CHILE

Chile, a land of extremes, stretches over 2,700 miles between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Its diverse geography ranges from the world’s driest desert in the north to alpine tundras and glaciers in the south, offering an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences.

Region: South America

Capital: Santiago

Official Language: Spanish

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise increased caution in Chile due to crime and civil unrest. Petty crime is common, and violent crime is on the rise. Be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.

A map of North and South America, with Chile highlighted in green.

Why Visit Chile?

Otherworldly Landscapes: From the Atacama Desert (driest on Earth) to Patagonia’s glaciers.

Adventure Capital: Hike Torres del Paine, ski Portillo, or surf Pichilemu.

Wine Lover’s Paradise: Tour vineyards in Maipo/Casablanca Valleys (world-class Cabernet Sauvignon).

A serene desert landscape with a still body of water reflecting the mountains under a gradient sky.

Easter Island (Rapa Nui): Mysterious moai statues and Polynesian culture.

Cultural Gems: Valparaíso’s colorful hills, Santiago’s museums, and Mapuche traditions.

Stargazing: Atacama’s clear skies host world’s best observatories (ALMA, Paranal).

A vast, arid landscape with a calm body of water reflecting the sky, surrounded by mountains.

Essential Trip Information

Chile has relaxed entry requirements for many nationalities, but rules vary.

Check official visa requirements here (Chilean Immigration).

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation, or sufficient funds (US$50–100/day recommended).

Tourist visa waiver: Citizens of the U.S., Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and others can stay 90 days (extendable).

Chile uses the Chilean Peso (CLP). Bills: 1,000–20,000 CLP. Coins: 10–500 CLP.

Exchange rate: ~1,000 CLP = US$1 (check before travel).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at Banco de Chile, Santander (low fees). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) widely accepted, but carry cash for rural areas.

  • What to Avoid: Airport exchange kiosks (high fees); always choose CLP (not USD) at ATMs.

Spanish is official; English is limited outside tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?).

Generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Santiago Centro, buses).

Avoid isolated areas at night (e.g., certain parts of Valparaíso).

Emergency number: 133 (police).

No special vaccines required (check CDC for updates).

Tap water is safe; bottled water recommended in rural areas.

Pharmacies (Farmacias Ahumada, Cruz Verde) widely available.

Metro (Santiago): Fast, safe (closes at 11 PM).

Buses: Affordable but slower; use TurBus or Pullman for long trips.

Domestic flights: LATAM/Sky Airline (US$50–150; book early).

Car rentals: Useful for Patagonia/Atacama (US$30–80/day).

Chile is moderate (similar to Eastern Europe), but Patagonia/Santiago can be expensive.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels (US$15–30/night), budget hotels 40–80).

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$90–150/night).

  • Luxury: 5-star (US$200+/night; e.g., Santiago, Patagonia lodges).

Food

  • Quick eats: Empanadas (US$2–4), completo 3–5).

  • Casual dining: US$10–20/person.

  • Fine dining: US$40+/person (Santiago, wine regions).

Drinks

  • Beer: US$3–5 (bars), 1–2 (supermarkets).

  • Pisco Sour: US$6–10.

  • Wine: Excellent local bottles from US$5.

Transportation

  • Metro (Santiago): US$1–2/ride.

  • Buses: Long-distance (US$10–50); city buses 1).

  • Taxis/Uber: US$5–15 for short trips.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Free walking tours (Santiago, Valparaíso).

  • Visit local markets (e.g., Mercado Central) for affordable seafood.

  • Travel off-season (April–November) for lower prices.

Explore Chile

Located in Southern Patagonia, this iconic park is a hiker’s paradise, famous for its towering granite peaks, sapphire lakes, and active glaciers. It’s a truly wild and breathtaking landscape.

Situated in northern Chile, it’s the driest non-polar desert in the world, offering surreal landscapes of salt flats, geysers, and volcanic peaks. It’s also renowned for incredible stargazing opportunities.

Chile’s vibrant capital, nestled in the central valley with the Andes as its backdrop. This cosmopolitan city blends colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers, offering a rich cultural experience.

A UNESCO World Heritage city on the central Pacific coast, known for its colorful hillside houses, labyrinthine streets, and artistic flair. Its vibrant street art and historic funiculars are a must-see.

A remote Polynesian island in the Pacific Ocean, famously home to the mysterious colossal stone statues, the Moai. It offers a unique blend of cultural intrigue and stunning natural beauty.

Located off the coast of Southern Chile, this large island is known for its distinctive wooden churches (many are UNESCO sites), colorful stilt houses (palafitos), and unique folklore.

In central-southern Chile, this picturesque region is dotted with snow-capped volcanoes, clear blue lakes, and lush forests, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and skiing. Pucón is an adventure hub, while Puerto Varas offers stunning views of Osorno volcano.

Found in the semi-arid Coquimbo region north of Santiago, this valley is famous for its clear skies, making it a prime location for stargazing and astronomical observatories. It’s also known for pisco production.

Just south of Santiago, this is one of Chile’s most renowned wine regions. Visitors can explore numerous vineyards, taste exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon, and enjoy picturesque Andean foothills.

A major port city in Chilean Patagonia, on the Strait of Magellan. It serves as a gateway to Antarctica, Torres del Paine, and offers opportunities for penguin viewing and exploring Patagonian history.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports
  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures in remote areas

Key Regions:

  • Santiago & Central Chile: Experience the city without the summer crowds, and enjoy museums.
  • Andes Ski Resorts: Prime time for world-class skiing and snowboarding, like Valle Nevado.
  • Atacama Desert: While cold at night (around 32ºF/0ºC), days are often clear, perfect for stargazing without summer heat.
  • Chiloé Island: Embrace the misty, atmospheric landscapes and hearty local food.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (e.g., wine harvest in Autumn, Fiestas Patrias in Spring)
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (can still have cooler days or rain)
  • Some areas in Patagonia might still be impacted by melting snow in early spring

Key Regions:

  • Wine Valleys (Maipo, Colchagua): Perfect for vineyard tours and tastings, especially during the grape harvest in autumn.
  • Santiago & Valparaíso: Enjoy pleasant temperatures for exploring cities and coastal charm.
  • Lake District: Witness stunning spring blooms or vibrant autumn foliage against volcanic backdrops.
  • Atacama Desert: Mild temperatures make outdoor exploration more comfortable than in peak summer.
  • Patagonia: Trails begin to open in spring, and autumn offers fewer crowds with beautiful colors before winter sets in.
  • Mid-Summer (December-February)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Peak Ski Season (July-August in the Andes)

Planning Your Trip

Punctuality: Relaxed in social settings, but tours/transport leave on time.

Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants (check if service is included).

Greetings: A handshake or cheek kiss (among friends).

Dining: Dinner is late (8–10 PM). Try onces (afternoon tea/snack).

Respect Nature: Chileans value conservation—follow park rules (e.g., Torres del Paine).

Accommodation: Hostels (US$15–30), 50–200), luxury (US$300+).

Food: Street empanadas (US$2–3), casual meal (US$10–20), fine dining (US$50+).

Transport: Buses (US$10–50), flights 100–300), car rentals (US$40–80/day).

Activities: Park fees (Torres del Paine US$35–50), 50–100).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$40–60 (hostels, buses, street food).

  • Mid-range: US$100–150 (hotels, restaurants, tours).

  • Luxury: US$250+ (high-end stays, private guides).

Free Wi-Fi: Common in cafes, hotels, and airports (spotty in remote areas).

SIM Cards: Entel or Movistar (US$10–20 for data plans).

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo, Holafly).

Essential for adventure activities (hiking, skiing) and medical coverage.

Patagonia treks may require evacuation coverage.

Check for delays—flights/buses can be disrupted by weather.

Tip: If hiking in Patagonia, ensure your insurance covers mountain rescues.

Chile offers a variety of stays, from cozy cabins to remote luxury lodges.

Luxury:

  • Explora Patagonia (Torres del Paine), Awasi Atacama (San Pedro).
  • Singular Santiago – boutique with rooftop bar.

Mid-range:

  • Hotel Altiplanico chain (Atacama, Santiago).
  • Cabañas in the Lake District (~US$90–150/night).

Budget:

  • Hostels: ~US$20–50/night – check Casa Roja (Santiago), Hostal Campo Base (San Pedro).
  • Guesthouses and family-run hospedajes are common.

