18-Day Ultimate Budget Backpacking Route in Chile
Chile is often considered one of the most expensive countries in South America, but for the savvy backpacker, it offers an incredible wealth of free natural beauty and affordable public infrastructure. This 18-day route takes you from the bohemian coast to the high-altitude desert and down to the volcanic lakes, all while maintaining an ultra-lean budget of $20.50 per day.
By leveraging overnight buses to save on accommodation, cooking in hostel kitchens, and feasting on local 'completos' (loaded hot dogs), you can experience the epic scale of the Andes without breaking the bank. This journey is designed for the rugged traveler who values local experiences and stunning landscapes over luxury amenities.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Santiago, Chile - Arrival & City Essentials
Plaza de Armas
Start your journey at the historic heart of the city. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral for free and watch the local chess players under the palms.
Mercado Central Lunch
Avoid the touristy inner restaurants; grab an affordable seafood soup or empanada at the smaller stalls on the market's edge.
Cerro Santa Lucía
Climb this hilltop park for panoramic views of the city skyline framed by the Andes. Admission is completely free with a quick ID registration.
Barrio Yungay
Explore this historic neighborhood filled with street art and local dive bars. It is home to President Boric and has a great local vibe.
Day 2: Santiago, Chile - Culture & Viewpoints
La Vega Central
Navigate the chaotic and colorful aisles of Chile's largest market. Buy fresh fruit and local cheese for just a few dollars to stock your pack.
Museum of Memory and Human Rights
A moving, world-class museum dedicated to the victims of the Pinochet regime. Admission is free, though a small donation is appreciated.
Cerro San Cristóbal Hike
Skip the expensive funicular and hike up the Zorro Vidal trail. The sunset views of the Andes from the Virgin Mary statue are legendary.
Mote con Huesillo Treat
Try this classic Chilean summer drink from a street vendor for about $1.50—it is a sweet snack and drink in one.
Day 3: Valparaíso, Chile - Street Art & Hills
Bus to Valparaíso
Catch a Pullman or TurBus from Pajaritos station. The 1.5-hour ride is affordable and frequent.
Cerro Alegre & Concepción
Wander through the steep, winding alleys filled with world-renowned graffiti and murals. Every corner is a free art gallery.
Ascensor El Peral
Take one of the historic wooden funiculars for just 100 pesos (about $0.15) to save your legs and experience local history.
Chorrillana Dinner
Share a massive plate of fries topped with meat, eggs, and onions at a local 'picada' to keep costs extremely low.
Day 4: Valparaíso, Chile - Coastal Exploration
Prat Pier (Muelle Prat)
Watch the massive container ships and local fishermen. You can often spot sea lions lounging on the nearby buoys.
Micros to Concón
Take the local 'micro' (colorful bus) along the coast for a cheap, bumpy, and scenic thrill ride.
Concón Sand Dunes
Climb the massive dunes at sunset for a spectacular view of the ocean. It’s a favorite local spot and completely free.
Evening at Plaza Sotomayor
Relax at the main square and soak in the naval history of Chile's primary port city.
Day 5: La Serena, Chile - The Colonial North
Bus to La Serena
Board a long-distance bus heading north. The 7-hour journey offers a transition from green valleys to semi-arid desert.
La Recova Market
Browse local crafts and famous papaya sweets. It is the best place in town for a cheap, filling lunch of fried fish.
Avenida del Mar
Walk the long beach strip toward the Faro Monumental, the city's iconic lighthouse.
Grocery Run
Visit a Lider supermarket to prep meals for the next few days in the Elqui Valley where prices are higher.
Day 6: Elqui Valley, Chile - Pisco & Stars
Local Colectivo to Pisco Elqui
Jump in a shared taxi or local bus for a scenic winding drive into the heart of the Pisco-producing valley.
Destilería Pisco Capel
Take a budget-friendly tour of the distillery to learn how Chile's national spirit is made (samples included!).
Village Exploration
Walk the quiet streets of Pisco Elqui and visit the quirky craft shops around the main church.
Free Stargazing
Walk just 15 minutes away from the village lights. The Elqui Valley has some of the clearest skies on Earth—no telescope required for a stunning view.
Day 7: La Serena, Chile - Coastal Chill
Japanese Garden (Parque Japones)
Visit this surprisingly serene spot in La Serena, the largest Japanese garden in South America, for a small entry fee.
Coquimbo Port
Take a local bus to the neighboring port city. Visit the 'Cruz del Tercer Milenio' for a massive concrete landmark and views.
Empanada Tasting
Look for vendors selling 'Empanadas de Marisco' (seafood) near the Coquimbo fish market.
Board Overnight Bus
Take a 'Semi-Cama' night bus toward San Pedro de Atacama. This saves you the cost of a hostel night.
Day 8: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile - Desert Gateway
Arrive in San Pedro
Drop your bags at your hostel. San Pedro is dusty, charming, and expensive, so stick to the 'Menu del Dia' for food.
Rent a Bicycle
Biking is the cheapest way to see the nearby sights. Head out toward Pukará de Quitor.
Pukará de Quitor
Explore these 12th-century pre-Inca ruins. The climb to the top offers a breathtaking view of the Death Valley.
Stargazing Intro
Just walk to the edge of town after dark. The Milky Way is so bright here it can cast a shadow.
Day 9: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile - Moon Landscapes
Town Square & Church
Visit the San Pedro Church, made of adobe and cactus wood. It is one of the oldest in Chile.
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
Most backpackers join a group tour for this. It’s the most iconic desert landscape in the world.
Sunset at Piedra del Coyote
Watch the colors of the desert change from ochre to purple as the sun dips behind the Andes.
Cooking at Hostel
Hostel kitchens in San Pedro are social hubs. Cook a big pasta meal to save your budget for tours.
