How to Travel Chile with Empty Pockets and a Full Heart

Smack dab in southern South America, Chile lures the bold traveler into a land of untamed wilderness, culture, and unrelenting but beautiful landscapes. From windswept peaks buried in Patagonia to sun-kissed beaches along its Pacific coast, this is a country of contrasts that holds secrets awaiting discovery via roads less traveled.
But this does not have to break the bank for exploring such an enchanting country. With some savvy planning, combined with flexibility, a willingness to rough it-or whateverUMMY for your vide-came means broke backpackers don’t have to mortgage their life savings to see Chile’s breathtaking beauty.
It’s time to take up expert advice on how to make the most out of options available on a budget in Chile, hunt out some real hidden treasures, and enjoy your adventure without necessarily going overboard. Come ready for some real and raw, unforgettable Chile-whether you’re a battle-hardened backpacker or a wide-eyed wanderer.

How to get there:

From Argentina

Argentina and Chile share the longest international border in the world, making it easy to cross between the two countries.

  • Bus: Companies like Pullman Bus, Expreso Brasilia, and Ómnibus 120 operate daily services from major Argentine cities (Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche) to Chilean cities (Santiago, Valparaíso, Puerto Montt). Prices start from $20-$50 USD.
  • Ferry: Take a scenic ferry ride from Bariloche, Argentina, to Puerto Montt, Chile, with Naviera del Sur or Cruz del Sur. Prices start from $50-$100 USD.

From Peru

Peru’s northern border meets Chile’s northernmost region, Tarapacá.

  • Bus: Ormeño, Cruz del Sur, and Expreso Brasilia operate bus services from Lima, Peru, to Arica, Chile. Prices start from $30-$60 USD.
  • Colectivo: Shared vans or colectivos run regularly from Tacna, Peru, to Arica, Chile. Prices start from $10-$20 USD.

From Bolivia

Bolivia’s western border connects with Chile’s northern region.

  • Bus: Companies like Expreso Brasilia and Ómnibus 120 operate from La Paz, Bolivia, to Arica, Chile. Prices start from $25-$50 USD.
  • Jeep: Hire a shared jeep from Uyuni, Bolivia, to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. Prices start from $50-$100 USD.

From Ecuador

Although Ecuador does not share a direct border with Chile, you can still travel via public transportation.

  • Bus and Ferry: Take a bus from Quito, Ecuador, to Mendoza, Argentina, then transfer to another bus to Santiago, Chile. Alternatively, take a ferry from Ecuador to Chile via the Pacific coast. Prices start from $100-$200 USD.

When to go:

Chile’s diverse regions and climate zones make it a year-round destination, but timing is crucial for broke backpackers. Understanding the best times to visit can help you save money, avoid crowds, and make the most of your adventure.

Seasonal Breakdown

  • Summer (December to February): Peak tourist season, with warm weather, long days, and high prices.
  • Autumn (March to May): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
  • Winter (June to August): Cold weather, ski season, and lower prices.
  • Spring (September to November): Blooming wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and shoulder-season prices.

Best Times for Broke Backpackers

  • Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November): Avoid crowds, enjoy mild weather, and save on accommodations.
  • Off-Season (June to August): Lowest prices for accommodations, transportation, and attractions, but some destinations may be closed.
  • Festival Season (January to March): Experience Chile’s vibrant festivals, like the Santiago Jazz Festival or Viña del Mar International Song Festival.

Regional Variations

  • Patagonia: Best visited during summer (December to February) for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Atacama Desert: Visit during shoulder season (April to May and September to November) for optimal stargazing.
  • Easter Island: Visit during off-season (June to August) for lower prices, but be prepared for rain.

Holiday and Event Calendar

  • New Year’s Eve (December 31): Celebrate in Santiago or Valparaíso.
  • Fiestas Patrias (September 18-19): Experience Chilean independence celebrations.
  • Seminario de Música (January): Enjoy classical music in Santiago.

