History & Highlights

Santiago Tour + La Moneda Palace Changing of the Guard

A neoclassical palace, a national hero's crypt and a country's turbulent politics

4.6 (66) · Bookable via Civitatis

This tour starts at the Altar de la Patria, where Bernardo O'Higgins, the general who led Chile to independence, lies in an underground crypt, then heads to La Moneda: the neoclassical palace built in the 1780s as the royal mint and turned presidential seat in 1846. Your guide walks you through the building's two centuries — including the events of September 1973, when the palace itself became the stage for the coup that ended Salvador Allende's government.

Time the tour right and you'll catch the Changing of the Guard, held on alternate mornings, as the Carabineros special guard marches in formation with its own band. It's a formal, photogenic ceremony, and a rare chance to see Chile's political present playing out just steps from its history.

Tour highlights

Altar de la Patria and O'Higgins Crypt
La Moneda Palace
Changing of the Guard ceremony
Plaza de la Constitución
1973 coup history

Meeting point

Cripta de Bernardo O'Higgins

Google Maps OpenStreetMap

This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Santiago Tour + La Moneda Palace Changing of the Guard really free?

Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.

Where does the Santiago Tour + La Moneda Palace Changing of the Guard start?

The tour meets at Cripta de Bernardo O'Higgins (Cripta de Bernardo O'Higgins). Look for the guide with the FreeTour sign; the exact meeting point is confirmed in your booking.

How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?

It lasts around 2h and is guided in English. Groups are capped at about 6 people so the experience stays personal. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.