santiago chile tourist safety

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Is Chile Safe to Visit?

Chile is one of the most popular destinations (and one of my favorites) in South America. I was blown away by the beauty of the country, the delicious and inexpensive food, the plethora of different ecosystems, and the hospitality of the locals. (And, as someone who works online, how much they are investing in tech — Santiago is one of the best cities in the world for digital nomads! )

Owing to its diverse geography, the country offers a lot to visitors. You can explore the wilderness of Patagonia , taste wine at boutique local vineyards, visit the bucket-list favorite Easter Island , explore the Atacama Desert, hang out in the vibrant capital of Santiago — there are endless reasons to visit Chile.

But, protests and civil unrest that occurred between 2019-2021 raised travelers’ concern over safety about traveling to this Latin American country. While protests have abated following the election of the new president, many travelers are still unsure about the situation on the ground.

So, while Chile is not a dangerous country by any means, there are some things you do need to be careful about when you visit. The tips below will not only help you learn more about how to deal with the risks there but they’ll make sure your experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible!

Table of Contents

8 Safety Tips for Chile

Should i be worried about protests in chile, are there places to avoid in chile, is chile safe to travel alone, is it safe to drive in chile, is it safe to walk around santiago.

• Is the Water Safe to Drink in Chile?

Is Chile Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

1. Be aware of your belongings – Petty theft is your biggest concern in Chile, especially in the larger cities. Since these types of crime are usually situational and occur on a whim, don’t make yourself a target. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying or wearing expensive accessories as well. The more you can blend in, the better.

Be aware that there might be teams of thieves working together: one will try to distract you while another steals something, so be careful if a stranger tries to get you into a conversation in a busy place. This is most common on the bus. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

There are other popular scams here as well, such as the “bird poo” scam, where someone squirts a gooey liquid on you, and then they (or an accomplice) rob you while you’re trying to clean it up or figure out what’s going on. For more info on common travel scams, check out this post.

2. Don’t pet stray dogs – I know: dogs are super cute. But the number of stray dogs in Chile has been increasing, and quite a lot of them have scabies, which is a highly contagious disease. If you come across dogs who look like they have skin problems, make sure not to touch them.

3. Watch out for rip tides and currents when you swim – Chile has lots of beautiful beaches, but unfortunately, many of them have dangerous offshore rips. It’s easy to get swept up in these and not be able to swim back to shore. Watch for signs on beaches that say “no apto para bañar” or “peligroso,” meaning it’s too dangerous for swimming.

4. Double-check your taxi – There have been incidents of people being robbed by unlicensed taxi drivers, including in what look like airport taxis. Don’t hesitate to use pre-booked taxis or to check that the taxis you use are officially licensed ones. When going out, ask your hostel or hotel to book your taxi for you just to be safe.

5. Be prepared for an earthquake or volcanic eruption – Chile is located in a highly active seismic zone, and earthquakes are relatively common. Make sure you familiarize yourself with any safety or evacuation procedures at your accommodation. If you’re hiking, be aware that earthquakes can trigger landslides.

6. Watch out for drink-spiking – There’s been an increase in reports of people having their drinks spiked in recent years. Victims become unconscious and may have their belongings stolen or worse. Be especially careful in the Suecia and Bellavista nightclub areas of Santiago, but it’s good practice to avoid accepting drinks from people you don’t know and to keep your drinks in sight at all times.

7. Look out for the car tire scam – In the larger cities, there have been incidents wherein tourists driving rental cars have a sudden tire puncture because thieves have surreptitiously slashed a tire. Once you’re busy inspecting the damage or changing the tire, thieves swing in to rob your vehicle. Keep a good eye on your stuff if you should mysteriously get a flat tire!

8. Buy travel insurance – Whenever you travel, buy travel insurance. You never know what might go wrong. While you hope that nothing will happen, you’ll be grateful you have travel insurance if you are the victim of theft, get sick or injured, or find yourself in an emergency situation. I never leave home without it. You shouldn’t either! Buy travel insurance before you go!

