Lodging in Chile

There is wide range of accommodation options across Chile, catering to travelers on a tight budget as well as for those with more cash. There are plenty of camping facilities as well as youth hostels and a growing network of backpackers’ hostels. Rooms costs more in Santiago than elsewhere in the country. In more out of the way places you can take advantage of hospedajes (a room in a local’s house) as well as refugios (rustic shelters) in national parks. Cabañas, chalet-style cabins, also exist in resort areas, again covering the full range from self-catering or full board deluxe. It is important to account for the peak holiday season in Chile, roughly December through February and Easter, when accommodation prices can rocket and rooms may be hard to come by without a prior reservation. During the low season you can always try to negotiate a discount on the advertised rate.

Hostels
There are heaps of hostels in the capital, and no shortage of options in resort towns like Viña del Mar. The farther south you go, towards remote areas of Patagonia, the less choice you will find, but budget accommodation is nonetheless available. In general, you can score a dorm bed in Chile for about $10. Springing for your own quarters will set you back about $20, on the low end. Hostels are typically well situated, with day and nighttime attractions, transit, and amenities within walking distance. While many hostels offer the expected facilities (breakfast, laundry, Internet), some even deliver WiFi, tours, and BBQ. Occasionally you’ll encounter added frills like pinball machines and foosball tables. Although quality has improved, dingy digs and erratic shower temperatures still exist. However, don’t be too quick to judge a hostel by its weathered exterior. Some of the best places to stay happen to be in historical buildings.

Hotels
If you can it is always best to take a look before committing yourself to a hotel room in Chile as the one-five star-rating is more a measure of amenities than décor and up-keep. In high season digs can be in short supply so pre-booking and risking a not-so-great room may be preferable to no room at all. Rooms are usually en-suite with a shower and hot water but standards vary. Expect to pay about from UD$40 for mid-range and $70 upwards for high-end hotels. In Santiago there are various large chain hotels (if you prefer something you recognize) as well as luxury boutique hotels. Away from the city there are some fantastic hacienda lodgings and lake resorts which also organize horse riding, rafting, fishing and hiking excursions. Check the Chilean National Hotel Association for more info. URL: www.hotelga.cl

Camping
Official campsites can be expensive in Chile, whether they are of modest facilities or part of fancy holiday resorts but all are usually well kept. Campsites in the national parks can be pretty basic and tend to be more expensive in the south than in the north of the country. In some parks wild camping is possible although it is wise to seek permission from the landowner first. Refugios, basic stone huts with bed space and gas stoves, are found in more remote locations but you should contact the park ranger stations before relying on this option. You may also be able to camp on some beaches, check with the local police first. Turistel publishes a camping guide listing sites, facilities, opening times. URL: www.turistel.cl

Hospedajes, Residenciales and Casas de Familia
The distinction between these three types is not always obvious, and it doesn’t necessarily matter as long as keeping to your budget is your priority. Hospedajes are usually cheaper versions of residenciales and both provide simple rooms either as part of the main house of a private home or in an extension at the back. Some of the more expensive residenciales are in impressive well-maintained houses while others can be dark and dank. It can be hit or miss with the quality so ask to see the room first. Casas de familia (or casas familiares) as the name suggests, offer rooms in a family’s home and are pretty much along the same lines as the others. Family members may tout for business in bus stations so you can save money by catching a ride with them. Ask at the local tourist office for info.