Chile: Discover Its Natural Wonders and Rich Culture
A Chilean legend maintains that after God created the wonders of the world he had many pieces leftover. He had raging rivers, sprawling glaciers, valleys and soaring mountains, snow-capped volcanoes, sparkling lakes, beautiful forests and expansive deserts, icy fjords and sandy beaches. Rather than let all this beauty go to waste, he put them all together in a remote part of the world, and so Chile was born.
A long narrow strip making up the western part of South America’s tail, Chile is 2,610 miles (4,200km) in length and at most 115 miles (180km) wide. Travellers are drawn to this country because of its multitude of natural attractions, from the stark northern deserts to the beautiful Lake District, and the dramatic mountains and fjords of Patagonia in the south. Chile is home to some superb National Parks, including the famous and mysterious Easter Island, and numerous activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike much of South America, Chile’s natural splendour is made accessible by great infrastructure and the outdoor adventure can be pleasantly interrupted by time in impressive urban hubs which make it clear that this is a country thriving economically and culturally.
Chile’s European colonial heritage is evident throughout the country, and Chile’s urban population is increasingly cosmopolitan, so that many travellers are surprised by how familiar and modern Chile feels in comparison to neighbouring South American countries which still boast strongly indigenous lifestyles. Indigenous culture does still thrive in parts of Chile, however, and the more traditional enclaves juxtapose interestingly with the palpable European influence. The people are resilient, cordial and hospitable, from the fashionable capital city of Santiago to the isolated island of Chiloé.
Besides natural beauty and an interesting blend of cultures, Chile offers the visitor excellent wines and seafood, unique handicrafts and shopping, and a variety of characteristic architecture, making it a beautiful and memorable place to visit.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language is Spanish.
- Passport/Visa:
A return or onward ticket is required, and it’s recommend that passports be valid for six months after the intended period of travel. Extension of stay is possible for an additional 90 days for visa exempt visitors.
- Currency:
The local currency is the Chilean peso (CLP), which is divided into 100 centavos. Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and to a lesser extent, American Express, are accepted in most large shops and hotels. ATMs are widely available.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs and round three-pin plugs are used.
Overview
The list of attractions in Chile is as long as the country itself. The best of these lie in the country’s vast wilderness areas, although Santiago, the capital city, also has an impressive sightseeing offering, and the nearby city of Valparaiso is increasingly drawing global attention with its street art and bohemian atmosphere.
In Chilean Patagonia, nature lovers will find Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael and Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, both of which rank among the most impressive scenic sites in the world, and encompass mountains, ice fields, glaciers and lagoons. These can all be explored by way of extensive and well-maintained hiking trails.
Interesting towns such as Castro, Puerto Montt and Pucon provide springboards into The Lake District and Parque Nacional Chiloe, where rivers, lakes and volcanoes promise a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts, and the age-old Chilean folklore enchants the more culturally minded.
Chile continues to amaze with weird and wonderful landscapes and natural features such as the El Tatio Gyesers and The Valley of the Moon in the northern Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos. Those willing to make a trip into yet more remote country can hop across to the mysterious Easter Island, where the giant stone Moai stare out to sea, guarding the ancient secrets of one of the most isolated places on earth.
Chile is truly one of the most diverse countries in the world and it is best to pick a region or two to explore to avoid travelling long distances, as popular regions such as Chilean Patagonia, the Lake District and the Atacama Desert can all easily occupy an entire holiday. Travellers should also note that Chile covers a number of different climate zones and there is no one ideal season to visit; trips should be scheduled according to the desired destination.
Climate in Chile
The territory of Chile extends from the tropics down almost to Antarctica, and from sea level up to breath-taking altitudes, meaning the country has a wide variety of climate zones. In the north there is hardly any rainfall and conditions are very hot and arid. The climate in central Chile is Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters between April and September. Average annual rainfall increases, and temperatures decrease as travellers move further south. In Santiago average temperatures vary between 68ºF (20ºC) in January, the height of summer, and 46ºF (8ºC) in July, midwinter. In the extreme south the weather is cold and wet most of the year, with snow covering the mountains and the sky cloudy. Because the weather in Chile varies so much there is no ideal time to visit the country as a whole; depending on the desired area and activities, the best time to visit Chile will change. However, in every season the country has something to offer that makes it a year-round travel destination.
