chile for travel

The Ultimate Chile Itinerary For Ten Days and Two Weeks

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 8th April 2024

With the piercing peaks of the Andes prominent in the north, glacier-riddled national parks of the south, and fertile, wine-growing valleys of the center, it’s fair to say that Chile has jaw-dropping geographical diversity oozing from every pore.

It’s for this very reason why planning a Chile itinerary for ten days or more of travel might seem a bit of a headache. However, I’ve got plenty of ideas about how to organize a showstopping tour of this truly incredible country – and even wrote a guidebook about it .

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How to use this Chile itinerary

Luckily, Chile has one of the best plane networks and road connectivity in South America, meaning you can – and should – zip between its diverse regions if you’re on a short trip.

Staying here longer? Even better; you’ve got plenty of time to really get under the skin of a country I came to love over the three and a half years I was based here. You can also get inspired by my list of the 31 best places to visit in Chile – which includes not just the “must-sees” but those under-the-radar destinations that few other websites mention.

This Chile itinerary focuses on the things to do in Chile broadly, but you’ll find plenty more details about where to go in Patagonia in the following:

• Four itineraries for one and two weeks of travel in Patagonia
• An itinerary for three or more weeks in Patagonia and free e-book download )

Looking for guidance about what to take with you on a trip to Chile? Check out our detailed Patagonia packing list , as well as our guide to what to pack for South America more generally.

Recommendations for travel in Chile and using this Chile itinerary:

• As a vast, sprawling country, there are plenty of things to do in Chile; it’s always better to slim down your travel itinerary, take it slow and really dig deep into a place than scratch the surface with a whistle-stop tour of all the top attractions. In the latter, you’ll also spend too much time traveling between places which, let’s face it, is not the main idea of a holiday or even longer-term travel.
• Travel in Chile is expensive and while this post doesn’t delve too deeply into how you can travel Chile on a budget, consider booking cheaper types of accommodation, such as local alojamientos or hospedajes (cheap B&Bs) or cabañas (cabins) if you’re in a group, many of which aren’t available to book via hotel booking websites.
• Chile is a safe place to visit. Since the pandemic, parts of Santiago and Valparaiso have become less safe than they used to be (for example, avoid Downtown at night) and the use of Uber or official taxis firm is highly recommended, but once you get out of the city, you’ll find Chile a safe and welcoming place to travel . Patagonia, and pretty much any rural area, is incredibly safe.
• There is a wealth of good hotels and guesthouses across the country. Some of the best had a profound impact on my trips around the country, which is why I’ve pulled together my absolute favorites into this guide to the best hotels in Chile (just 31 of them!!).
• Plenty of hostels and the previously mentioned accommodation types also have kitchens, making it easy to self-cater. Bear in mind that Chile has some excellent restaurants and some surprisingly good local cuisine (even if it might not seem like it at first glance) so make sure to factor in some time and money for eating out!
• Alternatively, camping is relatively easy throughout the country , so pack camping and cooking equipment (see my recommendations in this post about packing for Patagonia ) and use that as a way of seeing Chile on the cheap.
• These Chile itineraries for ten days and two weeks rely on the fact that you will take some long-distance transport to travel between the regions. Yes, flights can be expensive, but if you plan ahead, you can get a good deal with Sky Airline (the low-cost airline) and LATAM (the more upmarket airline). I generally compare prices on Skyscanner and then book directly through the companies themselves.
• Additionally, Jet Smart is Chile’s answer to Easyjet in Europe and has some extraordinarily low fares, although, they don’t yet offer flights to all of the cities and they’re often at slightly more awkward hours. However, they’re definitely worth checking out, particularly as they’re starting to offer direct flights between cities in Chile without having to go through Santiago, which can significantly reduce your flight time (you can see their full list of destinations here ). Be aware that you always have to pay an extra fee for both hold baggage and cabin baggage and they will charge you if you go over the weight limit for either. 
• Buses are also an inexpensive and reliable way of traveling through Chile, with long-distance, overnight buses making it easy enough to travel from Puerto Montt to Santiago or Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama in reasonable comfort (although prices of flights, if booked a few weeks in advance, are generally as cheap as bus tickets for these routes). Aim to book a couple of days in advance; websites such as Bus Bud , Viaje en Bus , and Recorrido are really helpful, while you can book off the cuff at the bus terminals in all towns and cities.
• Renting a car is also a great way of traveling. I’ve personally driven through a lot of Chile and it’s much faster than taking buses and gives you the freedom to explore beyond the main tourist destinations. Driving in Santiago is somewhat terrifying and you find drivers don’t pay a lot of attention in most cities and even in rural areas, so you’ll want to keep your wits about you. However, of all the countries in South America, Chile (and Argentina) is definitely the safest place to rent a car. There are lots of tolls on the highways, so make sure you’ve always got cash and download Maps.me for maps available without internet. I always book using Rental Cars , as I find they have the best prices (even better than going directly with companies generally) and have insurance documents in English. Always double-check your insurance documents to ensure your insurance is valid for driving on unpaved roads if you plan on exploring the Carretera Austral , as this is not always guaranteed.
• Uber works in Chile. Uber used to be illegal, but now isn’t. Uber is generally a reliable and safe way of traveling around cities (and better than hailing a cab, which will often try and rip you off or scam you).
• Oh, and I lived in Santiago for close to three years and wrote a guidebook about Chile (you can learn about the project here and buy the book here ), so rest assured that these itineraries stem from some pretty extensive exploration and travel.

Planning Your Trip to Chile?

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FAQs about visiting Chile

Chile is a vast country, extending 4,270 km (2,653 mi) from tip to toe and packed with superlative natural landscapes, world-renowned wineries, and remarkable cultural destinations. As a result, the minimum amount of time you want to spend in Chile to truly get a feel for the country is ten days.

Seven days isn’t much time to see this huge country. However, with just seven days, you could spend one in Santiago enjoying the city’s fine restaurants and exploring its museums and street art , before heading out to the Casablanca wine valley to sample the country’s tastiest white wines or to the historic coastal city of Valparaíso . 

From there, you can fly three hours south to Punta Arenas, the southernmost settlement in continental South America, where you can see penguins and whales.

Afterward, continue to Puerto Natales (three hours north by vehicle), the gateway town to Torres del Paine National Park . Spend three days in this beautiful protected area kayaking to glaciers, hiking to lofty mountain peaks, and even catching sight of pumas. Then, fly back to Santiago and then home.

January and February mark the hot summer months in Chile, but also the busiest times for tourism. If you want to explore the sights of Patagonia and other popular places around the country without the crowds, the months of November and March are the best times to visit Chile . Expect slightly cooler temperatures but quieter attractions!

Yes I can! While there will be tour agencies operating wherever you’re based in the world, I suggest booking through local company EcoChile Travel , a leading tour operator based out of Santiago.

Because they’re local, they’re far better acquainted with what’s going on in the country and the new, exciting places that should form part of your itinerary than international companies and will also get you the best price.

All of EcoChile Travel’s itineraries can be custom designed and they’ll organize all the logistics of booking your trip, plus set you up with an interactive app with all your travel reservations, and dining recommendations.

If any of the itineraries below tickle your fancy, they you they should be able to turn it into reality for you!

Chile Itinerary for ten days of travel 

Day one: santiago.

Arrive at Aeropuerto Internacional Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez (SCL) in Santiago and take either a transfer ($7,000 with Delfos or TransVIP ; no need to book in advance), Uber or the Turbus airport bus (get off either at Terminal Pajaritos (better if it’s rush hour) or Terminal Alameda and take the metro Line 1 to the centre of town).

Spend your afternoon trotting around Downtown. Visit the Plaza de Armas to see the oldest buildings in the city, some of which date back to the 18th century.

Pop into the Museo Histórico Natural (Natural History Museum) to learn about Chilean history and, more importantly, to take their free tour up to the Reloj de la Torre , the Clock Tower, for incredible panoramas of the entire Plaza de Armas.

Visit the nearby Museo Chileno de Artes Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art), with its incredible collection of pottery, textiles, and artwork covering the pre-Colombian civilizations across Latin America.

You could also spend an afternoon learning about another side of Chile at the Museo de Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights), which explores the darkest days of Chile’s history: the Pinochet dictatorship.

Finally, read this article about the best things to do in Santiago , this piece about day trips you can’t miss from Santiago , and then listen to my interview on the We Travel There podcast to learn more about my recommendations for visiting Chile’s capital city.

For dinner, you’ve got various options:

• Head to Barrio Bellavista to experience unique, indigenous cuisine at Peumayen or go for gourmet Chilean dishes paired with some of the best Chilean wines at Bocanariz .
• Barrio Lastarria (a couple of blocks west of Plaza Baquedano) is also a good shout for dinner. Learn about Chilean pisco at Chipe Libre or go for traditional Chilean dishes at Liguria , a restaurant popular among local Santiaguinos and even Kate Moss.
• For meat lovers keen to learn about the Chilean art of the asado (barbecue), make sure you head east along Line 1 of the metro for a steak (cooked a punto (medium rare) at Eladio .

Where to stay in Santiago: Stay overnight in Santiago’s first ‘ecoHotel’,  Carménère Eco Hotel  (Santander 292, double room $155,000 CLP ($196 USD)), which is equally appealing to environmentally conscious travelers and those seeking an authentic Chilean wine experience from their own hotel. It’s in the heart of the hip Barrio Italia, surrounded by a wealth of bars and restaurants and excellent transport links.

Alternatively, read my complete guide to Santiago’s best hotels and hostels for every budget, ordered by neighborhood. 

Days Two to Five: San Pedro de Atacama

Head back to Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) , from where domestic flights leave from a separate terminal. Take a two-hour flight to Calama .

Transfer services at the airport are timed to leave after flights arrive, so hop on one (one hour 30 minutes) to San Pedro de Atacama , one of Chile’s top tourist attractions.

While I explored the region by hire car a few years ago, this isn’t something to do lightly. Elevations are really high and altitude sickness is no joke (trust me, I’ve had it twice), while driving conditions on roads, many of which are unpaved and practically just sand, can be lethal if taken too fast. If you’re in any way unsure, opt instead for a tour.

Spend the next two days exploring the region’s top sites, including Piedras Rojas, the Lagunas Altiplanicas and Geisers del Tatio, and spend an evening stargazing and learning what ancient Andean cultures believed lay in the night sky.

I highly recommend taking a tour of the Geisers del Tatio with Trekana , whose guides are borderline obsessed with the wildlife that you can see en route, including two species of flamingoes, a whole host of bird species, beautiful vicunas (the wild cousin of the alpaca), and if you’re lucky, vizcachas (a type of chinchilla with extremely big ears and a penchant for sunbathing).

For more detailed information and inspiration for San Pedro de Atacama read this post on adventurous places to visit in and around San Pedro de Atacama .

Where to stay in San Pedro de Atacama: If you’ve got a bigger budget or are traveling in a couple, stay at Ckuri Atacama   (double $63,000 CLP/$80 USD; minimum two-night stay); it’s definitely the nicest accommodation you’ll find in San Pedro. Their three double rooms include private bathrooms, large double beds, a small breakfast area with fridge, cutlery, and plates (breakfast isn’t included – so go and check out Pananderia Franchuteria (Calle Gustavo Le Paige) in town for Chile’s best croissants and other delicious French pastries!).

Where to stay on a budget in San Pedro de Atacama: For smaller budgets,   Hostal Lackuntur (dorm $30 USD, $90 USD double) is ideal. It’s got a decent kitchen, loads of hammocks, and a very welcome swimming pool. Its location a few blocks north of the town also ensures it’s nice and quiet during the evenings.

Days Six and Seven: Valparaíso

Return to Calama and take a flight to Santiago. Buses leave from the Terminal Alameda (Av. Alameda 3750) and the Terminal San Borja (San Borja 235) in the city center for Valparaíso (two hours, $3,000 CLP/$4 USD), a historic harbor city set across 42 hills and home to a wealth of street art.

This includes La Sebastiana, the beautiful ship-inspired house of Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda (well, one of his three), elderly acensores (which are also UNESCO heritage monuments), and a colourful skyline of brightly-painted houses, cobbled streets, and vivid graffiti.

Read all about our favorite things to do in Valparaíso for more information about the city.

If visiting over the summer (be warned: it gets rammed full of Chilean holidaymakers), be sure to hop on a local  micro ( bus) and head around the coast towards Viña del Mar where the best beaches are.

The easiest to access is Playa Caleta Abarca as it’s right on the main road that passes through the city, while nearby Reñaca also has a pretty beach.

Viña del Mar is also home to the brilliant Museo de Arqueología e Historia Natural Francisco Fonk , which houses a collection of artifacts from Rapa Nui (Easter Island) – including a 2.9-meter tall moai statue – and is well worth a visit.

Valparaíso has a reputation for being unsafe, with Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción the safest areas to explore during the day, and practically the only areas I would recommend staying at night.

Avoid the bus station where possible (if arriving here, call an Uber to pick you up or arrange a taxi with your hotel) and the area around the harbor. Always stick to areas with plenty of street lights and don’t carry valuables with you.

If driving, look out for your tyres being punctured; it’s a clever trick by thieves, who come and offer to assist you change the type but manage to relieve you of your belongings while they do.

Where to stay in Valparaíso: Winebox (Baquedano 763, $99,000 CLP/$125 USD double) is a truly unique hotel, built entirely from 25 recycled shipping containers. What’s more, they have an urban winery in the basement and a wine bar cum restaurant on the roof (which is open to the public). It’s actually on Cerro Mariposa, so you’ll need to take local colectivos (shared taxis) or taxis to get into the centre at night.

Where to stay on a budget in Valparaíso: For smaller budgets, the pint-sized Puerta Escondida (Templeman 549, $79,000 CLP/$100 USD double room) is a welcoming B&B in the heart of Cerro Concepción. It gets booked up fast, so be sure to reserve in advance.

Days Eight and Nine: Santiago and Colchagua

Return by bus to Santiago and you’ve got two options for exploring another of Chile’s top attractions: vineyards (which, in our opinion, make Chile the best country in South America for wine ).

• For bigger budgets: rent a car and drive to winery Casa Silva, just north of San Fernando.
• For smaller budgets: take the bus from the Terminal Santiago ( Av. Alameda 3850) operated by Nilahue to Santa Cruz (3 hours, $7,000 CLP),

1. For bigger budgets

One of the most awarded wineries in the country and on the northern tip of the Colchagua Valley, Casa Silva not only has a wonderful setting (think rolling hills covered with neat rows of vines and a colonial-style bodega overlooking their polo field) but also an excellent restaurant.

Where to stay: I stayed in their gorgeous accommodation, Hotel Casa Silva  (double $181,000 CLP/$210 USD) and spent a day eating in their two fine restaurants, wine tasting in their wine shop, and wandering their vineyards.

You can stay one day at Casa Silva, and then on the next, drive to Santa Cruz, the main town for the Colchagua wine valley, and spend an afternoon exploring some of Chile’s top vineyards (see below).

2. For smaller budgets

Take a bus to Santa Cruz where you can rent mountain bikes, complete with panniers, from Casa Suiza ($40,000 CLP/$51 USD double, $19,000 CLP/$24 USD dorm) to explore the local vineyards of the surrounding Colchagua Valley at your leisure.

For all budgets

All of the wineries in the Colchagua Valley offer tastings, tours and many even have fine-dining restaurants (in beautiful settings, surrounded by vines), so I strongly suggest you aim to have lunch at one of the restaurants.

The valley is also known for its carménère wine , a grape similar, and for a long time, confused with Merlot, so make sure you sample plenty while you’re here.

My favorite is Montes , which lies ten kilometers north of Santa Cruz. It’s a renowned winery (they age their wine to the sound of Gregorian chant in an amphitheater-shaped cellar) with tours (from $10,000 CLP/$14 USD), tasting (from $2,000 CLP/$3 USD per glass) and the truly sensational Fuegos de Apalta restaurant.

I had the best steak of my life in their dining room, which surrounds a circular iron grill where you can watch the chefs at work. It doesn’t come cheap (expect to pay $20,000-$24,000 CLP/$28 USD-$34 USD per main) but their lomo liso (sirloin) and entraña (skirt steak), washed down with a Cabernet Sauvignon is an experience you’ll never forget.

Other wineries to visit from Santa Cruz include:

• Boutique winery Laura Hartwig , which you can easily walk to for a tasting as it’s on the outskirts of Santa Cruz. They produce very small quantities of wine each year and while it can sometimes be hit-and-miss, they often strike gold. You can sample glasses for just $1,000 CLP/$1.5 USD).
• Eight kilometers east of Santa Cruz, Viu Manent is a winery set within a beautiful old hacienda. Their star grapes are Carménère and Malbec and they have tours of the vineyard via horse-drawn carriages (from $15,000 CLP/$21 USD) as well as tastings (from $12,000 CLP/$17 USD) and great food in their restaurant Rayuela Wine & Grill ($9,000-$14,000 CLP/$13-$20 USD mains).

Where to stay in Santa Cruz: Hotel TerraViña (Camino a los Boldos, $166,000 CLP/$210 USD double) has a charming location overlooking rows of vines from cast-iron balconies and a swimming pool. The added benefit is they’re a short walk through the vines to the Laura Hartwig winery, which can be reached by a short vine-lined path.

Where to stay on a budget in Santa Cruz: Small budgets will enjoy staying overnight in Casa Suiza (Los Libertadores 199, $40,000 CLP/$51 USD double, $19,000 CLP/$24 USD dorm). There are plenty of places for unwinding, including a grassy garden, plus kitchen access, and owners who run cycling tours to tiny boutique wineries.

Day Ten: Santiago

Spend a final day in Santiago. Dedicate at least three hours to exploring the Museo de Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (Museum of Memory and Human Rights), an excellent museum dealing with a grizzly topic: the Pinochet dictatorship that lasted from 1973 to 1990.

If you want to learn first-hand about the Chilean love of the sanguche , head to La Fuente Alemana for a traditional churrasco (beef or pork sandwich) – just ask them to go easy on the mayo. Alternatively, sample some other key Chilean dishes in Santiago with the help of this guide to Chilean food .

Head over to nearby Barrio Lastarria ( barrio means neighborhood) and take the short hike up to Cerro Santa Lucia for views across the city and the omnipresent Andes Mountains beyond.

For even more impressive cityscape views, take the funicular up to Cerro San Cristóbal in Parque Metropolitano (don’t walk; there have been reports of muggings of people hiking up the hill and those straying from the trails).

Finally, listen to my interview on the We Travel There podcast to learn more about my recommendations for visiting Chile’s capital city.

Return to the airport and fly home.

Chile itinerary for two weeks of travel : Santiago and the Lakes District

In this itinerary, I talk you through how you can organize it yourself. However, if you want someone to take care of the logistics and plan a once-in-a-lifetime trip, then reach out to my recommended local tour operator, EcoChile Travel . They’re experts in planning trips in Chile and can custom design the itinerary to suit you and your budget. Their Chilean Lakes District itinerary follows a similar route to this itinerary. Mention Worldly Adventurer to get a 5% discount off this trip.

Arrive at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago and take either a transfer ($7,000 with Delfos or TransVIP; no need to book in advance, Uber, or the Turbus airport bus (get off either at Terminal Pajaritos (better if it’s rush hour) or Terminal Alameda and take the metro Line 1 to the center of town).

For more inspiration, read this article about tourist attractions you can’t miss in Santiago .

Where to stay: Splurge on your hotel and stay overnight at the foot of Cerro Santo Lucia in  Hotel Magnolia  (Huérfanos 539, $276,000 CLP ($350 USD) double) in the heart of the Barrio Lastarria and surrounded by a wealth of bars and restaurants, plus excellent transport links.

Alternatively, read my complete guide to Santiago’s best hotels and hostels for every budget (including much more affordable than Hotel Magnolina), ordered by neighborhood or learn about other things to do in Santiago .

Days Two to Five: Chiloé

The fastest way to reach Chiloé is with a direct flight between the domestic terminal of Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and Aeródromo Mocopulli (MHC; just outside of Castro).

This cuts your travel time down considerably, as flying to Puerto Montt means a four-hour journey (including a 30-minute ferry across the Canal de Chaco).

It’s not the most scenic of journeys, either, and you’ll be doing it on the way to Puerto Varas, so save yourself time by flying directly to Chiloé. There are far fewer daily flights to this airport, however, so book early.

From the airport, it’s a short taxi ride to Castro, where you can organize to pick up a hire car .

Chiloé is a small island, however rural public transport – like in most of Chile – isn’t the most frequent nor the most reliable. As a result, I would highly recommend hiring a car for your time here, giving you the freedom of seeing multiple parts of the island in one day – and also handy if you want to stay at one of the more remote lodges (which I highly recommend!). 

Driving in Chiloé is straightforward and easy; roads are generally one two lanes and other drivers are relaxed (unlike those in Santiago). There are also no toll booths that require cash to contend with, although I do recomend having Chilean pesos on hand for dining at more rural restaurants and for entering the national parks and reserves.

Need more inspiration?

You’ll find even more detailed itineraries, off-the-beaten-path gems, hiking routes and accommodation, restaurant and tour recommendations to suit your travel style in my brand-new guidebook, Moon Chile.

Alternatively: Fly from the domestic terminal in Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) to Aeropuerto El Tepual (PMC) (one hour 40 mins), the airport just outside of Puerto Montt . Rent a car from the agencies at Aeropuerto El Tepual and drive to Chiloé Island. Puerto Montt airport has some of the cheapest car rents in Chile (from $30 USD per day) and you can book using Rental Cars , who provide insurance documents and all contracts in English.

Castro , the capital of Chiloé is famed for its vibrant  palafitos:  colorful, traditional fishermen’s houses on stilts that line the harbor overlook the bay at two places, just off Calle Ernesto Riquelme and another accessed by Calle Puerto Montt.

However, the best place to appreciate them in all their colorful glory is across the river from Calle Ernesto Riquelme at Mirador Gamboa .

Another unmissable stop in Castro is at the Feria Artesanal (Lillo s/n, just before the harbor), a craft market where you can find both local woolen crafts to buy and a cheap lunch of empanadas  (stuffed with seafood or cheese and prawns) or huge plates of fish.

Nip out the back to meet the resident sea lion population, who’ll also be fighting over their lunch – scraps of fish thrown into the sea by the fishermen.

Where to stay in Castro: If you fancy finding out what it’s like inside a palafito, stay at the brown-shingled Palafito 1326 (Ernesto Riquelme 1326, $79,000 CLP/$100 USD double). Rooms are spacious, with crisp white linens and those overlooking the water have a balcony from which you can watch the ocean.

Alternatively, I can’t sing the praises of Refugio Pullao ($185 USD double) enough. Run by its Santiaguino owners, this tiny hotel is located on the Peninsula Rilan, across the bay from Castro, and has astounding views east out towards the ocean. Tierra Chiloé , a five-star hotel a little further around the shore, charges four times the price for the same view (although, admittedly, this includes tours and all-inclusive (and exceptional) dining). The latter is beautiful, but definitely only for those with a very large budget. 

Where to stay on a budget in Castro: La Minga Hostel (dorm $16,000 CLP/$20 USD, $25,000 CLP/$40 USD double) is a proper backpacking hostel (run by the wonderful Camila, a Brazilian and former backpacker herself) that is small but perfectly-formed. Rooms are fairly tiny and there aren’t that many bathrooms to go around, but it’s got a really sociable atmosphere without being a party hostel. Camilia also has great local knowledge and can help with suggestions for local things to do.

Spend the rest of your time on Chiloé exploring the churches; my favorite was definitely Tenuan , which you could reach by bus from the terminal in Castro (one hour 10 mins, $1,600 CLP/$2 USD).

If there’s a group of you, take a wander along the shore and you can try negotiating a small boat to take you to Isla Mechuque, which also has its own church and a small museum and is supposed to be stunning.

Cucao, a one-hour bus journey (again from the local bus terminal in Castro), is one of my favorite places on the island and has the mind-blowingly beautiful Palafito Cucao   ($55,000 CLP/$130 USD double).

Not only is this place hugely comfortable (it has lovely double rooms), it’s the living room area and outdoor terrace with views across Lago Cucao that make this place one of the most sensational places I’ve ever stayed in Chile. I even saw a giant otter swimming past one day.

Palafito Cucao is close to the Muelle de las Almas , a destination that has shot to fame in Chile in recent years.

While it is beautiful – it’s an art installation shaped like a pier that appears to jut out over the cliff edge and into the ocean on a desolate hillside – it’s now so overrun that much of the magic is lost.

If you do want to go, make sure you get here as early as possible in the morning, as 45-minute queues for photos with the muelle are unfortunately common.

Another option, instead, is to visit the Muelle de la Luz near Chepu, another of the artist’s sculptures. Again, this can get very busy with tour groups and, for the boats to run to the muelle, it requires at least 10 people.

There’s not a huge amount there, just the muelle and beautiful views across the beach below – which admittedly ranks among the most beautiful on the island.

Insider tip: Muelles have sprung up all over Chiloé, after the original Muelle de las Almas was constructed by Santiago sculptor Marcelo Orellana Rivera. Note that there are only three original muelles : Muelle de las Almas, Muella de la Luz, and Muelle del Tiempo. All the rest are imitations, designed by local people to capitalize on the craze for selfies on them. 

Days Five and Six: Puerto Varas

Drop the car back in Castro and then take the bus to the terminal in Puerto Montt and then take a small micro (a blue local bus) from the terminal to Puerto Varas (20 mins, $1,000 CLP/$1 USD).

Hiring a car for this part of the itinerary: Alternatively, I recommend hiring a car from Puerto Montt; some of the most interesting things to do in the Lakes Region are served by fairly infrequent public transport, so it can really help to have your own vehicle. Book a one-way rental from Puerto Montt to Temuco; this is surprisingly affordable (Puerto Montt is the cheapest place in the country to rent a car) and the one-way free doesn’t add much to the overall rental price.

Known locally as the City of Roses for its abundant blooms in summer, this lovely lakeside town sits beneath the shadow of Volcán Osorno, a volcano that, thankfully, hasn’t erupted since 1869.

There’s not a whole lot to do in the town; the main attractions lie in the activities in the surrounding national parks, lakes and rivers.

If you’ve just got an afternoon here, the somewhat eccentric collection of artwork and accumulated bric-a-brac in Museo de Pablo Fierro , run by enthusiastic owner and artist Pablo Fierro is definitely worth an hour of your time,

I’d also suggest heading to La Mesa Tropera for a pizza and locally brewed beer plus the best views of the lake and the volcano, or, if you’re a wine lover, La Vinoteca has a brilliant selection of wine by the glass, a range of Chilean dishes, and an excellent attached wine shop. 

For hikers, you’ve got plenty of options nearby. Alerce Andino National Park has a range of different hikes, including one to a 3,000-year-old alerce tree, and can be reached without 4WD (although bear in mind that both routes include a gravel section of the road (and the southern entrance is in particularly poor condition). 

The Llanquihue National Reserve is another beautiful protected area, with a mix of Valdivian temperate rainforest and lava floes from Volcan Calbuco, which erupted in 2015 and closed the reserve until just last year.

Again, this park is accessible without 4WD, but with roads in a similarly poor condition, so drive slowly and carefully. 

Another option is to head to Petrohué on the banks of Lago Todos los Santos where there are a handful of treks.

The most interesting is  Paso Desolación , which goes around the edge of the volcano, taking you above the tree line with beautiful views of the Osorno volcano and Lago Llanquihue below, over an around eight-hour return hike (23km/14.2mi).

A shorter, 11km (6.8mi) route takes a path along the edge of the lake before heading back in a loop and offering views of the volcano and the valley, with a walking time of around three hours.

Don’t miss the Museo Pioneros Petrohué ($2,000 CLP/$3 USD), which is run by Petrohué Lodge and details the various “pioneers” who ventured to this once remote part of the Chilean lakes district across history, including explorers and German settlers.

If it’s not open (which it probably won’t be), nip into the Expeditions Office next door to ask to be allowed in.

Another popular attraction here is the Saltos de Petrohué ($4,000 CLP/$6 USD) where the raging, crystalline waters of the Río Petrohué churn over the rocks in a series of waterfalls, with a stunning backdrop of the Osorno volcano.

There are a handful of worthwhile trails to different viewpoints here but be warned: they are absolutely crammed throughout the season (even in October they were busy), so get here early doors. The entrance opens at 9am.

You can also get here by cycling. Lago Llanquihue has a cycling trail that extends from Puerto Varas north. You can hire bikes in Puerto Varas itself or, if you don’t want to have to drive back, Birds of Chile offers an e-biking tour, which can be combined with a half-day hike along the El Solitario trail through Valdivian temperate rainforest and volcanic ash.

Their guides have plenty of fascinating information about the flora and fauna of the region, which contains some of the final remaining tracts of Valdivian temperate rainforest on the planet.

Watersports are another part of Puerto Varas’ adventure offerings. You can also raft down the class II and IV rapids of the Río Petrohué with AlSur Expediciones , a local kayaking and rafting specialist operator.

Alternatively, book a sea kayaking tour out into the Chilean fjords for dramatic, volcano-studded landscapes (AlSur also specialize in epic, multi-day sea kayaking adventures into Pumalin National Park at the northern tip of the Carretera Austral – a must-do tour if you’re a keen kayaker!).

For a more relaxed afternoon, hop on a bus to Fruitillar (from the same place in Puerto Varas) to try locally baked kuchen , a German dessert brought, and cooked, by the German descendants who started this town.

There’s also a really good museum, the Museo Colonial Alemán , with its collection of artifacts brought over from Germany with the settlers and the history of founding the different towns around the lake.

There’s also Frutillar’s elegant, lakeside theatre, Teatro del Lago (they have performances from all across the globe and the building is renowned for its acoustics).

Where to stay in Puerto Varas: It’s definitely pricey, but the location right on the shores of Lago Llanquihue of AWA ($350 USD double) makes this a truly remarkable place to stay. Bedrooms are huge, while the restaurant serves up delicate dishes showcasing local ingredients – all with a serving of volcano views. I’ve stayed here twice now and it’s definitely my favorite hotel. Bear in mind, you’ll need a car – or to organize tours with a local operator – due to it being a 20-minute drive from Puerto Varas. FYI don’t do your laundry here. I almost wept when they gave me the $50 USD bill.

Where to stay on a budget in Puerto Varas: The wonderful Compass del Sur (camping $17,000 CLP/$21 USD, $24,000 CLP/$30 USD dorm, $54,000 CLP/$68 USD double), with its cozy sitting room with wood fire, breakfast room, and huge new kitchen, it’s my personal favorite when I’m in town. Their owners are very knowledgeable about activities to do in the local area and bedrooms are large, most of which now have their own private bathrooms after extensive renovations in 2017.

Days Seven to Ten: Pucón

Drive four hours or take a bus to Pucón (five hours, $17,500 CLP/$22 USD) from the bus terminal for Buses Jac in Puerto Varas.

Pucón is one of Chile’s best-known adventure destinations thanks to a range of highlights, including an active volcano that you can hike up, accessible national parks, and a whole host of other activities to get your pulse racing.

One of the best day trips you can take from Pucón is to nearby Parque Nacional Huerquehue , a one-hour bus ride or drive from the town with Buses Caburgua (they have their bus station at Uruguay 540).

There are five trails in the park, the most exciting being the  Sendero Los Lagos , which goes past a pair of impressive waterfalls and ends with glorious views across the lakes at the top of the mountain.

The most challenging (and with the best vistas ) is Sendero San Sebastian , where you’ll see not one, not two but NINE volcanoes and 14 lakes from the top. Uh, yes please!

You can also stay within the park, either camping (there are various places, including Camping Olga ($18,000 CLP/$23 USD for two people, minimum two-night stay) or at the basic Cabañas Tinquilco ($50,000 CLP/$63 USD per night; minimum stay four nights between December and March.

It’s also impossible to visit Pucón without hiking up Volcán Villarrica , the snow-topped volcano that dominates the landscapes surrounding the town and is easily one of the top Chile attractions for visitors.

It’s a tough climb (you start around 6-7am from Pucón and are at the crater by lunchtime), but not one that requires technical expertise; you will need to go with a guide unless you have all of your own equipment (ice axes, crampons etc.). Bear in mind, this trail is packed with other tourists, so can feel like you’re queuing up the side of the mountain, rather than hiking it.

Patagonia Experience  is the most recommended of all the agencies in the town. Expect to pay upwards of $80,000/$132 USD.

And don’t miss Termas Geometricas , some really beautiful hot springs located on the southern flanks of the volcano. Unless you’ve got a car, you’ll need to take a tour ($35,000/$58 USD) – but it’s worth the cost as you get to spend an afternoon relaxing in these stunning pools.

Where to stay in Pucón: Another personal favorite, if you’re willing to splash some cash, is the Maison Nomade B&B (double $90,000/$120 USD – but email them as they can offer cheaper prices), which is a few kilometers away from Pucón but has glorious views of the volcano from their huge garden, a swimming pool, beautiful modern rooms decorated with the handicrafts that Carolina, one of the owners, makes, plus a kitchen for guests. Alain, the other owner, also runs an orientation meeting to help you decide what you plan to do during your stay (and he knows the region like the back of his hand).

Where to stay on a budget in Pucón: Having visited this place as part of my research for Moon Chile , I can back up the general consensus that Chili Kiwi (dorm $20,000 CLP/$25 USD, $49,000 CLP/$67 USD hobbit hole) is one of the best hostels in Latin America. I stayed in both a hobbit hole and a treehouse (the hobbit hole was a bit roomier and had its own tiny private terrace, which was a nice touch), but they’ve genuinely thought of everything here: from their private bar to their three kitchens, huge lockers for people who’ve checked out but need somewhere to store their bags and just the enthusiasm of the owners and the staff who can answer practically any question you have about travel in the region (and beyond). It’s not a party hostel, but it does attract a youngish crowd.

Days Eleven to Thirteen: Parque Nacional Conguillio

From Pucón, start early for the three-hour drive to Parque Nacional Conguillio .

Alternatively, get an early bus to Temuco (one hour forty minutes) and catch the 10.30am Nar Bus to Parque Nacional Conguillio (leaves from the Terminal Rural de Temuco only in January and February, two and a half hours). It’ll drop you off right at the campsite and main ranger office for the park.

From here, there are a number of different day hikes that pass through the park’s incredible ancient scenery of thousand-year-old Araucania trees, black lava flows from looming Volcán Llaima, and gloriously blue lakes.

It’s one of my top three national parks in Chile (Patagonia National Park and Torres del Paine National Park take the other two spots) and one I highly, highly recommend.

Travel tip: The park is actually quieter and more beautiful to visit in November and December, when the weather’s warming up, or in April, to see the forests turn shades of autumn yellows and golds. The easiest way to get here in these months (or a faster means than taking the bus in high season) is hiring a car from the rental agencies in the arrivals terminal of Aeropuerto Araucanía (ZCO) in Temuco. You can get to the airport with a taxi (around $15,000 CLP/$21 USD from the bus terminal in Temuco).

You can get hold of maps from the ranger station here. The bus returns back to Temuco at 1pm (soon after it arrives).

Out of season, your only options are to take a taxi from nearby Curacuatin or rent a car in Temuco .

There’s a small shop at the campsite, but otherwise, you’ll need to bring food with you (unless staying at La Baita , who can prepare meals for you).

Where to stay in Parque Nacional Conguillio:  There are a number of campsites run by  Sendas Conguillio . The best of these, if you’re traveling in a pair or alone, is Camping El Estero ($6,500 CLP/$11 USD pp), which you cannot book (but there is normally space). If you’ve got a vehicle,  La Baita  (double $90,000 CLP/$150 USD) is spectacular, with stylish, wooden bedrooms, cozy communal living room with wood fire, and hot tubs. Outside of the summer, the prices are cheaper (but they’re closed in June).

Drive back to Temuco to return the car or hop the bus back to the city. Fly from Temuco airport to Santiago or take the bus overnight (eight hours).

Chile itinerary for two weeks of travel : The highlights

Days Two and Three: Valparaíso and the Casablanca Valley

Either hire a car or hop on a bus from the Terminal Alameda (Av. Alameda 3750) and the Terminal San Borja (San Borja 235) in the city center to Valparaíso (two hours, $3,000 CLP/$4 USD), a historic harbor city set across 42 hills and home to a wealth of street art.

This includes La Sebastiana , the beautiful ship-inspired house of Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda (well, one of his three), elderly acensores (which are also UNESCO heritage monuments), and a colorful skyline of brightly-painted houses, cobbled streets, and vivid graffiti.

If visiting over the summer (be warned: it gets rammed full of Chilean holidaymakers), be sure to hop on a local micro ( bus) and head around the coast towards Viña del Mar where the best beaches are.

The easiest to access is Playa Caleta Abarca as it’s right on the main road that passes through the city, while nearby Reñaca also has a pretty beach. Alternatively, you can drive further north to the pretty beaches of surf-town Maitencillo , secluded and beautiful Cachagua , or exclusive Zapallar . 

The following day, head out to the Casablanca Valley , Chile’s premier white wine-producing region. A bus to Casablanca and then a taxi can take you around some of the best wineries, including Casas del Bosque (which has a brilliant restaurant), Viña Mar (which is known for its sparkling wines, Bodegas RE (which produces unusual blends), and Emiliana (an organic, sustainable winery).

Alternatively, drive south via Isla Negra (the prettiest of poet Pablo Neruda’s houses) to reach the Valle de San Antonio , where first-rate wineries offer outstanding wines and stunningly-located accommodations. 

The best are Matetic and Casa Marin , the latter of which produces delicious sauvignon gris. 

Where to stay in Valparaíso/nearby: Winebox (Baquedano 763, $99,000 CLP/$125 USD double) is a truly unique hotel, built entirely from 25 recycled shipping containers. What’s more, they have an urban winery in the basement and a wine bar cum restaurant on the roof (which is open to the public). It’s actually on Cerro Mariposa, so you’ll need to take local colectivos (shared taxis) or taxis to get into the centre at night. Alternatively, stay in La Casona ($774 USD double) Matetic winery’s stylish 10-bed hotel, set within the vineyard and with a welcome swimming pool or at the more affordable Bungalow Miramar ($167 USD one-bedroom bungalow) that has sweeping views across the vineyards of equally brilliant Casa Marin.

Days Four to Seven: Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Head back to Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and take a six-hour flight west across the Pacific Ocean to Rapa Nui (Easter Island).  

Having captivated archaeologists and tourists alike for decades, Rapa Nui – while still being part of Chile – lives and breaths the Polynesian culture of its inhabitants: the Rapanui. 

After landing on the runway of Matavari International Airport (IPC) , take a transfer with your hotel into Hanga Roa, the island’s only town and the location of most lodgings. 

Spend the afternoon snorkeling off Playa Pea on the lookout for Green Pacific, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles, before catching the sunset at Ahu Tahai, where various ceremonial platforms known as ahu play host to the angular stone heads (moai) for which the island is famed. 

The following day, head out to Parque Nacional Rapa Nui , where the majority of the moai are located. New rules mean you’ll need a guide, who can show you around key locations across the island. 

Don’t miss Rano Raraku , the volcanic crater and quarry where the moai were carved, or nearby Ahu Tongariki . With 15 moai statues, it’s the largest of the platforms and ideal for sunrise. 

Read our guide to visiting Rapa Nui for more detailed information about getting to the island, as well as recommendations for what to do and where to stay , and the best time to visit Easter Island .  

Where to stay in Rapa Nui: The stunning sea views from certain suites and bungalows make  Hotel Boutique La Perouse  ($210 USD suite; $288 bungalow) an excellent choice for accommodation on Easter Island. Situated right at the heart of Hanga Roa, but with a tranquil setting, this is a great place to relax after a day of touring the island, while a delicious breakfast will ensure you’ve got the fuel you need.   

Where to stay on a budget in Rapa Nui:  If price is your number one factor when it comes to finding accommodation on Easter Island then look no further than  Camping y Hostal Tipanie Moana  ($57 USD double room with shared bathroom, $14 USD camping). Offering private rooms (some with shared bathrooms), it’s hard to quibble over the price here, which grants you clean and spacious bedrooms – some with mini-fridges – and a sociable atmosphere among the other guests staying here. 

Days Eight to Nine: Punta Arenas 

Fly back to Santiago’s Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and then hop on a flight to Punta Arenas, a three-hour flight south. 

The gateway to Patagonia, Punta Arenas is where the first colonizers landed in southern Chilean Patagonia and is home to some of the best wildlife-watching opportunities. 

You’ll have time for at least one tour. Head out to Isla Magdalena for a half-day visit to the 120,000-strong Magallenic penguin colony that resides on this island. 

Alternatively, take a tour with Solo Expediciones to Parque Marino Francisco Coloane (Francisco Coloane Marine Park) to catch a glimpse of the many species of whales that come here to breed, including humpbacks and sei whales. 

Want a custom-made Chile itinerary, but without the effort of planning it?

Get it planned by an expert (me!) with my travel itinerary planning service ; you’ll give me an overview of your ideal once-in-a-lifetime trip to Chile and/or Patagonia, and I’ll put together a custom itinerary just for you using my expert knowledge of the destination.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a local operator to plan and book your trip, I recommend our trusted partner EcoChile Travel. They design and book tours throughout the country, such as this 12-day highlights of Southern Patagonia itinerary – and offer Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on their services!

Book here to claim your discount.

At the end of your second day, hop on a public bus to Puerto Natales (three hours). 

Where to stay in Punta Arenas:  Easily the smartest choice in Punta Arenas is the luxurious La Yegua Loca ($160 USD double), where antique wooden furniture rubs shoulders with superb views of the Strait of Magellan. Don’t miss the restaurant on the ground floor, which specialises in local specialties such as king crab.

Where to stay on a budget in Punta Arenas:  Budget digs don’t get much better than the family-run Hostal Aventura Austral ($57 USD double), which has small but comfortable rooms and brilliant hosts.

Days Ten to Fourteen: Torres del Paine National Park 

Unless you’re planning on hiking the W or the O Circuit , the best way to explore Torres del Paine National Park is with a rental car . 

From Puerto Natales, head north along Ruta 9 and then northwest along the Y-290 to enter Torres del Paine National Park from its southern entrance, where you’ll get the best views of the Los Cuernos mountains that dominate the park. 

