Refugio Ballena Hostel
1295 Ernesto Riquelme
View on map and nearby hotels
15 nights, 2 adults
Includes taxes and charges
15 nights, 2 adults
Includes taxes and charges
Why people book this hotel
“The owners are amazing and helpful and friendly and kind”
“Super nice host, very helpful with arranging the check in and out and also with …”
“The room was cosy, the bed and bedding was really comfortable and warm, there wa…”
“Kitchen very well equipped and always clean”
“There are lockers in the rooms but a bit more space to put your stuff would be h…”
“The hostel itself is very clean, the beds are really comfortable, bathrooms are …”
“All in all the place exceeded my expectations and was in the perfect location fo…”
“The place is clean and 20 minutes walk from the major attractions in Castro, and…”
Overview
Boasting city views, Refugio Ballena Hostel provides accommodation with a garden, a terrace and a shared lounge, around 1.4 km from Sabanilla Beach. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a tour desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation features airport transfers, while a bicycle rental service is also available. At the guest house, every unit is equipped with a wardrobe. A selection of options including local specialities, fruits and cheese is available for breakfast. Nuestra Señora de los Dolores Church is 20 km from the guest house, while Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Chonchi Church is 20 km from the property. The nearest airport is Mocopulli Airport, 20 km from Refugio Ballena Hostel.
Traveller reviews
Penelope
solo_traveller
February 13, 2026
“I feel so relaxed after my stay”
The room was cosy, the bed and bedding was really comfortable and warm, there was enough space for all my things, there was a desk at the window where I could do my writing, the bathrooms were large, spotless and had everything anyone would need (including a hairdryer), the kitchen was large, well-equipped and immaculate, the living room was cosy, comfortable and quiet. It is a great place to meet people because of the large kitchen table where guests gather. All in all the place exceeded my expectations and was in the perfect location for quiet and also for the local bus to the national park and a short walk into town (bus also an option if you don't like to walk like I do). The owners are amazing and helpful and friendly and kind. I would highly recommend staying here for a few nights at least so you can benefit from this wonderful space.
Anna
solo_traveller
February 5, 2026
Super nice host, very helpful with arranging the check in and out and also with recommendations what to do around the island. Kitchen very well equipped and always clean. There are lockers in the rooms but a bit more space to put your stuff would be helpful. Very inviting common spaces, lovely atmosphere there.
Laure
solo_traveller
December 21, 2025
The property is super clean, the kitchen is great and has a lot of amenities. The hosts were absolutely adorable and such a precious help to find the best places to go in La Isla de Chiloé, amazing recommandations and also helped with the reservation of activities. All in all, always ready to help in any way possible and with such a warm and welcoming attitude.
Shradha
solo_traveller
February 17, 2025
The owners are amazing, very friendly and super helpful. I needed a place to spend a few hours beforw my bus to Santiago at 6 pm, on a Sunday when all the libraries and most cafes were closed. They were very helpful and let me stay there the whole day and do my work. The place is clean and 20 minutes walk from the major attractions in Castro, and next to the palafitos. Highly recommend.
Louis
couple
February 3, 2025
The best hostel we have stayed at in South America so far. The owners are really kind and great to talk with. The hostel itself is very clean, the beds are really comfortable, bathrooms are nice and the kitchen is really excellent. It has everything you need in abundance and the equipment is clean and modern. I highly recommend people stay here in Castro.
Giuliana
solo_traveller
January 15, 2025
The hosts were very helpful and kept the place in a really good condition. The kitchen was fully equipped, and staying there was really enjoyable. They did recycling (really important for me). :). Love it. Highly recommended.
Leila
solo_traveller
November 9, 2024
The hosts were amazing. They trie to give you the best experience possible and know a lot of contacts to organise tours. It felt like a home away from home.
Vanessa Andrea
solo_traveller
November 7, 2024
“Una hostal con calor sureño :)”
It was perfect, from the cozy vibes of the house, the cleanliness and the attention of the house. The bed was comfy,there is availability to use the kitchen wherever you want and it is nearby to restaurants and the city center in a very quiet neighbourhood. Marcos and his partner make you feel at home with their attention, welcoming you with real warm southern style.
Sanin
solo_traveller
June 27, 2024
The beds have warmers. Very good for the winter time in June. The hosts helped me plan my trip tot the Patagonia. Marco recommended bus companies, let me use his phone to contact tour guides, and drove me at 5 am to the bus station. Most out going host that do all they can to make sure you are safe and comfortable.
YU SHAN
solo_traveller
June 20, 2024
The hosts are so nice and welcoming, the bathrooms are clean, the kitchen is spacious and well-organized, and fast response is a plus. Did spend a wonderful night here. I highly recommend to other backpackers!
Facilities
Activities
Hiking
Cleanliness & disinfecting
Use of cleaning chemicals that are effective against Coronavirus, Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines, Guest accommodation is disinfected between stays, Property is cleaned by professional cleaning companies
Food & Drink
Breakfast options
General
WiFi available in all areas, Heating, Pets allowed, Non-smoking rooms, Non-smoking throughout, Designated smoking area, Allergy-free room, Indoor fireplace
Internet
Internet services, Free WiFi, WiFi
Kitchen
Shared kitchen
Outdoors
Garden, Terrace, Outdoor furniture
Physical distancing
Cashless payment available
Reception services
Invoice provided
Safety & security
Key access, Fire extinguishers
Safety features
Thermometers for guests provided by property, Face masks for guests available, Staff follow all safety protocols as directed by local authorities, Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas, First aid kit available
Self check-in
Passport/ID information collected online before you arrive
Services
Shuttle service, Airport shuttle, Laundry, Tour desk, Shared lounge/TV area, Daily housekeeping, Shuttle service (additional charge), Trouser press, Airport shuttle (additional charge)
Transport
Airport pick up, Airport drop off
Double Room with Shared Bathroom
The well-fitted kitchen features a refrigerator, kitchenware, an oven and a microwave. The double room provides a tea and coffee maker, a dining area, a terrace with sea views as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Small Twin Room
The unit offers 2 beds.
Twin Room
Guests can make meals in the kitchen that is equipped with a refrigerator, kitchenware, an oven and a microwave. The twin room provides a tea and coffee maker, a dining area, a terrace with garden views as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Standard Single Room with Shared Bathroom
Guests can make meals in the kitchen that features a refrigerator, kitchenware, an oven and a microwave. The single room features a tea and coffee maker, a dining area, a terrace with city views as well as a shared bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Hotel Policies
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