Chile offers excellent accommodation. Several new luxury hotels have recently opened in Santiago and throughout the country. In all regions of Chile, whatever hotels lack in facilities is made up for by a comfortable, homely atmosphere; Chile’s famous hospitality is very apparent in provinces where it is common to see the owner or manager sit down to dinner with guests. Advance bookings are essential in resort areas during the high season. The cost of accommodation in Santiago is higher than in the provinces. Rates in Valparaíso, Viña del Mar and other holiday resorts may be increased during the summer holiday from January to March. Members of foreign motoring organisations can obtain discounts at hotels by joining the Automóvil Club de Chile (see address in Travel – Internal section). Grading: Hotels in Chile are graded from 5 (luxurious rooms) to 2 stars (basic commodities - only 30 per cent of rooms with private bathroom).

VAT of 19 per cent is levied on all hotel bills, except those paid in foreign currencies by foreign visitors for which an export bill is required.

Camping facilities exist throughout Chile. A list of campsites may be obtained from the Tourist Office. Official sites are expensive.

There are 13 hostels in Chile. Membership of the Asociación Chilena de Albergues Turísticos Juveniles (see Accommodation Information) is required; many hostels are extremely crowded and it is advised to book in advance where possible.

Chilean National Hotel Association (HOTELGA)
Nueva Tajamar 481, Oficina 806, North Tower, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (2) 203 6625.
E-mail: hotelga@cebri.cl

Asociación Chilena de Albergues Turísticos Juveniles (Youth Hostels)
Av. Hernando de Aguirre 201, of. 602, Providencia, Chile
Tel: (2) 233 3220.
Website: www.hostelling.cl