Is Chile Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Chile is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. Cities like Santiago and Valparaiso have a good level of safety, especially in tourist areas. However, as in any country, it's still important to take standard precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night, not displaying conspicuous wealth, and always keeping an eye on personal belongings. Petty theft can occur and therefore being aware and vigilant of your surroundings is recommended.

Safety rating

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How safe is Chile?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Chile generally holds a decent safety record, but it's suggested to exercise caution during nighttime. While the country has less violent crime than its neighbors, petty theft can occur, especially in large cities like Santiago. Walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit or less populated areas, can pose some risks. Always stay in well-populated areas, use reputable taxi services and avoid flashing expensive items. It's important to stay aware of your surroundings.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Chile is generally safe, efficient, and reliable. While bigger cities like Santiago have a more robust infrastructure with subways, buses, and taxis, smaller towns and regions may be served by mini-buses. It's always vital to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Night travel may have some safety concerns, so planning travel during daytime is advisable. Always use legal and recognized taxi services and avoid unlicensed cabs for your safety. Despite these precautions, overall, it’s fairly safe for solo female travellers.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Street harassment in Chile can be an issue. Though many travelers enjoy their visits without any issue, instances of unsolicited comments, stares, and non-physical advances are reported occasionally. However, it is important to note that reactions vary depending on the individual and area in question. Always remain vigilant, trust your gut feelings, and assert your boundaries when necessary.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Chile, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and cell phone theft are fairly common, particularly in urban areas and crowded places like public transportation and tourist hotspots. Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.

Is Chile worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 14 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.8/5

Food

4/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Chile, Solo travel

I loved Chile. I spent 3 days in Viña del Mar in an Airbnb on the coast—a very beautiful beach spot even in winter. Great places to eat and very safe. Then I spent 3 more days in Santiago at “Hostel la Casa Roja,” which I highly recommend. It has a great atmosphere, the people are friendly, and there are many solo travelers. It’s an excellent place to meet people.

Posted: August 13, 2024Experienced: April, 2024
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Marie

Marie

Germany

Chile, Solo travel

In 2018 I fulfilled myself a dreamed that I had for a long time. I travelled to South America to go backpacking! I was stoked about the idea and ended up growing A LOT in it. In the beginning I knew nothing. And it hasnt always been easy, neither has it always been safe, though I feel like I learned through it how to stay safe and how to trust my gut more. And I ended up enjoying the travels unbelievably much! Looking back, I am really proud for fulfilling this dream of mine.

Posted: August 1, 2024Experienced: February, 2018
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Fabrine

Fabrine

France

San Pedro de Atacama, Solo travel

Very safe city with a lot of tours to do, the landscapes are amazing but be prepared to wake up very early!! I don’t recommend the geysers, you have to wake up at 4:30AM it's -15°C and it’s not that nice in my opinion

Posted: July 26, 2024Experienced: July, 2024
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Emma

Emma

France

San Pedro de Atacama, Couple travel

San Pedro de Atacama is the driest desert in the whole world, even though it’s located at 3000m above the see ! 🤯 This place looks like the moon, for real. From the Valley de la Luna, the Geysers, the salt lakes, I cannot choose something I prefered. I recommend to go in February-March, before the start of Fall 🍂 and at the end of the high season. We didn’t rent a car so we visited with agency tour, it was worth it and not too expensive. I recommend to visit : - Valley de la Luna - Valley Arcoiris (but if you have a car) - Geysers del Tatio (early in the morning round 6 or 7am otherwise the geysers disappear later in the day) - Laguna Baltinache - Piedras Rojas (my best day) with the volcano Miscanti (be careful with the tickets !! You need to stop at the village Socaire to buy them).

Posted: July 24, 2024
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Anna

Anna

Argentina

Chile, Solo travel

My first international (and solo) trip was to Chile! I went there days before the borders closed due to the pandemic. The country was going through difficult political times, and a lot of protests were happening - especially in the area I was staying (Hostal Providencia) that was near Plaza Baquedano, the protest's meetup point. However, I was able to experience the Women's March - Words cannot describe how emotional I felt watching and participating there, seeing women being kind to other women, giving strength to each other. To be honest, I don't quite remember how the trip was, but I remember meeting such lovely people there that I still talk to sometimes. There were a few moments where I didn't feel safe in Santiago, as it was summer and I was wearing tank tops all day. Other than that, it was an amazing experience, especially for a solo women traveler being able to experience the Women's March there.

Posted: July 11, 2024Experienced: March, 2020
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Elisa

Elisa

Chile

Valdivia, Group travel

Valdivia is a very beautiful and safe city to travel alone or with someone. Its natural landscapes are very beautiful, you can walk along the coast or Isla Teja or take a local bus to go to Niebla (this is also safe). I recommend trying craft beers from a local brewery, and also trying a dish with fish or seafood from the area.

Posted: June 18, 2024Experienced: November, 2022
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Valparaíso, Solo travel

Would recommend staying up in the hills and not near the water. It actually smells of fish and piss the closer you get - not so charming! Viña del mar is a nice option for a beach day and only 15 mins away on the bus, and the walking tours from Tours4Tips really help get your bearings and learn a lot.