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

From 2019-2021, anti-government protests erupted in the capital in response to policies that increased subway fares and then became general protests about the increased cost of living, privatization, and inequality. Parts of the capital, Santiago, erupted in flames and the protests got violent.

However, while the scars of those incidents are still visible, the pandemic and governmental changes, including the election of a new president, have ended this period of increased civil unrest. Moreover, protests in general are confined to major cities. If you’re going hiking in Patagonia or out to the desert or even to the nearby town of Valparaiso, you won’t notice anything.  

Not really. You’ll want to be more vigilant in the busier areas of cities like Santiago and Valparaiso, where petty theft and tourist scams are more likely to occur, and protests are more likely to arise. There is no reason to avoid these places — just keep your guard up and your possessions secure as you’re out and about.  

Solo travel is as safe in Chile as any other kind of travel, and you should just take the usual extra precautions when traveling alone anywhere. The biggest problem will be making sure you keep an eye on your luggage and valuables at all times, especially on public transport. But it’s still quite safe for solo travelers!  

Chileans tend to drive quite aggressively, so this might put you off from renting a car in Chile. It’s also tough work driving in Santiago because the traffic is always really busy and pedestrians run across roads without checking.

The highways are well-maintained through funding from tolls. Once you’re off the main roads, however, the secondary roads are often not well-maintained and are poorly lit, so you will need to be more careful. If you’re driving in the mountains, you’ll notice that the hillside roads don’t have the guardrails you often see in other countries.

If you’re not used to driving in countries with more lax rules of the road, I’d advise against renting a car. But as long as you have experience and are comfortable in a more hectic environment, then go for it!  

Chile’s capital, Santiago, is a large city with well over five million inhabitants, so, like many big cities, there are parts that are perfectly safe and some that might be a little dangerous. The Las Condes, Vitacura, and Providencia areas of Santiago are known to have higher rates of petty theft than other parts of the city, so be extra cautious when in those areas.

Try to avoid walking around at night if you’re alone just to be safe. And, whenever possible, share a taxi with others to reduce the chances of getting robbed.  

Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink in Chile?

The tap water here is generally considered safe, though the high mineral content in many places can make it a bit unpalatable. It never hurts to take precautions, so consider using a water bottle with a built-in filter, like Lifestraw , to purify your water while simultaneously reducing your environmental impact by avoiding single-use plastic water bottles. You’ll definitely need a water purifier for when you hike in the mountains down south, where it is not safe to drink the tap water or from a stream.  

There is no special risk for female travelers in Chile, although, like in many parts of the world, you should probably avoid being alone in empty or dark places at night. Women are also more likely to be victims of drink-spiking, especially if they’re on their own at a bar or club. However, many women go backpacking alone in Chile, and for the majority of them, the trip is uneventful. While you might be traveling solo, you will also most likely end up making some like-minded friends.

Here are a few helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:

• How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
• 8 Myths About Solo Female Travel Debunked
• 10 Common Questions About Solo Female Travel
• Women Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Travel Alone

Chile is an amazing country. Whether you’re interested in the natural wilderness, want to head out to Easter Island, or are keen to experience the culture and vibe of Santiago , the country won’t disappoint.

Just be aware of scams meant to distract you and use some common sense. Chile is safe to visit — as long as you follow the tips above. Do that, and you’ll have a fun, safe, and amazing visit to this underrated destination!

Book Your Trip to Chile: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Hostal Forestal (Santiago)
• Hostal Po (Valparaiso)
• Kona Tau (Easter Island)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Chile? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Chile for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Chile - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Chile due to  crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary : Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing.

Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Chile.