Unique Stays:

  • Domes in Torres del Paine.
  • Wine lodges in Casablanca or Colchagua Valleys.
  • Off-grid eco-lodges in the Lake District.

Tip: Book Patagonia lodges 6+ months ahead during the Nov–Mar season.

Chile is long (2,700 miles!), so domestic flights help, but buses cover most areas.

Flights:

  • LATAM and Sky Airline connect major cities (Santiago to Punta Arenas ~US$100–200).
  • Book early for Patagonia routes (limited flights).

Buses:

  • Comfortable long-distance buses (e.g., Tur Bus, Pullman) for budget travel (Santiago to Valparaíso ~US$10).
  • Night buses with reclining seats (Santiago to Puerto Montt ~US$30).

Car Rentals:

  • Useful for road trips (e.g., Carretera Austral, Atacama).
  • Rent in cities; some rural roads are unpaved.

Metro (Santiago):

  • Efficient and cheap (~US$1 per ride). Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 6–8 PM).

Ferries:

  • Essential for Chiloé and Patagonia (Navimag ferry to Puerto Natales ~US$400–1,200, depending on cabin).

Tip: For Patagonia, book flights/buses early—limited options sell out fast.

Handy Tips

Chile uses the Chilean Peso (CLP). Bills come in 1,000; 2,000; 5,000; 10,000; and 20,000 CLP denominations; coins include 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 CLP.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange kiosks (high fees). Use ATMs (called “Redbanc”) or banks for better rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but carry cash for small vendors, markets, or rural areas.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected.

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10% is standard (check if “servicio” is included).

    • Taxis: Not expected, but round up.

    • Hotel Staff: 1,000–2,000 CLP (US$1–2) per bag for porters; 2,000–5,000CLP (2–5) per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: 5,000–10,000 CLP (US$5–10) per person for group tours.

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas but not universally. Helpful phrases:

  • “¿Dónde está el metro más cercano?” (Where’s the nearest metro station?)

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is it?)

  • “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).
    Pro Tip: Chileans speak quickly and use slang (“chilenismos”). A friendly “¿Más despacio, por favor?” (Slower, please) helps.

Chile is one of South America’s safest countries, but petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing in Santiago) occurs. Stay alert in crowded areas like La Vega Central or bus terminals.

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 133: Police (Carabineros).

    • 131: Ambulance.

    • 132: Fire department.

    • Your Embassy: Keep details handy (major embassies are in Santiago).

Chile uses 220V/50Hz with Type C/L plugs (two round pins). Some hotels have Type F (Schuko) outlets. Bring an adapter; converters may be needed for high-wattage devices.

Tap water is safe to drink in most cities (Santiago, Valparaíso). In rural areas, opt for bottled water. Restaurants serve “agua de la llave” (tap water) if requested.

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day.

  • Late Mar–Apr: Good Friday & Easter Sunday (dates vary).

  • 1 May: Labor Day.

  • 18–19 Sep: Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day—expect asados [BBQs] and cueca dancing).

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day.
    Note: Museums and shops may close early on holidays.

Stores: 10:00–20:00 (malls open until 21:00; smaller shops close 14:00–16:00 for siesta).

Pharmacies: Farmacias Ahumada or Cruz Verde often 24/7.

Markets: La Vega Central (Santiago) for fresh produce; Feria Artesanal Santa Lucía for crafts.

Empanadas de Pino: Classic baked pastry stuffed with minced beef, onions, olives, raisins & hard-boiled egg.

Pastel de Choclo: Corn pie layered with chicken, beef, and olives under a golden crust of sweet corn.

Cazuela: A hearty stew of meat (chicken or beef), corn on the cob, pumpkin, potato, and noodles.

Curanto: Chilote specialty—meats and seafood cooked underground over hot stones with potatoes and dumplings.

Completo: Chilean-style hot dog smothered in mayo, sauerkraut, tomato, and avocado.

Chorillana: Massive plate of fries topped with beef strips, onions, and fried eggs—perfect bar food.

Reineta or Congrio Frito: Fried white fish served with mashed potatoes or rice on the coast.

Pan Amasado: Crusty, chewy bread rolls often served warm with pebre (spicy salsa).

