Traveling Chile on a Bulshit Budget: A Backpacker’s Adventure
Hey fellow travelers! I’m thrilled to share my experience traveling across Chile for as low as $20 per day. As a backpacker, I know how important it is to get the most of your dollars while experiencing the best of a country. And let me tell you, Chile delivers!
Day 1-3: Santiago
I started my journey in Santiago, the bustling capital city of Chile. I stayed at a hostel in the city center for $10 USD per night and spent my days exploring the city’s cultural attractions like the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo and the La Moneda Palace. I also took a stroll through the picturesque Parque Forestal and enjoyed the city’s vibrant night life in the Bellavista neighborhood.
Day 4-6: Valparaíso
From Santiago, I took a bus to Valparaíso, a colorful and bohemian city on the coast. I stayed at a hostel in the city center for $12 USD per night and spent my days exploring the city’s street art scene, visiting the famous Pablo Neruda museum, and taking a stroll along the waterfront. I also enjoyed the city’s lively night life, with bars and clubs like the iconic Bar El Pobre Juan.
Day 7-9: Pucon
From Valparaíso, I took a bus to Pucon, a beautiful town in the Lake District. I stayed at a hostel in the city center for $15 USD per night and spent my days hiking in the nearby Villarrica National Park, visiting the stunning Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve, and enjoying the town’s relaxed atmosphere. I also took a dip in the hot springs at the Termas Geométricas.
Day 10-12: San Pedro de Atacama
From Pucon, I took a bus to San Pedro de Atacama, a small desert town in the north. I stayed at a hostel in the city center for $18 USD per night and spent my days exploring the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert, visiting the Valley of the Moon, and taking a tour of the nearby salt flats. I also enjoyed the town’s laid-back atmosphere and stargazed at the clear desert skies.
Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough estimate of my expenses for the trip:
- Accommodation: $10-18 USD per night (average $14 USD per night)
- Transportation: $10-20 USD per bus ride (average $15 USD per ride)
- Food: $3-5 USD per meal (average $4 USD per meal)
- Activities and entrance fees: $10-20 USD per person (average $15 USD per person)
- Total daily budget: $20 USD per day
Tips and Variations
- Consider traveling during the off-season (April-September) for lower prices on accommodation and transportation.
- Look for package deals or discounts on activities and entrance fees.
- Don’t forget to try some of the local cuisine, like pastel de choclo or chupe de mariscos!
- Be flexible and open-minded, and you’ll have an amazing time in Chile!
Traveling Chile on a low budget is definitely possible, and with no planning, you can experience the best of this beautiful country without breaking the bank. Happy travels, fellow adventurers!