Chile Flag of Chile

countrySouth America

Chile is a COUNTRY in South America.

Chile, a land of staggering contrasts and breathtaking beauty, stretches like a ribbon along the western edge of South America. From the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the icy glaciers of Patagonia in the south, Chile offers an unparalleled diversity of landscapes. Explore the vibrant streets of Santiago, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial architecture. Marvel at the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama, the driest desert on Earth, or trek through the lush forests and turquoise lakes of the Lake District. Don't miss the mystical Easter Island, home to the iconic Moai statues, or the dramatic fjords and towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. Chile's rich cultural heritage, world-class wines, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Best time to visit Chile

The best time to visit Chile depends on the region. For Santiago and central Chile, spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) offer pleasant weather. The Atacama Desert is great year-round, while Patagonia is best visited in the summer months (December to February) for milder weather and accessible trails.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 14-22°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Mid

Ideal for central Chile

Know before you go

Getting there

SCL

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport

International

15 km away

PUQ

Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport

International

20 km away

ANF

Andrés Sabella Gálvez International Airport

International

25 km away

PMC

El Tepual International Airport

International

15 km away

Getting around

"Chile offers various transportation options. Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel between cities, with extensive networks and comfortable services. In cities, the metro system in Santiago is efficient and easy to navigate. For remote areas like Patagonia, domestic flights are recommended. Renting a car is ideal for exploring regions like the Lake District or the Atacama Desert, but be prepared for long distances and varying road conditions."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and tourist areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+56

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty crime is the main concern; violent crime is low.

Night safety

7/10

Petty crime is the main concern; violent crime is low.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Chile is generally safe for travelers, but exercise caution in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables."

Entry and health

Visa requirements

"Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU nations, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy for specific requirements."

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required for Chile, but it's recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Altitude sickness can be a concern in the Andes, so acclimatize slowly. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is advisable in remote areas."

Culture

Local customs

"Chileans are warm and polite, and greetings are important. A handshake is common, and close friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek. Tipping is customary, with 10% being standard in restaurants. When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to say 'Buen provecho' before starting your meal. Chileans value punctuality, so arrive on time for appointments or social gatherings."
Spanish (official)MapudungunQuechuaAymaraRapa NuiSpanish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP) · $

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a cheap local meal costs around $8

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$1.5 | local bus ride ~$1.5

Cost notes

Prices vary significantly between Santiago and remote Patagonia.

Timezone

America/Santiago -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

18,729,160

Area

756,950 km²

Government

Republic

ISO code

CL, CHL

Type

country

Frequently Asked Questions

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AdventureNatureWine RegionHikingDesertPatagoniaStargazingCultural