Over the next few days, you’ve got time to hike the park’s ubiquitous route up to Mirador Las Torres where you’ll stand beneath the three sky-spearing shards of granite after which the park is named. 

Day hikes and shorter routes to viewpoints abound in the national park, with the steep climb up to Mirador Ferrier for 180-degree views across the park and the short meander along Sendero Mirador Cuernos for dazzling views of Los Cuernos among the best. 

Read our guide to day hikes in Torres del Paine National Park for detailed route information. 

There’s plenty more to do in Torres del Paine, including tracking pumas , with the park believed to be home to the highest concentration of these big cats in the world. 

The best way is on a two-day tour with Chile Nativo (use the referral code “Worldly Adventurer” for a 5% discount), which takes you along some of the paths most frequented by the cats and has a close to 100% success rate for seeing them.

Return to Puerto Natales and then fly back to Santiago.

Where to stay in Torres del Paine National Park: With its cluster of 20 deluxe yurts, Patagonia Camp  ($2,160 USD double all-inclusive for two nights) sits pretty on the southern shore of Lago Toro as a top luxury accommodation option just 15 kilometres from the park entrance. There’s no TV or internet connection in the rooms, but who needs WIFI when you’ve got a private terrace with panoramic views, and even a jacuzzi in the suites?

Where to stay in Torres del Paine National Park on a budget: Restaurant costs within Torres del Paine have skyrocketed with the park’s popularity. Stock up on food in Puerto Natales and head to Cabañas Lago Tyndall ($110,000 CLP ($160 USD) four-person cabin), which is situated on a bend in the Río Serrano and a short drive from the southern entrance to the park.

Our complete guide to what to do in Torres del Paine National Park is packed with plenty more information about how to visit this incredible place, while our detailed Patagonia itineraries contain recommendations for exploring Southern Patagonia, plus how to combine a trip to Torres del Paine National Park with Argentine Patagonia, including the Perito Moreno glacier and hiking capital, El Chaltén. 

How to amend this two-week itinerary

Rather than heading to Rapa Nui, you could spend three days in the Atacama Desert. San Pedro de Atacama is the region’s main hub and jumping-off point for Mars-like scenery and wildlife-packed protected areas, such as the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos.

We’ve got a full guide to what to do in San Pedro de Atacama , while, if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing your trip, EcoChile Travel can help you plan a four-day trip to the region , including visits to local indigenous communities to learn more about the unique culture of the region. Mention Worldly Adventurer for a 5% discount on the tour.

Itinerary for one or two weeks in Patagonia (Chilean and Argentine)

I’ve written a whole guide to where to go and what to do in Patagonia, so head over to this one- and two-week Patagonia itinerary or these three- and four-week itineraries .

Tuesday 23rd of July 2019

Great article. I love this piece of writing. Thanks

Thursday 13th of June 2019

Hello Steph,

Thank you for your detail guide and the itineraries of 10 and 14 days. My husband and I are planning to go to Chile 10/11 days on late October or early November. I had planned to go to Ecuador but considering the high altitude that we probably couldn't stand.

There are so many blogs on Pinterest just telling me how great the attractions there but very few itineraries provided. So happy that I found yours

Here I have a few questions for the 10 days itinerary: 1) Any tours around the hostels to the attractions @ San Pedro de Atacama (my husband hates driving on vacation and I don't have a license)? 2) any other suggestions for the day 8 to 9 if not going to the vineyard? Thank you in advance!

Steph Dyson

Friday 21st of June 2019

Hi Sarah, yes you can find tour companies for destinations around San Pedro de Atacama on the main drag in the town - there are loads of them! Try and negotiate several tours with one company as this will help you get a discount. Whipala Expedition and 123 Andes Chile Conectado (both have websites) are recommended companies. There are plenty of other destinations to visit in San Pedro. Check out this article for more ideas! Enjoy your trip :)

Chile Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 3, 2024

Chile is one of the most slender and longest countries in the world — it’s just 150 miles across at its widest point! From the snow-capped volcanoes of Patagonia and blistering heights of the Andes to world-class wineries and Maoi sculptures of Easter Island , there are a lot of wonderful things to see in Chile.

Traveling to Chile was one of the best experiences I’ve had in South America. It just constantly blew me away. It’s one of the most developed South American countries (the capital, Santiago, is a tech hub for the region), the people were awesome, the food was incredible, and the scenery made me feel in awe of nature.

Not only is there lots to do but the country is budget-friendly, which really rounds it out as a must-see destination.

Use this travel guide to Chile to plan your visit, save money, and make the most out of your trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Chile

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in chile.

1. See Easter Island

Easter Island, located 3,540 kilometers (2,200 miles) off the coast of Chile, is the most isolated inhabited island on earth and home to the Rapa Nui Polynesian indigenous people that have lived there since 300 CE. Named after explorer Jacob Roggeveen’s ‘discovery’ of the island on Easter Sunday in 1722, this protected UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its Moai sculptures (the iconic big faces dotted all over the island). However, there is so much more to the island, including thousands of archaeological sites, volcanic craters and tunnels, pristine beaches, and excellent diving. To explore this magical place, hike around the dramatic cliffs and extinct volcanoes around the Moai archeological sites or around the spectacular Rano Kau crater and the Ana O Keke Cave. Or go sun yourself on Anakena’s beautiful white coral sand beach or Ovahe, a secluded pink sand beach hidden in a little cove with sparkling turquoise waters.

2. Discover Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine lies between the Andes and Patagonian steppe and is made up of snow-clad mountains, glacier lakes, and some of the best hiking in Chile. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful and desolate regions on the planet. There is no end to the scenic views here, including the three rugged, towering peaks of Central, Monzino, and Dagostini as well as the Southern Ice Fields. Be sure to wander around the enchanting Sarmiento Lake and see the Amarga Lagoon and the giant Salto Grande Waterfall. Admission is 29,250 CLP for up to three days for foreigners.

3. Explore Santiago

Chile’s capital is a thriving city and home to a third of the country’s entire population. Founded in 1541, this vibrant capital offers gorgeous panoramas, great restaurants, tasty locally-produced wine, and of course, Barrio Bellavista’s nightlife. There are quite a few must-see attractions in the city: Parque Metropolitano (a large urban park) as well as Cerro San Cristóbal, where you can hike around taking in beautiful views of the city, shouldn’t be missed. The Museum of Human Rights is also a must-visit site, as it chronicles the dark years of Pinochet when thousands of people ‘disappeared’ at the hands of his violent regime.

4. Marvel at San Pedro de Atacama

Located in Chile’s Norte Chico northern region, San Pedro de Atacama is one of Chile’s hottest tourist towns. Literally. Sitting at 2,400 meters (7,874 feet), the ancient town is in the driest desert in the world (it reportedly hasn’t seen rain since 1870). But the rock formations here are stunning, and it’s the perfect place to stargaze. This little town with adobe houses and dirt streets only has 5,000 inhabitants but plenty of tourists visit up to explore the stunning valley landscapes, the Atacama Salt Flats, and the Chaxa and Miniques Lagoons. Don’t miss the famous beautiful jagged geological formations of Valle de la Luna and Valle de la Muerte valleys that can be reached by bicycle from town.

5. Visit colorful Valparaiso

Nicknamed the “Jewel of South America,” this colorful city near Santiago is a mesh of bohemian bars and Victorian architecture along a coastline of sheer cliffs. The laid-back atmosphere and beauty of the area have inspired generations of writers and poets, including poet Pablo Neruda. Be sure to bring your camera because the whole city is painted in vibrant Insta-worthy colors. Take the Ascensor Reina Victoria funicular up to the Concepcion neighborhood and have a cocktail on the hilltop overlooking the city as you try some of the delicious local seafood dishes. Also, be sure to check out two of Chile’s top beaches nearby, the upscale Viña del Mar and the super cool Reñaca.

Other Things to See and Do in Chile

1. see the san marcos cathedral.

The same architect who was responsible for the Eiffel Tower, Alexandre Gustav Eiffel, designed San Marcos Cathedral. The cathedral is in Arica, Chile’s northernmost city, and was built to replace the original cathedral destroyed by an earthquake in 1868. The new cathedral was commissioned in 1876 and is a rare example of Gothic architecture in South America.

2. Get tipsy on a wine tour

Chile’s vineyards have been producing world-class wine for over 400 years. There are plenty of tours available around the country as vineyards stretch the entire length of Chile. I think the best wineries are located near Santiago. Expect to pay around 15,000-20,000 CLP for a basic tour, though fancier tours at more prestigious vineyards can easily be over 55,000-100,000 CLP per person. Most tours last 4-8 hours.

3. Hike a volcano

Chile is home to the world’s tallest active volcano, Ojos del Salado, which lies in the Andes near the Argentine border. Villarica and Osorno are also popular volcanoes (and both lie close to lakes). Most volcanoes in the country have thermal spas at their base too. Experienced hikers can do the trip on their own, though there are plenty of guided tours available for travelers looking for a group tour. Most multi-day tours span 10-14 days and cost millions of pesos. For day trips like the Cajon de Maipo, Osorno Volcano, Termas Colina, and Petrohue Falls, expect to pay 32,000-56,000 CLP per person.

4. Valle de la Muerte

Also known as “Death Valley,” this is an astounding place to hike, go horseback riding, or even go sandboarding. Located in the northeast of the country near San Pedro de Atacama, there are also guided moonlight walks that take you out over the rocky martian landscape. You can rent a sandboard for around 8,300 CLP or go on a sandboard tour for 23,000 CLP per person which includes transportation. There are even tours that sandboard at midnight, using spotlights to light the way (they have a DJ too!). If you’re looking to hike, check out the Corniza Trail. It’s a 7-hour loop that’s relatively easy (many families do it).

5. Santuario de la Naturaleza Valle de la Luna

Also located near San Pedro de Atacama, the “Valley of the Moon” is an otherworldly landscape that is home to stones and sand formations that have developed an extraordinary texture due to thousands of years of winds and flooding. The rock formations look like the surface of the moon, hence the park’s name. It’s a great place to go hiking — just don’t forget to bring water as it can get quite warm. Tours are available for around 26,000 CLP per person.

6. See the El Tatio geysers

A popular tourist attraction, these geysers are incredibly beautiful and well worth a visit as they make up the largest geyser field in the Southern Hemisphere (and they are the third largest in the world). You have to get up around 4am as all the tour companies aim to get you there by sunrise and it’s a 90-minute drive from San Pedro de Atacama. But it’s worth the effort! Bring a swimsuit as there are thermal pools nearby. Tours cost around 33,000-38,000 CLP. You can visit without a tour (admission is 15,000 CLP) but you’ll need to rent your own vehicle to get there.

7. Museo de Bellas Artes

This museum is one of the best in the country. Located in Santiago, it’s home to a wide display of fine art, sculptures, photography, paintings, and digital media. Built in 1910, the building is somewhat small but the architecture is equally as impressive as the collection within (it was built in the Beaux-arts style and has a very Parisian feel to it). Admission is free.

8. Mingle among the wealthy in Viña del Mar

Considered a Chilean Miami, this city next to Valparaiso serves as a hotspot for casinos, upscale cafes, and seaside restaurants. Even if you don’t have money to burn, it’s an interesting place to spend an afternoon people-watching as you wander the beach promenade. You’ll find lots of world-class restaurants here. If you’ve got some money to burn, stay a night!

9. Tour Pablo Neruda’s homes

One of the world’s most famous poets used to call Chile home. With homes in Valparaiso, Santiago, and Isla Negra, this Chilean icon stuffed a lifetime of knick-knacks, literature, and interesting maritime architectural pieces into his three abodes. All of them are open to the public. Even if you’re not a huge fan of his work, his homes alone are an interesting glimpse into Chilean culture as Neruda is a cultural icon and one of the most famous poets of the 20th century. Admission to each home costs around 7,000 CLP and includes an audio-guide system in multiple languages.

10. Get off the beaten path

Some lesser-known treasures worth visiting in Chile are Frutillar (a beautiful lakeside community in southern Chile’s Los Lagos Region), Lonquimay (another gorgeous lakeside town in the Malleco Province of southern Chile’s Araucanía Region), Caleta Tortel (a rugged seaside town with wooden walkways instead of streets in the heart of Patagonia) and Coyhaique (a less pricey Northern Patagonia city that’s a hub for great nature adventures). If you’re looking to beat the crowds, be sure to visit some of these lesser-known destinations.

11. Swim in the world’s largest pool

If you’re looking for some luxury, head to the Crystal Lagoon, home to the world’s largest swimming pool. It’s located at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, just west of Santiago. The pool is the size of twenty Olympic swimming pools and is the biggest recreational swimming pool in the world, requiring 66 million gallons of water just to fill it! A 1-2 bedroom apartment rental here costs 70,000-120,000 CLP per night.

How to Stay Safe in Chile

Chile is considered a safe destination and generally ranks as one of the safest on the continent. That said, crimes still do occur so you’ll want to take some precautions during your trip. The most common crimes in Chile are petty theft and bag snatching. Since these are crimes of opportunity, you’ll always want to make sure your possessions are secure. Be extra vigilant when riding the bus and when you’re in areas popular with tourists.

When taking the bus (especially the night bus) make sure you don’t have any valuables in your checked bag. Additionally, keep any valuables secure and out of reach from any would-be pickpockets.

If you’re enjoying the nightlife of Santiago, keep an eye on your drink as drink-spiking can occur.

Be sure to read about the common travel scams to avoid here .

Earthquakes are also common enough in Chile that you’ll want to make sure you are prepared should one occur. Know where your emergency exits are in your accommodation as well as any local evacuation locations for major emergencies. If you have a map downloaded on your phone, save the location of the nearest hospital and airport as well, just in case.

If you need emergency services, dial 113 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Chile

Hostels can be found in all the major destinations across Chile. Here are my recommended places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Chili Kiwi Lakefront (Pucon)
• Hostal Forestal (Santiago)
• Poker Hostel (Santiago)
• Hostal Po (Valparaiso)
• Hostal Rural (San Pedro de Atacama)
• Kona Tau (Easter Island)

Chile Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 9,800 CLP per night
• Hostel private rooms – 22,000-30,000 CLP per night
• Budget hotels – 25,000-55,000 CLP per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 16,000 CLP per night
• Airbnb apartments – 45,000-60,000 CLP per night
• Campsite – 5,300-35,000 CLP per night
• Set-menu lunch – 7,000 CLP
• Sit-down restaurants – 35,000 CLP
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 6,000 CLP
• Beer – 3,000 CLP
• Cappuccino/latte – 2,300 CLP
• Bottled water – 850 CLP
• Groceries for a week – 25,000 CLP

Note: As everything must be shipped south, food prices in Patagonia are about 30% higher than elsewhere in the country.

Chile Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit Chile? That depends on a few different factors, specifically, what you plan on doing while you’re here as well as your travel style.

Backpacker – 36,000 CLP Per Day

On a backpacking budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your own meals, use public transportation to get around, and visit a few museums. If you plan on drinking, you’ll need to add 5,000-8,000 CLP per day.

Midrange – 105,000 CLP Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, take buses between destinations, eat out at street stalls and cheap restaurants, take the occasional taxi, enjoy some drinks, and do some paid excursions like guided hikes and wine tours.

Upscale – 205,000 CLP Per Day

On this budget, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car to get around, do more guided tours, drink as much as you want, and eat out at nice restaurants. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

Chile Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Chile can be an expensive place to visit, especially if you’re doing a lot of tours and activities. The size of the country also means you can end up spending a lot on transportation. Here are some tips to help you save during your visit:

Bring a water bottle – LifeStraw is a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter that you can use instead of buying single-use plastic bottles. It removes bacteria, parasites, micro plastics, and other contaminants so it’s perfect for cities as well as if you’re out hiking in nature.

Buy wine at the supermarkets – Surprisingly, buying wine from vineyards can be more expensive than in the supermarkets. Buy from the supermarkets if you’re on a tight budget.

Take the bus – Bus service is inexpensive and efficient here. Night buses are comfortable and a good way to save on a night’s accommodation (they often have lie flat beds).

Buy food from La Vega Market – La Vega Market in Santiago sells everything you could possibly need and all sorts of local ingredients from Chile and Peru. Shop here for your veggies, fruits, and to get an authentic experience.

Eat at the local fish markets – In the coastal cities, the local fish markets are usually the best place for a seafood meal. Though the restaurants look cheap and thrown together, they’re delicious!

Shop around – Haggling is not common and vendors stick to their guns even when called out for price discrimination. So, if you’re quoted an inflated price for being a tourist it’s best to just move around and find alternatives where the prices are already set and visible. Otherwise, you’ll just be wasting your time and energy.

Ride in a micro or colectivo – Regular buses are for intercity transportation. “Micros” are intracity, and “colectivos” are taxis that drive a specific route once they get four people in the car, and charge a very low rate. If you want to go somewhere, chances are there’s a micro or colectivo that can get you close — just ask a local and they’ll know where to point you.

Stay with a local – Chile doesn’t have a huge Couchsurfing community, but you can still give it a shot and try to find a host (and get a local friend and a free place to stay). Just be sure to send your requests early!

Take a free walking tour – There are some great options available when it comes to free walking tours in Santiago, such as Tours 4 Tips or Free Tour Santiago . If you want to explore the city while learning about its history, architecture, and people then be sure to take a free tour. Just remember to tip at the end!

Stay at a Hola Hostel – Hola Hostels is a network of hostels predominantly in South and Central America. They offer 10% off to their members, as well as other local discounts for food and activities. Joining is free, and their hostels are also committed to environmentally sustainable practices.

Travel in the shoulder season – Prices in the country are cheaper outside of the high season (which is November-March). This includes admission to parks like Torres del Paine, which charge double during the busy summer months. Beat the crowds and save some money by skipping the high season.

How to Get Around in Chile

Public transportation – Public transportation, especially in Santiago, is reliable and affordable. In Santiago, you need to purchase a refillable bus pass (BIP Card) for your journeys as individual tickets are no longer available. The card costs around 1,550 CLP with the average ride costing around 700 CLP (prices vary depending on the time of day). BIP cards need a minimum initial credit of 1,000 CLP. You have to pay for your card and top-ups in cash; non-Chilean credit cards are not accepted.

Bus – For intercity travel, buses are the cheapest way to get around — and they are nice too! Reclining seats are common and many even recline almost all the way down. Additionally, some night buses even have a curtain between the seats so you can have a little privacy from your neighbor. The best companies to use are Turbus and Pullman.

Expect to pay at least 38,000 CLP per person from Santiago to Antofagasta. From Santiago to Valparaiso, bus tickets cost around 6,000–10,000 CLP each way. For something like the cross-country journey from Santiago to Punta Arenas, expect to pay at least 60,000 CLP for the 40-hour bus ride (this is an incredibly long distance so you have to change at Osorno or choose flying).

Train – Traveling by train in Chile is virtually non-existent. Much of the tracks have been left to decay beyond repair outside the central region of the country. Trains link Santiago with Curico, Talca, Linares, and Chillan with air-conditioned cars but that’s the extent of Chile’s train infrastructure. You can visit trencentral.cl for the available routes and prices.

Flying – Flying around the country is surprisingly affordable. Expect to pay around 28,000-35,000 CLP for the two-hour flight from Santiago to Antofagasta. Prices are similar for trips from Santiago to:

• La Serena (one hour)
• Calama (two hours)
• Arica (two hours forty-five minutes)
• Concepcion (one hour)
• Puerto Montt (one hour forty minutes)

For a flight between Santiago and Puerto Natales, expect to pay around 40,000-55,000 CLP. Round-trip flights from Santiago to the remote Easter Island cost around 240,000-300,000 CLP.

Car rental – Driving in Chile is much easier (and safer) than driving in other South American countries. Many of the highways are well-maintained thanks to their liberal use of toll roads. While driving in Santiago can be a little chaotic, once you get out of the city things generally become much easier. Expect to pay around 178,000 CLP for a one-week rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Chile is generally quite safe for foreigners. Avoid hitchhiking on rural roads, where there is much less traffic. If you do plan on hitchhiking regularly, bring a tent with you in case you don’t find a ride. It’s relatively easy to wild camp in Chile, and often you can ask at gas stations or police stations to pitch behind their building. Check Hitchwiki for more information.

When to Go to Chile

Since Chile is in the southern hemisphere, the summer months are December, January, and February. With landscapes ranging from desert to tundra, the weather and temperatures can vary tremendously here. Expect daily highs around 28-30°C (82-86°F) in Santiago, while the highs in Torres del Paine are closer to 13°C (55°F).

Winter is not a particularly great time to visit as the temperatures can drop below freezing, with snowfall common in certain regions. Daily lows reach -15 °C (5 F), making it rather unpleasant to be out and about during the day. Unsurprisingly, you can see why most travelers visit during the summer.

Fortunately, the shoulder season is also a fantastic time to visit Chile as you’ll be able to beat the crowds and save yourself some money. It’s an especially good time to visit if you plan on visiting Torres del Paine as there will be fewer hikers here and the park admission will be much cheaper. November and March are usually included in the high season, so aim for late October or early April. The weather won’t be perfect, but it’s a good compromise for travelers looking to dodge the crowds.

Chile Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Chile Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Chile travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Chile Safe to Visit?

The 10 Best Cities to Be a Digital Nomad

My (Non-Existent) South American Itinerary (and My Anxiety)

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12 Things You Must Know Before You Travel to Chile (2022 Updated)

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Last Update : July, 27th 2022

Planning a trip to Chile?

2020 was a bad year for travelers, with most borders being closed as “stay home” became the norm. And while most of us started traveling from home (thank you, internet), nothing will ever replace a trip to a beautiful place .

And if you’re thinking about Chile, you probably know this is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet . But there’s so much to learn about our favorite country in South America. Here’s a quick guide so you can get familiar with Chile and get ready for a trip of a lifetime with some useful information.

¡Buen viaje!

1. Chile is amongst the safest countries on Earth

2. chile is more expensive than its neighbors, but incredibly rewarding, 3. chile is covid-19 vaccination champion in south america, 4. if you plan an adventure in chile, you may have to train first, 5. the best time to travel to chile is not always when you think, 6. distances in chile are long, 7. chileans speak a very unusual spanish, 8. border crossing to argentina can be tricky in some places, 9. the visa and vaccines you need to travel to chile, 10. chileans have some curious social rules, 11. how to eat like a chilean in chile, 12. these are the best places to visit in chile.

Chile is a very safe destination for travelers in South America. According to the Global Peace Index (updated every year), Chile currently ranks as the 27 th safest country on the planet. It is usually considered the safest country in South America, together with Uruguay. Thanks to its low crime rates and nice behavior towards travelers, the “thin country” can be considered a very safe destination (especially if you visit its spectacular national parks).

Chile is the most developed country in South America , and some travelers like to talk about it as the “most European-like country in Latin America”. It is therefore an expensive country compared to its neighbors Bolivia, Peru and Argentina, and you should take a look at the updated exchange rate before you travel to Chile (the local currency is the Chilean peso).

To give you an idea, restaurant costs are on a par with the US for similar level restaurants. Prices vary tend to vary a lot from a place to another (for instance, prices in Patagonia are usually higher than the ones in central Chile). But whether it has to do with the food or with the excursions, it is usual to get more than what you pay for ! There is some excellent Chilean cuisine and both the guides and the travel experiences are incredibly rewarding.

And if you’re on low budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives, such as simpler restaurants and delicious street food; and more accessible travel experiences.

Worried about COVID-19? We are too! However, we are optimistic regarding the near future as Chile became a COVID-19 vaccination champion in South America . Health experts and government officials credit the country’s early negotiations with vaccine producers and in July 2022, more than 90% of the objective population was vaccinated (with up to 4 doses!). The country of 19 million inhabitants is an example in Latin America , often named in world’s Top 3 together with Israel and the United States.

Check out the complete guide on what you need to travel to Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic here.

Despite the intensity of the coronavirus waves that have hit the country, the country is already a "new normal". These are great news for tourism, isn’t it?

Chile is amongst the best adventure travel destinations in the world. It was awarded 6 times as the “World’s Leading Adventure Travel Destination” in the World Travel Awards , the “Oscars of tourism”. But be careful when it comes to choosing your adventure! Some of them are really demanding and require some previous training.

Some experiences are accessible for everyone , like a trip to the Atacama Desert or a Wildlife Safari in Torres del Paine National Park . However, Patagonia’s most popular multiday hikes are quite demanding. The W Trek requires at least some regular trail walking. As for the epic “O Trek” (Torres del Paine Circuit), the Dientes de Navarino Circuit and the Cerro Castillo Circuit, these are for the experienced hikers only. The terrain is irregular, hiking distances are long and include some steep uphill. In short, you’d better check out the details on the level of difficulty of the trip you’re interested in before taking the final decision.

Chile is a land of extremes. You’ll find the driest desert on Earth in north (the Atacama Desert) and the world’s third freshwater reserve in the south (the Patagonian ice fields). That’s what makes Chile a hard place to understand when it comes to scheduling a trip.

While most people think there is no rain at all in northern Chile, there may be some occasional heavy rain fall in summer, especially between December to March. This is due to the Altiplanic winter, a phenomenon that can cause storms in the Arica and Parinacota and in the Atacama regions.

In Patagonia, summer months (from December to March) are the busiest ones, but also the windiest. There is a “ best time to come ” for everyone, and this is how we could sum it up.

Best outdoor adventure weather: November to March

Best time to avoid the crowds: April to October (note: it may be difficult to find accommodation due to off-season from June to August).

Best time to spot wildlife: April to November

Chile extends 4,270 km (2,653 miles) from North to South, with an average of 177 km (110 mi) from East to West. Traveling from the Arica region to southern Patagonia would be the same as traveling from northern Scandinavia to Morocco!

You’ve got it: distances are long, and domestic flights usually take a few hours (for instance, it takes roughly 3,30 hours to get from Santiago to Punta Arenas). Besides the hours spent flying, you will also have to drive a lot, especially if you head to Patagonia. Getting to EcoCamp Patagonia from the Punta Arenas airport requires a 5 to 6-hour drive (a beautiful one)!

And if you plan to travel to Easter Island, remember that the “world’s most remote island” is located 3.759km (2.335mi) away from Santiago (a 5-hour and 40-minute flight).

“Cachai” “Piola” “Weon” “Bacán”: if you speak Spanish but do not understand these words, don’t worry! Chileans may speak the most peculiar Spanish in the world . The Royal Spanish Academy recognizes 2,214 words and idioms exclusively or mainly produced in Chilean Spanish, in addition to lots of unrecognized slang expressions.

But no panic! Chileans love to communicate with tourists and I bet you’ll be able to understand each other, even if you don’t speak Spanish at all.

Chile and Argentina are separated by a huge natural boundary : the Andes mountains. In Patagonia, the mountains get lower but the terrain is irregular, with lots of channels, ice fields and islands. At the border between Villa O’Higgins (Chile’s Aysén Region, the southernmost point of the Carretera Austral), vehicles are inaccessible. Here, you’ll have to take a boat, get a horse and walk 35 kilometers (22mi) if you want to cross to Argentina.

In most places, the immigration offices between both countries are miles apart, but crossing is easy if you have your own transfer or vehicle. If you travel by yourself, you should consider that some parts of Patagonia have no public transport to go through the border.

You won’t need a visa if you stay less than 90 days in the country (do not lose the small paper the immigration authorities will give you while entering Chile).

However, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines to enter the country is strongly recommended. While a negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines will allow you to get a "mobility pass" which is mandatory to enter many public places such as bars, restaurants and movie theaters ( more information here ).

Also, you must declare all products of plants and animal origin while entering into Chile (non-compliance with this obligation can be expensive!).

“Go to Chile and you’ll be welcomed with open arms” . This is a true statement. It is also true that Chileans have some traditions, mannerisms and customs that may leave you confused. Some of the funniest facts? Chileans add “-po” to virtually every word (for emphasis or just because locals feel like it). Chileans have lunch at around 2pm, and have “elevenses” in the evening. What does that mean? Well, it’s like having an afternoon tea, accompanied by bread with avocado, jam, paté or ham.

Everything stops for a football game , so streets may seem empty when Chile plays (but wait for the celebration if Chile wins!).

Finally, Chile is a seismic country. Chileans say there’s an earthquake only if it’s over 6 on the Richter scale . If it’s under 6 on Richter, some Chileans don’t even feel it. In these cases, they say it’s only a “temblor” (tremor).

There’s a new culinary world awaiting to be discovered in Chile! There is a rich and diverse range of dishes for everyone’s taste, though the famous ingredients include plenty of seafood (coastline), avocado, beef (the whole country) and lamb (Patagonia). There are also some amazing indigenous influences you will find in some regions (such as the Atacama Desert and the Araucanía region with the Mapuches), and you can get some incredible gourmet food in Chile’s main cities, especially in Santiago.

But the spirit of Chile can be tried on the street. You should definitely try the empanada (little puff pastry baked in the oven), the humita (corn mixed with onion and basil, in a preparation that is wrapped in maize leaves) and the completo (a local version of the hot-dog, that includes avocado).

No trip to Chile would be complete without an “asado”, a barbecue. “Asados” are the best excuse for Chileans to gather, making it the most important social occasion held all year round.

As for the beverages, Chile is worldwide famous for its delicious wine. You should also try the Pisco – a brandy produced in wine regions of Chile and Peru. And Chile also has some delicious beer!

We could write an entire book featuring Chile’s best places to visit . But if we had to sum it up, we would start with the Atacama Desert in the north, the world’s most arid desert. It stretches over 1000 kilometers of the Pacific coast to the border with Bolivia and Peru, offering a spectacular natural scenery. Here you’ll see the clearest sky on Earth, the incredible Tatio geysers and colorful lagoons above 3000 meters.

Further south, you should consider a trip to Valparaíso , Chile’s colorful port that is full of history. Santiago de Chile is worth a visit, with its vibrant streets, fascinating museums and delicious restaurants. Close to the country’s Metropolitan region, you could also go for some wine tasting in the beautiful wine valleys.

Another highlight is the Lake District , with its snowcapped volcanoes, German influence and vast lakes. Heading south you’ll reach Patagonia, with the stunning national parks of Chile’s Aysen Region. Here you can do the best road trip in South America while driving through the Carretera Austral, and do a hike of a lifetime through the Cerro Castillo National Park.

But the crown jewel of Patagonia is definitely Torres del Paine National Park , with its mesmerizing granite spires, abundant wildlife and spectacular hiking trails. You can stay at EcoCamp Patagonia , the world’s first geodesic hotel, to make your stay in Chile’s finest national park even better!

Another great place to hike is the Navarino island , home to the southernmost trek on Earth, “los dientes de Navarino”.

And we can’t talk about Chile without mentioning Easter Island (Rapa Nui), with its 1,000 monumental Moai statues in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

Ready for your trip to Chile? Take a look at our adventures or contact us to make your dream adventure come true!

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The Chilean Way

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Updated October 4th, 2022

Dear Traveler,

We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile. Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:

• You only have to present the vaccination certificate issued in your country when boarding to Chile. Those who do not have their vaccinations must present a negative result in a PCR test dated less than 48 hours from departure to enter Chile. Those who are under 18 years of age do not have any requirements to enter Chile
• A negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more but diagnostic tests will be carried out randomly at the entry point to Chile. Confirmed cases shall be isolated according to the general health regulations.
• Medical insurance covering any expenses caused by COVID-19 is not compulsory any more
• The use of a face mask is voluntary

In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!

The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia

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• Spa and relaxation
• Patagonian cruises
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Updated the day 17 January, 2024

• Entry Requirements

Frequently asked questions

Requirements for entering chile.

As of May 9th, the Protected Borders Plan is no longer in effect. This means that the request for a PCR test and random tests in the entry to Chile are eliminated. A current vaccination certificate will not be required when entering Chile.

Chile opened several of its border crossings for tourists, including Santiago, Iquique, Antofagasta, and Punta Arenas airports. You can check the terrestrial open border crossings here: at this link .

The people who oversee this supervision are the authorities in charge of migratory control at airports, border controls, etc. (Policía de Investigaciones, mainly), and it will take place upon entry registration in the country.

Every foreigner who enters the country as a holder of a temporary residence permit must prove before the control authority that they have the legal means for survival that allow for their stay in the country during the period of validity of their permit, as well as that of people subject to their dependency who accompany them.

The way to prove the amount can be shown in different ways, including cash, a bank account statement, a credit card, etc.

Travelers shall have their Single Entry Form (FUI) , their round-trip ticket, and a reservation at a tourist service registered in SERNATUR or an invitation letter from the Provincial Delegation.

Protocols for your favorite attractions

The new post-Covid-19 tourism will demand strict standards of hygiene and sanitation of spaces, therefore, the invitation is to adopt these recommendations and adopt a new travel culture

PROTOCOLS FOR TOURIST LODGING

WHAT SHOULD TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH THEM?

When you arrive and check-in…

• Observe the social distancing required.
• Allow establishment to take your temperature and disinfect your hands.
• Avoid exchanging papers, brochures, or pencils.
• Prefer digital pre-checking.
• Wear face mask at all times.
• Pay with bank card or via electronic transfer.

During your stay…

• Always remember to wear face mask.
• Wash your hands frequently. The hotel should have areas enabled to wash hands with soap or hand sanitizer gel dispensers.
• Leave keys or cards in the containers provided.
• Prefer activities or meetings in open spaces.
• Notify hotel staff if you have Covid-19 symptoms or suspect you have them.

When going to eat…

• Self-service should be kept to a minimum. Ideally, the tourist should not handle food.
• Ideally, buffet breakfast should not be available. If they cannot be eliminated, make sure that safety measures are available to implement.

Ski Centers

SKI CENTER GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES

• Ski centers have special structure and operation features; hence you will find that measures vary based on the activity.
• Observe the instruction of each establishment or activity. If, for instance, you go to a restaurant, the rules will be the same as those that are implemented throughout the country and observing allowable capacity, social distancing, use of face mask, and washing of hands is prioritized.

If you are at the establishment’s ticket office or entrance…

• Prioritize buying tickets online to help minimize overcrowding.
• Observe the minimum recommended distancing.
• Clean your hands. There will be hand sanitizer gel dispensers available in the ticket control area and throughout the center.
• Learn the rules implemented by the establishment.
• Remember to use snow gloves and “face mask type” protection suitable for the location, otherwise you will not be able to enter.
• Allow your temperature to be taken and complete the health self-survey.
• Locker rooms will not be available, arrive ready from home.
• Each center will have sanitization guidelines such as glove disinfection. Observe the instructions of the establishment’s instructors and staff.

Facilities or equipment rental…

• Rental services will only operate if physical distancing and maximum capacity are ensured and if entrances are controlled with unidirectional flow per station.
• Prefer contactless card payment.
• If there is a digital pre-rental plan available, use that option.
• Respect the minimum distancing established.
• Everything must be properly disinfected. You can help by avoiding touching objects with your hands.

Restaurantes and coffee shops

GASTRONOMIC SECTOR PROTOCOLS

WHAT SHOULD TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY?

• Do not enter the premises while at full allowed capacity.
• Let the establishment take your temperature and disinfect your hands.

When sitting…

• You should always wear face mask, but when taking it off to eat you should not leave it on the table.
• Remember that everything will be disinfected and you must observe the distance with whom you are attending.  Menu will not be on printed paper.
• Observe the number of people allowed per table.

If you go to the restroom…

• Everything will be disinfected.  However, avoid touching handles and faucets directly with your hands.
• Prefer drying with paper towel, which should be available to users.

When leaving…

• Prefer bank card or electronic transfer payment.
• Remember to wear face mask.
• Maintain social distancing and leave through approved exits.

The restaurant must sanitize tables after each customer use and make sure that all utensils are disinfected and ensure kitchen and restroom cleanliness.  Ventilation of areas is the restaurant’s responsibility and recommended protocol must be followed in its entirety.

Adventure tourism

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR ADVENTURE TOURISM

WHAT MUST TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH THEM?

In public service offices…

• Observe the number of people allowed inside.
• Make pre-reservations via digital channels or telephone.
• Allow temperature to be taken.
• Avoid exchanging printed material.
• Wash your hands constantly. Disinfectant dispensers should be available in the establishment.

During the activity…

• Notify if you have any Covid-19 symptom.
• If possible, buy travel insurance coverage for the type of activity.
• Number of people per group and capacity as per the recommendations of the health authorities. Observe them.
• Find information on the safety practices and restrictions of the company you are hiring.
• If you are in an enclosed area, remember to wear face mask.

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR CAMPING

Upon arrival…

• Remember that the use of face mask is mandatory.
• Observe the area’s entrances and the instructions provided upon your arrival.
• Wash your hands properly and constantly.
• Keep the recommended social distancing.
• If you made reservations, remember that you should have previously accepted the establishment’s contingency plan terms.
• If you did not make reservations, you will be sent a document electronically on the contingency plan, which you must accept to formalize your stay.
• Prefer electronic transfers or bank card payments.
• If possible, communicate with the person in charge of the campsite by phone to avoid moving around the establishment.
• Observe the posted signs with information on restrictions.
• If the campsite includes dining room or common areas, remember that said areas must be closed if ordered by the health authorities.
• Be aware of health care centers around you and inform the staff if you have any Covid-19 symptoms.

Mice Tourism

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR MICE TOURISM

Meeting venues…

• Everything must be previously disinfected and ventilated.
• Entrances and exists must be defined and restricted if several are available.
• Observe distancing allowed while standing and sitting.
• Observe the number of attendees allowed.
• Wash your hands constantly.
• Avoid exchanging pencils, papers, or folders.

Coffee breaks…

• Avoid exchanging objects with other attendees.
• Everything will be disinfected and utensils will be disposable. Observe this restriction and contribute to its enforcement.
• Remember, always maintain the recommended distancing.
• Upon arrival, allow the establishment to take your temperature and find out about the practices implemented by the venue. Remember that you must fill out a health statement truthfully and report if you have coronavirus symptoms.

Rural Tourism

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR RURAL TOURISM

• Remember to always wear face mask.
• Observe the recommended social distancing.
• Find out about the venue’s rules and read brochures or posters on restrictions.
• Avoid touching the venue’s objects.
• Remember to fill out your health statement online.
• Allow the venue to take your temperature.

If you decide to use rural tourist lodging…

• Do not forget your face mask and hand washing.
• Observe the venue’s restrictions and social distancing.
• Avoid the exchange of printed material.
• If possible, make reservations in advance through websites, social networks, WhatsApp or telephone.
• Prefer bank card or electronic transfer payments.
• If you use keys, place them in their assigned containers.
• Objects such as carpets or cushions will be removed from rooms.
• Observe these changes which are intended to prevent the spread of the virus.
• If you use food services, remember to observe the allowed capacity.

If you use trails…

• Ask what tours, circuits, and activities are allowed.
• Observe the frequency established for their use.
• Remember the maximum number of people allowed per tour and observe that restriction.

Tour guides

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR TOUR GUIDES

WHAT MUST TOURISTS KNOW?

• Tour guides operating independently must decide the tenor of the tour, sanitary measures, regulations, etc.
• Before formalizing your reservation, you must read and accept the implemented regulations and guidelines.

WHAT MUST TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH THESE GUIDELINES?

Before starting the tour…

• You must fill out a document in which you accept the terms of the activity, declare your physical condition, and health history.
• Let them take your temperature and check for coronavirus symptoms.
• Listen carefully to all the information that the tourist guide provides you.
• You should never remove face mask.
• Remember to wash hands constantly. If there are not facilities or hand sanitizer gel available, the tour guide should provide them.
• Observe the number of people allowed per tour.
• Observe all the instructions provided taking into account that if you enter a place it may have different rules. Read them and follow them.
• If you interact with other tourists, remember to keep the recommended social distancing.
• The tourist guide will inform you about health services near the area. Keep them in mind in case of an emergency and tell the tourist guide if you have any Covid-19 symptom.

PROTOCOLS FOR CEREMONIES

• Observe the maximum capacity allowed and find out about the district’s phase where the ceremony is held. The number of people allowed in the venue will be based on that.
• Make sure that the ceremony does not last more than 2 hours.
• Remember that wearing face mask is mandatory at all times.
• Avoid overcrowding and observe social distancing.
• Sanitize your hands frequently.

Swimming pools

PROTOCOLS FOR THE USE OF PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS

Before arriving…

• Book tickets online or buy them in advance to avoid crowds.
• Make sure that you do not have any symptoms or have not been in contact with anyone that is infected.
• Organize going to a public swimming pool with your closest family group and avoid socializing with other people.
• Avoid bringing too many accessories and implements that can be shared. Bring just the necessary things.

While in the premises…

• Observe the allowed capacity, exits and entrances, and social distancing.
• Do not take face mask off, except when entering the pool.
• Remember that you cannot use slides or games.
• Arrive with swimsuit on, remember that lockers will not be available to change clothes.
• When using restrooms, observe the corresponding queue to avoid overcrowding and remember to wash your hands.
• Do not stay in the pool too long. It will be controlled to avoid overcrowding.

Commerce and services

PROTOCOLS FOR TRADE AND SERVICES ESTABLISHMENTS

• Wear face mask always.
• Observe the site’s recommended physical distancing.
• Prefer bank card payments and sanitize your hands after use.
• Disinfect your hands.
• Allow the venue to take your temperature and check your health upon arrival.
• Observe the venue’s allowed capacity and implemented safety measures.

GOOD PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR BEACHES

WHAT SHOULD TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH GUIDELINES?

In the area…

• Observe the distance defined by the concession holder. At least one meter, avoiding all physical contact.
• Remember that the use of face mask is still mandatory, except when entering the sea.
• Follow the authorities’ self-care recommendations.
• If you go with children, avoid using the children’s playgrounds and, if they do, clean contact areas before using.
• Hand washing is still permanent even if you are at the beach.
• Clean and disinfect personal items at all times.
• Don’t litter. Discard waste at the assigned areas.
• Remember to bring and take care of cleaning supplies, such as hand sanitizer gel, face mask, and disinfectant wipes. When you leave, do not leave them discarded.
• Avoid sharing lotions or personal items, as well as food or fluids.
• If you buy items, buy them in approved establishments that comply with health protocols and, if possible, pay with bank cards.
• If you use chairs or beach chairs, avoid sharing them and make sure they are properly sanitized.

