Lodging Independencia

Independencia is a hostel run by Eduardo and Pamela, two of the friendliest and most talkative people I met in Chile. Recently married and pretty much the same age as their average guests, they also live on site and are a constant presence (not in a bad way). The house itself is old, they have redone their bathrooms and both are nice. I stayed in one room that is not intended for guests because it was the garage and has no insulation (ICY COLD!) one night, but the next night I was upstairs and the room was cozy and the bed was comfortable. a MASSIVE breakfast is included in the price. Eggs, yogurt, bread, cereal, coffee, tea! unprecedented as far as I'm concerned. The kitchen is free to use and nightly is packed with people. When you first arrive Eduardo will sit down with you and a map and point out EVERYTHING you need to know (and some you don't), answers important questions ("where is the nearest fruit and nut store?") and can also help with various reservations and calls. Internet is not free but there is a massive bank of new computers right off the living room and i think it's only 500 pesos an hour.

If you are in the mood for real homemade pisco sours, ask Eduardo for a supply list, go get the ingredients and he will teach you how to make some seriously addictive drinks.

A dorm bed cost 4,700 pesos, and cheaper if you want to camp in the yard. if you are in Punta Arenas you HAVE to stay here.