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

4.2 /5

based on 17 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.3/5

Safety

4/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5
Sayen

Sayen

Chile

Puerto Río Tranquilo, Family travel

It's a beautiful place, and as its name indicates, peaceful. A small and long river runs through it; it's huge and has a turquoise color that catches your eye at first glance. The people are very friendly, and there are both food places and very good specialized tours to the marble chapels. The Carretera Austral itself is gorgeous and worth getting to know; it makes you want to stay and live there.

Posted: May 19, 2025Experienced: December, 2024
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Punta Arenas, Group travel

The climate in this city is cool and cold at night. It’s very peaceful and relax. Be sure to visit Penguin Island! The seafood soup is delicious. You can find the restaurant: magallania in the seafood market.

Posted: February 3, 2025Experienced: December, 2024
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Chile, Solo travel

I loved Chile so much, I stayed for tree months in Santiago, people where so so nice there I made a lot of friends, people host me nicely and we did a lot of activities together like go to the museum, hiking, cycling, grab dinner

Posted: January 26, 2025Experienced: September, 2023
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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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Is Chile safe for women?

Safety index

3.3 /5

Based on 51 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 51 local experiences

Chile

It is fairly safe. There's a chance of your phone being snatched if you're not careful and you'll probably get robbed walking around at night in certain areas, but nothing too violent. For women, it has been getting better the last few years, so getting assaulted or catcalled randomly on the street is not something that should worry you

Posted: August 20, 2025
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Safety in Chile