AIRPORT PROTOCOL

WHAT SHOULD TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH PROTOCOL?

At the terminal:

• The use of face mask is always mandatory.
• Remember to sanitize your hands.
• Observe, in any terminal area, the one-meter distance with a passenger of another group.
• Fill out the Passenger Location Form accurately.
• Enter the passenger terminal alone, with the exception of minors, senior adults, or people requiring assistance.
• Follow the health authorities’ instructions of and obtain information on the venue’s protocols.

Before flying:

• Observe the one-meter distance and floor markings installed for this purpose.
• Distancing between people of a same household will not be required.
• Avoid touching the venue’s handles, devices in place and your face.
• Follow the instructions of aviation personnel.
• Carry the least number of items in your pockets to avoid overcrowding the control area. If this is not possible, keep them in your hands so that they can be quickly placed on trays.
• Queue only if you are called to board.
• Keep at least one meter away from the boarding queue.

After the flight…

• Remove your luggage only when instructed.

Urban parks and aquares

URBAN PARKS AND SQUARES PROTOCOL

Before arriving:

• Coordinate visits and avoid going in large groups.
• Find out about the corresponding allowed capacity of each area you wish to visit.
• If you must buy a ticket, prefer purchases in advance and online.
• If possible, bring your own disinfecting items plus a bottle of water to avoid sharing with others.

On the venue:

• Observe the allowed capacity of each park, trail, or square.
• You cannot remove your face mask, as its use is always mandatory.
• Keep the recommended distance of at least 1 meter between people of a same group and 5 meters between different groups.
• Avoid touching surfaces. If not possible, remember to disinfect your hands and do not touch your face.
• Observe the instructions of each area, such as the use of benches, special exercise areas for seniors, facilities, or safety tapes.
• Do not leave waste in the area. Discard waste in the nearest waste container.

MUSEUM, CULTURAL CENTER, AND ART GALLERY PROTOCOLS

Establishment…

• Prefer buying or booking tickets online.
• Find out sanitary measures of each place and observe them.
• Comply with physical distancing rules.
• Remember to wear face mask at all times.
• Sale and consumption of food is prohibited inside these establishments to prevent visitors from taking off their masks.
• If you enter a coffee shop or store inside the establishment, observe their instructions and protocols.
• Everything must be properly sanitized. Contribute to cleanliness and wash your hands frequently with water or hand sanitizer gel.
• Observe the maximum capacity allowed. If you must wait outside to enter, maintain social distancing and respect the line.
• If you can schedule a guided tour, prefer that option. This way schedules will be maintained and crowds will be avoided.

During your tour…

• Do not remove your face mask.
• Maintain physical distancing.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Avoid touching objects, handles, or gadgets.
• Observe the instructions provided by tour guides or those posted by the establishment.
• Prefer electronic or bank card payments.

PROTOCOL FOR ZOOS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

WHAT MUST TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY?

• Do not remove your mask at any time.
• Comply with entry protocol focused on checking your health status.  Allow the establishment to take your temperature.
• If possible, bring your own alcohol or hand sanitizer gel plus a bottle of water.
• Prefer groups of few people.
• Observe the instructions and safety measures of each place.
• Maintain a minimum distancing of 1 meter from other groups of visitors.
• If you enter an allowed enclosed area, observe the allowed capacity.
• Keep the allowed distance from animals and observe boundaries.

PROTECTED WILDLIFE AREA PROTOCOLS

• Let the establishment take your temperature.
• You must enter with a face mask and wear it inside the site.
• Help preventing overcrowding.
• Listen carefully to safeguard instructions provided at the beginning of the visit.
• Remember to keep your distance.  Two meters recommended for groups or families.
• Your group cannot exceed 15 people.
• Be aware of cleaning and self-care measures.
• Do not have direct contact with park rangers, people from local communities, or others without the mandatory security measures.
• Don’t forget to frequently wash your hands and sanitize your personal items such as backpacks, clothes, bottles or others after the activity.
• You must attend the mandatory prevention induction sessions.  They may be online or in person.
• Collaborate with the park ranger’s instructions and safety measures such as taking the temperature.

Facilities…

• Long or difficult trails may be closed to minimize not only contagion risks, but also accidents that could increase the work load of health care systems, police, or firemen.
• When using individual trails, maintain the recommended physical distancing.
• It is very likely that lookouts will be closed since they may be a source of contagion.  Observe the instructions of each area you visit.
• If you decide to eat in the destination’s assigned areas, observe physical distancing at each table.
• In case of grills, there will be an allowed capacity to observe distancing.

Astrotourism

GOOD PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR ASTRONOMY CENTERS AND ASTROTOURISM

Before the tour:

• Book tickets online or by phone in advance.
• Find out about the safety measures and protocols implemented for your experience. Help make sure that everything is observed.
• Face masks are mandatory for the entire experience.
• Maintain a distance of 1.5 to 2 linear meters with another person.
• Observe markings installed at each area. Follow the venue’s rules and safety instructions as well.
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer gel when necessary.
• Avoid handling objects.
• Carry and protect your personal and hygiene items.
• Remember to bring warm clothes. Tours are at night and the company may not provide these items to avoid contagion.
• If you visit enclosed facilities, observe the venue’s rules.
• When using restrooms, use disposable paper towels to dry your hands.
• Prefer electronic or bank card payment.

PROTOCOL FOR CASINOS, GAMBLING, AND ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENTS

WHAT MUST TOURISTS DO TO COMPLY WITH THE PROTOCOL? Inside the venue… • Observe the allowed capacity as well as physical distancing and recommendations issued. • Remember that the use of face mask is mandatory at all times. • Avoid generating agglomerations. • Disinfect hands constantly, especially after handling shared objects. • Find out the stage of the venue’s community. The operation must observe the Step by Step Plan and measures such as venue capacity or operating days may change. • Prefer bank card payments. Slot machines, bingos, and games… • You will only be able to use slot machines that have been sanitized and are not blocked or disabled. • Disinfect hands and objects continuously. Cleaning items for this purpose will be available in these areas. • Disinfect slot machines before use. Disinfecting wipes will be available on site or the staff will provide you with a cleaning kit. • Avoid exchanging tokens and other items. • Observe the venue’s demarcations. • Consumption of food and beverages is prohibited.

Agencies and tour operators

TRAVEL AGENCIES AND TOUR OPERATORS GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES

Before going to a place…

• Check schedule online or by phone.
• Schedule in advance your service to avoid overcrowding the place.
• Make sure you do not have any coronavirus symptoms before going.

When you are in a place…

• Remember to use face mask and observe recommended distancing.
• Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching objects.
• Allow your temperature to be taken while entering the place.
• Your cell phone will be the option to inform you when you are at the place to avoid using brochures or printed material.
• When paying prefer electronic transfers or bank card payments.
• If you use cash, wash your hands thoroughly before and after doing transaction.

During the tour…

• Follow the instructions of your tour guide and observe the imposed restrictions.
• Remember that not all destinations are enabled.
• Avoid close contact with other people and touching objects in places.

GOOD PRACTICES GUIDELINES FOR ENOTOURISM

Upon arrival to the vineyard, remember that…

• You must allow the establishment to take your temperature and fill out an online health statement.
• You must carry your identification. The venue’s personnel will request identification for preventive and traceability purposes.
• Wearing face mask is mandatory.
• Hand washing is essential to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
• Keep the required social distancing.
• It is your obligation to find information on the measures implemented by the venue. Read posted signs.
• If you make reservations online, you are helping to minimize contagion.
• Each area should be properly disinfected, however, avoid touching handles, keys, or tables to minimize contagion.
• If you use the venue’s rest rooms, dry your hands with paper towel.
• Always listen to the Tourist Guide, he/she will inform you about safety measures.
• Groups cannot exceed 10 people. Contribute observing this rule.
• The vineyard will redistribute parking lots and spaces to avoid overcrowding. Contribute observing this measure.
• Prefer bank card payments, electronic transfers, and online reservations.

Touring the vineyard…

• Take advantage of the natural resources that the vineyards offer.
• Avoid manipulating objects, lids, or signs.
• During wine tasting, the tour guide should use gloves and avoid, for example, touching glasses with the bottle’s neck.
• Use hand sanitizer gel and clean your hands before entering the wine tasting area.
• If you are assigned a tasting glass, keep it in a safe place and remember that it is for your personal use.
• Observe allowed capacity and recommended social distancing.
• Avoid manipulating the available products.
• Wash your hands and remember to wear face mask.

Chile takes care of you

Check out the indispensable recommendations for your next trip to our country. here

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Chile

Chile often attracts tourists with its unique culture and landscapes.

The northern part of the country contains the world’s driest desert, the Atacama Desert. This desert is full of fertile oases containing all kinds of wildlife. Central Chile is home to the capital city, Santiago. This city is has many parks, sporting events, and cultural activities. For a taste of a thriving Chilean nightlife and authentic cuisine, Santiago is the place to go.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Chile? Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Chile Is a Passport or Visa Required for Chile? What Is the Climate Like in Chile? How Safe Is Chile? Take a Trip to Valparaiso What Should I Take to Chile? U.S. Embassy in Chile

Do I Need Vaccines for Chile?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Chile. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Chile: typhoid , hepatitis A , polio , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , meningitis , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Meningitis – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
• Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, primarily spread through blood and bodily fluids. The hepatitis B vaccine, given in a series of injections, effectively prevents the infection, offering long-term protection against this potentially life-threatening disease.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.

Few mosquito-borne diseases are present in Chile. But, some tick-borne infections are present. Consider bringing bug spray on your trip.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Chile

Prevent bug bites in chile.

To ward off bug bites, follow CDC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.

Food and Water Safety in Chile

When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to CDC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.

Altitude Sickness in Chile

At high altitudes, altitude sickness can strike, causing symptoms like headaches and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, hydration, and medication like acetazolamide. If symptoms develop, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest, and medical evaluation if necessary are crucial for recovery and safety.

Infections To Be Aware of in Chile

• Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, transmitted by kissing bugs, can be prevented through insecticide use and insect avoidance.

Is a Passport or Visa Required for Chile?

American travelers to Chile must have a valid passport for entry. You do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.

Sources: Embassy of Chile and U.S. State Department

Parents must provide proof of relation if traveling with a minor. Original or authenticated birth certificates are considered the best form of proof.

What Is the Climate Like in Chile?

Due to the unique structure of Chile, the climate differs throughout the country. But, the entire region does tend to have consistent, seasonal weather. Chile’s summer lasts from December to February, and the winter lasts from June to August.

• Northern Chile – Containing the Atacama Desert, this region can have temperatures as high as the low-90’s. Travelers should prepare for high heat as well as cold, as night can dip into the 30’s.
• Central Chile – This region has a Mediterranean feel to it. It has many beach areas that provide plenty of sunshine for travelers to enjoy throughout the year.
• Southern Chile – With strong winds and icy areas, it is best to explore this area in the summer months. Temperatures are fairly low all year round and bringing layers is recommended.

How Safe Is Chile?

Chile is generally a safe and secure environment for travelers. Chile has the lowest amount of violent crimes in all the Latin America.

Demonstrations and street crimes do occur, especially in cities. In the metropolitan Santiago area, home invasions and vehicle thefts are more common. To avoid being a victim to these criminal acts, stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Tourist areas can have pickpockets and be sites of some types of petty crime. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times and, when possible, travel in a group.

Take a Trip to Valparaiso

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

Valparaiso is a colorful city in Chile that many tourists visit for its beautiful buildings, street art, museums, food and more. Tourists can explore the city’s historic neighborhoods on foot or by taking a funicular, which is like a cable car.

Valparaiso is known for its vibrant street art scene, and tourists can take a tour or simply walk around to see the many murals and graffiti art that decorate the buildings. The city also has several museums, including one about fine arts, natural history, and naval and maritime history. Tourists can also enjoy traditional Chilean cuisine or international dishes at one of Valparaiso’s many restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Nearby wine regions like the Casablanca Valley offer opportunities for wine tasting. Valparaiso is located on the Pacific coast, so tourists can take a boat tour or go to the beach to enjoy the stunning views.

Valparaiso has something for everyone, and tourists are sure to have a great time exploring the city’s unique culture and attractions.

What Should I Take to Chile?

While a developed nation, there is still some preparation needed for a trip to Chile.

• Sunglasses – It is almost always sunny in Chile, especially near the beaches. Bring along a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes during your time outside.
• Layers – Chile, especially in the northern region, has unpredictable temperatures. Bring layers of clothing such as a hoodie, sweater, or jacket.
• Walking Shoes – There are a lot of parks and walking paths throughout Chile. Whether you are visiting a city, beach, or nature site, you should expect to be walking a lot. Comfortable walking shoes are key to helping you enjoy the trip.

U.S. Embassy in Chile

It is recommended to register online through the U.S. Department of State before traveling to Chile. This gives the Embassy the knowledge to be able to contact travelers in the event of an emergency.

U.S. Embassy Santiago Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes Santiago, Chile Telephone: +(56-2) 2330-3000 Emergency Working-Hours Telephone: +(56-2) 2330-3716 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(56-2) 2330-3000 Fax: +(56)(2) 2330-3710

It’s important to check with the embassy directly or on their website to see what services are available and when.

Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now !

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One Week in Chile: The Ultimate Itinerary

Stretching 4,270 kilometers (2,653 miles) from north to south, Chile is one long, lean, and epically diverse country. It’s a place where you’re never more than a stone’s throw away from the mountains or the sea, with a remarkable assortment of places to hike, spot animals, and soak up Chilean history and culture. 

Promising a broad introduction to Chile’s magnificent landscapes, this ultimate itinerary spans the extreme dusty north of the Atacama Desert and the montane, glacier-riddled south of Patagonia. It’s an ambitious plan for just a week and you’ll be covering quite some ground, so expect to rely on Chile’s network of low-cost flights to transport you across vast distances. Alternatively, slice out a destination or two to free up time to dive deeper into a select few destinations. 

Day 1: Santiago

Touch down in Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez to begin your Chilean adventure. Airport shuttle services from the arrivals hall transport you into the chaotic but thrilling modern city of Santiago. The Chilean capital is a place of five-lane expressways and high-rise blocks owned by flashy multi-nationals. But, if you peer a little deeper beneath this contemporary façade, you’ll find a city of history, ample parks, and dynamic neighborhoods packed with intriguing restaurants and bars.

Your first stop is the Plaza de Armas, Santiago’s cavernous main square. It's a hive of activity, from the elderly gentlemen playing chess in one corner to the shoe shiners and stray dogs who roam between the towering palms. Nearby, the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art) is a wealth of Indigenous artifacts, including funerary statues used by the Mapuche people. 

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the trendy Lastarria neighborhood before taking the winding paved pathways to the bench-fringed top of leafy Cerro Santa Lucía. This rounded hill that rises out of the city center offers some of the finest views across Santiago. You’ll want to bring a camera to capture a skyline of rooftops offset by the vertiginous backdrop of the snowy Andes Mountains. 

For a final flavor of Santiago’s unique culture, book a table at pioneering restaurant Peumayen to sample enigmatic flavors from Chile’s indigenous populations. Afterwards dive nose-first into a tasting at Bocanáriz , home to more than 300 of the country’s finest wines. 

Day 2: Valparaíso

The antithesis of Santiago’s urban modernity lies a two-hour bus journey west in the tumbling coastal city of Valparaíso. Lavish, late 19th-century European buildings and aged funiculars that creak their way up into the city’s 42-or-so hills typify this colorful bohemian city that was once among the world’s most important shipping ports. 

While Valparaíso has certainly lost its wealth, it will never lose its spirit. Much of the main tourist neighborhoods of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are now daubed in a lively lick of paint from the internationally-renowned graffiti artists who have left their mark here. To understand the vivid history of these sights, you’re best off exploring with a tour. 

Another creative who fell for the city is Chile’s much-loved poet, Nobel Prize-winning Pablo Neruda. Famed for his passionate poems written for a string of lovers, his Valparaíso home, La Sebastiana , is a place to delve into his love of whimsy and childlike décor—as well as admire some of the finest views of the city and harbor from his living room. The free audio guide is a must to understand the house and its famous former inhabitant. 

For lunch, soak up the sun on the shady terrace of Restaurant El Peral , where the razor clams and seasonal fish give you a taste of traditional coastal Chilean dining straight off the boat. 

Leave the city to return to Santiago for the night and enjoy a sundowner on the rooftop terrace of the exclusive The Singular Hotel . Then make your way to Argentine steakhouse Happening for an expertly grilled entraña (skirt steak) paired with a robust Chilean cabernet sauvignon.

Day 3: San Pedro de Atacama

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

An early, two-hour flight heading north to Calama Airport, followed by an easy airport shuttle (no need to book; they leave when full from outside arrivals), brings you to northern adventure capital, San Pedro de Atacama. 

Drop your luggage at your hotel and slather on the sunscreen: At 2,433 meters (7,982 feet) above sea level, you’ll want to take care. The altitude can hit—and fiercely—so spend your afternoon gently to acclimate . Devote an hour or so to the Museo del Meteorito (Meteorite Museum) and their collection of more than 3,200 meteorites that have landed in the surrounding desert, some of which are a remarkable 4.5 million years old.

To catch the sunset as it fades behind the wind-buffeted sand dunes of the Valle de La Luna (Moon Valley), either hire a bike from a business along Toconao road and cycle the 45 minutes, or book a horseback riding tour with Atacama Horse Adventure if you’re feeling less energetic. Take plenty of water for the dry desert air and warm clothes; when the sun drops, the air quickly turns cold. 

Back in town, enjoy classy Andean dining beside an open fire at Adobe , where live Andean music begins at 8 p.m.

Day 4: Los Flamencos National Reserve

It’s an early start—think 4 a.m.—for a tour up into the mountains that encircle San Pedro de Atacama. You’ll arrive as the sky begins to bleed with the dawn at the Géiseres del Tatio (Tatio Geysers), the world’s highest and third largest geyser field. As they’re located at 4,320 meters (14,173 feet) above sea level, you may well be struggling for breath, so take things slowly as you admire jets of steam that erupt from the earth’s crust. Pack a swimsuit for a morning dip on the way back in the luxuriously hot Puritama hot springs, a series of eight, crystal-clear pools fed by geothermal water. 

Back at your hotel, take an afternoon nap before joining a tour out to Laguna Chaxa, a saline lake surrounded by the gray-white salt flats of the Salar de Atacama. You’ve a great chance to spot Andean, James’s, and Chilean flamingos (although good luck telling them apart), who come here to dine on the waters’ veritable feast of algae. Just before sunset, you’ll be whisked across to Laguna Tebinquinche for a pisco sour and a dramatic display as the light drops beneath the surrounding wall of volcanoes, turning the lake pink. 

Chow down on a llama burger and wash it down with beer, made on the premises and infused with herbs plucked from the desert. Wrap up warm for a stargazing tour with local experts SPACE , who’ll whisk you out into the desert to observe the night skies using their 15 professional telescopes; with more than 300 clear nights annually, the Atacama Desert is one of the world’s best places for stargazing. 

Day 5: Punta Arenas

It’s another early start as you make your way back to Calama Airport to board a five-hour flight to Punta Arenas, with a layover in Santiago. The main gateway to Chilean Patagonia, this wind-battered town lies on the northern shore of the Magellan Strait, where eagle-eyed visitors may spy squat-nosed Chilean dolphins frolicking in the waters if you take a wander along the coastal road. 

Book onto an afternoon speedboat tour with Fiordos del Sur out to Magdalena Island, a 97-hectare reserve with some 120,000 resident Magellanic penguins between November and March. Expect to get up-close-and-personal with this chattering mass of birds and their newly-hatched chicks thanks to pathways that allow you to roam between their nests. 

In the evening, enjoy a local delicacy—king crab—and pretty bayside views at fine-dining establishment La Yegua Loca . You'll then catch a late, three-hour bus ride across plains to Puerto Natales. 

Day 6: Puerto Natales

A ramshackle town hugging the depressingly-named—yet enchantingly picturesque—Last Hope Sound, Puerto Natales is deep in cowboy country. 

To get to grips with the Patagonian pursuit of sheep farming, board the speedboat to Estancia La Península on a one-day tour of their 19,000-hectare family ranch. You’ll spend a morning trotting along the fjords atop a criollo horse before catching a display of sheep shearing and digging into the ultimate in Patagonian lunches: spit-roasted lamb. 

Back in Puerto Natales, sample the locally-made Calafate berry gin at the Australian-run Last Hope Distillery . Save room for dinner at uber-luxurious The Singular Patagonia for a first-class feast of scallops, hare, or salmon ceviche, all paired with one of dozens of different options of Chilean wine. 

Day 7: Torres del Paine National Park

Your final day dawns on the outskirts of Chilean Patagonia’s most famous national park: Torres del Paine. Revered for its three spire-like peaks of granite that rear out of a landscape awash with glassy lakes and thunderous glaciers, it epitomizes remote Patagonia. It’s a two-hour drive from Puerto Natales and best visited with a rental vehicle. 

The main attraction is the eight-hour hike up to the three towers, although you can shake things up a little and instead go ice trekking on the park’s 3.7-mile-wide glacier, Grey, or paddle out to its snout across the glacier's namesake lake for a completely new perspective. 

