Is Santiago Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Santiago presents a moderate level of safety for solo female travelers. Crime rates are relatively low, and many women have traveled here without incident. However, it is best to take standard precautions such as avoiding certain areas at night and being mindful of pickpocketing and minor theft, particularly in crowded, tourist-popular spots.

Safety rating

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How safe is Santiago?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Santiago is generally considered safe especially in touristy areas and during the day, but like any other large city, it's advisable to be cautious at night. While street crime such as muggings and pickpocketing are unusual, they can still happen so it's best to stay in well-lit and crowded areas. It's quite common for locals to use caution when out late at night, so it's advisable to do the same and maybe considering using reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps when moving around after dark.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Santiago is generally reliable and fairly safe. The city's modern metro and extensive bus network help ensure you can reach your destination comfortably. That said, like any large city, it's always important to maintain general safety precautions, particularly during peak travel hours where pickpocketing can be a concern. Overall, as long as you are aware of your belongings and surroundings, you should have a pleasant experience with Santiago's public transit.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Street harassment in Santiago is somewhat prevalent. As a solo female traveler, you could experience uncomfortable situations, such as catcalls and unwelcome comments. Remember to stay vigilant at all times and avoid less crowded and poorly lit areas at night. It's important to blend in, avoiding any unnecessary attention and always showing confidence in your demeanor. However, these instances should not deter your visits, as they don't represent the entirety of your potential experience in Santiago.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Santiago, like any major city, has areas where petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and cellphone theft are common. Particularly in crowded places like public transport, markets and tourist hot spots. It's important to take regular precautions like keeping your belongings close to you, not flaunting expensive items, and being aware of your surroundings. Always be alert, especially in quieter or poorly lit areas, particularly after dark.

Is Santiago safe to travel?

3.3 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Solo travel

I have been walking around alone in the Bellavista area and never had anything suspicious. I have been feeling quite safe. For that I do make sure I don’t look wandering about and usually walk with a purpose and don’t go wandering around ar night.

Posted: December 11, 2023
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Solo travel

I was in Santiago for 2 days and I fell in love with this city. I stayed in the central part and felt quite safe there. I recommend going on wine tours near Santiago, as well as visiting Portillo, where Laguna del Inca is located. In addition, the best neighborhoods to stay in are Providencia, Las Condes, Bellavista, and Vitacura.

Posted: September 11, 2023
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Solo travel

I liked Chile as a country, but I absolutely hated Santiago. I never felt safe there. On my first night, a certain man started following me, and the whole city was full of homeless people and graffiti on every building, which just took away its beauty. I was annoyed that I had booked a week there, so I tried to fill most of my days with day trips outside of Santiago, and I really enjoyed that. There was really nothing particularly cool or interesting to do there. I was there in February, during the summer, so it was very hot, which only worsened my experiences. I will never go back there.

Posted: September 9, 2023
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Is Santiago safe for women?

Safety rating

2.3 /5

Based on 5 experiences

Crime rates rating

2.2 /5

Based on 5 experiences

Daniela

Daniela

Generally safe, except for specific neighborhoods and after certain hours. I walk my dog at night downtown and I've always felt safe. I would reccomend taking Uber at night, but public transportation in the day. There are pick pockets like in every big city, but I've never felt like my life has been in danger.

Posted: September 13, 2024
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Fernanda

Fernanda

It used to be safer than it is now, anyway if you know which places to avoid is not that bad. But I wouldn’t recommend to be a tourist by yourself. If you can walk around with a local that would be much better. Anyway comparing to the rest of Latin America .. is not that insecure.

Posted: September 11, 2024
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Is Santiago safe right now?

Before your visit to Santiago, it's essential to check travel advisories for Chile, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises to exercise increased caution in Chile due to civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 17, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

**The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Chile due to ongoing demonstrations and civil unrest.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: August 30, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Chile due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 10, 2024

Meet locals in Santiago

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Ámbar

Ámbar

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Hellooo! I'm Ámbar, 29 years old and I live in the capital of Chile. I'm very easy going and I like to make people laugh :). I like outdoor activities but also parties! I like to meet people and have a very good time 😁

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Trinidad

Trinidad

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Hey! My name is Trini and I’m a 24 year old traveling the world. Would love to meet new people on the way!

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Stay with locals in Santiago

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Cristina

Cristina

Santiago

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3 days

About me

Hi! My name is Cristina, I am a landscape architect, and I consider myself multifaceted. My interests range from embroidery and watercolors to photography and trekking. I love visiting national parks, seeing new places and discovering admirable people.

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Upcoming visitors to Santiago

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Riikka

Riikka

About Me

I'm an experienced solo traveler and currently I'm traveling around LATAM 😊 I love meeting new people and trying local food. It would be amazing to meet up locals via this app during my trip to Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Colombia ❤️

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Safety in Chile