Chile is a long and narrow stretch of land that offers travelers a diverse range of accommodation options. Whether you’re backpacking across the country or seeking luxury amidst stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone. From affordable hostels in bustling cities to boutique hotels in tranquil ski resorts, Chile caters to all budgets and preferences.
Accommodation in Santiago
Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, has plenty of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking to stay in the heart of the city or a quieter neighborhood, you can find something that fits your needs and budget.
Budget: Hostels
If you’re traveling on a budget, Santiago offers a variety of hostels in central areas like Bellavista and Lastarria. These neighborhoods are known for their artsy vibe and are packed with bars and restaurants. Hostel Bellavista and La Chimba Hostel are popular choices. They offer shared dorms, private rooms, and free Wi-Fi at affordable prices.
Another good option is Hostal Forestal. This place is great for meeting other travelers and getting recommendations for city tours or day trips.
Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels
If you’re willing to spend a little more, small boutique hotels can offer a more intimate and comfortable experience. In the Lastarria neighborhood, Hotel Ismael 312 and Su Merced are two excellent choices. These hotels are centrally located, stylishly designed, and offer personalized service.
In the Providencia area, there’s the Orly Hotel, which provides a mix of modern amenities in a relaxed, cozy setting. The Providencia neighborhood also gives you access to quieter streets but is still close to eateries and shops.
Luxury: Hotels
For those wanting a more luxurious stay, Santiago’s five-star hotels are mostly found in the upscale neighborhoods of Las Condes and Vitacura. The Ritz-Carlton Santiago, located here, is a top option. With its rooftop pool and stunning views of the Andes Mountains, it’s the epitome of luxury.
Another fantastic luxury choice is Hotel W Santiago, well-known for its chic design and central location. You’ll enjoy top-notch amenities including a rooftop pool, multiple dining options, and a high-end spa.
Where to Stay in San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is a gateway to the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. If you’re coming here to explore the salt flats, lagoons, and geysers, choosing the right place to stay can enhance your experience.
Budget: Hostels
Backpackers love San Pedro because of its laid-back vibe and great hostel options. Hostal Rural is a traveler favorite thanks to its friendly atmosphere. It’s centrally located, and you can easily book tours to all the top desert attractions.
Another option is Hostal Solar. It’s slightly quieter, offers both dormitory-style accommodation and private rooms, and includes breakfast. Both options are affordable for budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels
If you’re seeking more comfort, boutique hotels in San Pedro provide a charming experience without straining your budget. Hotel Kimal is located just a short walk from the main plaza and has a desert-inspired design that blends with the surroundings.
Poblado Kimal is also a good mid-range option. It offers bungalow-style rooms that are quaint and fit the desert aesthetic perfectly. Both hotels provide pools where you can relax after spending the day exploring the dry desert heat.
Luxury: Hotels
For a luxe desert experience, Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa is the go-to luxury hotel in San Pedro. Situated outside of the town for ultimate tranquility, this eco-friendly lodge is integrated into the landscape and offers stunning views of the desert and mountains. You’ll get all-inclusive packages here – meals, drinks, and tours are all covered.
Tierra Atacama is another luxurious choice, with similar all-inclusive packages and a focus on sustainability. Its infinity pool overlooks the Atacama Desert, and the nightly stargazing sessions are a beautiful way to end your day.
Where to Stay in Valparaíso
Valparaíso is a colorful coastal city known for its hills, street art, and bohemian charm. A stay here is a completely different experience compared to Santiago or the Atacama Desert.
Budget: Hostels
There are numerous affordable hostels in Valparaíso, especially in the Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción areas, which offer spectacular views. Planeta Lindo Hostel is a great choice for budget travelers. Its main draw is its rooftop terrace, which has unbeatable views of the city and coastline.
Another affordable option is Casa Volante Hostel, which has a colorful, homely vibe. It’s centrally located, and the nearby funiculars (hillside elevators) make it easy to explore different parts of the city.
Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels
Valparaíso offers some wonderfully artsy boutique hotels where you can stay in lovingly restored historic buildings. Fauna Hotel is a mid-range option in Cerro Alegre with a hip rooftop bar. You’ll enjoy incredible views along with modern rooms in an old-style setting.
Casa Galos Hotel & Lofts is another solid pick. Tucked away on a quiet road, it has charming rooms with a lot of character. Both hotels provide the kind of artistic vibe you’d expect from this unique city.
Luxury: Hotels
For those wanting more comfort, Hotel Palacio Astoreca offers a luxurious stay in an impeccably restored mansion. The views over the harbor are stunning, and the hotel features a spa, library, and a gourmet restaurant.
Another luxury choice is the Alegre Hotel Boutique. Located in Cerro Alegre, this boutique hotel combines elegant interiors with personalized service. It’s a peaceful retreat while still keeping close to Valparaíso’s action.
Where to Stay in Patagonia
Visiting Patagonia is an adventure. It’s remote, wild, and pristine, which makes choosing the right place to rest after exploring national parks and glaciers crucial. Most travelers base themselves in Puerto Natales or Torres del Paine National Park.
Budget: Hostels
If you’re headed to Puerto Natales, El Patagónico Hostel is one of the best budget options. It’s a small family-run hostel, known for being clean and cozy. The staff can help arrange your excursions into Torres del Paine.
Baguales Hostel is also a great pick for those on a budget. Their rooms are clean, there’s a warm fireplace in the common area, and breakfast is included. It’s a homey spot to wind down after an active day.
Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels
If you prefer to stay inside Torres del Paine National Park, EcoCamp Patagonia is a popular mid-range option. It offers dome-style accommodation that blends with the landscape. The domes give you an unforgettable ‘glamping’ experience under the stars while keeping you close to the hiking trails.
Hotel Lago Grey is another mid-range option located just outside the park, offering panoramic views of Lake Grey and the surrounding glaciers. It’s modern but blends rugged charm with comfort.
Luxury: Hotels
If you’re looking for full-on luxury in Patagonia, The Singular Patagonia is likely the finest option. It’s a beautifully restored historical building with rooms overlooking the fjords. The hotel offers top-tier amenities such as a fantastic restaurant and spa.
Explora Patagonia is an all-inclusive hotel inside Torres del Paine National Park. It offers well-organized excursions, incredible views from every room, and a level of service that is unmatched in this rugged region.
Other Unique Stays
Chile offers a variety of unique accommodation types—places that add a unique touch to your trip beyond just offering a bed.
Stay in a Wine Vineyard
If you’re a wine lover, consider staying in Chile’s wine country. Clos Apalta Residence in Colchagua Valley provides a luxurious stay at one of the best vineyards in South America. It offers top-tier wine tastings, incredible views, and stunning accommodation.
Treehouse Stays
For something truly distinctive, visit Canopy Village near Pucón. You get to stay in small, cozy treehouses surrounded by native forests as you hear the sounds of nature all around you.
Final Tips for Finding Accommodation
Always book your riskier stays well in advance, especially if you’re staying in popular destinations like Torres del Paine or San Pedro de Atacama. Many places fill up quickly, especially during high season (December to March).
Hostels in major cities like Santiago and Valparaíso rarely require advance booking, but if you’re visiting during a festival or national holiday, it’s safer to reserve a spot ahead of time.
No matter where you stay in Chile, don’t forget to be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Chileans are known for their warm hospitality, so getting to know your host or hotel staff will often enhance your whole experience.
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