Finish the day back in Puerto Natales ahead of your flight back to Santiago. Or, you could opt to extend your trip to include Argentine Patagonia, just across the border. 

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Requirements for entering to Chile

Feb 8, 2022 | News

All foreign person before arriving in to Chile will have to complete the following requirements:

Negative PCR taken 72 hours before boarding.

In flights with stopovers, the last boarding point is considered. In case of entering by land, it cannot be older than 72 hours from the taking of the sample. This requirement is for every person over the age of 2.

Complete the “Traveler’s Affidavit” form

form online up to 48 hours before boarding, where you will provide contact, health, and travel information. This form will provide a QR code as a means of verification and is available at  www.c19.cl 

Health insurance

Health insurance with a minimum coverage of USD 30,000 that includes coverage for any expenses arising from Covid-19. Please ask Us or directly to [email protected]

Completed a vaccination program and must be validated in Chile

To have completed a vaccination program ( 2 doses ), which must be validated at mevacuno.gob.cl before entering Chile. Here, travelers will request the validation and learn when it will be approved. The vaccination approval period will be informed to the traveler at the time of making the request, procedure that may take up to 30 calendar days. Children under the age of 6 and non-resident foreigners who comply with one or more of the special requirements in  Decree 102 of the Ministry of the Interior  may enter without a complete vaccination program.

Mandatory PCR test performed upon arrival to Chile

All persons over two years of age, regardless of their citizenship, must undergo a mandatory PCR test performed upon arrival to Chile and keep a quarantine until a negative result of the PCR or antigen is obtained. People who do not have their vaccines validated must  undergo quarantine for 7 days, even if the result of the PCR is negative.  All travelers entering must comply with the mandatory tracking for 7  days.

by Monica VC | Feb 8, 2022

Cruce Lagos Andino

1 día de viaje (11 horas) Ticket Cruce Lagos Andino desde Puerto Varas hasta Bariloche o vice versa

Viaje a Chile y Argentina

11 Días / 10 Noches Viaje desde Santiago de Chile – Puerto Varas – Cruce Lagos Andinos – Bariloche – Buenos Aires.

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20+ Chile Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting

Looking for insider travel tips for Chile? You’re in the right place! Keep reading for all the best, up-to-date information about traveling in Chile.

Chile is the world’s longest and thinnest country, spanning just 150km at its widest point. Without a doubt, it’s also one of the most naturally diverse countries in South America, if not the world.

Due to its length, it boasts a variety of different climates and microclimates that allow for it to have the world’s driest desert in the north and some of the most beautiful mountainous and forested terrain in the south. Only in Chile can you be high up in the Andes mountain range in the morning and finish the day with a sunset on the coast.

Many travellers come to Chile to enjoy its landscapes, mountains, forests, hot springs and delicious and affordable wine. Travelling in Chile isn’t difficult but there are a few travel tips for Chile you should know about before you set off on your trip of a lifetime.

I lived and travelled around Chile for 6 years and during that time I can say I’ve picked up more than my fair share of advice when it comes to travelling to this beautiful country.

From safety measures to practical, sustainable travel tips for Chile, this Chile travel guide post is a must-read if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country. Find out all the things to know before going to Chile.

Read more: 16 Best Places To Visit in Chile: The Ultimate List

Chile Tips Travel Guide: At a Glance

Language: A very Chilean version of Spanish

Capital City: Santiago

Currency: Chilean Pesos (CLP) -800 pesos is roughly $1

Credit Cards: Mastercard and Visa are accepted almost everywhere. Amex not so much.

ATMs: Available countrywide and at gas stations. They tend to charge high fees. For Mastercard users, I found Scotiabank ATMs to have the lowest fees.

Telephone County Code: +56

Emergency Numbers: Police 133, Fire, 132, Ambulance 131

Water: Tap water is potable in most areas apart from very remote places like Atacama

Tips: Tipping is normal in restaurants at 10%, and small tips are expected for tourist guides.

General Chile Tips for Travel

↠ Avoid the high season – probably one of the best travel tips in Chile! High season in Chile runs from the end of November until the end of February, with January and February being the busiest times, the height of the Chilean summer.

In February most Chileans go on vacation meaning national parks are extremely busy and so are beach towns, campsites and popular hotspots like Valle del Elqui, Pucon and of course Torres del Paine.

During this time prices skyrocket, and you’ll have to deal with crowds. The best time to visit Chile is late October to December or March to early April.

The North can be visited comfortably at all times of the year, however, in Patagonia, the season is short due to the extreme weather.

Travel Seasons in Chile

High Season – Summer – December to February – This is the peak and most crowded season. You’ll need to book your whole trip in advance. Peak prices and few travel deals.

Warmest time to visit Patagonia with stable weather. In the north, the deserts are hot and dry. Hot in the central region

Shoulder Season- Fall – March-May – Lower prices and more availability. March is the best time to visit Patagonia for fewer crowds but still good weather. Hot in the desert.

Low Season – Winter – June-August – Low season but high season for skiiing, few tourists, low prices. Good time to visit the north of Chile. Most of Patagonia experiences extreme cold and is closed for the winter.

Shoulder Season – Spring- September- November – Mild weather all around the country. November is one of the best months to visit the whole of Chile. 18th September sees increased movement and higher prices due to Chile National Day.

↠ Pack for all seasons – Climate and weather could not be more variable in Chile so if you’re planning a trip throughout the country you’ll need to bring clothing for all seasons.

In the summer temperatures in Santiago often exceed 35°C (95°F) while on the same day, the temperature won’t go above 12°C (53°F) in Patagonia.

There are also very large temperature disparities between the highest day temperature and the lowest night temperature, so it’s best to pack a lot of layers. 

↠ Leave the mosquito repellent at home – In my 5 years of living and travelling around Chile, I might have seen about 2 mosquitoes total however sand flies can be an issue near Patagonian lakes in the summer. 

↠ Consider camping – Despite being located in South America, Chile isn’t cheap, especially when it comes to accommodation during the summer season. If you are on a small budget consider bringing a tent and camping.

The camping culture in Chile is very developed and you’ll find good campsites almost anywhere. They are also extremely affordable and a great option for those not want to stay in hostels all the time.

↠ Learn some Spanish – Spanish is spoken in Chile, however, it’s pretty different from the Spanish spoken in Spain and Chileans tend to use a lot and I mean a lot of slang, making it difficult to understand. One of the best things you can do before visiting Chile is to learn some Spanish basics.

English is spoken by many people in Santiago, but outside the big cities and in rural areas almost nobody speaks English so it really helps to know the basics.

Before I arrived in Latin America, I learned Spanish with Rosetta Stone and I learned so much in a short space of time, allowing me to travel around with ease. I can’t begin to describe what an amazing investment this was.

Click here to sign up and learn Spanish with Rosetta Stone before your trip.

↠ Money – The currency in Chile is the Chilean peso. ATMs are widely available in banks, gas stations and supermarkets around the country and Casas de Cambio are available mostly in Santiago.

Dollars generally aren’t accepted so make sure to have Chilean pesos on you. International credit cards are accepted widely for paying for supermarkets, stores, hotels etc.

↠ Electricity – The standard voltage in Chile is 220V and you’ll need a type C plug i.e. the standard Euro plug. Type L also works. 

Health & Safety Chile Travel Tips

↠ Petty crime – Chile is considered one of the safest countries in South America. Most crimes towards tourists come in the form of pickpocketing and bag/phone snatching. Unfortunately, though, these two are pretty common, especially in Santiago.

Make sure you are aware of your belongings at all times especially at bus stations, on public transportation or in crowded places. Don’t leave anything of value in your checked luggage when travelling by bus and generally speaking when going out in Santiago it’s better to leave valuables at your hotel.

2024 Safety Update: In the last couple of years things in Santiago and Valparaiso especially have become much worse with regards to security. These are no longer safe places to visit. When in Santiago avoid the center of the city, leave all variables in your hotel and don’t walk around at night. I’d recommend staying in a hotel in the upper parts of the city (Providencia or Las Condes) or just omitting Santiago altogether.

↠ Scams – Scams targeting tourists in Chile aren’t common apart from in Santiago and at Santiago International Airport. If you’ve booked a transfer from the airport to the city, don’t let anyone else tell you that they are from that company and that your transfer has been cancelled.

There are often random taxi drivers posing as pre-booked drivers who will take you to the city and charge you an extortionate amount. Just say a polite but firm no thank you or ‘No, gracias’ to anyone who approaches you offering a ride and instead make sure to hop into your correct pre-book transportation.

I highly recommend booking this airport transfer service for a safe and reliable trip.  

Another common scam targeting tourists in the city centre is where one person throws a poo-like, tar substance over you and/or your bag without you realizing who did it.

The same person will then help you to clean it, while their partner in crime will snatch your bag without you even noticing. If you feel yourself getting covered by such a substance, ignore anyone trying to help you and keep walking.

↠ Tap Water is potable – When visiting Chile, it’s good to know that tap water in most places around Chile is safe and clean to drink, meaning you won’t need to buy any bottled water during your trip.

I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle or better still, one with a filter such as this insulated, self-cleaning LARQ bottle . With this bottle , you’ll also be able to fill up from rivers and taps in more rural areas too as it cleans and disinfects 99.9% of all bacteria, parasites and chemicals.

↠ Altitude – In the north of Chile, altitude can be a problem so keep it in mind when planning a trip. Some well-known sights such as the Geysers del Tatio in the Atacama Desert or Lauca National Park are located at dizzying altitudes which may be an issue if you tend to suffer from altitude sickness.

When travelling in these areas, first research the altitudes of your destination and plan your itinerary to go from the lowest altitude to the highest for you to fully acclimatize.

Alternatively, check out our  Ultimate Self-Driving Itinerary for Atacama Desert ,  which takes all the altitudes into account in the Atacama Desert. 

↠ Earthquakes – Without a doubt, one of the scariest parts of living in Chile, earthquakes are pretty frequent. If you happen to be travelling and experience one it’s good to be prepared.

Make yourself aware of your nearest emergency exit and if you happen to experience a strong one, stay calm in a space where nothing can fall on top of you and wait it out.

If you’re in a closed room or apartment open the door so that it can’t jam and trap you inside and of course, make note of the most important emergency numbers. 

Transportation Chile Travel Tips

↠ Get a Bip! Card – If you’re in Santiago for a few days you’ll probably need to use public transport a few times during your stay. You can buy individual journey metro tickets, but you can’t do the same for buses ( micros).

If you need to use a micro , invest in a Bip! card which costs $1,500 CLP and can be bought at any metro station. While other travel tips in Chile posts may tell you to have to get one, getting a Bip! card is only really necessary if you need to take the bus.

↠ Avoid public transportation at rush hour – One of the top Chile tips is to avoid Santiago during the morning and evening rush. The rush hour in Santiago lasts a lot longer than one hour and it’s crazy. You’ll be pushed inside a metro car by a stampede of people behind you, as people here have a varying concept of personal space.

It’s a highly uncomfortable experience so if you can, try to avoid it. With luggage, it’s practically impossible. As a general tip- when travelling around Santiago with luggage, always use a pre-booked transfer or Uber.

Read more: What To Do In Santiago, Chile

↠ Hitchhiking is an option – When traveling in Chile, especially on a budget, hitchhiking, especially in Patagonia is fairly accepted and quite common.

Nowhere is it 100% safe but generally speaking, people will be happy to give you a ride. As a general rule, try to stick to main roads that have a higher flow of traffic.

↠ Take the plane – Buses and planes are the only way to travel around Chile for the most part. The most convenient and cheapest way is by bus, however, distances are long.

In recent years many budget airlines such as Sky Airline and JetSMART have drastically reduced flying prices around Chile, so, if you’re planning to travel a long distance it is best to fly. I wouldn’t attempt any long bus trips if you only have a week or two in Chile.

↠ Renting a car over tours/public transportation – When traveling in Chile you might be faced with the decision of whether renting a car is better over public transportation. This depends on where exactly you’re traveling to and what you want to do.

In many cases renting a car is better but not always. Here are some of my general car rental tips for when to grab a car and when you don’t need one.

• For Santiago, you don’t need to rent a car unless you want to head out on a day trip to the wine valleys and Cajon del Maipo but even then you can take tours.
• I would 100% recommend renting a car for San Pedro and the Atacama Desert. Again you can take tours but you have way more flexibility with a car.
• You don’t need a car when trekking the ‘W’ or ‘O’ in the Torres del Paine- you can get to the trailheads by public transportation. If you’re not trekking in the Torres del Paine and your time is limited then renting a car is better.
• For the epic Carretera Austral road trip you need a car.
• To visit the lake region ie. Pucon, Puerto Varas etc a rental car is recommended.
• Anywhere off the beaten path, a rental car is recommended.

Wellness Travel in Chile

When thinking about wellness travel, Chile probably isn’t the first destination that springs to mind, however, the country does have some amazing destinations to feel at one with nature and to relax and rejuvenate. Generally, spas and wellness is limited to the luxury hotels in Chile.

It is also, the perfect country for an active destination and if you like adventure like hiking, cycling, rafting and kayaking it’s a great place to come.

Some of the best spa hotels in Chile for wellness travel are:

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa – A luxury retreat in the Atacama desert, this serene place offers fine dining as well as a spa and massage service as well as beautiful rooms and private excursions around the desert.

Hotel AWA – This boutique resort in Puerto Varas sits in an area famous for its hot springs and thermal baths. Make the most of their natural pools, fitness centre as well as the calm and beautiful countryside location. The lake views are stunning.

Vik Chile – The Colchagua Valley is one of the most famous wine-growing valleys in Chile but why not explore this area while combining it with a bit of wellness? This luxurious property perfectly combines Chilean rural charm with a touch of luxury. Explore the vineyards during the day and relax in their on-site pool and spa as the sun goes down.

Tierra Patagonia – Where to stay for exquisite wellness and adventure in Torres del Paine.

For adventure travel make sure not to miss the areas of the Atacama Desert , Pucon and Villarica National Park, Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park as well as the iconic road trip route, the Carretera Austral.

Read more: The Best Casablanca Valley Wineries You Must-Visit & The Best Hikes in Santiago, Chile

Eating in Chile Travel Tips

Chilean cuisine, much like in Argentina is dominated by meat and animal products but in recent years it has started to embrace alternative lifestyles and different ways of eating.

Nowadays, especially in Santiago, many places serve delicious plant-based food and every day there are more and more newcomers on the scene. This is a lot different in the regions, however, where it’s still a struggle to get a vegetarian meal let alone a fully vegan one.

If you are vegetarian or plant-based:

↠ Use the app Happy Cow to find vegetarian/plant-based food near you.

↠ When staying in small, off-the-beaten-track towns, opt for Airbnbs or hostels with a kitchen or even camp so you can prepare your own food.

Fruit, vegetables, grains and pulses are high quality and widely available, except in the far south of Patagonia where fresh food gets a little more expensive and scarce.

↠ Towns and cities that are popular with tourism e.g. Puerto Natales, Viña del Mar, San Pedro de Atacama, Pucon, Puerto Varas and of course Santiago generally have good plant-based options. 

What to Eat and Drink in Chile

So what’s the best and most typical dishes to try in Chile? Here’s the ultimate list of some must-try foods when on a Chile trip.

• Empanadas – different to other South American varieties. Generally, both baked and fried with a variety of different fillings.
• Cazuela – A meat broth with meat, vegetables and potatoes.
• Pastel de Choclo – basically a Shepherd’s Pie, Chilean style- topped with a layer of corn meal over potato.
• Manjar – A caramel spread, very similar to Dulce de Leche
• Asado – A Chilean barbecue
• Pebre – A fresh tomato-based salsa
• Merkén – A seasoning made from dried and smoked ajo cacho de Cabra. It’s not spicy but has an amazing smoked flavour.
• Leche Asada – a flan-style, baked milk dessert
• Curanto – A special dish from Chiloe where meat or seafood is cooked below ground.
• Marraqueta – A typical Chilean bread that’s white and soft.
• Pisco Sour – A cocktail made with pisco
• Chicha – a homemade, cider-style alcoholic drink, generally made with grapes.
• Wine – Chilean wines are amazing. They have to be tried when in Chile.
• Mate – Not as popular in Chile as it is in Argentina or Uruguay, Mate is a bitter tasting tea that’s drunk from a gourd through a metal straw.

Do you have any comments or questions about travel tips in Chile from our Chile travel blog? I’d love to help you out so let me know in the comments below!

Don’t travel Chile without travel insurance. For the last few years, I’ve been using  Safetywing Nomad Insurance  for all my individual trips and digital nomad lifestyle and there’s no better company for all my insurance needs. Cover starts from as little as $42 per month.  Get your quote below now .

Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals worldwide

Booking.com  for great deals on hotels

Agoda  also for great deals on hotels

Get Your Guide  and  Viator  for tours and adventures around the world

Related posts you might like:

What To Do In Santiago, Chile In 36 Hours

16 Best Places To Visit in Chile: The Ultimate List

Leading Casablanca Valley Wineries in Chile Worth a Visit

11 Off-the-Beaten Track Places in Northern Chile You Shouldn’t Miss

Top Things to Do in Valparaiso Chile: A Local’s Guide

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Alex Wieteska

Alex Wieteska is a full-time travel writer and photographer. She has visited 50+ countries and lived in 4 long term. She's renowned for her ability to discover the world's most coveted destinations, chicest eateries, and unique accommodations. Her curated travel guides are read by thousands of people daily, whom she inspires to travel the world slowly and live more consciously. She visits every destination she writes about and handpicks all recommendations. Find out more about me

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The best time to visit top of the rock observation deck nyc, minca colombia: the definitive travel guide.

“Chile is the world’s longest and thinnest country” you got me there! 4620 kilometres is really LOOONG! Thank you, Alex, for this fantastic read that has inspired me to travel to Chile. Even above the language is the power outlet confusion that I always have. Thank you for shedding light into which plugs and converters to bring!

Thanks Arun, glad you got a lot of value from this

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Chile Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, chile - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Chile due to  crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary : Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing.

Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Chile.

If you decide to travel to Chile:

• Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Chile.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on  Facebook , Instagram,  and  Twitter .
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Chile due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of violent crime.

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For all emergencies, including fire and rescue services.

Police-  Call 133

Medical - Call 131

Fire and Rescue - Call 132

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Chile.

• Politically motivated demonstrations occur regularly, particularly in Plaza Baquedano (Plaza Italia), Lastarria and Bellavista in central Santiago and the centre of Valparaiso. Outbreaks of violence may occur at any time and have also occurred in the Santiago suburbs of Las Condes, Providencia and Vitacura, where the Australian and other embassies are located.
• There are political tensions and violent incidents in the Araucanía region. Exercise caution if travelling in or near that region.
• Local law prohibits political activity by foreign nationals. Participation in protests or demonstrations may result in detention or deportation. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. These can become violent. Authorities use tear gas and water cannons.
• Mugging, armed robbery, pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Don't walk alone, especially at night. Robberies can occur on inter-city buses while passengers are sleeping. Keep valuables with you and check everything before you leave the bus.
• Domestic terrorist acts sometimes occur, undertaken primarily by anarchist groups in Santiago. They may use explosives. Be alert and report anything suspicious.
• Natural disasters such as fires, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding and tsunamis can occur. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Full travel advice:  Safet y

• Altitude sickness is a risk to anyone travelling above 2,500 metres. Get advice from your doctor. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation from high altitude.
• Easter Island has had outbreaks of Zika virus and dengue. If you're pregnant, ask your doctor about the risk of Zika virus before you travel. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Common infectious diseases include hepatitis, typhoid, influenza and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.
• Levels of air pollution are highest in Santiago from April to October. Dust levels can be high between December and March. If you have breathing problems, take care when there's an air contamination alert.
• Private hospital facilities are good in Santiago and other major cities. Treatment is expensive. You may need to pay cash before treatment.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Drug offences carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences.
• If you're also a citizen of Chile, and entered the country using a Chilean passport, the Chilean Government may not recognise your Australian citizenship. This could affect your access to consular help and entry or exit requirements. Before travelling, check your citizenship status and any entry or exit requirements with an  Embassy or Consulate of Chile . 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Australian citizens must obtain a  visa  before travelling. 
• If your travel includes a transit in Chile, contact your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Chile to confirm if you need a visa for Chile.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Chile for the latest details.
• Severe weather conditions in mountain areas may result in the closure of some land border crossings to neighbouring countries.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• Contact the  Australian Embassy in Santiago  for consular assistance.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Large-scale demonstrations and protests might occur in Santiago and other cities. They may take place with little or no notice and may turn violent.

Local authorities have used tear gas and water cannons. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media about possible new safety or security risks. Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Demonstrations and protests can result in public transport disruptions. Public transport may be limited. Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans. 

In the Araucanía region, people claiming to represent the Mapuche community are fighting over land and indigenous rights, with a significant increase in violent incidents (the Mapuche are Chile's largest indigenous group). A state of emergency has been declared in the ‘Macro Zona Sur' (provinces of Biobío, Arauco, Cautín and Malleco) until further notice. The military has been deployed to assist regional police during this period. You should be cautious when travelling within the ‘Macro Zona Sur’.