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary: Santiago and Surroundings

Day 1: Santiago

  • Explore Plaza de Armas and Santiago’s historic center
  • Visit Mercado Central for affordable food and drinks
  • Stay at a hostel in Barrio Lastarria ($15-20 USD/night)

Day 2: Valparaíso

  • Take a bus to Valparaíso ($3-5 USD)
  • Wander through colorful streets and alleys
  • Visit La Sebastiana, Pablo Neruda’s museum ($5-10 USD)

Day 3: Wine Country

  • Take a bus to Maipo Valley ($5-10 USD)
  • Visit a budget-friendly winery (e.g., Concha y Toro)
  • Return to Santiago for departure

1-Week Itinerary: Central Chile

Day 1-2: Santiago

  • Explore city’s historic center, markets, and museums
  • Stay at a hostel in Barrio Lastarria ($15-20 USD/night)

Day 3-4: Valparaíso

  • Take a bus to Valparaíso ($3-5 USD)
  • Wander through streets, visit La Sebastiana, and enjoy seafood

Day 5: Viña del Mar

  • Take a bus to Viña del Mar ($2-5 USD)
  • Visit beaches, gardens, and the famous flower clock

Day 6-7: Return to Santiago, explore nearby Cajón del Maipo

2-Week Itinerary: Southern Chile

Day 1-3: Santiago to Puerto Montt

  • Take an overnight bus to Puerto Montt ($20-30 USD)
  • Explore city’s markets, waterfront, and nearby islands

Day 4-6: Puerto Varas and Lake District

  • Take a bus to Puerto Varas ($5-10 USD)
  • Hike, kayak, or take a scenic boat tour

Day 7-10: Torres del Paine National Park

  • Take a bus to Torres del Paine ($20-30 USD)
  • Hike, camp, and explore the park

Day 11-14: Return to Puerto Montt, explore nearby Chiloé Island

1-Month Itinerary: Full Chile Experience

Week 1: Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaíso, Viña del Mar)

Week 2: Southern Chile (Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Lake District)

Week 3: Patagonia (Torres del Paine, El Chaltén, El Calafate)

Week 4: Atacama Desert (San Pedro de Atacama, geysers, stargazing)

3-Month Itinerary: The Ultimate Chile Adventure

Month 1: Central and Southern Chile

  • Explore Santiago, Valparaíso, and surrounding regions
  • Hike and camp in Torres del Paine and Lake District

Month 2: Patagonia and Easter Island

  • Visit El Chaltén, El Calafate, and Los Glaciares National Park
  • Fly to Easter Island and explore Rapa Nui culture

Month 3: Atacama Desert and Northern Chile

  • Visit San Pedro de Atacama, geysers, and stargaze
  • Explore La Serena, Coquimbo, and nearby surfing spots

Transportation:

Chile’s public transportation system is efficient, extensive, and affordable, making it easy for travelers to explore the country without breaking the bank.

Types of Public Transportation

  1. Buses (Micros): Urban and intercity buses connect major cities and towns.
  2. Colectivos: Shared vans or minibuses operate on fixed routes.
  3. Trenes: Trains connect major cities, with limited routes.
  4. Ferries: Connect coastal towns and islands.
  5. Metro: Santiago’s efficient subway system.

Bus Companies

  1. Tur-Bus: Connects major cities, with frequent departures.
  2. Pullman Bus: Offers luxury and economy services.
  3. Expreso Brasilia: Links Chile to neighboring countries.
  4. Ómnibus 120: Connects Santiago to surrounding regions.