Alfajores: Shortbread cookie sandwiches filled with dulce de leche, often coated in chocolate or powdered sugar.

Leche Asada: Chile’s version of crème caramel—baked milk custard with a burnt sugar top.

Alcoholic:

  • Carmenère Wine: Rediscovered in Chile, this velvety red wine is deep, spicy, and uniquely Chilean.

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Maipo Valley’s pride—structured, bold reds from high-altitude vineyards.

  • Sauvignon Blanc: From Casablanca Valley—crisp, herbal, and citrusy, perfect for seafood.

  • Pisco Sour: Chile’s version of the famous cocktail—pisco brandy, lime juice, sugar, and bitters.

  • Mote con Huesillo (with Pisco): Traditional sweet drink, sometimes spiked with pisco for a refreshing twist.

  • Kunstmann Torobayo: German-style amber ale from Valdivia—malty and smooth.

  • Austral Calafate: Craft beer infused with Patagonian berries—distinctively regional.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Mote con Huesillo: Sweet summer drink with dried peaches and wheat kernels in syrup.

  • Jugo Natural de Frutas: Fresh fruit juices from papaya, chirimoya, or lucuma—common in cafes.

  • Café Helado: Cold coffee layered with ice cream, cream, and syrup—dessert in a glass.

  • Té con Leche: Black tea with hot milk—a common household tradition.

  • Agua con Gas (Sparkling Water): Ubiquitous and often preferred to still water in restaurants.

La Moneda Palace: Presidential palace in Santiago—site of Chile’s 1973 coup.

Pablo Neruda’s Houses: Visit La Chascona (Santiago), La Sebastiana (Valparaíso), or Isla Negra for insight into the poet’s world.

Mapuche Heritage: Cultural centers and museums (especially in Temuco) exploring indigenous traditions and resistance.

Chilean Rodeo: National sport—two riders corral a steer against a padded wall.

Museo de la Memoria: Powerful museum in Santiago chronicling the Pinochet dictatorship.

Valparaíso Street Art: Hillside murals blending political messages with vivid creativity.

Churches of Chiloé: UNESCO-listed wooden churches—simple and haunting.

Cueca Dancing: Chile’s national dance—handkerchiefs wave to the rhythm of courtship.

Fiestas Patrias (September 18–19): National holiday celebrating independence with music, asados, and cueca.

Rapa Nui Culture: Polynesian heritage of Easter Island—Moai statues, traditional dances, and sacred sites.

Thermal Hot Springs: Chillán and Puyehue are favorites for soaking with a view.

Skiing the Andes: Resorts like Valle Nevado offer July–September powder near Santiago.

Star Gazing in Atacama: World-class observatories under crystal-clear desert skies.

Valparaíso Funiculars: Quirky hillside elevators offering ocean views and retro charm.

Patagonian Hiking: Epic trails through Torres del Paine or Cerro Castillo.

Cycling in Wine Valleys: Casablanca and Colchagua offer scenic rides with frequent tasting stops.

Kayaking in Marble Caves: Azure waters and surreal rock formations in General Carrera Lake.

Fly-Fishing in Aysén: Remote rivers and lagoons, rich in trout.

Surfing in Pichilemu: Chile’s surf capital, perfect breaks for all levels.

Boat Ride in Chiloé’s Fjords: Wildlife-rich inlets with dolphins, sea lions, and local myths.

Bar Liguria: Santiago classic—vintage decor, traditional Chilean fare, and strong drinks.

La Piojera: Famous dive bar in Santiago—home of the Terremoto (pineapple wine cocktail).

Subterraneo: Sleek club in Providencia with live Latin music and DJs.

El Túnel: Underground dance club in Santiago for late-night reggaeton and pop.

Valpo’s El Huevo: Multi-floor nightlife labyrinth with everything from salsa to electronica.

Casa Cervecera Altamira: Valparaíso craft brewery with live music and sea views.

Mito Urbano: Jazz club in Santiago—cozy, intimate, and local favorite.

Patio Bellavista: Open-air complex of bars and restaurants—a buzzing evening hub.

Tártaro Bar: Cocktail-focused lounge with Pisco creations and local herbs.

Las Urracas: Glamorous nightclub in Vitacura with themed rooms and a VIP vibe.