Chile is one of the most diverse countries in South America. You can move from the desert in the north to glaciers and mountains in the south. Wherever you go, Chile offers natural beauty, culture, and adventure without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can explore Chile on a budget.
How to Save Money on Accommodation in Chile
Stay in Hostels
Hostels are a budget traveler’s best friend in Chile. You can find dorm beds starting from just $10-15 USD per night, depending on the location. Bigger cities like Santiago and Valparaíso may cost a bit more, but it’s still cheaper than a hotel. Many hostels also include breakfast, which can help you save on food.
Use Airbnb
Did you know that you can get up to 40% cheaper prices on flight and hotel bookings by using a VPN? Try NordVPN today! They offer a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee!
If you’re not into sharing a space with strangers, Airbnb is a great alternative. You can find private rooms for $20-30 USD a night, which is a good option if you want a bit more comfort while sticking to a budget.
Camp in National Parks
Chile is home to some incredible national parks. For adventure travelers, camping is both cheap and will allow you to get closer to nature. Some camping spots are free or very affordable, often costing around $10 USD per night. Just note that during peak season, reservations might be required, especially in popular spots like Torres del Paine.
Try Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is popular in Chile, and many hosts are excited to show you around their city. It’s a great way to dive into local culture while getting free accommodation. Plus, a local can point you toward the hidden gems and affordable places to eat and visit.
How to Save Money on Food in Chile
Eat at Local Markets
Skip the restaurants in touristy areas and hit the local markets. You can find empanadas for just $1-2 USD or a full meal with rice, beans, and meat for under $5 USD. These markets are often the best places to experience authentic Chilean food without spending much.
Go for the Lunch Menu
Many restaurants offer a set lunch menu called “menú del día.” These meals usually include a main dish, a drink, and sometimes a dessert. It’s the most affordable way to eat out in Chile and usually costs around $5-10 USD.
Cook Your Own Meals
Most hostels and Airbnbs will have a kitchen where you can prepare your meals. Groceries in Chile are relatively cheap, and if you cook your own food, you can stick to a daily food budget of $10-15 USD. There are plenty of supermarkets, but you should also take advantage of local fruit and vegetable markets for cheaper, fresh produce.
Avoid High-End Restaurants
Chile can have pricey restaurants, especially in areas like Santiago or touristic zones in Patagonia. For budget-friendly dining, stick to local eateries or smaller “comedor” style restaurants where prices are more reasonable.
How to Save Money on Transportation in Chile
Use Long-Distance Buses
Chile is a long country, and moving around can be expensive if you fly everywhere. Thankfully, long-distance buses are a reliable and comfy way to travel for less. You can even get buses with fully reclining seats, known as “cama” seats, on longer routes.
Buses are a much cheaper option than flying. For example, a bus ride from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama could cost around $40-50 USD, while a flight would easily exceed $100 USD.
Take Night Buses
If you want to save on both accommodation and transport, take night buses. Since many routes in Chile are long, this will save you on a night’s accommodation while still taking you to your next destination. You can find comfy buses with reclining seats for affordable prices.
Use Public Transportation in Cities
Chile’s major cities like Santiago have excellent public transportation systems. You can get around the city using the metro or buses, and both are very affordable. A metro ride in Santiago costs about $1 USD. Biking is also an option in some cities, with bike rentals available for a small daily fee.
Use Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and DiDi are popular across Chile. These can be a budget-friendly way to get around, especially if you’re traveling with others and can split the cost. Taxis can be more expensive, so ridesharing is often the better option for short distances.
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Chile
Valparaíso
This colorful, bohemian city is just an hour and a half from Santiago and is a must-visit for budget travelers. The best part? Much of the beauty of Valparaíso is free! You can wander around the city’s hills, admiring art murals, colorful houses, and ocean views without spending a dime.
Pucón
For adventure lovers, Pucón is a great budget destination. While popular for its volcano and outdoor activities, you can find ways to explore this town without overspending. Hiking around Villarica or visiting waterfalls in the area can be done affordably. There are also free hikes available if you don’t want to pay for a guided tour.
The Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is world-famous for its unique, moon-like landscapes. It’s more affordable than Patagonia and has a wealth of budget activities. You can rent a bike in San Pedro de Atacama and cycle around to explore the desert for free. It’s a great way to sightsee without spending too much money.
Chiloé Island
Few tourists make it down to Chiloé, but it’s well worth the visit. The island is known for its unique architecture and wildlife. You can visit the colorful stilt houses and the UNESCO-listed wooden churches for free. Accommodation is also quite cheap compared to mainland cities.
Cheap or Free Things to Do in Chile
Explore Santiago on Foot
Santiago is full of free parks, plazas, and cultural sites. You can walk up Cerro San Cristóbal for a panoramic view of the city or visit the free-to-enter museums like Santiago Museum or the Salvador Allende Museum. Also, join free walking tours that will take you around the historic areas of the city.
Visit National Parks
Chile has some of the best national parks in the world. While some may charge small entry fees, many parks offer plenty of free trails and camping spots. Torres del Paine or Huerquehue National Park are amazing spots for hiking, and you can camp overnight affordably if you bring your own equipment.
Stargazing in the Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is one of the best spots in the world for stargazing. You don’t need to pay for a tour to enjoy the night sky. Just head out of town away from the lights, and you’ll be able to see stars like never before – for free!
Walk Around Valdivia
Valdivia is a charming riverside city surrounded by greenery. You can walk around town, visit the Valdivia Fish Market, or explore the surrounding forests – all without spending much. The town has some beautiful parks like Parque Oncol, where entrance fees are minimal or often don’t exist.
Conclusion
Traveling in Chile doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With smart choices about accommodation, food, and transportation, you can explore this stunning country on a budget and still have an incredible experience. Whether you’re hiking a national park or walking through the streets of Valparaíso, there are countless ways to experience Chile without overspending.
Leave a reply