Intercity Bus Routes

  1. Santiago to Valparaíso: Frequent departures ($3-5 USD)
  2. Santiago to Puerto Montt: Overnight buses ($20-30 USD)
  3. Puerto Montt to Torres del Paine: Scenic route ($30-50 USD)

Urban Transportation

  1. Santiago Metro: Efficient subway system ($1-2 USD/ride)
  2. Valparaíso Trolleybus: Historic tram system ($0.50-1 USD/ride)
  3. Colectivos: Shared vans in urban areas ($1-2 USD/ride)

Ferry Routes

  1. Puerto Montt to Chiloé Island: Frequent departures ($10-20 USD)
  2. Valparaíso to Quintero: Coastal route ($5-10 USD)

Train Routes

Santiago to Temuco: Connects central regions ($20-30 USD)

Santiago to Valparaíso: Scenic route ($10-20 USD)

Top things to do:

Santiago and Surroundings

  1. Explore Plaza de Armas and Santiago’s historic center (free)
  2. Visit Mercado Central for affordable food and drinks ($5-10 USD)
  3. Take a funicular to San Cristóbal Hill ($2-5 USD)
  4. Wander through Barrio Lastarria’s street art and cafes (free)
  5. Visit nearby Cajón del Maipo for hiking and scenic views (free-$10 USD)
  6. Explore Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes ($5-10 USD)
  7. Visit Palacio de La Moneda (free)
  8. Walk through Parque Forestal (free)
  9. Visit Barrio Bellavista’s nightlife (free-$10 USD)
  10. Take a day trip to Valparaíso ($10-20 USD)

Central Chile

  1. Valparaíso’s colorful streets and alleys (free)
  2. La Sebastiana, Pablo Neruda’s museum ($5-10 USD)
  3. Viña del Mar’s beaches and gardens (free-$5 USD)
  4. Wine tasting in Maipo Valley ($10-20 USD)
  5. Surfing or beach relaxation in Reñaca ($10-20 USD)
  6. Visit Casa de Isla Negra, Pablo Neruda’s museum ($5-10 USD)
  7. Explore La Serena’s historic center (free)
  8. Visit Coquimbo’s scenic coastline (free)
  9. Take a scenic drive through Cachapoal Valley (free)
  10. Visit Rancagua’s historic center (free)

Southern Chile

  1. Torres del Paine National Park hiking and camping ($20-30 USD)
  2. Puerto Varas’s scenic views and lake district (free-$10 USD)
  3. Chiloé Island’s unique culture and architecture (free-$10 USD)
  4. Hike to the summit of Volcán Osorno ($20-30 USD)
  5. Explore Puerto Montt’s markets and seafood (free-$10 USD)
  6. Visit Lake District’s scenic towns (free-$10 USD)
  7. Take a boat tour to Glacier Grey ($30-50 USD)
  8. Explore Rio Baker’s scenic river valley (free)
  9. Visit Coyhaique’s scenic views (free)
  10. Take a scenic drive through Carretera Austral (free)

Patagonia

  1. Hike to the base of Torres del Paine ($20-30 USD)
  2. Explore El Chaltén’s scenic views and hiking trails (free-$10 USD)
  3. Los Glaciares National Park boat tour ($30-50 USD)
  4. El Calafate’s Perito Moreno Glacier ($20-30 USD)
  5. Trek to the foot of Mount Fitz Roy ($20-30 USD)
  6. Visit El Cretazón Lake (free)
  7. Explore Laguna Torre’s scenic views (free)
  8. Take a boat tour to Upsala Glacier ($30-50 USD)
  9. Visit Cerro Torre’s scenic views (free)
  10. Hike to the summit of Cerro Electrico ($20-30 USD)

Atacama Desert

  1. San Pedro de Atacama’s scenic views and stargazing (free-$10 USD)
  2. Geysers del Tatio ($20-30 USD)
  3. Valle de la Luna’s moon-like landscape ($10-20 USD)
  4. Explore Atacama Salt Flat ($10-20 USD)
  5. Visit indigenous communities ($10-20 USD)
  6. Take a scenic drive through Lagunas Altiplánicas (free)
  7. Visit Salar de Atacama ($10-20 USD)
  8. Explore Rainbow Valley ($10-20 USD)
  9. Visit Hierbas Buenas petroglyphs (free)
  10. Take a stargazing tour ($20-30 USD)

Easter Island

  1. Explore Rapa Nui National Park ($20-30 USD)
  2. Visit iconic Moai statues (free-$10 USD)
  3. Anakena Beach relaxation ($5-10 USD)
  4. Hike to the summit of Rano Raraku ($10-20 USD)
  5. Learn about Rapa Nui culture at the museum ($5-10 USD)
  6. Visit Orongo ceremonial village ($10-20 USD)
  7. Explore Rano Kao volcanic crater ($10-20 USD)
  8. Take a scenic drive around the island (free)
  9. Visit Ahu Tongariki’s Moai statues (free)
  10. Attend a traditional Rapa Nui dance show ($10-20 USD)

Food:

Chilean cuisine is colorful and representative of the rich cultural heritage of the nation. It has hints of indigenous, Spanish, Italian, and German influences all mixed together. From heavy meat stews to fresh seafood, from crispy empanadas to sweet pastries, the diverse regions of Chile take one on a gastronomic journey that surely will tempt all senses.
Chilean cuisine is built upon local ingredients; it includes beef, chicken, and seafood as staples. One of the most iconic dishes in this regard is “Pastel de Choclo,” a corn pie filled with ground beef, onions, and chicken, topped with a crispy crust. Another popular favorite is “Chupe de Mariscos,” a seafood stew full of mussels, clams, and chorizo.
Traditional street food aromas waft through the streets and markets of Chile. A hot dog smothered in avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise, known as the “completo,” is a favorite snack; crispy churros often accompany it. For fresh seafood, empanadas, and other local delicacies, the Mercado Central in Santiago and the markets at Valparaíso are well worth a try.
Each region of Chile has its own peculiar cuisine: Cazuela, a type of beef stew in a clay pot of Southern origin; Papas rellenas, a common Northern dish in the Atacama Desert; Po’e, a kind of traditional Rapa Nui bread on Easter Island, goes together with grilled fish and seafood.
Chilean pastries and desserts are a sweet treat. Try the so-called “Tres Leches Cake,” a moist sponge cake drenched with three kinds of milk. Go to any local bakery, panadería, and ask to try some of the traditional bread, like “Marraqueta” or “Hallulla.”
Chile is also renowned for its wines, in particular, those from the Maipo Valley. A glass of Carmenère or Cabernet Sauvignon to accompany a meal, perhaps? The non-drinker can try “Chicha Morada,” a sweet purple corn drink.
Food in Chile is an affair that has been set apart in time. Moments are for sharing food with family and friends over conversations and jokes. Take it that anytime you could be invited out for an “Asado” or to a “Cena”.
Eat at locally-owned restaurants and from food stalls on the streets. Be adventurous with foods and flavors that you have never tried. Hit the markets to sample a range of fresh produce and craft products.
From traditional dishes to street food and regional delicacies, it is a reflection of Chile’s rich history, cultural diversity, and geographic beauty. Take this gastronomic journey and enjoy the flavors of Chile.

Culture:

Chile’s cultural identity is a vibrant tapestry woven from indigenous, Spanish, Italian, and German influences. This South American nation’s unique blend of traditions, customs, and values has shaped a distinct character that is both resilient and welcoming.

Indigenous Roots

Chile’s cultural foundation lies in its indigenous peoples, including the Mapuche, Diaguita, and Rapa Nui. Their ancestral traditions, mythology, and artisanal skills continue to inspire contemporary Chilean art, literature, and music. The Mapuche people’s struggles for land and identity have significantly impacted Chile’s history and social fabric.

Spanish Colonial Legacy

The Spanish conquest in the 16th century brought European customs, language, and Catholicism to Chile. The country’s colonial architecture, folklore, and festivals reflect this heritage. Chileans proudly celebrate their Hispanic roots through vibrant fiestas, traditional music, and delicious cuisine.

Italian and German Immigration

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Italian and German immigrants arrived in Chile, contributing to the country’s cultural diversity. Their influence is evident in Chile’s southern regions, where European-style architecture, cuisine, and folklore thrive.

Family and Social Ties

Chileans value family and social relationships deeply. Close-knit families and extended networks of friends are essential to Chilean culture. Respect for elders, traditional hospitality, and warm greetings (abrazos) are fundamental aspects of Chilean social etiquette.

