolutely! The Camino offers diverse landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites perfect for photography.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the vastness.
While the disco is a unique feature, ensure you respect the property's rules regarding photography, especially if it's a private party space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're exploring the desert oases near Santiago, look for tours that cater to families or opt for areas known for easier access and calmer waters. While some off-road adventures might be more suited for older children, the natural beauty of these oases can be captivating for all ages. Always prioritize safety and ensure children are supervised, especially near water.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
+1For those who enjoy a challenge, consider exploring the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes. While the full trek is extensive, walking shorter sections can offer a rewarding experience with beautiful scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
And for a truly unique experience, look for accommodations like the Airbnb with a secret disco – it’s an unexpected twist for a fun-filled stay.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The desert oases near Santiago provide a different kind of photographic opportunity, showcasing the striking contrast between arid landscapes and lush, hidden water sources. Waterfalls, unique flora, and the rugged terrain offer endless possibilities for creative compositions.
If you're venturing onto the Camino de Santiago, you'll find a wealth of photographic subjects, from picturesque villages and rolling hills to historical architecture and the diverse faces of fellow pilgrims.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Santiago's Desert Oases
+1Accessing these oases can be an adventure in itself. Many are reached via sandy roads or dry riverbeds, making high-clearance vehicles or 4x4s highly recommended. Some areas are on private property and may require an entrance fee. Guided off-road tours are a popular way to explore these remote locations, offering a chance to discover the unique ecosystem and enjoy the scenic drives.
+1When visiting, remember that you're in a desert environment. Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and be prepared for the heat. The visual contrast between the stark desert and the vibrant green of the oases makes for incredible photography opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
The Allure of Cerro Calán
The best time to visit Cerro Calán is undoubtedly during the late afternoon, leading up to sunset. However, this popularity means it can get crowded, especially on weekends. To truly savor the experience and capture the best photos, arriving earlier in the afternoon is advisable. This allows you to find a comfortable spot and soak in the atmosphere before the peak rush.
Beyond the sunset, Cerro Calán offers a pleasant, easy hike. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for families and casual walkers. It's a fantastic way to experience a bit of nature and gain a new perspective on Santiago without venturing far from the city center. Remember to check the closing times, as the park has a set last entry.
Unique Stays in Santiago
These unconventional lodgings often come with specific amenities designed for entertainment and relaxation. The appeal lies in the novelty and the ability to create your own private party atmosphere. While the focus might be on the unique features, it's always wise to check reviews for aspects like noise levels and overall guest experience, as highlighted by some traveler feedback.
When considering such unique stays, it's important to manage expectations. While the novelty is high, ensure the core aspects of comfort and cleanliness are met. The 'secret disco' concept offers a glimpse into creative hospitality, catering to travelers who want their accommodation to be an experience in itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit