Where to Stay in Puerto Natales, Chile 🇨🇱: Best Areas and Accommodation Tips

If you’re planning a trip to Chilean Patagonia, this guide will help you decide where to stay in Puerto Natales, Chile. As the primary gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, choosing the right base is key, and my recent travels here have shown that each area offers a distinct advantage for your Patagonian adventure. This guide cuts through the noise to give you the essential, on-the-ground advice you need.

Best Hotels in Puerto Natales🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: DT Loft Puerto Natales
• ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Indigo Patagonia
• 🏨 4-Star: Cumbres Apart
  
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Big Sur
• 💸 Cheap: Hotel Reymar
• 🏢 Apartment: Cabañas Ultima Esperanza
• 👪 For Families: Angelica's Rental House
• 🏩 For Couples: Cabañas Los Coihues

Quick Guide to the Best Areas 📃

1. Downtown (Centro): The Hub for Your Patagonia Adventure

The heart of Puerto Natales is a compact, walkable grid where the energy of impending treks is palpable. This is where you’ll find the highest concentration of gear shops, tour operators, and restaurants, making it the most convenient base for preparing for Torres del Paine National Park. It’s practical, lively, and puts everything you need at your doorstep, whether you’re staying near a hotel in Puerto Natales or planning a night at a nearby estancia.

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Your days here will revolve around the Plaza de Armas and the main thoroughfares of Manuel Bulnes and Avenida Santiago Bueras. You can browse for handmade goods at the Pueblo Artesanal Ether Aike before heading out. For a true local experience, grab a craft beer at Baguales Brewery, a spot beloved by local guides after a long trek. The entire downtown area is walkable, with the main bus station a straightforward 15-minute walk away, and several nearby campsites provide options for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the surrounding nature.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Unbeatable convenience with shops, restaurants, and tour agencies within a few blocks.
• Con: Can feel busy and tourist-focused. Solution: Wander a few blocks off the main plaza to find quieter streets and more local eateries.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for first-time visitors and those who want all amenities within easy walking distance. Skip if you’re looking for a quiet, natural retreat away from the trekking crowds.

Best Hotels in Downtown (Centro)

💎 Luxury hotels

• Hotel Big Sur — Offers classic elegance and commanding views of the Last Hope Sound from its prime waterfront location.
• Weskar Patagonian Lodge — Features cozy, wood-detailed rooms and a relaxing hot tub with panoramic fjord views.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• DT Loft Puerto Natales — A stylish boutique hotel known for its vibrant decor, excellent breakfast, and a lively on-site bar.
• Hotel Martín Gusinde — Praised for its comfortable rooms, professional service, and a perfect central location near the main square.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Xalpen B&B — A highly-rated, charming guesthouse offering a warm atmosphere and exceptional hospitality.

2. Costanera (Waterfront): A Scenic Base on the Fjord

Stretching along the edge of the Last Hope Sound, the Costanera offers a more tranquil and scenic experience. The atmosphere is defined by the open sky, the cry of birds, and the dramatic Patagonian weather rolling in over the water. It’s the perfect place to decompress after a long hike, and its location makes it one of the best places to stay when you want easy access to Torres del Paine’s trails and Parque Nacional Torres del Paine.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
A walk along the waterfront promenade takes you past iconic landmarks like the Muelle Viejo (Old Pier) and the striking Monumento al Viento. Locals favor the northern stretch of the path, away from the town center, for quiet, uninterrupted views of the fjord and surrounding mountains. For the best light and fewest people, plan an evening stroll here to watch the incredible sunset, and if you’re planning your route, it’s a great spot to get to Puerto Natales before heading out on excursions from the best Puerto Natales hotels in the area.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Breathtaking, front-row views of the Patagonian landscape.
• Con: It can be very exposed and windy. Solution: Always pack a windproof jacket, even for a short walk.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for travelers who prioritize scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. Skip if you need to be in the absolute center of the action for restaurants and nightlife.

Best Hotels in Costanera (Waterfront)

💎 Luxury hotels

• Hotel Altiplanico Puerto Natales — Features unique, grass-roofed villas and stunning minimalist design focused on maximizing the fjord views.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hotel Simple Patagonia — Lives up to its name with clean, modern rooms and large windows that frame the incredible Patagonian scenery.
• Weskar Lodge Hotel — Provides a fantastic balance of comfort and spectacular views, making it a great value waterfront choice.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Hotel Cordillera Azul — A well-located hotel providing clean, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a solid and convenient base for exploring Puerto Natales.
  

3. Puerto Bories: For a Unique Slice of History

Located just outside the main town, Puerto Bories is a unique area dominated by a beautifully restored historic cold-storage plant, a relic of Patagonia’s sheep-farming boom. The vibe is post-industrial chic mixed with profound Patagonian history, offering a quiet, upscale, and memorable stay, and it’s an ideal spot when visiting Puerto Natales or exploring accommodation options that put you close to the centre of Puerto Natales.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The main point of interest is the Museo Frigorífico Puerto Bories, which details the region’s industrial past and the rich history of Puerto Natales. The area is defined by the impressive architecture and best views for photography, and it provides a convenient base to see Torres del Paine and the nearby Cueva del Milodon. A local tip is to explore the abandoned industrial skeletons surrounding the main building for dramatic photos many visitors miss. Getting here requires a 10-minute taxi ride from the Puerto Natales bus station, which makes planning your length of stay and choosing from a variety of hotels and hostels straightforward.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: A unique, atmospheric stay steeped in local history.
• Con: You are isolated from the town’s amenities. Solution: Plan your meals accordingly, either dining at your accommodation or taking a taxi into town.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for history buffs and travelers seeking a luxurious, secluded retreat. Skip if you are on a tight budget or want to dine out in a different place every night.

Best Hotels in Puerto Bories

💎 Luxury hotels

• The Singular Patagonia — A destination in itself, this beautifully restored historic building features a luxury spa, gourmet dining, and a private museum.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Casa Verde Hostal — A charming and colorful guesthouse offering a cozy, home-like atmosphere and personalized service from its friendly hosts.
• Hostal El Puestero — A classic travelers’ choice, this hostal provides a rustic Patagonian feel with comfortable rooms and a welcoming common area.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Hostal Nataly — Offers simple, clean, and comfortable accommodations with a reputation for excellent hospitality, making it a reliable and affordable base.

4. Huertos Familiares: For a Quiet, Local Feel

The Family Orchards district is a more residential area on the edge of downtown. This is where you’ll get a better sense of local life in Puerto Natales, away from the constant buzz of tourists. The atmosphere is quiet, modest, and grounded, offering a more authentic Patagonian town experience, and it’s an excellent choice when considering accommodation in Puerto Natales or looking for options in Puerto Natales that still keep you within easy reach of downtown Puerto Natales’ shops and restaurants.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
This neighborhood is less about specific landmarks and more about observing daily life; the main reference point is its proximity to the Puerto Natales bus station. The best way to experience it is to visit a local panadería (bakery) early in the morning for fresh bread and pastries, a simple pleasure enjoyed by residents. It offers a peaceful place to stay while still being a manageable 15- to 20-minute walk from the center, and it’s an ideal area for those planning to hike the W or explore the guide to Puerto Natales, with easy access to hostels in Puerto Natales and other accommodation options that can suit different lengths of stay.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: A more affordable and authentic experience of local life.
• Con: Fewer services and a longer walk to the main restaurant area. Solution: Choose a hostel or guesthouse with a shared kitchen to prepare your own breakfast before heading out.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for budget travelers, backpackers, and those who prefer a quiet, residential setting. Skip if you want immediate access to upscale dining and vibrant nightlife.

Best Hotels in Huertos Familiares

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Big Bang Patagonia — Offers a tranquil, garden-like setting and cozy rooms that provide a peaceful retreat from the town center.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Corner Hostel Puerto Natales — A favorite among backpackers for its friendly atmosphere, clean facilities, and helpful staff.

5. Near the Bus Terminal: The Strategic Stop for Trekkers

This small area is defined by one thing: the Terminal Rodoviario, the main bus station and the lifeline to Torres del Paine. The vibe is purely practical and transient, humming with the quiet anticipation of early morning departures. It’s not scenic, but it is undeniably the most strategic place to stay for an early start on your trek and is ideal for those looking for best hostels or other places to stay in Puerto Natales while planning to reach Paine Grande or other points deep in the park.

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Life here revolves around bus schedules. The key landmark is, of course, the Terminal Rodoviario itself, located where Ruta 9 enters the town. The small cafes directly opposite the terminal are a favorite among local guides and drivers for a quick, strong coffee before the journey into the park. Staying here allows you to wake up and simply walk across the street for the 7:00 AM bus, a major advantage when every minute of sleep counts, and it’s perfect if you want to book accommodation quickly or think of Puerto Natales as the launch point for a trek to Las Torres.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Unbeatable for catching early buses to the national park or Punta Arenas.
• Con: Lacks charm and is removed from the town’s main attractions. Solution: Use it purely as a launchpad for a single night before your trek begins.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for trekkers on a tight schedule, especially for the W Trek, and those with very early departures. Skip if you’re in Puerto Natales for more than just a pre-trek stopover.

Best Hotels in Near the Bus Terminal

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hostel Kuntur — A modern and comfortable option located just a few minutes’ walk from the bus station, perfect for an early start.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Hostal Geronimo — A clean, no-frills hostel situated extremely close to the terminal, designed for maximum practicality.

6. Outskirts (Road to the Park): For Total Nature Immersion

For those with a rental car, staying on the outskirts of Puerto Natales along the road towards the park offers a true escape. This area is characterized by open pampas, roaming wildlife, and isolated estancias, making it an ideal spot away from Puerto Natales for a more immersive experience in the region of Patagonia. The atmosphere is one of serene solitude, putting the vast Patagonian landscape right at your doorstep, and it’s a good base for planning the iconic W trek or finding the best campsites.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
This area is defined by natural landmarks like Cerro Dorotea, a massive hill offering panoramic views. You can find several traditional Patagonian estancias here that provide plenty of accommodation options. Locals often use the lesser-known trails around Cerro Dorotea for weekend horseback rides, offering a more secluded experience than the main viewpoint. A car is essential here, but it gives you a valuable head start for your trip to Torres del Paine and the Paine Massif, letting you bypass morning traffic in town and ensuring you have everything you need to know for a smooth start to your adventure.

Quick Take (Pro & Con):

• Pro: Complete immersion in nature and stunning, wide-open landscapes.
• Con: You are completely reliant on a car for everything. Solution: Stock up on supplies in Puerto Natales before checking into your accommodation.

Best For / Skip If:
Best for independent travelers with their own transport seeking tranquility and a direct connection to nature. Skip if you want social interaction, dining options, or are relying on public transport.

Best Hotels in Outskirts (Road to the Park)

💎 Luxury hotels

• Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa — An architectural masterpiece offering all-inclusive luxury, guided excursions, and unparalleled views of Torres del Paine.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Pampa Lodge, Quincho & Caballos — A charming lodge offering an authentic Patagonian ranch experience with horseback riding and traditional barbecues.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Cabañas La Frontera — These individual cabins provide a private, self-catering option, ideal for families or groups seeking more space and independence during their stay.

FAQ

What is the best area in Puerto Natales for first-time visitors?

For first-timers, staying in the Downtown (Centro) area of Puerto Natales is the most practical choice. It offers the highest concentration of tour operators, gear rental shops, restaurants, and bars, making it easy to organize your trek and enjoy the town’s amenities without needing transportation. This area is perfect for those looking to be located in downtown Puerto Natales and within a short walk from the Puerto Natales bus station.

What are the must-do activities in Puerto Natales itself?

Beyond being a gateway, things to do in Puerto Natales include walking along the Costanera to see the Muelle Viejo and Monumento al Viento, visiting the Museo Histórico Municipal, and enjoying the local craft beer scene. A boat trip on the Last Hope Sound to see the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers is also a popular excursion, and many first-time visitors find it helpful to follow a guide to Puerto Natales or a list of the best places for sightseeing.

Where should you stay in Puerto Natales for a quieter experience?

For a quieter stay in Puerto Natales, consider the Costanera for its scenic and peaceful waterfront setting, or the residential Huertos Familiares neighborhood for a more authentic, local atmosphere away from the main tourist hub. These areas are ideal for travelers seeking a calm stay while still being a short walk from the Puerto Natales’s downtown amenities.

How many days do you need in Puerto Natales?

Most travelers should plan for at least two full days in Puerto Natales itself, separate from the time allocated for trekking in Torres del Paine National Park. This allows one day for arrival, organization, and exploring the town, and another day for a local excursion like a boat trip or a visit to the Cueva del Milodón. Staying near the centre also makes it easier to enjoy breakfast buffet options or arrange day trips efficiently.

What is the best way to get around Puerto Natales?

The town of Puerto Natales is very compact and easily walkable. The downtown, waterfront, and bus station are all within a 15-20 minute walk of each other. For destinations further out, like Puerto Bories or the Puerto Natales airport, taxis are readily available and affordable. First-time visitors often find it best to book transportation and excursions in advance to maximize their time in the area.