Ascensor Mariposas, Historical funicular railway in Valparaíso, Chile
Ascensor Mariposas is a funicular railway in Valparaíso that connects two street levels on Mariposas Hill. The system moves at a steep angle through the residential area, transporting passengers between its two stations.
The funicular began service in 1906 during the early industrial period and shaped Valparaíso's transport history. By 1998 it received national monument status, recognizing its role in the city's development.
The lift is part of Valparaiso's distinctive transport system that connects the city across different elevation levels. Residents rely on it in daily life to move between neighborhoods and access their communities.
The ride is short and passes through narrow residential streets, so expect a compact journey and wear sturdy footwear. Daytime is ideal for traveling when visibility and views of the surroundings are best.
The system is among the longest funiculars in the city and operates at an unusually steep grade on Mariposas Hill. This extreme incline makes the ride a distinctive experience within the city's daily transport network.
Location: Valparaíso
Inception: 1906
Part of: list of national monuments of the Region of Valparaíso
GPS coordinates: -33.05083,-71.61806
Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:25
La Sebastiana, Valparaíso
546 m
The Open Sky Museum of Valparaíso
465 m
Plaza Victoria
537 m
Edificio Hucke
716 m
Arco Británico
726 m
Biblioteca Santiago Severín
662 m
Palacio Polanco
640 m
Cementerio N° 2 de Valparaíso
887 m
Teatro Municipal de Valparaíso
960 m
Plaza Simón Bolívar
612 m
Museo de Historia Natural de Valparaíso
559 m
Ascensor Monjas
371 m
Teatro Imperio
487 m
Union Church, Valparaíso
604 m
Club Naval - Valparaíso
521 m
Escuela Ramón Barros Luco
910 m
Palacio Ross
847 m
Edificio Consistorial de Valparaíso
630 m
Teatro Condell
555 m
Iglesia del Corazón de María, Valparaíso
912 m
Palacio Lyon, Valparaíso
559 m
Ascensor Van Buren
711 m
Cristo Redentor de Valparaíso
358 m
Teatro Mauri
601 m
Monumento a Lord Cochrane
856 m
Columna Francesa, Valparaíso
618 m
Casa Ballivian
405 m
Monumento a los Detenidos Desaparecidos y Ejecutados Políticos por la Dictadura Militar en la Región de Valparaíso
698 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes