Chile

Q: Is Chile safe for tourists to visit?

Chile is generally considered one of the safer countries in South America, but it is currently under a Level 2 travel advisory. You should exercise increased caution in the historic center of Santiago and the Araucanía region due to occasional civil unrest and petty crime. Always keep your valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Q: Is Chile expensive to visit for a holiday?

Compared to its neighbors, Chile is one of the more expensive destinations in the region, with an average daily budget of approximately $101 / CLP 87,892. A bed in a hostel will typically cost between $24–$41 / CLP 20,440–CLP 35,770, while a mid-range meal at a restaurant usually ranges from $18–$29 / CLP 15,330–CLP 25,550. Domestic flights and long-distance buses are reasonably priced if booked in advance.

Q: When is the best time to visit Chile?

The peak travel season is during the southern summer months of December, January, and February. This is the ideal time for trekking in Patagonia or visiting the Lake District, as temperatures range from 15–25°C (59–77°F). If you are visiting the Atacama Desert, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Chile?

Many nationalities, including citizens of the EU, USA, and Canada, can enter Chile for tourism for up to 90 days without a pre-arranged visa. Upon arrival, you will receive a PDI (investigative police) card, which you must keep and present when leaving the country. This 90-day stay can be extended for an additional 90 days at the local immigration office for a small fee.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Chile?

English proficiency is moderate in Chile, primarily concentrated in larger cities like Santiago and within the tourism industry. While hotel staff and tour guides in San Pedro de Atacama or Torres del Paine will likely speak English, you will find it helpful to know basic Spanish phrases for navigating public transport or eating at local markets.

Q: What food is Chile most famous for?

Chile is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly 'centolla' (king crab) from the south and 'reyneta' (pomfret) along the coast. You must try the Empanada de Pino, which is the national snack, and Pastel de Choclo, a savory corn-based pie. For a sweet treat, the Completo hot dog is a local staple found on almost every street corner.

Q: How do I get around Chile efficiently?

Chile has a highly developed transport network that is very traveler-friendly. For long distances, domestic flights are the fastest option, while high-quality sleeper buses (semi-cama or salon-cama) are affordable and comfortable for overnight journeys. Within Santiago, the metro system is clean, safe, and efficient, running from approximately 06:00–23:00.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Chile?

It is generally advised that tourists avoid drinking the tap water in Chile. While it is treated in major cities like Santiago, the high mineral content can often cause stomach upset for visitors who are not used to it. It is safer to stick to bottled water, which is readily available at 'almacenes' (corner stores) and supermarkets for roughly $1.18–$2.36 / CLP 1,022–CLP 2,044 per bottle.

Q: What is the weather like in Santiago?

Santiago enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 30–35°C (86–95°F), while winter (June to August) is cool and damp, with averages around 8–15°C (46–59°F). The proximity to the Andes means the city can experience rapid temperature drops once the sun sets.

Q: What should I pack for a trip to Chile?

Because of Chile's extreme geography, you should pack for multiple climates regardless of the season. Layers are essential for Patagonia and the Atacama, where temperatures can swing from 20°C (68°F) during the day to below freezing at night. Sturdy hiking boots, a windproof jacket, and high-SPF sunscreen are necessities for any outdoor activities.

Chile stretches like a thin ribbon between the towering Andes and the Pacific Ocean, offering a landscape of dramatic extremes that few other nations can match. From the bone-dry salt flats of the Atacama Desert to the crystalline glaciers of Patagonia, you will find a wilderness that feels both ancient and untouched. In between these poles lies a fertile central valley where world-class vineyards flourish under the shadow of snow-capped peaks. Whether you are exploring the bohemian hills of Valparaíso or the sleek skyscrapers of Santiago, the country blends modern efficiency with deep-rooted traditions. It is a destination where adventure is guaranteed, whether you are stargazing under the world’s clearest skies or trekking through emerald forests.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

2 cities

6 guides

$71 – $132 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital

Santiago

Languages

Spanish

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

1 $ ≈ 868 CLP

Plug Type

Type C/L (220V, 50Hz)

Driving Side

Right

Dial Code

+56

Entry Requirements

Check requirements →

Time Zone

Continental Chile: UTC-3 (summer) / UTC-4 (winter). Aysén & Magallanes: UTC-3 year-round. Rapa Nui (Easter Island): UTC-5 (summer) / UTC-6 (winter).

Emergency

133 (Police), 132 (Fire), 131 (Ambulance)

Why Visit Chile

Unearthly Desert Landscapes

The Atacama Desert offers landscapes that look like the surface of the moon, featuring jagged salt ranges, steaming geysers, and high-altitude lagoons. It is also the best place on the planet for stargazing due to its exceptionally clear and dry atmosphere.

Patagonian Wilderness

Home to the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park, Chilean Patagonia provides some of the most iconic hiking trails on Earth. You can witness massive glaciers like Grey Glacier calving into turquoise waters and see the dramatic granite spires that define the region.

World-Class Wine Culture

The fertile valleys surrounding Santiago produce some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère in the world. You can tour historic estates in the Maipo and Colchagua Valleys, many of which offer tastings paired with traditional Chilean cuisine.

Bohemian Coastal Charm

Valparaíso is a UNESCO-listed port city known for its colorful, crumbling mansions and vibrant street art. Riding the century-old wooden funiculars up the steep hills provides stunning views of the Pacific and a glimpse into the city's poetic soul.

Lakes and Volcanoes

The Chilean Lake District is a land of perfect volcanic cones and deep blue alpine lakes. Towns like Puerto Varas and Pucón serve as gateways to white-water rafting, thermal springs, and challenging volcano climbs.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Chile

View all activities

Cities & Destinations

Best in Mar

Chile

San Pedro de Atacama

Warm

From $132 /day

Cost Guide Where to Stay

Best in Mar

Chile

Santiago

Moderate

From $71 /day

Cost Guide Where to Stay

Regions

The Atacama & The Far North

Anchored by the town of San Pedro de Atacama, this region is a high-altitude wonderland of salt flats, flamingos, and active geyser fields. It serves as the gateway to the Valle de la Luna and some of the world's most powerful astronomical observatories.

Central Valley

The economic and cultural heart of the country, home to the bustling capital of Santiago. This region offers a blend of metropolitan sophistication, historic plazas, and easy access to the country’s premier ski resorts and vineyards.

Valparaíso & The Central Coast

Located just 90 minutes from the capital, this area features the artistic hills of Valparaíso and the modern beach resorts of Viña del Mar. It is a popular weekend escape for those looking to enjoy Pacific seafood and coastal breezes.

The Lake District

Characterized by its German heritage and lush landscapes, this region is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. You can explore the Osorno Volcano, sail across Lake Llanquihue, or relax in the many natural hot springs.

Chilean Patagonia

The rugged southern frontier where the Andes meet the sea in a maze of fjords and islands. Highlights include the trekking circuits of Torres del Paine and the remote, breathtaking scenery along the 1,240km Carretera Austral.

Cities & Destinations:

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on the region; summer is ideal for Patagonia's southern trails, while the shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather for wine tasting and desert exploration without the crowds.

Peak Season

Dec, Jan, Feb

Summer brings the best weather for trekking in Torres del Paine and festivals like Tapati on Rapa Nui. Expect higher prices and significant crowds, particularly at coastal resorts and major national parks.

Shoulder Season

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

March and April are spectacular for the grape harvest in the central valleys and autumn colors in the Lake District. Spring (September–November) offers blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures in the Atacama.

Off-Peak

Jun, Jul, Aug

Winter is the prime season for skiing in the Andes near Santiago. While northern Chile remains accessible, many southern trekking routes and lodges close due to snow and harsh weather conditions.

Getting Around

Chile possesses a highly developed transport network featuring efficient metro systems, affordable long-haul coaches, and a robust domestic flight market to bridge its extreme north-south distances.

Bus

Long-distance coaches like Turbus and Pullman are the primary way to travel between cities, offering multi-tier seating from Semicama to flat-bed Premium seats. Santiago’s local 'Red Movilidad' buses require a BIP card or a compatible bank card for payment.

Metro

The Santiago Metro is one of South America's most modern systems. From 13 Feb 2026, contactless Visa/Mastercard (and mobile wallets) are also accepted for adult fares via 'Pago Ágil' alongside the traditional BIP card and QR options. It covers most tourist landmarks with fares ranging from ~$0.94–$1.06 / CLP 818–CLP 920.

Flight

Carriers like LATAM, SKY, and JetSmart offer frequent connections to remote areas like the Atacama Desert (Calama) and Patagonia (Punta Arenas), often competing in price with long-distance buses.

Train

EFE operates regional services including the high-speed Tren Chillán and the Santiago-to-Rancagua line. Seasonal tourist trains, such as the Valdivia-Antilhue route, operate during the summer months.

Food & Drink

Chilean cuisine is a hearty fusion of indigenous Mapuche traditions and European influences, with a heavy emphasis on fresh seafood and grilled meats. Meals are often social events, typically accompanied by the country's celebrated wines or a refreshing pisco-based cocktail.

Must Try

Pastel de Choclo

A comforting corn pie layered with minced beef, chicken, black olives, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.

Empanada de Pino

A traditional baked pastry filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, and a single whole olive.

Mote con Huesillo

A unique summer drink made from dried peaches and husked wheat served cold in a sweet, cinnamon-scented syrup.

Completo

A massive Chilean-style hot dog traditionally loaded with sauerkraut, chopped tomatoes, and a thick layer of creamy mashed avocado.

Pisco Sour

The national cocktail made from grape brandy, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg whites, finished with a dash of bitters.

Cazuela

A nourishing soup featuring a large piece of beef or chicken served alongside a potato, a chunk of pumpkin, and a cob of corn.

Curanto

A traditional Chilote feast of seafood, meat, and potatoes slow-cooked in a hole in the ground covered with large nalca leaves.

Money & Costs

Chile is one of South America's more expensive destinations, with a typical daily budget of ~$101 / CLP 87,892. Tourists entering as tourists (Permanencia Transitoria) may be asked to show proof of funds.

Tipping

A 10% 'propina sugerida' is standard in restaurants and is usually added to the bill; rounding up fares for taxi drivers is appreciated but not required.

Cards

Card acceptance is very high in cities for most purchases, though cash remains essential for street markets, small rural shops, and tipping service staff.

ATMs

ATMs (Redbanc) are widely available. Fees and withdrawal limits vary by bank and card issuer; always decline dynamic currency conversion for better exchange rates.

Culture & Etiquette

Chileans are generally warm but can be more formal than their neighbors in initial interactions. Respect for social hierarchy and polite address is appreciated, though the atmosphere becomes very relaxed and festive during holidays like Fiestas Patrias.

✓

Greet people with a single kiss on the right cheek in social settings, even when meeting for the first time.

✓

Expect a 10% 'propina sugerida' to be added to your restaurant bill; it is polite to pay this as the standard tip.

Don't expect strict punctuality for social invitations; arriving 15–30 minutes after the agreed time is considered culturally appropriate.

✓

Use formal titles like Señor or Señora when addressing older individuals or people in positions of authority until invited to use first names.

Avoid discussing sensitive political history or the era of the military dictatorship unless you have a close relationship with the person you are speaking to.

✓

Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas of Santiago and Valparaíso, as pickpocketing can be common.

Don't refer to people from the United States as 'Americans' (Americanos), as Chileans consider themselves Americans too; use 'estadounidense' instead.

✓

Carry a small amount of cash in Chilean pesos (CLP) for tips or small purchases in rural areas where card machines may not be available.

Safety & Health

Chile is generally safe but currently under a Level 2 advisory due to civil unrest and rising crime. Significant caution is advised in Santiago's historic center and the Araucanía region.

Tap Water

generally safe in major cities; variable in rural/remote areas

Vaccinations

CDC: be up to date on routine vaccines; Hepatitis A recommended; Hepatitis B recommended for unvaccinated travelers (especially <60); Typhoid recommended for most travelers (especially smaller cities/rural); Rabies pre-exposure for higher-risk activities (bats/animal contact).

Common Scams

⚠ Spiked drinks in bars followed by 'express kidnapping' to force ATM withdrawals.
⚠ The 'mustard scam' where a stranger spills something on you to distract you while an accomplice steals your bag.
⚠ Unlicensed taxis at airports charging exorbitant rates or using rigged meters.
⚠ Fake tour operators in popular areas like San Pedro de Atacama selling unregistered services.

Healthcare in major cities is high-quality but expensive, requiring comprehensive travel insurance that includes high-altitude evacuation for Andean trekking.

