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

3.3 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.7 /5

Based on 8 experiences from local women

Santiago is currently ranked #11 safest place in Chile for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Santiago?

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: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: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: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 worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3/5

Safety

3.3/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

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 index

2.7 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Santiago can be dangerous depending on the area you are staying in; the city center is quite dangerous, but if you are careful and attentive, there shouldn't be a problem. Always keep an eye on your wallet and cell phone on public transportation.

Posted: December 23, 2024

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Narayana

i think it is like every big city, there are some areas more dangerous and others that are safer. I recommend do not use your phone in the street or public transportation cause there are a lot of muggers

Posted: December 23, 2024

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Meet locals in Santiago

Paulina

About Me

Hey there! 😊 I'm Paulina from Chile, 31 years old and a proud vegan. I absolutely love animals and have 3 awesome pets (2 dogs and a cat). I'm a special ed teacher working with Deaf children at a bilingual school. Right now, I'm learning English because I'd love to visit New York one day. Excited to meet new people and share some cool travel stories!

Speaking

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Emilia

About Me

Hi! My name is Emilia. Soon I'll be staying in Budapest for two months in a Erasmus program, it will be my first trip so far from home! I really love meeting new people and their cultures.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Santiago

Sofia

Santiago

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi!! Im a 33 y/o chilean girl! I love my city and my country, so i’ll love to show you a little bit of my home 💕. I just stop (for a while) of traveling solo around the world, so i understand a lot of things that you could feel in this moment. Let’s chat and conquer the world!!

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Camila

Santiago

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hi! I’m Camila a solo traveler from Chile. I’ve been traveling since I was a teenager. I work as a bioanthropologist and also a photographer in my home country. I’m visiting Europe for a while and I’d love to meet people (specially woman) from the places I go to, so I can learn about local and different cultures while feeling safe.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Santiago

Andrea

About Me

I am travelling through Chile and a lil bit of Argentina in December 2024. I have quit my job to do so, as I believe now is the time to experience other cultures. The culture I decided upon was South America's Southest, mainly because I love the summer, mountains and the ocean or lakes. I am also planning to get fluent in Spanish, once I resided there for a little. I like to stay or meet up with locals, as I believe this gives me the best insights :) I grew up in Austria and lived 8 years in Vienna, a really beautiful city. I love eating Vietnamese food, but open to almost anything (not a picky eater, although I try to stay vegetarian). I sang in a choir, like to go for a run or engage in public activities. Sewing or handy work at home are some of my passions (sometimes I get to do more of it, other times less).