Traveling around Chile can be a lot smoother if you come prepared with the right apps and tools. From navigating Santiago’s streets to ordering an empanada in a small village, technology can simplify your trip. Below is a list of must-have travel apps that’ll help you get around, communicate, and experience Chile without stress. Let’s dive right in!
Navigation
Google Maps (Free)
Google Maps is a must anywhere, but in Chile, it’s especially useful. You can use it for driving, public transportation, or even walking. Just download offline maps through Wi-Fi before heading into areas with minimal data coverage, like Torres del Paine or Atacama.
Maps.me (Free)
If you know you’ll be offline often, Maps.me is excellent. It relies on downloaded maps that work without cellular data. The app covers well-known hiking routes and trails around Chile, making it popular among trekkers and outdoor lovers. Don’t forget to download the Chile map before you go into remote areas.
Waze (Free)
If you’re renting a car and driving around Chile, Waze will help you avoid congested areas and find the best routes. It’s user-driven, so real-time reports highlight things like accidents, dangerous areas, and road closures. A great choice if you’re road-tripping the Carretera Austral.
Translation
Google Translate (Free)
Chile has a unique dialect of Spanish, making translation apps super handy. Google Translate can handle voice translations, written text, and even images. You can download the Spanish language pack for offline use, perfect for rural areas with weak signals. The camera feature, where you can point your phone at a sign or menu, can be a lifesaver!
iTranslate (Free; Paid for Pro features)
iTranslate works similarly but offers additional features in the paid version, like voice translation and offline capabilities. If you expect to have a lot of conversations with locals and want more accuracy, the Pro version might be worth it. It’s popular for handling both formal and casual speech.
Booking and Lodging
Booking.com (Free)
Booking.com is a favorite for finding hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Chile. The app makes searching easy, filters reviews, and often includes free cancellation in case your plans change at the last minute. Whether you’re booking a last-minute hostel in Puerto Varas or a five-star hotel in Santiago, this app has you covered.
Airbnb (Free)
Airbnb gives you more local and unique options like cabins or apartments, making it an ideal choice for staying in smaller Chilean villages or rural areas. You’ll find great deals, especially if you’re staying for longer periods in places like Valparaiso or Punta Arenas.
Hostelworld (Free)
If you’re on a budget and prefer hosteling, Hostelworld is essential. It has a ton of options all over Chile, from Santiago to Patagonia. Easy to search, review-based, and often includes detailed descriptions of their amenities like WiFi, breakfast, or tours. Make sure to read reviews carefully for info on things like cleanliness or safety.
Local Transportation
Uber (Free)
In Chile, Uber is widely available in big cities like Santiago and Valparaiso. It’s usually cheaper than taxis, especially for long distances. You can pay directly through the app, avoiding the need to carry cash. Just note: Uber is not officially sanctioned in some areas, so local drivers will sometimes ask you to sit in the front seat.
Cabify (Free)
Similar to Uber, Cabify is another option if you’d rather have a licensed driver. It operates in Chile with an emphasis on safety and professionalism. It’s great for getting around Santiago, Concepcion, or Vina del Mar, where public transportation might not be as easy to navigate.
Moovit (Free)
Moovit helps you navigate public transportation like buses and the metro in Santiago or regional cities. It provides accurate timetables, route suggestions, and estimated arrival times. This app is reliable if you’re staying in cities and don’t want to use taxis or rideshares. You can even use it offline if you download your route beforehand.
Didi (Free)
Didi is another ridesharing app that’s growing in Chile. It’s usually a bit cheaper than Uber and offers some discounts for first-time users. Great for city travel, especially in Santiago, where rides can be cheaper due to competition between apps.
Weather and Climate
AccuWeather (Free)
Chile’s weather can change fast, especially if you’re trekking in Patagonia or desert regions like the Atacama. AccuWeather offers current conditions and detailed forecasts for different parts of the country. You can download information for use offline, just in case your signal drops.
Windy (Free)
A favorite among hikers and outdoor adventurers, Windy provides detailed wind direction, precipitation, and temperature data. It’s essential if you’re planning something like camping trips or hikes in areas like the Torres del Paine or Lake District, where the weather changes frequently and dramatically.
Currency and Budgeting
XE Currency (Free)
XE is an easy-to-use currency converter, perfect for quickly figuring out exchange rates. Although the official currency is the Chilean peso, XE keeps track of live rates. You can also store data for offline use. This is essential when converting prices of bus tickets, food, or souvenirs in places with a fluctuating exchange rate.
Trail Wallet (Paid)
If you’re serious about tracking your travel expenses, Trail Wallet is great for managing your money. You can set daily budgets and track spending so you don’t go overboard. Although it’s a paid app, it’s simple to use and helps you avoid any financial surprises while you’re in Chile.
Offline Tools
WhatsApp (Free)
Many Chileans use WhatsApp as their main form of communication, even more than traditional texting. It’s free to use as long as you have WiFi or data and can be your go-to for contacting hosts, tour operators, or friends you meet along the way. Unlike some other messengers, it works smoothly even in lower-data areas.
Pocket (Free)
If you’re traveling through areas without much WiFi, like the Atacama Desert or Patagonia, Pocket is helpful for saving articles to read offline. You can save travel guides, blogs, and other resources for easy access later. Perfect for killing time during long bus trips or flights!
Food and Dining
Zomato (Free)
In Santiago and other major cities, Zomato is great for discovering restaurants and cafes. You can search by category, read reviews, and make reservations if needed. Ideal for foodies looking to explore local and international cuisine without playing a guessing game.
Google Maps (Free)
While it’s mainly for navigation, don’t forget that Google Maps also is handy for finding nearby restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors. Just search “food” or “restaurants” in your current area, and you’ll be able to check reviews, hours, and locations.
Health and Safety
First Aid by IFRC (Free)
Having an emergency resource like the First Aid app by IFRC could be useful, especially if you’re exploring remote areas. The app provides basic first-aid instructions as well as tips for dealing with common injuries. It runs offline, so no need to worry about losing signal when you’re in the mountains or desert.
Safety Detectives (Free)
If you’re concerned about internet safety while traveling, Safety Detectives helps you locate public networks and offers a detailed guide on how to remain secure while browsing. Not exactly a “travel app,” but it’s a good resource if you’re hopping from one coffee shop to another to find WiFi.
Adventure and Activities
AllTrails (Free; Paid for Pro features)
AllTrails is a must for outdoor lovers. You can search for hikes, biking tours, and other outdoor activities in Chile. The free version is robust, but the paid Pro version offers downloadable trails and offline map features—perfect for Patagonian treks.
TripAdvisor (Free)
TripAdvisor is always handy for finding activities, restaurants, and day trips. It has tons of reviews from past visitors and can help you book tours or excursions directly through the app. Whether you’re looking for a wine tour in the Central Valley or whale watching in Chiloé, this app can help you connect with trusted operators.
These apps can make your journey in Chile smarter, easier, and more enjoyable. With these in your pocket, you’ll be able to navigate cities, catch the best public transport, and chat with locals. Plus, you’ll save time and money! Happy travels.
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