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Where to Stay in Puerto Montt

Where to Stay in Puerto Montt

Puerto Montt The Lakes District, Chile Travel Guide

Lodging Choices

Full Spectrum of Lodging

  • Hostels (Hostales/Hospedajes):

    Dorms and private rooms, popular with backpackers. Many are family-run, offering a personal atmosphere.

  • Guesthouses (Hospedajes/Residenciales):

    Smaller, family-run establishments offering basic private rooms, some with shared bathrooms for an intimate, home-like feel.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    Numerous options with comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, and standard amenities like breakfast and Wi-Fi.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    Upscale hotels, some along the waterfront or with prime views, providing higher-end amenities and fine dining.

Vacation Rentals

  • Online Platforms:

    Platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Vrbo list many apartments and houses for short-term rental, with kitchens and more space.

  • Cabins (Cabañas):
  • Homestays:

    Less formalized programs exist directly in Puerto Montt, with some family-run hospedajes offering a similar feel. Rural initiatives provide immersive experiences.

  • Camping:

    Several campgrounds are near the city outskirts and in national parks, with amenities like hot showers and electricity for an outdoor experience.

Neighborhood Overview

Puerto Montt's neighborhoods each have distinct characteristics, offering varied experiences for visitors.

Centro City Center

Advantages
  • Central location
  • Easy access to amenities
  • Access to public transport
  • Good for first-time visitors
Considerations
  • Can be noisy
  • Less picturesque
  • Focused on commerce
  • Less quiet than other areas

Angelmó

Advantages
  • Immersive cultural experience
  • Access to fresh seafood
  • Unique souvenirs
  • Authentic and lively
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded
  • Some areas may feel gritty
  • Not ideal for quiet stays
  • Higher risk of petty theft

Pelluco & Bellavista

Advantages
  • Quieter than city center
  • Scenic coastal views
  • Good for walks
  • Charming atmosphere (Bellavista)
Considerations
  • Further from main attractions
  • Requires transport to center
  • Hilly terrain (Bellavista)
  • Normal urban precautions apply

Additional Neighborhood Tips

Safety Notes:

Centro is generally safe during the day, with awareness of pickpockets. Angelmó is busy and generally safe, but be vigilant with belongings. Pelluco & Bellavista are residential and generally safer, but normal urban precautions apply.

Accessibility and Sound Levels:

Centro offers excellent proximity to attractions and the main bus terminal. Angelmó is a 20-30 minute walk or short ride from the city center. Pelluco requires a 10-15 minute ride. Bellavista is walkable (15-25 minutes, uphill) or a short ride. Centro and Angelmó have higher noise levels during the day, while Pelluco and Bellavista are quieter.

Booking Your Stay

Effective booking strategies can secure better options and prices for your visit to Puerto Montt.

Seasonal Recommendations

  • High Season (December-February): Book several months in advance for popular hotels or vacation rentals due to limited availability and higher prices.
  • Shoulder Season (September-November, March-April): Book 1-2 months in advance for selection and prices. Last-minute bookings are often possible but with fewer choices.
  • Low Season (May-August): Booking a few weeks in advance is generally sufficient.
  • Major Holidays: Expect higher prices during times like New Year's or Easter.

Platform Use

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and TrustedHousesitters are widely used and reliable.
  • Direct Bookings: Smaller guesthouses or cabañas might prefer direct bookings via their own websites or phone, sometimes offering better rates.
  • Communication: Confirm specific deposit and cancellation policies before reservation.
  • Flexibility: Many properties extend free cancellation up to a certain point.

Important Booking Policies

Price Changes:
  • Prices typically peak during the high season (December-February).
  • Prices significantly decrease during the low season (May-August).
  • Shoulder seasons provide a middle ground for pricing.
  • Expect higher prices during major holidays or local events.
Cancellation Terms:
  • Policies vary by property and booking platform.
  • Always check the specific cancellation policy.
  • Many properties allow free cancellation up to a specified time.
  • Some special rates might be non-refundable.

Negotiation Insights

Walk-in Rates:

For smaller guesthouses (hospedajes/residenciales), especially during low season, a slightly lower rate for walk-in bookings might be negotiable.

Best Time for Deals:

Off-peak seasons present better chances for rate negotiation at smaller establishments.

Longer Stays:

For extended visits, some properties may offer discounted weekly or monthly rates.

Recommended Stays

Here are examples of lodging options, categorized by budget and traveler type.

Budget & Mid-Range Options

Hostel Angelmó

A basic, but well-located option, especially good for solo travelers wishing to stay near the bustling market.

  • Dorm & private rooms
  • Good for solo travelers
  • Near Angelmó market
  • Basic amenities
Hostal O'Higgins

A centrally situated, well-regarded, family-run guesthouse known for its friendly service.

  • Central location
  • Family-run atmosphere
  • Well-regarded by guests
  • Comfortable stay

Premium & Specialty

Hotel Manquehue Puerto Montt

A modern hotel with waterfront views and amenities, providing a comfortable and contemporary experience.

  • Waterfront location
  • Modern amenities
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Bay views
Gran Hotel Vicente Pérez Rosales

A historic, central hotel offering traditional comfort and a glimpse into the city's past.

  • Historic building
  • Central location
  • Traditional comfort
  • Architectural heritage

Traveler-Specific Stays

  • Family-friendly options:

    Apart-hotels extend apartment-style units with hotel services for family ease.

  • Solo traveler recommendations:

    Hostels with communal spaces like Hostel Angelmó or Hostal Estación are good for socializing. Centrally located guesthouses ensure easy access and safety.

  • Long-stay accommodations:

    Vacation rentals (apartments or cabañas) via platforms like Airbnb are ideal, often including kitchens and laundry facilities for comfort.

  • Unique local options:

    Boutique properties converted from old houses, especially in Bellavista, provide unique designs and distinct stays. Local community tourism initiatives in rural areas offer immersive experiences.

Extended Visits & Heritage

  • Extended Stays:

    Consider vacation rentals through local real estate agencies for stays exceeding a few weeks.

  • Historical Hotels:

    The Gran Hotel Vicente Pérez Rosales, one of the city's oldest, gives a look into Puerto Montt's architectural heritage.

  • Boutique Properties:

    Some boutique properties in Bellavista are charming, converted old houses offering personalized service.

  • Community Tourism:

    In rural areas of the Lakes District or on Chiloé, initiatives like Ruta de las Caletas provide experiences with local communities.

Unique Lodging Insights

Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo extend many apartments and houses for short-term rental. They are suitable for families or groups needing kitchens and more space.

  • Ideal for groups
  • Kitchen facilities common
  • More space and privacy
  • Various locations city-wide
Historical Hotels

The Gran Hotel Vicente Pérez Rosales ranks among Puerto Montt's oldest and most traditional hotels, demonstrating the city's architectural heritage.

  • Oldest traditional hotel
  • Central location
  • Reflects city's past
  • Classic comfort

Featured Properties

Cabañas del Lago

Though in Puerto Varas, this luxury option is often chosen for its lake views and facilities. View on Booking.com

Hotel Manquehue

A modern hotel offering bay views and amenities in Puerto Montt. Check availability

Hostal O'Higgins

A well-regarded, family-run guesthouse in a central location. Find on Hostelworld