In recent years, attacks have targeted multinational forestry corporations and private Chilean landowners.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings
• be alert around days of national significance
• monitor local media and other sources for news, especially before visiting central Santiago or other major city centres
• follow the advice of local authorities
• exercise caution when travelling in the Araucanía region

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Muggings and robberies  are common in urban areas.

Hotspots for thieves include:

• Santiago 
• Viña del Mar

Foreigners are targeted for their personal belongings, and people walking alone at night are more vulnerable. 

Muggings, including with weapons, occur in Santiago around:

• Cerro Santa Lucia,
• Cerro San Cristobal Park
• Plaza de Armas
• Mercado Central
• malls/shopping centres

Pickpocketing and bag snatching is common. Be aware in crowded areas, such as:

• public transport, including the metro system
• outdoor cafes
• resort areas
• hotel lobbies
• bars and restaurants

Keep your belongings close in the tourist areas of Santiago including:

• Barrio Lastarria
• Costanera Centre Mall

There have also been a number of armed holdups of stores.

Violent crime

Robberies,  assaults  and threats with weapons happen mainly at night. Take particular care:

• in Bellavista and Barrio Lastarria in Santiago

Carjackings can occur as residents leave their vehicles to open or close gates.

Tourists have been robbed on inter-city buses, particularly:

• from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama
• at the Calama and Santiago bus stations

Criminal groups often use distraction to rob tourists. Common scams are where:

• an elderly person 'accidentally' drops some coins and when a tourist stops to help, a thief steals the tourist's bag
• thieves squirt a substance onto a tourist and steal their bag while helping them clean up ('bird poo' scam)
• tourists are marked at the airport and followed to their hotels, where luggage theft or threats of assault and robberies can happen

Food and drink spiking occurs.

To reduce your risk of violent crime:

• avoid going out alone, especially at night
• book taxis by phone, particularly if travelling alone or at night
• keep your belongings close, especially in crowded places
• don't leave valuables in your checked luggage
• don't leave food or drinks unattended

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Anarchist groups stage occasional acts of terrorism, mostly in Santiago. They may use small explosive devices or bombs.

In October 2022, an explosive device was placed outside an office building in Santiago's business district. 

In January 2019, an explosion at a bus stop in Santiago injured five people.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be aware of your surroundings
• take care on public transport
• report suspicious behaviour or packages to local authorities

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Chile can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as:

• forest fires
• earthquakes  and  tsunamis
• volcanic eruptions

To protect yourself during a natural disaster :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family
• National Emergency Service - SENAPRED (Spanish)
• SENAPRED's alerts (Spanish)
• SENAPRED’s map with threats
• SENAPRED’s twitter

Large forest fires often occur in Chile, particularly in summer.

If there's a fire close to your location, obey the evacuation orders of local authorities and monitor the situation.

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Chile is in an active earthquake zone. Earthquakes and volcanic activity may occur.

The Chilean Government uses a 3-tier system to classify volcanoes. The alerts are:

• Green – stable with no immediate risk of eruption
• Yellow – undergoing changes in activity levels
• Red – imminent risk of eruption

If there's an earthquake or volcanic eruption, contact your travel provider about disruptions.

• If t here's been an earthquake or tsunami 
• Chile Atiende (in Spanish)

Chile is at risk of tsunamis.

Be alert to warnings, as a tsunami can arrive very soon after a nearby tremor or earthquake.

Move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

• Pacific Tsunami Warning Center

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding can occur with little warning and may affect services and transport, including land border crossings into neighbouring countries.

In June 2023, heavy rainfall resulted in widespread flooding in the centre of Chile. Two people died and almost 10,000 people were isolated.

• Follow the orders of local authorities and monitor the situation.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Chile. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Altitude sickness.

You’re at risk of altitude sickness if you travel above 2500m.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening and can affect anyone, even if you're fit and healthy.

You're at greater risk of altitude sickness if you:

• ascend quickly or make rapid ascents at higher altitudes
• have had altitude sickness before
• exercise or drink alcohol before you get used to the altitude
• have lung problems that affect breathing

If you'll be travelling above 2,500m:

• see your doctor for specific advice
• check your insurance covers emergency evacuation from altitude and related medical costs

Insect-borne diseases

Outbreaks of  Zika virus  and  dengue  have occurred on Easter Island. 

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to Zika virus affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Other health risks

Outbreaks of waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur sometimes. These include:

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Air pollution

High levels of smog and air pollution occur in Santiago from April to October.

High levels of dust often occur from December to March.

The Chilean Government regularly issues pre-emergency alerts for air contamination.

If you have breathing problems, take extra care when there's a pre-emergency alert for air contamination.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities at private hospitals in Santiago and other major cities are good but very limited elsewhere.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive.

Most large hospitals accept credit cards.

You may need to pay cash before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

Fundación Honra offers an English-speaking service to victims of domestic violence and can be contacted on + 56 2 2835 6044.  

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences in local jails.

• Carrying or using drugs

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Chile doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, this limits the  consular services  the Australian Government can provide if you're arrested or detained.

If you're of Chilean origin, you may be deemed a Chilean national under Chilean law. This may apply even if you've taken steps to renounce Chilean citizenship.

If you're considered a Chilean national under Chilean law, you may need to enter and exit Chile using a Chilean passport or ‘cédula de identidad’.

Different rules may apply to a child aged under 18 years who was born overseas to Chilean parents.

Confirm your citizenship status and entry and exit requirements with an  embassy or consulate of Chile  before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

To enter Chile, Australian citizens must obtain a visa before arrival:  SAC Sistema Atención Consular - Ciudadanos .

You can't stay on Easter Island (Isla de Pascua/Rapa Nui) for more than 30 consecutive days.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Embassy or Consulate of Chile  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Important information about the visa

You must obtain your visa before you arrive in Chile. The application process can be lengthy, so allow yourself enough time before your planned travel.

If you arrive in Chile without a valid visa, you won't be able to pass the immigration point, and you'll be sent back to your last port of departure. You won't be able to obtain a visa at the airport or border entry point. 

If you applied for a single-entry visa, and you enter Chile to then travel to another country, you won't be able to use that visa to enter Chile again. 

When travelling to Chile, you'll get a tourist card (paper) on arrival. You must keep the card and present it to immigration officials when departing Chile. You can request a new copy online if your tourist card is lost or stolen. For specific information, visit the closest  International Police (PDI) Office .

Entry into Chile

Besides having the e-visa described above, there are other requirements/technicalities at the airport:

• When going through Immigration, you'll be given a slip of paper certifying your entry. You must keep this paper carefully, as it will be requested at departure. If you lose it, you'll have to request a new one from Immigration, and your departure from Chile may be delayed for an uncertain period. 

When entering Chile, all travellers must complete the Customs (Aduanas) and Agro-sanitary (SAG) declarations and checks by following this link:  https://djsimple.sag.gob.cl

If you're a dual-national (Australian-Chilean) or a resident of Chile, you may be required to enter using your Chilean ID documents (Chilean passport, or Chilean 'cédula de identidad').

Severe weather conditions in the Andes mountain regions may affect crossing into neighbouring countries by land. Check Chile's  Border Crossings  official website (in Spanish), subscribe to their WhatsApp  channel , and monitor local media before attempting to enter or leave the country by land. 

Transit through Chile

If your travel includes transiting through Chile, you should contact the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Chile to confirm if you'll need a visa.

If you transit in Chile without a visa and miss your connecting flight, you won’t be able to pass the immigration point. You'll be required to remain airside and not leave the airport until a new onward flight has been arranged. Australians have previously been required to remain airside for several days due to missed flight connections. 

Departure from Chile

You may encounter serious difficulties if you try to leave Chile without the slip of paper given by Immigration upon entry. It will be requested when you go through their booths at departure.

If you are a dual-national (Australian-Chilean), you may be required to depart using your valid Chilean passport or Chilean 'cédula de identidad'. Chile's Migration Police (PDI) has denied the departure of dual nationals with expired Chilean passports. If you don't have a Chilean travel document upon entry, you can apply for one through  Registro Civil  while in Chile to facilitate your departure. 

Read the requirements and restrictions of the destination you're travelling to.

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs  (Spanish)

Other Formalities

Travel with children.

If you're  travelling with children  aged younger than 18, you may need to show the original, and provide a copy, of the child's birth certificate, particularly if the parent and child don't share a family name.

The article ' E-visa para Australia'  outlines the requirements for minors under 18 years of age to enter Chile:

• minors must enter the country accompanied by their mother, father, guardian or person in charge of their personal care. Otherwise, they must have written authorisation from one of the minor's parents, from a Court or the competent Authority. 
• the authorisation must be legalised by a  Chilean Consular  authority in the country of origin or include the corresponding apostilled certificate. 
• they can also present a document recognised as valid by the Chilean border control authorities in virtue of the international agreements signed by Chile, which are currently in force.

A child aged under 18 years who isn't accompanied by one or both parents must carry 3 copies of the following:

• the legalised written authorisation certifying the agreement of any absent parents
• a copy of any court order conferring custody of the child, including sole custody (if relevant)
• Note: Read ' Notarial services'  if you intend to apostille the authorisation with DFAT, as we can only apostille notarised documents serviced by an Australian Notary Public.

You also need a Spanish translation of the documents notarised no more than 3 months before travelling at either:

• the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Santiago by a Chilean consular officer, or
• a Chilean Embassy or Consulate

You can use the same document for entry and exit.

A child aged under 18 years born overseas to Chilean parents can enter Chile on an Australian passport and remain for up to 90 days as a tourist (see 'Visas').

For stays longer than 90 days, the child must obtain a Chilean passport.

See  Local law

As outlined in the requirements for  temporary admission for Australian passport holders , your Australian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Chile.

Some agencies and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. You may receive conflicting advice from different sources.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Proof of identity

Always carry a clear copy of your Australian passport as proof of ID.

Keep your passport in a safe location when not being used.

You'll need to show your Australian passport when:

• booking a hotel or hostel
• travelling by air in Chile

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).

Amounts higher than $US10,000 must be declared on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

US dollars can be readily exchanged throughout Chile.

Check your change as vendors, including taxi drivers, sometimes swap denominations to short-change travellers.

ATMs are widely available. Contact your bank to find out whether your cards will work in Chile. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Local travel

Local restrictions

Border areas

If you're planning scientific, technical or mountaineering activities in areas classified as 'frontier areas', you need approval from the Chilean Government 90 days before travelling.

Unexploded mines

Anti-tank mines and landmines are a danger in national reserves and parks near northern borders, including:

• Lauca and Llullaillaco National Parks
• Salar de Surire National Monument
• Los Flamencos National Reserve

Be aware of unexploded weapons outside of military zones in the desert areas bordering Chile and Peru.

Take note of clearly marked landmine fields in the Magallanes region of southern Chile:

• between Punta Arenas and the Torres del Paine National Park
• in Tierra del Fuego

To avoid unexploded mines :

• seek advice from local authorities for these areas
• obey all warning signs
• stay on clearly identified roads

Driving permit

To drive in Chile as a tourist, you need either:

• a valid Australian driver's licence (which can function as a Chilean'  class B license ', for non-commercial, small vehicle driving during the length of your tourist visa), or
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

If you do not have a valid Australian licence, you need to get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Driving in Chile can be dangerous.

Hazards for drivers include:

• aggressive local driving practices
• poorly maintained secondary and rural roads
• poor street lighting
• no guardrails on mountain roads

It's illegal to drive with any blood alcohol content in Chile. Penalties can include jail.

If you intend to drive in Chile:

• check local traffic laws and practices
• use chains on mountain roads during winter
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you when riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Prepaid official taxis are available at the airport.

To protect yourself from crime and overcharging:

• avoid hailing taxis on the street, particularly if travelling alone or at night
• ask your hotel to make a telephone booking for you
• make sure that the driver uses the meter.

Rideshare apps are also available. 

Public transport

Chile has a well-developed metro and bus network.

Santiago and Valparaiso are served by commuter rail. Opportunities for long-distance travel by rail are limited.

Tourists on inter-city buses, particularly from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama, have been robbed while sleeping.

If you take public transport:

• don't store valuables in overhead lockers
• keep your valuables with you at all times
• check your belongings before you get off
• Transport and getting around safely

Some international cruise liners visit Chile.

• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Chile's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you should contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Fire and rescue services

Medical emergencies.

Call 131 or go to the hospital.

Call 133 or contact the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Chile has 2 main police agencies.

For police reports in English:

Carabineros de Chile (Primera Comisaria)

 Santo Domingo 714

 Santiago Centro

If you lose your passport and need a police report for insurance, ask for a 'Proof of Loss of Documents' (Spanish: 'Constancia de Perdida de Documentos') from:

Policia de Investigaciones (PDI)

 Eleuterio Ramirez 830

 Santiago

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Santiago de Chile.

Australian Embassy, Santiago de Chile

Isidora Goyenechea 3621  13th Floor, Las Condes  Santiago de Chile  Phone: (+56 2) 2550 3500  Fax: (+56 2) 2550 3560  Email:  [email protected] Website:  chile.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Embajada de Australia en Chile y Ecuador Twitter:  @AusEmbCL

Instagram: AusEmbCL

Check the Embass y  website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Chile?

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Plug For Chile: What You Need To Know

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What is the plug for Chile? Before you travel, check the information below to make sure your electronic devices are compatible with the outlet type and voltage.

Electrical Summary

Chile uses outlet types C, L at a voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

Plug Compatibility: Type C, L

Voltage: 220V

Frequency: 50 Hz

Can North Americans use Electronics in Chile without an Adapter?

No! North Americans will need an adapter for the outlets and a transformer for the voltage when traveling to Chile . North Americans device plugs will not work with the outlet types in Chile . Also, the voltage in Chile is different from North American voltages.

Can Europeans use Electronics in Chile without an adapter?

Europeans do not need a transformer when traveling to Chile . T he voltage in Chile is the same as in Europe. However, Europeans may need a travel adapter when traveling to Chile .

What Outlet does Chile Use?

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Type C plug sockets are used in Europe, Africa and Asia. They have two round pins and no grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220-240V.

Type L plug have three round pins and a grounding pin. These plugs are typically used with devices that have a voltage of 220V.

Is it safe to drink water in Chile?

We recommend always packing a filtered water bottle when traveling:

Travel Essentials

Be sure to check our list of travel essentials before your trip!

Recommended Travel Essentials

Should I get travel insurance when traveling to Chile?

It is generally recommended to get travel insurance when traveling to a different country. Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel-related mishaps.

Travel insurance can cover various expenses related to your trip, such as medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage or personal belongings, and other travel-related expenses.

Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy details, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and any applicable deductibles or copays. You should also make sure that the policy covers any activities or destinations that you plan to participate in or visit during your trip.

Travel Summary

Where is chile.

Chile is a country located in South America, bordered by Peru to the north, Bolivia to the northeast, Argentina to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west and south.

How big is Chile?

Chile has an area of approximately 756,096 square kilometers (291,930 square miles), making it the 38th largest country in the world.

What time is it in Chile?

The main time zone is Chile Standard Time (CLT), which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4). However, some regions in the north and south of Chile, such as Easter Island and the Magallanes Region, observe different time zones.

What is the capital of Chile?

The capital of Chile is Santiago.

What language is spoken in Chile?

The official language of Chile is Spanish.

What to do in Chile?

Chile is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Andes Mountains, Atacama Desert, and Patagonia region. It is also famous for its wine production, particularly in the central valleys surrounding Santiago. Additionally, Chile is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes pre-Columbian art and architecture, as well as modern contributions to the arts and literature.

The economy of Chile is characterized by a strong free-market system and is highly dependent on exports, with copper being its main export commodity. Other important sectors include forestry, fisheries, and tourism.

Chile is a democratic republic, with a president as the head of state and a multi-party system. The country has a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.

Chile is considered one of the most stable and prosperous countries in Latin America, with a high standard of living and a strong commitment to social welfare programs. However, the country also faces a number of challenges, including income inequality, environmental concerns, and ongoing social unrest related to demands for greater economic and political equality.

In recent years, Chile has been a leader in promoting renewable energy and combating climate change, with a goal of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2040. The country is also known for its world-class wine industry, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene.

Overall, Chile is a fascinating and dynamic country with a rich history, diverse geography, and a strong commitment to democracy and social progress. While it faces significant challenges, its people and government continue to work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable society.

Traveling to another country? Check out our Countries page for more info.

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Chile Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Chile : Safety by City
• Punta Arenas
• Santiago de Chile

The length of Chile has earned this country a reputation of the longest country in the world since its coastline extends over 4,300 km.

It is located on the west coast of South America, and takes over its southern half, between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean.

As for safety in Chile, even though this gorgeous country bordering with Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, is relatively safe, there is definitely some crime risk to be considered.

Among the most common dangers in Chile are luggage theft, mugging, drink spiking, and other similar crimes.

• Warnings & Dangers in Chile

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Chile is not that different from any other country for tourists, in the sense that you should be aware that tourist hotspots, restaurants, shops and public transportation are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, which are the most common forms of crime on the streets of Chile.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

All in all, public transportation and taxi cabs in Chile are safe. Be sure to book taxi rides from a hotel and make arrangements with taxi drivers in advance, preferably through recommendation, because cases of tourists being assaulted and robbed by taxi drivers have been reported. Keep in mind that taxis with company logos are the safest options.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

As for pickpocketing, it is a recurring concern on the streets of Chile, but what is even more common is bag snatching, so be careful and hold your bags tightly by your side. Even better, keep your money and your valuables elsewhere, like in hidden pockets of your clothes and never ever keep all of your money in the same place.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

If you want to enjoy a safe trip, you should be familiar with natural disaster threats lurking in Chile. Since it's a country filled with many natural wonders, there are as many natural hazards that may represent a threat to its inhabitants, such as earthquakes and active volcanoes.Chile is an active earthquake zone and in recent years its quakes have been of higher magnitude than before. It is also home of a couple of active volcanoes, some of which may erupt at any time.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Mugging, as already mentioned, does happen in Chile, and mostly in urban areas. People that are targeted are mostly people walking alone and tourists. In case of mugging, immediately hand over all your possessions without resisting.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Risks of terrorist attacks in Chile are extremely low. Instead of terrorist attacks, there is some risk of anarchist groups setting off small explosives on the streets, in banks or public transportations. Just follow any instructions you may receive from the authorities or tour guides and operators.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Just like anywhere else, taxi drivers might try to trick you into paying more, giving you wrongful information about the price of the ride. Also, be weary of suspicious activities of thieves trying to rob you, such as tapping your shoulder, bumping into you and similar actions.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women have traveled alone to Chile without any consequences or problems. Even though women travelers should take precaution measures in crowded places, public transportation or isolated spots, their biggest worry will probably be getting unwanted attention from men on the streets. However, if you are a woman traveling alone, avoid dark and empty streets and locations.

• So... How Safe Is Chile Really?

Chile is a huge country, filled with gorgeous nature, adventure spots, and warm and welcoming people, and that’s just a fraction of what awaits you there.

However, like in any other country, you should be aware of everything surrounding you at all times, especially if you’re visiting Santiago, Valparaiso, Providencia, Vitacura, Antofagasta, and Iquique.

Here are the risks you should be aware of before planning your trip to Chile.

The crime rate in Chile is pretty low, making this country the safest one in the entire region.

The most common crime that may befall you are muggings, bag snatching, and pickpocketing.

And even though there have been reports of daytime muggings, violent crimes are very rare in Chile.

Avoid places and providences notorious for being crime hot spots, such as Vitacura, Providencia and Las Condes and keep your possessions close to you.

Transportation Safety

As for transportation, there are several precaution points you should be aware of.

When taking the bus or a train, never leave your valuable possessions in storage compartments because they may get stolen.

Always book taxis in advance instead of hailing them on the street, since the taxi drivers may scam you into paying way more than you should, or even assault you.

There have also been reports of vehicle theft, so always keep your windows up, your doors locked and your possessions by your side.

Natural Dangers

Natural dangers are probably more likely than those that have to do with crime since Chile is rich in natural beauties and because of that, exposed to many possible disasters.

Earthquakes are becoming more and more common, and of higher magnitude in recent years.

There are several active volcanoes that could erupt at any moment, and apart from that, the country is filled with geysers, some of the most incredible but also extremely dangerous natural wonders.

Falling into one of the geyser craters can have devastating and fatal results.

Political Situation

The political situation in Chile may carry some dangers.

Nationwide protests along with Chile usually occur on military coup anniversary which is September 11th and on Worker’s Day which is on May 1st.

However, the biggest protests mainly happen in Santiago, and you should avoid them as police tend to use tear gas and water cannons against protesters.

Chile is a country bordering with Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina.

The landmines are mostly found on and near these borders, so they can affect mainly cattle and people who are crossing these borders in unauthorized areas.

Most of the landmines are clearly marked, but some signs are old and damaged so they may not be easily spotted.

If you plan on visiting these areas, by all means, always check with the authorities first.

• How Does Chile Compare?
• Useful Information

When it comes to tourist visits, most countries do not need visas to enter Chile. The only thing you should check, is that your passport is valid throughout the duration of your stay in Chile, and no validity beyond the time of your stay is necessary. However, if you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP) and you can withdraw your money from any available ATM on the street. Credit cards are widely accepted, mostly in larger cities, but never leave your card in plain sight.