Posted: March 18, 2024
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San Miguel, Couple travel

Primarily residential commune, it lacks tourist attractions per se. It has two small malls, and the commerce is rather modest. There are few accommodations. Good food is mainly found in the El Llano park area and others along Gran Avenida.

Posted: January 25, 2024
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Vårin

Vårin

Norway

Chile, Group travel

I traveled with family. It felt safe all long. We are lots of good foods and saw beautiful nature that I haven’t seen anywhere else. The distances within the country are vast so we traveled by flight or night bus to get from one place to another.

Posted: December 21, 2023
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Santiago, 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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Is Chile safe for women?

Safety index

3.2 /5

Based on 32 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 32 local experiences

Georgina

Georgina

Coñaripe

Actually is very safe, when is not high season it is awesome, there is not too much people and it is beautiful! I am in love of this place and I will be so happy to show you around, it is small and green.

Posted: January 14, 2025
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Valparaíso

Valparaíso is a city full of charm, creativity, and stunning views, but like any urban area, it comes with some safety challenges. I’ve live here for four years as a college student and since I got here first I was struck by its vibrant street art and the maze of colorful hillsides. It felt like every corner had a story to tell. However, I quickly realized the importance of staying alert, especially in crowded areas like Cerro Concepción and the central market. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are fairly common, so I made sure to keep my belongings secure and avoided flashing my phone or camera. I’ve never experienced anything like this but still it’s better to be safe. At night, I try to stick to well-lit, busier areas and avoided wandering into less lit streets, as some can feel a bit isolated. And when bar hopping or partying I avoid being alone or on my phone since the nightlife areas are fun but can be more dangerous. The locals are in general kind and helpful. Still, I encourage trusting your instincts and planning l routes carefully, especially when venturing out after dark. Ubers are generally easy to get and pretty safe too. I’ve never experienced any mugging or theft but friends of my have and overall we all agree on keeping things street smart. Don’t be on your phone on the street, take it out for pictures and that but keep an eye on the surroundings, don’t walk alone at night specially on streets you don’t know really well, avoid wearing anything flashy or that can be snatched easily.

Posted: January 12, 2025
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Meet locals in Chile

Amber

Amber

About Me

Hi there! I’m a fun, social, wine drinking, cheese loving, adventure seeking 30 year old living in Santiago! I just moved to the city from the US and would love for some girls to give me the lowdown! Bonus if you know a few Afro-chileno spots in the area! Open to meeting new girls/people, traveling the world and having fun while doing it!

Speaking

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Pamela

Pamela

About Me

I am Pame, from Chile 🌶️ I have been in Mallorca, Spain since september 2024 and moving to Berlín on march 2025! I love travel and culture exchange! and always looking for new adventures. I consider myself as fun and warm 🫀I like to integrate new people by activities that I enjoy :) some of them would be dancing, hiking, new sports, climbing or just chill on the beach/grass with a cute picnic hihi I think I would be the one who can do both; going on a hike or just cozzy wine, always keeping it simple and open to new plans!🦦

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Chile

Pilar

Pilar

Santiago

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! My name is Pilar and I was born and raised in Santiago, Chile. My hobbies include playing soccer and handball, reading and going camping. So, if you wanna visit Chile, count on me for showing you around and if you need a place to stay, I live alone in a good neighborhood!

Speaking

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Valentina

Valentina

Chile

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I'm Valentina from Chile 🇨🇱 I'm 21yo, software engineer student who loves finding fun in the everyday and sharing good vibes with the people I meet. Whether it's geeking out over musicals, getting caught up in movies, or swapping stories, I'm all about enjoying the little moments that make life special. I don't take myself too seriously—I can't dance or sing to save my life, but I'll still give it a shot if it makes someone laugh! (I really love karaoke hahs) One of the biggest parts of my life has been being a scout since I was 8 ⚜️ After more than 13 years of adventures and unforgettable moments, I'll be attending my last scout camp this summer in Portugal (July 23 to August 3) (as I reach the max age to be a rover in my country) It's bittersweet, but I couldn't think of a better way to close this chapter, it'll be also my first time in Europe, so I'm very excited to explore and learn about other cultures🎀 🇨🇱 I was born and raised in Latin America and I would love to give you a little piece of my beautiful country, Chile. Whether it's cooking, telling you our stories or teaching you our games ✨️ I would love to hear about yours too!

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Chile

Joana

Joana

About Me

Originals from Germany but moved to Brussels this year! Open-minded and love to meet new people and share events together. Love the idea to connect via this app and get the opportunity to travel to new cities with local help:)

Speaking

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Shakén

Shakén

About Me

I have two dogs, and while coffee isn’t my thing, I can’t resist ice cream or anything with chocolate. I recently graduated from university and have a big desire to travel the world. I'm excited to connect with amazing women everywhere. It feels so special to be part of this space! 💜

Speaking

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Safety in Chile