Fiestas and Celebrations

Chileans love to celebrate, and their fiestas are legendary. The country’s Independence Day (September 18) and Navidad (Christmas) are joyous occasions filled with music, dance, and traditional food. Regional festivals, such as the Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival) in Maipo Valley, showcase local culture and cuisine.

Arts and Literature

Chile has produced renowned writers, poets, and artists, including Pablo Neruda, Gabriela Mistral, and Roberto Matta. The country’s rich literary heritage is reflected in its vibrant poetry, novels, and short stories. Chilean art, from traditional crafts to contemporary installations, is a testament to the nation’s creative spirit.

Resilience and Adaptation

Chileans have faced numerous challenges, from natural disasters to political turmoil. Their resilience and ability to adapt have forged a strong national identity. This determination is embodied in the country’s vibrant cultural expressions, from folk music to street art.

Modern Chilean Identity

Today, Chileans proudly embrace their cultural diversity, blending traditional and modern elements. Urban centers like Santiago and Valparaíso showcase cutting-edge art, music, and fashion, while rural areas preserve ancestral customs and ways of life.

Conclusion

Chile’s cultural heritage is a dynamic, ever-evolving narrative. By exploring its indigenous roots, colonial legacy, and immigrant influences, we gain a deeper understanding of this captivating nation. Chile’s warm hospitality, rich traditions, and creative spirit invite us to experience its unique cultural identity.

Accommodations:

As a traveler, the country of Chile holds an incomparable cultural vibrancy, mixed with breathtaking views combined into one single, warm hospitality. Back in the center of this experience is the country’s dynamic hostel scene, where truly the best things in life are absolutely free. Contrary to popular belief, the best hostels in Chile aren’t usually the most expensive ones. Actually, most lowly priced versions tend to give the most unforgettable experiences.
Whenever guests are searching for accommodations in Chile, location, amenities, and reviews are usual items of focus. Location, amenities, and reviews are what guests usually look for when searching for accommodations in Chile; however, the secret to these hidden hostel gems is to travel on a broke budget-the better the experience, the cheaper, because there will be tons of people on your wavelength, good vibes going on, and inside information.
Far from the notion of only a place to sleep, Chile’s hostels are really lively. For many, they involve meeting other travelers, being able to share stories, and making friends that will last a lifetime. More than this, from arranged activities and home-cooked dinners, hostels make experiences possible that are complementary and build upon a guest’s travel plans.
The vibe in the hostels of Chile is electric. Bright colors paint the rooms, quirky artwork adorns the walls, and common areas buzz with people of every kind; it’s not hard to make friends. Included in many of the other amenities are shared kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities-so settling in and being comfortable is a quick work.
One of the greatest strengths in Chile’s hostels is the local knowledge and expert advice you gain from its staff. These insiders often point travelers in the right direction, recommending off-the-beaten-path destinations, hidden gems, and really authentic experiences.
The Chilean hostel scene is as adventurous as the country itself, yet as warm as the hospitality. Travelers will get to experience the real Chile by embracing the cheapest options, untainted by the pretentiousness of a touristy attitude. It will truly be an immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
You get what you pay for isn’t a motto that seems to apply in Chile. More often than not, the best hostels are the cheapest-one can’t beat the value, atmosphere, and adventure. So book from the top three cheapest and ready yourself for the most amazing time, crazy time in Chile.

Nightlife:

