10 Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Chile

Traveling in Chile is easy. However, like every country, its good to know a few things before going. We have put together a short list with the most important information about traveling here. We hope this is of assistance, but we are here to help if you would like to know more:

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

• Passport & Visa: Visitors from most countries, including the U.S., Canada, the EU, and Australia, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date.

• Reciprocity Fee: Citizens of some countries (e.g., U.S., Australia, Canada) may be required to pay a reciprocity fee when entering Chile. Check current regulations before traveling.

• Tourist Cards: Upon arrival, you’ll receive a tourist card (Tarjeta de Turismo), which you must keep with you during your stay. It’s also required when leaving the country.

  
  

2. Currency & Payment

• Currency: The official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Banknotes come in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 pesos. Coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 pesos.

• ATMs & Credit Cards: ATMs are widely available in cities, and credit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas. However, smaller towns or rural areas may require cash.

• Exchange Rate: Exchange rates fluctuate, so it’s best to exchange money at official exchange offices or use ATMs to avoid high fees.

  
  

3. Getting Around

• Domestic Flights: Chile is long, with vast distances between regions. Domestic flights (e.g., Santiago to Punta Arenas or Calama) are often the fastest way to travel between cities.

• Buses: The bus system is extensive, reliable, and affordable. Long-distance buses offer a range of comfort levels, from budget to premium services.

• Public Transportation: Santiago has an efficient metro system, while buses serve smaller cities and towns. Taxis are also common, and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available.

• Car Rentals: Renting a car is ideal for exploring remote areas like the Atacama Desert or Patagonia. Be sure to have an international driver’s license.

• Ride Services: Uber is a good way to get around in most Chilean Cities and are safer and more reliable than taxis.

4. Safety & Health

• Safety: Chile is generally considered safe for travelers. However, like any destination, exercise caution in busy urban areas, especially at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded spaces.

• Health Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers health and emergencies. Chile has high-quality healthcare facilities in major cities, but rural areas may have limited access to medical services.

• Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies if you plan to visit remote regions.

5. Language

• Spanish: Spanish is the official language, but Chileans speak with a unique accent and use local slang (e.g., “po” for emphasis). Learning basic Spanish phrases can be helpful, though English is spoken in some tourist areas.

• English: In larger cities and tourist spots, you may find some people who speak English, but it’s less common in rural areas. A translation app or phrasebook is recommended for ease of communication.

6. Weather & Best Time to Visit

• Seasons: Chile has varied climates depending on the region.

  • Summer (December to February) is the best time for visiting Patagonia and the southern regions, as temperatures are milder.

  • Winter (June to August) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the Andes.

  • The Atacama Desert in the north is great to visit year-round due to its dry climate.

• Pack Accordingly: Depending on where you’re headed, pack layers, including a warm jacket for the south and light, breathable clothing for the desert.

7. Food & Drink

• Cuisine: Chilean cuisine features fresh seafood, especially in coastal areas, as well as grilled meats, empanadas, and a variety of potatoes. Don’t miss Chile’s national dish, curanto (a seafood and meat stew).

• Wine: Chile is renowned for its wine, particularly red varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere. Be sure to try some local wines at a vineyard.

• Tap Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Chile, especially in major cities.

8. Tipping & Etiquette

• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated. In restaurants, leaving 10% is common. Tipping for taxi rides and hotel services is also customary.

• Respect Local Customs: Chileans are friendly and polite. A handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's customary to greet people with “buenos días” (good morning) or “buenas tardes” (good afternoon).

9. Must-See Destinations

• Santiago: The bustling capital offers a mix of culture, history, and modernity, with attractions like Cerro San Cristóbal, Plaza de Armas, and Museo de la Memoria.

• Atacama Desert: Explore otherworldly landscapes, salt flats, and geysers in the driest desert on Earth.

• Patagonia: Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking scenery, including Torres del Paine National Park.

• Valparaiso: A UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its colorful streets, hillside views, and vibrant arts scene.

10. Cultural Etiquette & Useful Phrases

• Politeness: Chileans appreciate politeness. Using “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) will go a long way.

• Key Phrases:

  • “¿Habla inglés?” – Do you speak English?

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” – How much does it cost?

  • “¿Dónde está…?” – Where is…?