Chile Travel Guide - Accommodation

There are several luxury hotels in Santiago and throughout the country. In all regions of Chile, whatever hotels lack in facilities is made up for by a comfortable, homely atmosphere; Chile's famous hospitality is very apparent in provinces where it is common to see the owner or manager sit down to dinner with guests. Advance bookings are essential in resort areas during the high season. The cost of accommodation in Santiago is higher than in the provinces. Rates increase during the summer holiday from January to March, particularly in coastal resorts. Members of foreign motoring organisations can obtain discounts at hotels by joining the Automóvil Club de Chile (see address in Getting Around section). A tax of 19% is levied on all hotel bills, except those paid in foreign currencies by visitors, for which an export bill is required.

Grading: Hotels in Chile are graded from 5 (luxurious rooms) to 2 stars (basic commodities). 

There are plenty of campsites throughout Chile. Some locals will happily allow visitors to set up camp in their garden or land upon polite request. Official sites can be expensive. Further details on campsites may be obtained from the tourist office or from Turistel (website: www.turistel.cl).

There are several hostels throughout Chile and on Easter Island. Membership of the Asociación Chilena de Albergues Turísticos Juveniles is required (see Accommodation Information below); many hostels are extremely crowded and it is advisable to book in advance where possible.

Backpacker hostels are cropping up continually throughout the country, and offer friendly and cheap accommodation.

Residenciales are popular and widely available. Standards vary, but most offer simple rooms in a house or arranged round a courtyard garden.

Cabañas (holiday chalets) are mostly found in coastal resorts; popular with families self-catering.

In the national parks, refugios (ranger stations) offer beds for a low price. Check with the regional forestry office – Conaf (website: www.conaf.cl) in advance.

Chilean National Hotel Association (HOTELGA)
Nueva Tajamar 481, Oficina 806, North Tower, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (2) 203 6625.
Website: www.hotelga.cl

Asociación Chilena de Albergues Turísticos Juveniles (Youth Hostels)
Avenida Hernando de Aguirre 201, Oficina 602, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (2) 411 2050.
Website: www.hostelling.cl