Solo female travel in Santiago

Santiago, the dynamic capital city of Chile, is nestled in the Santiago Basin surrounded by the striking Andes and Chilean coastal ranges. The city is known for its mesmerizing blend of Traditional Spanish architecture and modern skyscrapers. One can unwind at stunning parks like Parque Metropolitano, appreciate the Chilean culture at museums like the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, and enjoy sumptuous seafood at Mercado Central. For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, a trip up San Cristobal Hill is a must. At the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas serves as a cultural hub with its vibrant markets and historic landmarks like the gorgeous Cathedral of Santiago. Santiago's perfect climate and location also make it a stepping stone to the nearby wine valleys and ski resorts.

Travel rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

Is Santiago good for solo travel?

Safety:

Safety:Safe

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.
Transport:

Transport:Easy

Santiago is quite navigable thanks to an expansive public transportation system including metro and bus lines. Walking in the city center and popular neighborhoods is convenient. However, some less tourist-friendly areas might feel remote. The city is bicycle-friendly with dedicated bike paths and bike rental services. Understanding a bit of Spanish will be advantageous as not everyone speaks English.
Things to do:

Things to do:Interesting

Santiago is enriched with diverse attractions and activities that appeal to various interests. The city is speckled with numerous museums, such as the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino and Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos, providing fascinating insights into the region's history and culture. Nature lovers would appreciate the trek up San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic city views and the opportunity to visit the wonderful Santiago Metropolitan Park. The local cuisine is also a highlight, and exploring the Central Market and the numerous local eateries is a delightful experience. However, transportation can be tricky to navigate, and not all areas are easily accessible for tourists.
Food:

Food:Above average

Santiago offers a wide variety of food options to satisfy different tastes. The city is particularly famous for its local seafood markets, offering fresh and delicious dishes. From traditional empanadas, pastel de choclo, and Asado to international cuisines like Italian, Chinese and sushi, one can undoubtedly find something to satiate their palate. Many local eateries dot the city with some even offering vegan options. However, for someone who is not keen on seafood or seeking halal dishes, choices may be limited.
Budget:

Budget:Affordable

Santiago is moderately budget-friendly. It can be quite affordable if you plan wisely. Street food and local markets offer delicious meals at a relatively lower cost. Public transportation is efficient and inexpensive. Accommodation prices vary, but you can definitely find reasonably priced hostels or budget hotels. However, attractions entry fees or high-end dining options can be expensive depending on your choices.

Is Santiago worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences

Things to do

3/5

Safety

3.3/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Solo travel experience

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
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

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
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

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
Things to do: 2/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 2/5
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Is Santiago safe for women?

I would describe it as moderate, depending on the part of the city you are in, might be a bit more complicated than other streets, always pay attention to your surroundings but you can easily enjoy it as well

Posted: April 13, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Meet locals in Santiago

Meet local women in Santiago who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Alejandra

Alejandra

About Me

My name is Alejandra, I am 32 years old and I love to meet new people and show foreigners my city and our customs. I organize a language exchange event called Santiago Speaks, where local people and also people from different countries meet to practice languages and get to know each other. If you are interested in attending just talk to me :)

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Javiera

Javiera

About Me

Hi, I’m a solo traveler that loves meeting new people and exploring places, the culture, the food and the nightlife.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Stay with locals in Santiago

Stay with local women in Santiago who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Cristina

Cristina

Santiago

Can host for:

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.

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Natichip

Natichip

Santiago

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello! My name is Natalia, but you can call me Nati 🫶🏻 I am an English teacher 👩‍🏫 I love multiculturalism and I would like to connect with people from other countries. I am highly energetic and sociable 💜

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Explore Chile