Chile is a country of strong contrasts-from the Andes to the Pacific and spiraling out of control after sundown. Nightlife in Chile is infectious, a true combination of music, dance, and delight speaking to the gentle hospitality and love for life that defines this nation. Once the sun sets below the horizon, the sounds of laughter, music, and general revelry that echo down the streets are an invitation to one big party.
Everything from hip bars and clubs in Santiago to the bohemian feel of Valparaíso makes for different cityscapes of Chile, offering a variety for nightlife. In Santiago, there is a highly active nightlife, with hot spots being most concentrated in the neighborhoods of Bellavista and Lastarria. Valparaíso, with its colorful streets and pulsating artwork, houses underground music venues and alternative bars that are off the beaten track.
Chileans are warm and love being social. Nightlife is part of the cultural identity where camaraderie and bonding take place. Visitors will find themselves welcomed into their open arms to join in the celebration and witness firsthand this legendary warmth of the nation. Chileans take pride in throwing a fiesta, and that enthusiasm is contagious.
Chilean nightlife is all about spontaneity and a dose of weirdness. Spontaneous dance parties pop up in places. You get last-minute invites. And just when you think things can’t get any quainter, you get surprised by an unexpected encounter. Be prepared to go with the flow, let go, and give in to rhythm. You could be dancing to folk, trying out local craft beers, or even finding the latest secret speakeasy.
From the colorful cities and scenic coastal towns to picturesque villages, Chile has endless nighttime adventures. From beach parties in Viña del Mar to stargazing in the Atacama Desert, Chile’s special features provide a stunning backdrop against which nocturnal escapades can take place.
To really experience Chile’s nightlife, you’ll want to immerse yourself in its culture: have a couple of dance moves ready; try the traditional drinks pisco and chicha; get to know the friendly locals. The more you participate, the more rewarding your nightlife adventure will be. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or to join up with a group of locals heading out on the town.
Chilean nightlife is a mirror of the spirit of adventure that characterizes this country, whose people love to live life. With infectious rhythms, vibrant cities, and warm culture, Chile promises an unforgettable nighttime experience. Throughout this country, from rugged north to picturesque south, night throbs with pulsating energy, inviting a visitor to join the party.
The nightlife of Chile is something one will hardly remember, a pot of culture, adventure, and joy that similarly leaves one out of breath. So come and join the fiesta, let the rhythm take over you, and let Chile’s pulsating nightlife stamp its mark on your heart.

Backpacking costs:

Daily Budget

  • Accommodation: $5-7.50 USD (wild camping, Couchsurfing, or shared hostel rooms)
  • Food: $2.50-5 USD (street food, cooking own meals, and scavenging)
  • Transportation: $2.50-5 USD (hitchhiking, walking, and local buses)
  • Attractions: $2.50-5 USD (free or low-cost activities, parks, and museums)
  • Miscellaneous: $2.50-5 USD (souvenirs, snacks, and unexpected expenses)

Total daily budget: $15-30 USD

Weekly Budget

  • Accommodation: $35-52.50 USD (avg. $5-7.50 per night)
  • Food: $17.50-35 USD (avg. $2.50-5 per day)
  • Transportation: $17.50-35 USD (avg. $2.50-5 per day)
  • Attractions: $17.50-35 USD (avg. $2.50-5 per day)
  • Miscellaneous: $17.50-35 USD (avg. $2.50-5 per day)

Total weekly budget: $105-210 USD

Conclusion:

As I look upon my trip through Chile, I realized over time that travelling on a broke budget wasn’t just about trying to save money, but was really steeping myself in the local culture, trying new foods, and seeing those places that lie off the path that most tourists travel. From hitchhiking through the Atacama Desert to camping under the stars in Patagonia, every experience reminded me that adventure can often be found in the most unexpected ways.
Although Chile has gained a reputation for being expensive, I actually found the country to be a paradise for traveling on a broke budget, provided one is willing to plan in depth, stay flexible, and take risks. From affordable hostels to mouth-watering street food, here are some of Chile’s best-kept secrets. Whether you are a keen backpacker or starting to see what the world has in store for you, Chile has it all: diverse landscapes, pulsating cities, and warm people. A trip into Chile offers the chance for personal challenge and growth in a land that begs one to step outside their comfort zone.
Time to get my backpack ready, say goodbye to this marvelous country, and once again it gets into my head: traveling is not about the places one visits; it’s about the people you meet, the challenges overcome, and the lessons learnt on the way. So, broke backpacking in Chile tested my limits, but it was worth it for the lifelong memories, new resilience, and deeper appreciation of simple things. If you are considering such a similar adventure, I say take the leap-and Chile’s rugged beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences await.