Even though the temperature can drop during the middle of the year, it doesn't get extremely cold. The warmest period is during the beginning of the year, when temperatures in January reach as high as 86 F. It is coldest during July and August, with average temperatures of about 36 F.

There are three busiest airports in Chile: Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez (SCL) in Santiago, (the busiest airport in the country) Diego Aracena International Airport (IQQ) in Iquique and Cerro Morreno International Airport (ANF) in Antofagasta.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Chile because it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

Chile Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Chile - Safety by City

Explore chile.

• 11 Cheapest Places to Live in Chile
• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Chile
• 10 Safest Cities in Chile
• 9 Places In Chile For Adrenaline Junkies
• Find 10 Things That Will Amaze You in Patagonia, Chile
• Things to Do in Top 10 Cities in Chile
• Where to Next?

21 Reviews on Chile

Time to update your review to reflect current events

Chile is probably the safest place in all South America

I have been to all the south of Chile I’ve been also at Santiago. Santiago is not safe for tourists but for travelers. They love stealing phones but in my case I always been really cautious. In the south of Chile I always feel safe. In small towns they protect travelers. I’ve been camping and overall great experiences. The only advice I would give is to never tell your location or where you’re going because Chileans are very curious and often mean well but come across as creepy sometimes! I plan to go camping in Chile this year!! Again

Not recommend now

With all the protests and such going on right now, I would not recommend going here. I went a few years ago and it wasn’t the safest place but I am a well-knowledged traveler. I would not recommend going here if you have never been here or if you have no travel experience.

I enjoyed Chile

Having been to Chile 3 times now, I think it is absolutely beautiful. I did two group trips and one solo trip and all three times, I loved it. I feel like today may be a bit different seeing as the last time I traveled there was back in 2013 but I still recommend going. It is a wonderful place.

which city is pictured above in the description?

Valparaiso and Viña del Mar

Is this a joke?

I left Chile because I was robbed, molested many times in the street, assaulted with a gun, scammed by a University… Scammed by people so many times… Who wrote this? The government is insanely corrupted, social justice doesn’t exist at all. And the Chilean average see the foreign visitors a way to get easy money. Is such a wonderful and beautiful country… But omg you never know when someone will take your car, will stole you bag, will touch you without consent… Many restaurants and places ask hidden cost to tourist!

No es verdad yo he estado en chile es precioso y la gente es muy gentil y onesta

40 years living in Chile

I have lived in Chile since 1972 with houses in both Santiago and tourist resorts. I have not experienced violence of any kind or had anything stolen. I am British and this is not my experience on visiting the UK.

What are you talking about? I’ve been living in Chile for nearly 11 years and I’ve never experienced what you are talking. I lived in Providencia during my exchange and I didn’t have any problem. Chile is a wonderful country. Of course it has flaws, but deffinitely it’s the best one in South America. I hope I will go back there as soon as this pandemic ends.

This is true and common. My brother in law had been robbed twice in three months. And yes, there is a chance that you will be molested or your purse will be snatched.

I am still going to Chile.

I am going to Chile doing Spring Break trip.

A safe place

If the safety tips are as accurate as the average temperature tables shown, then the tips are worth nothing at all! Chile is 4500 km long – a distance equivalent from Norway to Morocco – so there is no such thing as an “average” temperature. I am British and have been living in Chile for 33 years. With regard to safety, you need only to look out for pickpockets, which tend to concentrate on foreigners in big cities. Chile is by far the safest country in the Americas after Canada. I have never been a victim of any crime, and the police is trustworthy in general. In the last couple of years the situation has changed for the worse due to political violence, but as long as you are sensible and refrain from participating in political demonstrations, you wont have a problem.

100% – the temperatures sounds like Hawaii’s which is not true unless you are in Arica which is located in the north. Temperature and weather varies depending on which city. From 100 F in the North to below 0 in the South and everything in between. The place is not safe today. Crime is high. Drug cartels are in. They use fireworks, yes fireworks, to announce when the drug is in. That tells you how much the authorities are doing about it. Immigration became a problem as they “welcome” everybody and have no immigration laws. Immigrants have placed tents in the street for shelter.

Safest country in SA

Lived in Chile for over a year and felt safe most of the time. If you do not go into poblaciones as a tourist and if you watch your stuff it is quite safe, however muggings do happen. In the “Sector Oriente” you can walk at night without any danger. Beware of scams especially online, they are quite common. Outside Santiago I felt even safer.

Safe And Fun

I had a great time in Chile! the whole time I felt very safe. The people were friendly and helpful. Most of my stay was in Santiago but I also went to La Serena. My highlights were San Cristóbal Hill, Sky Costanera and La Serena beach. All the places I mentioned I felt safe and are family friendly. I’ll certainly be visiting again!

I have been threatened with a gun, assaulted and know family members who have been frequenting robbed. Drink spiking is a massive problem in chile and has not been acknowledged by most people

Thieves have a radar for cowards like you, this is an amazing country, very safe, and people get scammed and robbed in every place of the world not only in Chile.

“cowards like you”. So I guess you would resist and get killed? You are stupid, my friend.

So beautiful

Chile is one amazing because of its beauty and the huge coastline it has. This country is one of the best ones from what I’ve visited so far and I visited a few of them. I wouldn’t say it’s a dangerous country. I haven’t experienced anything out of the ordinary while here so I don’t consider it a dangerous place. I saw pickpockets a few times which I expected to see, especially in the bigger cities or in crowded areas. It’s only logical they would show up there.

I have heard of someone getting mugged in the nighttime so there’s that. I think that with a bit of care and by paying attention to surroundings and not going into bad areas (which you should familiarize yourself with), you’ll be fine. I, for one, wouldn’t travel alone to any country. Everything is better and safer for 2 or more people but that’s just me.

I managed to visit a few interesting places and I loved every minute of it. Easter Island was on my bucket list and I’m glad I got a chance to experience it. It’s a remote place and it’s not the easiest place to get to but it was worth it for me. You should know that you get here by flight and it takes around 5 hours so plan on staying a while.

Santiago is a particularly beautiful city and it will probably be the first place you see in Chile. This city has so many things to offer so ask around and see what you like. It has something for everyone from museums and parks to nightlife and entertainment.

Chile also has many natural monuments, one of them being the Los Pinguinos Natural Monument which is worth visiting. You’ll get a chance to see penguins, sea lions and seals but you’ll have to use guided boat tours.

The page is correct, Uruguay is a little safer though, I would say its not that dangerous.

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Warnings and insurance

This travel advice page also covers Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

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• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
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Chile or Argentina: which South American giant should be your pick?

Sep 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Chile’s spectacular Atacama Desert, or Argentina’s roaring Igazú Falls? © iStock

We asked two writers to sing the praises of their preferred southern South American country. Deciding between Chile and Argentina? Read on.

But as you follow the snow-capped peaks descending from high desert to windy Patagonian moors, which side of the Andes should you stick to?

Chile is a total eclipse of the heart

The author of dozens of Lonely Planet books, Kerry Walker first traveled to Chile 20 years ago and was immediately smitten by its sky-high Andes, puffing volcanoes, glaciers, fjords and surf-smashed Pacific coast.

I remember drawing breath as the moon crept across the sun, blotting out all light bar a ring of fire. I had touched down in Santiago just in time for the annular solar eclipse in May 2003. I had barely touched Chilean soil by the time I was peering up at the sky as the world momentarily darkened. It was a dramatic introduction to a country that has held me in its thrall ever since.

Extending a slender leg between the Pacific Ocean and the snow-frosted Andes, Chile is the world’s longest and skinniest country from north to south. Back then, I rocked up with a backpack, a well-thumbed guidebook, an open-ended ticket and a burning desire to see everything South America could offer. A fistful of pesos bought me an empanada, a night in a bare-bones hostel and a front-row view of the Andes. 

Chile gave me lots of firsts. Glacier hikes and volcano climbs. Pisco sours and penguins in the wild. Altitude sickness (in the Andes) and seasickness (in Patagonia). Chile was my first South American love – and the springboard for a lifetime of adventures.

Argentina is much hyped, a country that shouts as gustily as a boleadora -wielding gaucho about its charms: football, tango, juicy steaks and sizzling Buenos Aires. Sí, sí , we know. But Chile? Unless you’ve been there, it’s an unopened book.

Carrying itself with quiet confidence, Chile keeps its mystique intact. Its cities are as elegant as those in Argentina, its people as passionate, its nevados (snowy mountains) as entrancing, its wine as globally feted. And the Indigenous culture of the Mapuche in La Araucanía is more deeply rooted and tangible than anything you’ll find in Argentina. Chile has mummies far older than those in Egypt – in the Azapa Valley, near Arica – but you’ve probably never heard of them. Chile just isn’t a bragger.

Extending for almost 2700 miles from top to toe, Chile is wildly diverse in climate and geography. In the space of a couple of weeks, you can sand-board epic dunes in the driest place on Earth (the remote, otherworldly Atacama Desert ), then eye up the highest peaks of snow-frosted mountains. You can surf Pacific breaks, hike volcanoes, boat across fjords, bubble in hot springs and walk on glaciers that ripple into infinity.

Magic moments? Too many to count. But I’ll never forget traveling over the llama-filled altiplano to San Pedro de Atacama to bike across the sun-scorched, moonlike desert of Valle de la Luna . Its no-filter-required rusty rock formations, dunes and psychedelic sunsets are like nothing you’ve ever seen before – or will ever see again. Adobe villages, flawless blue skies, topaz lagoons fizzing with pink flamingos, snow-frosted volcanoes, ear-popping mountains approaching 20,000ft (6000m) and night skies glittering with a galaxy of stars ( Norte Grande is one of the world’s celestial hotspots): Chile had me right there.

But I didn’t stop.

In the south, I went to surf-bashed Pacific beaches, Valle Central wine country, and the lava-spitting volcanoes, hot springs and lush lenga (southern beech) and araucaria (monkey puzzle) forests of Parque Nacional Villarica . I took the Navimag over a great fretwork of fjords from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales , glimpsing dolphins, whales and albatrosses between bouts of seasickness. I hiked Patagonia ’s famous W trek in Torres del Paine , camping next to chinking icebergs, battling gale-force winds and feeling dumbstruck by its god-like canvas of horned peaks, jewel-colored lakes and glaciers. I hung out with Magellanic penguins on the Isla Magdalena near Punta Arenas . 

And then, having reached mainland Chile’s tip, I hopped on a plane to remote Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in Polynesia – still technically Chile, despite being 2200 miles (3500km) and a five-plus-hour flight distant. Here, I camped in caves and trekked to deserted beaches and lonely moai , the stone giants that have kept watch over this mystical isle for the past 800 years.

Chilean poet Pablo Neruda once said: “He who does not know the Chilean forests, does not know the planet.” And he was right: nature goes all out here. These landscapes tug at the heartstrings with the gravitational pull of the Sun and Moon. 

Argentina delivers world-renowned colors and culture 

Luke Waterson has spent months traveling Argentina, from Salta’s multi-colored desert through Buenos Aires’ tango-drenched barrios down to Tierra del Fuego’s moody mountain-edged coast. He is particularly passionate about alfajores , estancias and Buenos Aires’ vintage shops.

Where South America tapers out toward  Tierra del Fuego , the southernmost land on the globe before Antarctica , Argentina and Chile are no strangers to friendly rivalry – nor to trumpeting their own virtues while enumerating the other’s faults. The two share the world’s third-longest international land border, after all, at 5300km (3300 miles) – which means intermittent neighborly tensions are to be expected. Indeed, parts of their boundary in  Patagonia are still contested; Argentina sided with the USA during the Baltimore crisis that almost brought Chile and the USA to war in the late 19th century; and Chile famously supported the UK in the  Falkland Islands dispute. Ironically, however, these geographically complementary countries probably have more in common than any other two on the continent. Which makes choosing between them surprisingly tough.

As I did on my first visit, you may well arrive in this part overland, from Peru to the north, then switch between one and the other as you crisscross the the mighty Andean nevados (snow-caps) that divide the two as you work your way south. Since I’d seen the rest of South America prior to my arrival here, it was the similarities I noticed more than the differences.

Popular backpacker stop San Pedro de Atacama in the northern Chilean desert, for example, has parallels with northern Argentina’s  Salta , in terms of a more visible Indigenous presence and wacky arid scenery; Patagonian towns and villages look similar whether you are in Argentina’s portion or Chile’s. And both share several thousand miles’ frontier of astounding peaks, which are beguiling no matter the side from which they’re approached. Nature-wise, you can make an easy case for either country, too (although let’s clarify that South America’s highest summit,  Aconcagua , and biggest waterfall,  Iguazú Falls , are both in Argentine territory).

So far, then, a high-scoring draw. Sit down at a restaurant table, though, and you’ll soon be in a one-horse race. Think a juicy steak topped with chimichurri sauce (a divine salsa of diced parsley and oregano, oil and chili flakes). Or a provoleta (grilled round of herb-seasoned cheese) followed by an alfajor (cookie sandwiched together with caramel-like dulce de leche). Or a soothing yerba maté (plant-based infusion). Argentine cuisine sates all cravings and sets taste buds watering entire time zones away. Chile’s food and drink scene is comparatively flat by South America’s lofty standards. True, seafood can be nice – as it can anywhere with a coastline – but there is precious little iconically Chilean that anyone outside Chile would travel far to sample.

It is true that both nations have wine regions, and no shortage of fine home-grown whites and reds to quaff with your meal. But while Chile’s wine might have the bigger international market presence, that’s partly because Argentines save lots of the good stuff for themselves: domestic wine consumption in Argentina is significantly higher than in Chile, according to the  OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine). And since Argentina has its own signature grapes, malbec and torrontés, its wines deliver a distinctive, internationally recognizable taste.

Argentina possesses a color and a cultural depth so intense that these spill way beyond its own borders and across the world. Chile simply can’t compete. Argentina is the land of Che Guevara, Eva Perón, Diego Maradona – names needing no introduction. The vitality of Argentine capital  Buenos Aires – its daytime cafe culture through evening parrilla (steakhouse) feasts to all-night-long nightlife – makes Chile’s Santiago seem lackluster. Nothing musically in Chile comes close to Argentina’s sultry tango beats.

And we all know who is more likely to triumph in a football match.

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Chile's Remote Corners & Unique Landscapes

October 3 - 14, 2025

Group Size: 14 - 30 participants Price: Starting from $11,990 per person double occupancy, $4,990 single supplement Co-sponsored with: Harvard Exclusive

Trip Overview

This exclusive tour celebrates Chile's spectacular skies, acclaimed vineyards, ancient cultures, and legendary landscapes.

Northern Chile's dark, clear skies attract stargazers, leading to the Atacama Desert with its coastal plains, high volcanoes, and the world’s highest geyser basin. Stay at Explora Atacama Lodge in San Pedro de Atacama, enjoying luxury accommodations and tailored excursions focused on natural history, wildlife, geology, and astronomy. Travel to Casablanca Valley, renowned for its cool climate ideal for producing acclaimed chardonnays and sauvignon blancs. Enjoy a private tour, tasting, and lunch at Kingston Family Vineyard, known for its award-winning red wines. In Torres del Paine National Park, spend three days at Explora Torres del Paine Lodge. Engage in activities ranging from easy to challenging and explore diverse Patagonian ecosystems in one of the world’s most remote and pristine regions.

Schedule by Day

Depart U.S. on an overnight flight to Santiago, Chile.

Arrive in Santiago early in the morning and transfer to the Ritz-Carlton. Gather for an afternoon city tour, including a visit to the impressive Pre-Columbian Museum. The day concludes with a welcome cocktail and dinner.

Overnight: Ritz Carlton

On your way to Calama, drive through the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth. Arrive at the Explora Atacama Lodge in San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis originally settled by the indigenous Atacameños. This stunning spot, ringed by volcanoes and otherworldly geology, will be your home for the next three nights. After a welcome briefing by your guides and dinner, enjoy an evening of stargazing from the lodge’s very own observatory.

Overnight: Explora Atacama

Meals: B, L, D

Discover the wildlife and landscapes of the Atacama Desert with a range of custom excursions led by expert guides. Whether you prefer a full-day trek, horseback riding, or mountain biking, your adventure can be tailored to match your interests and abilities. Explore iconic sites such as Moon Valley, the Salt Mountain Range, the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques, Salar de Atacama, the National Flamingo Reserve, Tatio Geysers, and the Puritama Hot Springs. Your tour director and excursion manager will help you select the perfect activity for each day of your journey.

Enjoy another opportunity to tailor your experience with a variety of custom excursions, whether you’re up for another full-day trek, some horseback riding, or mountain biking. With so much more to discover, including Moon Valley, the Salt Mountain Range, and the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques, every moment promises to be as captivating as the last.

Travel to the rolling vineyards of Casablanca Valley, one of Chile’s renowned wine regions. Located near the Pacific coast, Casablanca Valley enjoys a cool climate ideal for producing acclaimed chardonnays and sauvignon blancs. Enjoy a private tour, tasting, and lunch at the Kingston Family Vineyard, where the pioneering owners have coaxed award-winning red wines from a valley known for whites. Late in the day, return to the hotel and enjoy dinner independently at one of Santiago’s many fine restaurants.

Meals: B, L

Fly to Punta Arenas and transfer to Torres del Paine National Park, established as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1978. Along the way, look for herds of guanacos and rheas, gray foxes, Patagonian hares, and black-necked swans.

Arrive at the prestigious Explora Torres del Paine Lodge, located on the northeastern edge of the national park and set amidst diverse ecosystems such as Magellan forests and steppes.

Overnight: Explora Torres del Paine

Begin your first of three full days exploring the most impressive region in southern Chile—Torres del Paine National Park.

Whether you choose to hike, ride horses, or unwind amidst nature, there's a wide array of activities to suit your preferences, from gentle walks and relaxing boat trips on Pehoé Lake to more demanding treks. With each experience, you'll discover new facets of this remarkable region, making the most of your time in one of the world's most iconic parks.

Continue exploring the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. Choose from a variety of activities and engage in excursions with expert guides. Or, if you prefer, explore on your own or simply relax in the park or at the lodge.

On your final day in Torres del Paine National Park, take the opportunity to soak in the last moments of this extraordinary destination. Whether you revisit your favorite spots or venture to new areas, the park continues to offer unforgettable experiences. Enjoy one last hike, horseback ride, or serene moment by Pehoé Lake, reflecting on the breathtaking scenery and adventures you've had. As your time in the park draws to a close, savor the memories you've created in this remarkable corner of southern Chile, leaving with a deep appreciation for its natural wonders.

In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner.

After a leisurely morning, depart for Punta Arenas, then fly to Santiago and connect to overnight flights back to the U.S., arriving on October 14.

• $11,990 per person, double occupancy
• $4,990 single supplement

Accommodations

• Two (non-consecutive) nights at the Ritz Carlton, Santiago
• Three nights at the Explora Atacama
• Four nights at the Explora Lodge Torres Del Paine

At Explora Atacama Lodge in San Pedro de Atacama, enjoy luxury accommodations with a focus on sustainability, reducing carbon footprint, and supporting local communities amidst breathtaking volcanic landscapes. At Explora Torres del Paine Lodge, explore diverse Patagonian ecosystems and meandering rivers, while experiencing the warm hospitality of local gauchos in a land defined by freedom and solitude.

• Pre-Extension to Easter Island: September 29 - October 4  More Information coming soon

Arrive early to enjoy the full range of experiences at the Explora Rapa Nui Lodge. Spend three nights exploring the mysteries and beauty of Easter Island. Appreciate the moai, the island’s colossal stone statues, as well as the volcanic craters, cliffs, and caves. Choose from several excursions, including walks, bike rides, and snorkeling.

What to Expect

To make the most of what this program has to offer, the trip will be active, requiring you to be in good health and physical condition. While you don’t have to participate in all the activities, certain group travel times will be required.

The itinerary offers a deep dive into the history, culture, geology, and stunning natural landscapes of the Atacama Desert and southern Patagonia. You will experience stays at two renowned Explora luxury lodges in Chile and enjoy a visit to the capital city of Santiago with accommodations at the Ritz Carlton. Daily guided excursions at each Explora lodge include a variety of half-day and full-day options like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In Torres del Paine, a catamaran trip to the glaciers is available. Walks typically last about one mile, sometimes over uneven terrain, with longer distances available at your discretion. In San Pedro de Atacama, where we spend three nights, the altitude is approximately 8,200 feet, with some excursions reaching up to 14,450 feet. In southern Patagonia, altitude won't be an issue as the lower plains of Torres del Paine National Park are just 150 feet above sea level.

Given the remote locations, flexibility will be key as we navigate time schedules, food, weather, wind, and dust. Participants must be in good physical and mental health to keep up with the group's pace. Those requiring extraordinary assistance must bring someone to provide necessary help. This program ranges from moderately active to very active, depending on your chosen activities. Excursions can be tailored to match your interests and fitness levels, with hikes of varying lengths and durations available. Travel will be by regularly scheduled jet aircraft and bus. Due to the remote locations, all participants are required to obtain a medical evacuation insurance policy.

Study Leader(s)

Related Trips

For More Information

Please email [email protected] or call our office at 800-422-1636 or 617-496-0806.