Health Notes when travelling to Chile
All eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines; vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B are recommended, and a typhoid vaccine may be recommended for long-term travellers who plan to visit rural areas and eat outside of hotels and restaurants. Water is generally safe in the cities, but should be treated in the rural areas; bottled water is widely available for drinking. Santiago is severely polluted and this could cause respiratory problems or eye irritations, particularly between May and August. Travellers visiting the Andes Mountains should be aware of altitude sickness, and ascend slowly to allow the body to adjust. Healthcare in urban areas is generally good, but hospitals and clinics are expensive. Comprehensive travel health insurance is recommended.
Safety Notes when travelling to Chile
Chile is a politically stable country with few safety threats to travellers. Incidences of pick-pocketing and mugging are on the increase in big cities and travellers should take care of their belongings, especially around tourist areas and bus stations. Travellers should also avoid walking alone late at night, and should be particularly cautious in Valparaiso and the capital, Santiago, where theft is on the increase, and muggings are becoming more common in popular walking areas such as Cerro San Cristobal, Cerro Santa Lucia and Cerro Manquehue. There has been an increase in reports regarding people receiving spiked drinks at nightclubs and bars, particularly in Santiago. Travellers should avoid any involvement in political protests and demonstrations, which take place from time to time. Chile has a landmine problem, which is mainly restricted to border areas adjacent to Peru and Bolivia. These areas are seldom visited by most travellers, so landmines shouldn’t be a problem. However, visitors are advised to stick to marked roads, obey all signs and seek the advice of local authorities if travelling to these areas.
Customs in Chile
Although Chile is largely conservative in outlook, homosexuality is legal and is increasingly widely accepted socially. Punishment for the possession and consumption of drugs is illegal and can lead to prison sentences.
Duty Free in Chile
Travellers entering Chile do not need to pay customs duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars (large or small) and 500g tobacco; 2.5 litres of alcohol; and perfume for personal use. Meat products, flowers, fruit and vegetables may only be imported if permission is given by the Department of Agriculture.
Doing Business in Chile
Chilean business culture tends to be formal, and this includes dress, which should also be conservative. In business, Chileans should be addressed by their titles and surnames, unless otherwise stated. Businesses are often family run. Third party introductions are indispensable when arranging a meeting, and developing a personal relationship is key. Chileans often stand very close when conversing and it is impolite to pull away. Visitors are also expected to re-confirm appointments before arriving at a meeting. Foreigners should be on time for meetings, but it is not unusual for the host to be 15 to 30 minutes late. On introduction, a firm handshake and exchange of business cards is usual; cards should be printed in both English and Spanish, and it’s important to pay attention to the card before putting it away carefully. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, often with a siesta over lunch.
Communication in Chile
The international access code for Chile is +56. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Chile
Tips of about 10 percent are expected in restaurants; it’s usual to round up the fare for taxi drivers if they help with the luggage. Tipping small amounts is customary for most services.
Passport/Visa Note
A return or onward ticket is required, and it’s recommend that passports be valid for six months after the intended period of travel. Extension of stay is possible for an additional 90 days for visa exempt visitors.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
No visa is required by US nationals for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required for travel to Chile. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
No visa is required by Canadians for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required for travel to Chile. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationls require a visa and passport valid on arrival. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival, but a visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days. Visitors to Easter Island must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors of Easter Island are allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 days. They must:
– have a return ticket, and
– submit an entry form on https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl, and
– have a reservation in a hotel approved by Sernatur (http://serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl/alojamientos/rapanui), or
– have an invitation letter from a resident of Easter Island.
Tourist Offices
Chile National Tourism Website: http://www.chile.travel
Chile Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Chile, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 530 4104.
- In Canada:
Embassy of Chile, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 235 4402.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Chile, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7222 2361.
- In Australia:
Embassy of Chile, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6286 2430.
- In Ireland:
Embassy of Chile, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 667 5094.
- In New Zealand:
Embassy of Chile, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 471 6270.
- In South Africa:
Embassy of Chile, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 460 8090.
Foreign Embassies in Chile
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 330 3000
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 652 3800.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 370 4100.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 550 3500.
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Buenos Aires (also responsible for Chile): +54 11 5787 0801.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 616 3000.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 8200 300.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