Language

Spanish is the universal language, characterized by a rapid pace and unique local slang. English is widely spoken in hotels and major tourist hubs but is rare in rural areas and among older generations.

English Spoken: Moderately spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning	Local	Pronunciation
Cool / Great	Bacán	bah-KAHN
Do you understand?	¿Cachai?	ka-CHAI
Right away	Al tiro	al TEE-roh
1,000 Pesos	Una luca	OO-na LOO-ka
The check, please	La cuenta, por favor	la KWEHN-ta por fah-BOHR
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	DOHN-deh es-TAH el BAH-nyoh
City bus	La micro	la MEE-kroh

Visa & Entry

Tourists from many countries, including the EU, USA, and Australia, can enter for up to 90 days without a visa using a Temporary Stay permit (tourist card received on arrival; must be returned on departure).

Max Stay

Up to 90 days (extendable once for up to 90 more days; extension fee USD 100)

Passport Validity

Valid for the period of your stay

Visa-free for

USA, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brazil, Argentina

Check requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chile safe for tourists to visit?

Chile is generally considered one of the safer countries in South America, but it is currently under a Level 2 travel advisory. You should exercise increased caution in the historic center of Santiago and the Araucanía region due to occasional civil unrest and petty crime. Always keep your valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Is Chile expensive to visit for a holiday?

Compared to its neighbors, Chile is one of the more expensive destinations in the region, with an average daily budget of approximately $101 / CLP 87,892. A bed in a hostel will typically cost between $24–$41 / CLP 20,440–CLP 35,770, while a mid-range meal at a restaurant usually ranges from $18–$29 / CLP 15,330–CLP 25,550. Domestic flights and long-distance buses are reasonably priced if booked in advance.

When is the best time to visit Chile?

The peak travel season is during the southern summer months of December, January, and February. This is the ideal time for trekking in Patagonia or visiting the Lake District, as temperatures range from 15–25°C (59–77°F). If you are visiting the Atacama Desert, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do I need a visa to enter Chile?

Many nationalities, including citizens of the EU, USA, and Canada, can enter Chile for tourism for up to 90 days without a pre-arranged visa. Upon arrival, you will receive a PDI (investigative police) card, which you must keep and present when leaving the country. This 90-day stay can be extended for an additional 90 days at the local immigration office for a small fee.

Is English widely spoken in Chile?

English proficiency is moderate in Chile, primarily concentrated in larger cities like Santiago and within the tourism industry. While hotel staff and tour guides in San Pedro de Atacama or Torres del Paine will likely speak English, you will find it helpful to know basic Spanish phrases for navigating public transport or eating at local markets.

What food is Chile most famous for?

Chile is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly 'centolla' (king crab) from the south and 'reyneta' (pomfret) along the coast. You must try the Empanada de Pino, which is the national snack, and Pastel de Choclo, a savory corn-based pie. For a sweet treat, the Completo hot dog is a local staple found on almost every street corner.

How do I get around Chile efficiently?

Chile has a highly developed transport network that is very traveler-friendly. For long distances, domestic flights are the fastest option, while high-quality sleeper buses (semi-cama or salon-cama) are affordable and comfortable for overnight journeys. Within Santiago, the metro system is clean, safe, and efficient, running from approximately 06:00–23:00.

Can you drink the tap water in Chile?

It is generally advised that tourists avoid drinking the tap water in Chile. While it is treated in major cities like Santiago, the high mineral content can often cause stomach upset for visitors who are not used to it. It is safer to stick to bottled water, which is readily available at 'almacenes' (corner stores) and supermarkets for roughly $1.18–$2.36 / CLP 1,022–CLP 2,044 per bottle.

What is the weather like in Santiago?

Santiago enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 30–35°C (86–95°F), while winter (June to August) is cool and damp, with averages around 8–15°C (46–59°F). The proximity to the Andes means the city can experience rapid temperature drops once the sun sets.

What should I pack for a trip to Chile?

Because of Chile's extreme geography, you should pack for multiple climates regardless of the season. Layers are essential for Patagonia and the Atacama, where temperatures can swing from 20°C during the day to below freezing at night. Sturdy hiking boots, a windproof jacket, and high-SPF sunscreen are necessities for any outdoor activities.

Why you can trust this guide

Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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