Palafito Waiwen

I enjoyed the comfy beds, great kitchen, and listening to rain on the roof at night. Claudio was really nice too. But the hostel name gives the wrong impression: it felt more like a bed and breakfast, with lots of couples and an older crowd. I stayed at the casino Hotel up the road and thought the value there was better, even though it cost 30-40% more, since it had spa facilities and 5 star amenities. This place is still good, but depending on what you’re after there may be better choices nearby. I wish I’d booked fewer nights here.

A really good stay, with a super helpful host and nice showers. The communal facilities were great, and WiFi was fast. Bars and cafes are an easy walk away, and staying by the estuary to watch the tide come and go felt special.

This cosy hostel is in a nice "palafito" house. It feels a bit like being in a sauna, but in a lovely way, and the shared space has a great view. It’s a little way outside central Castro, around a 20min walk to the bus station.

We stayed at Palafito Waiwen for 4 days/3 nights, July 20-23, 2023, and had a great time. On our arrival in Castro, Claudio helped arrange alternative transport and a private taxi. We arrived well after check-in was supposed to end, but he waited for us and put together a personal itinerary based on our interests and what we’d said we wanted to explore. His recommendations were excellent. We explored the local city and the Ferias de Artesanias in Castro and Dalcahue, then took a bus to the island of Achao to see traditional Chilean architecture. Fernanda’s private taxi service was excellent too. We used it for pickup at the bus terminal on day one and for a trip to Tepuheico Park. The Palafito had great amenities, including a good-sized kitchen, a living room for socializing, and a terrace overlooking the Río. We also used the laundry service. Whenever we needed anything, we messaged Claudio on WhatsAp and he replied quickly. It was restful, with great views and service, and I’d definitely recommend it.