Day 10: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile - High Altitudes
El Tatio Geysers
An early start to see the steam vents at their peak. It is cold at 4,300m, so wear every layer you own.
Machuca Village
Stop by this tiny altiplano village on the way back to try a llama skewer (anticucho) from a local vendor.
Laguna Cejar
Float in the hypersaline waters of this desert sinkhole. It is like the Dead Sea but with a volcano backdrop.
Atacama Nightlife
Gather around a hostel campfire. Alcohol is expensive in San Pedro, so stick to local beers like 'Escudo'.
Day 11: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile - Final Desert Trek
Valle del Arcoiris
Take a tour to the Rainbow Valley to see spectacular multi-colored rock formations caused by mineral deposits.
Meteorite Museum
A small but fascinating museum housed in two geodesic domes. A great budget indoor activity.
Pack for the South
Prepare for a massive climate shift. You are heading from the driest desert to the rainy Lake District.
Overnight Bus to Calama
Take a short bus to Calama to catch your connection or long-haul bus back south.
Day 12: Transit Day - The Long Haul South
Bus Southbound
This is a heavy travel day. Chile's buses are high quality; use this time to catch up on journals or podcasts.
Roadside Snacks
When the bus stops, look for 'Pan de Campo' (country bread) sold by locals at the windows.
Connect in Santiago
Transfer buses at the Estación Central terminal. It's a busy hub, so watch your belongings closely.
Overnight to Pucón
Board your second night bus. Waking up to green forests and volcanoes is worth the long journey.
Day 13: Pucón, Chile - Volcanoes & Lakes
Arrival in Pucón
The adventure capital of Chile. The Villarrica Volcano looms over the town, often puffing smoke.
Playa Grande
Walk to the black sand beach on the shores of Lake Villarrica. It's free and perfect for a chilly swim.
La Poza Pier
Watch the sunset over the lake. This is a great spot to meet other backpackers and plan hikes.
Southern German Food
The region has a strong German influence. Look for affordable 'Kuchen' (cake) in local bakeries.
Day 14: Pucón, Chile - Waterfalls & Lagoons
Bus to Ojos del Caburgua
Take a local bus to these stunning turquoise pools and waterfalls. The entry fee is very small.
Lake Caburgua
Walk or take a short bus ride further to this crystal clear lake. It's much quieter than the main lake in Pucón.
Huerquehue National Park Prep
Visit the local grocery store to buy trail mix and supplies for a full day hike tomorrow.
Hot Springs (Termas)
While some are expensive, 'Termas Los Pozones' are more rustic and affordable for a late-night soak.
Day 15: Pucón, Chile - The Araucaria Forests
Huerquehue National Park
Catch the first bus to the park. The 'Los Lagos' trail is a tough but rewarding climb through ancient monkey puzzle trees.
Picnic at Lago Chico
Enjoy your packed lunch with a view of the hidden Andean lakes and the towering volcano in the distance.
Return to Pucón
Catch the late afternoon bus back to town. Rest your legs at a local craft beer bar.
Completo Dinner
Treat yourself to a 'Completo Italiano'—a hot dog with avocado, mayo, and tomato—the ultimate cheap fuel.
Day 16: Puerto Varas, Chile - City of Roses
Bus to Puerto Varas
A 4-hour bus ride further south into the heart of the Lake District.
Llanquihue Lake Walk
Stroll along the lakeside path with views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Church
Visit this iconic red and white wooden church inspired by those in the Black Forest of Germany.
Local Seafood
Puerto Varas has excellent, affordable salmon. Look for daily specials at the markets near the water.
Day 17: Puerto Varas, Chile - Saltos del Petrohué
Petrohué Waterfalls
Take a local bus to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The waterfalls against the perfect cone of Osorno Volcano are breathtaking.
Emerald Lake (Lago Todos los Santos)
Continue to the end of the road to see this deep green lake surrounded by mountains.
Final Souvenir Shopping
Buy some local wool products or artisanal chocolate for friends back home.
Overnight Bus to Santiago
Board your final night bus for the 12-hour journey back to the capital.
Day 18: Santiago, Chile - Final Farewells
Arrival in Santiago
Store your luggage at the bus station or your previous hostel for the day.
Last Minute Shopping
Visit the Santa Lucía craft market for high-quality leather goods and lapis lazuli jewelry at fair prices.
Farewell Lunch in Bellavista
Enjoy one last Chilean meal in the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood before heading to the airport.
Airport Bus (Centropuerto)
Take the blue Centropuerto bus from Los Héroes station—it's the cheapest way to reach the airport.
Best Time to Visit Chile
For this comprehensive route, the best time to visit is during the Chilean spring (October to November) or autumn (March to April). During these shoulder seasons, the weather is mild enough for both the Atacama Desert and the Lake District, while prices for buses and hostels are significantly lower than the peak summer months of January and February. If you enjoy hiking, autumn offers spectacular foliage in the south.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). While credit cards are widely accepted in cities like Santiago and Puerto Varas, the Atacama Desert and smaller towns in the Elqui Valley are very cash-dependent. Always carry a stash of pesos for local buses (micros) and street food. Tipping (known as 'la propina') is usually 10% in restaurants, but it is not expected for street food or taxis.
Getting Around Chile
Chile has one of the best long-distance bus networks in the world. For budget travelers, companies like TurBus and Pullman offer various comfort levels (Semi-Cama and Cama). Overnight buses are a backpacker's best friend, serving as both transport and a night's accommodation. Within cities, the Santiago Metro is world-class and very affordable using a 'Bip!' card. For long distances (like Santiago to San Pedro), check budget airlines like Sky or JetSmart, which can sometimes be cheaper than a 20-hour bus ride if booked in advance.
