Insider Travel Tips

Practical Information for Visiting Chile

Most travellers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia can enter Chile without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. As of 2025, there is no reciprocity fee, but it’s best to confirm details on your government’s official travel website before departure. 

If you are planning on visiting Rapa Nui, you will need to fill out a Rapa Nui Entry Form (IRN) within three weeks of your arrival on the island. This only takes five minutes to complete and is done online. There is no fee to do so.

According to Destination Specialist Melissa Matheson, “some people think Chile is dangerous, but it’s actually one of the safer countries in South America.”

For a deeper understanding of customs and traditions you may encounter on arrival, explore our Chile culture and traditions guide.

What to Pack for Chile’s Varied Climate

Chile’s length and diverse geography mean packing for various climates and scenarios is essential. 

For cities such as Santiago and Valparaíso, bring versatile layers to handle cool, foggy mornings, warmer afternoons, and chilly evenings. Staples should include T-shirts, sweaters, a light jacket, and comfortable walking shoes for hills and cobblestones (known as the San Francisco of South America, Valparaíso is especially hilly). Pack, too, a waterproof jacket or umbrella, smart-casual clothes for dining, and strong sun protection, as the UV index can be high.

In Patagonia, bring layers, a windproof jacket, and waterproof boots to stay comfortable in ever-changing weather. For the Atacama Desert, sunglasses, lip balm, sunblock, and warm clothing for cool nights are important, while central Chile calls for light clothing during the day and a sweater for cooler evenings. 

Located roughly 3,700 kilometres (2,200 miles) west of the country, Rapa Nui (Easter Island) boasts a humid, subtropical climate, so prioritizing lightweight, breathable clothing, robust sun protection, and versatile layers for wind and rain are key. Other essentials include sturdy trekking shoes, swimwear, a waterproof windbreaker, and high-SPF sunscreen. Focus on comfort for daily walking and archaeological site visits.

“Chile’s diversity is unmatched,” says  Destination Specialist Samy Koussa. “You can enjoy wine tastings in the Casablanca Valley, watch the sunset on the Pacific coast, and trek the glaciers of Patagonia all in one trip.” 

No matter where you go, however, pack Type C or L adaptors, a comfortable daypack, and a refillable water bottle. For advice on what to expect in each season, see our Best Time to Visit Chile guide.

Health and Safety in Chile

Chile is considered one of the safer countries in South America, with a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Tap water is safe to drink in most cities, though bottled water is recommended in rural areas. 

If you plan to visit the Atacama Desert, allow time to acclimatize to the altitude to avoid discomfort. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical care, trip changes, or lost belongings. 

In case of emergency, dial 131 for an ambulance or 133 for the police. Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid isolated areas after dark. 

Currency, Credit Cards, and Tipping in Chile

The currency in Chile is the Chilean peso (CLP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases in rural areas or markets. 

ATMs are common, though fees may apply, especially for foreign cards. Tipping is customary in restaurants, with around 10 percent of the bill considered standard. 

While dining, you may discover local specialties and drinks highlighted in our Chile food and drink guide, from empanadas to Carménère wine.

Language, Customs, and Etiquette in Chile

Spanish is Chile’s official language, and English is less common outside major tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases of Spanish is advisable and will be appreciated, although Chilean Spanish is considered by many across South America to be one of the most challenging versions to understand due to its combination of speed and an accent or affectation that often sees the “s” or “d” at the end of words dropped off. In any case, Chileans are welcoming and will encourage attempts to connect.

Greetings throughout Chile often involve a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek, depending on familiarity. Politeness and punctuality are highly valued, especially in cities, though timing is more relaxed in rural areas. 

As a rule, avoid discussing politics or the Pinochet era unless a local initiates the topic. 

Getting Around Chile

Given Chile’s extraordinary length, domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances, such as between Santiago and Punta Arenas. Long-distance buses are comfortable, affordable, and run frequently between major cities and regions. In urban areas, taxis are widely available, but using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify offers more convenience and clear pricing. 

Rental cars can be a great option in regions like the Lake District or Patagonia, but they are best suited for confident drivers familiar with rural or changing road conditions. As Destination Specialist Samy Koussa notes, “Santiago’s metro is excellent. Long-distance buses are reliable, and driving is great in the south and wine regions.”