If you decide to travel to Chile:

• Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Chile.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on  Facebook , Instagram,  and  Twitter .
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

For the duration of stay

One page minimum for immigration entry stamp is required

Not required for stays of 90 days or less (tourist passports only)

Foreigners who enter Chile as tourists must prove that they have sufficient daily funds of a minimum of $46 USD to cover their expenses. Additional information can be found here

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santiago.

Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes Santiago, Chile Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3000 (5pm-8am) Emergency Working-Hours Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3716 (8am-5pm) Fax: +(56)(2) 2330-3710 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Your passport must be in good condition and valid for the period of your stay. You do not need a visa for a tourist or business stay of 90 days or fewer (if traveling on a tourist passport). Upon arrival, you will receive a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) valid for up to 90 days, which you can extend for another 90-day period by paying $100 US at the  Chilean Immigration Office . You must return the Tourist Card upon departure. Failure to return it may delay your departure from Chile. If the Tourist Card is lost or stolen, you must replace it at an  International Police Office  or at the airport before leaving. You will face a fine if you remain longer than allowed, and you will not be able to leave Chile until the fine is paid. If applicable, pay the fine before your departure by going to the  Chilean Immigration Office  or you may face significant delays. 

Travel on Diplomatic or Official Passports:   U.S. citizens traveling to or through Chile on diplomatic or official passports are required to obtain a visa before travel.

Entry / Exit Requirements for Dual Nationals: Dual nationals must enter and exit Chile using their Chilean passports, and they must enter and exit the United States using their U.S. passports.

Entry / Exit Requirements for Minors (under 18): Parents traveling with a minor must show evidence of their relationship to the child when entering or departing the country. Carry an original apostilled birth certificate.

Minors departing Chile must submit to Chilean airport officials an original notarized authorization from any non-traveling parent(s), a photocopy of the authorization, and an original apostilled birth certificate at the time of departure. For non-traveling parent(s) in Chile, the notarization can be done by a local Chilean notary public. For non-traveling parent(s) in the United States, the notarization can be done at the  Chilean Embassy or a Chilean Consulate . If a U.S. notary executes the authorization, it must be  apostilled  to be valid in Chile. An apostille should be obtained well in advance of travel as the process is lengthy.

• The  Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs  provides more information on entry and exit requirements for children. 
• Visit the  Embassy of Chile  website for the most current visa information.
• The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Chile.
• Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Demonstrations occur frequently, especially on March 29, May 1 and 21, September 11, and October 18. Although most are peaceful, they can become violent. Avoid demonstrations if possible. Strikes are also common and can cause significant travel delays, especially if you are traveling to remote areas, such as Easter Island, Punta Arenas, or Chiloe.

Anarchist groups have placed explosive and incendiary devices in public spaces throughout Santiago, such as ATMs, metro stations, and government facilities. Remain vigilant and avoid suspicious or unattended packages.

Araucanía Conflict: Some individuals or groups claiming affiliation with the Mapuche indigenous community have sought redress for grievances by burning churches, homes, and pastures, and attacking trucks, buses, and farming/logging equipment, causing property destruction, injuries, and deaths. In 2022, the Government of Chile implemented a State of Emergency in the area that is reevaluated every 15 days. While these groups have mainly targeted forestry corporations and landowners, you should exercise caution in the Araucanía region.

Crime: Street crime, carjackings, telephone scams, credit card fraud, and residential break-ins are common, especially in Santiago, Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Antofagasta, Calama, and Iquique. Exercise significant caution when touring Cerro Santa Lucia, Cerro San Cristobal, Mercado Central, Plaza de Armas, Bellavista, Yungay, Barrio Lastarria, Persa BioBio, Barrio Meiggs, Patronato, Centro Cultural Estación Mapocho and Los Dominicos in Santiago, or other popular tourist sites as pickpocketing and muggings occur frequently. Small bags and purses have been stolen from hotel lobbies, crowded tourist locations, Santiago’s subway, taxis, and the backs of chairs and floors at bars, restaurants, and cafés. Cell phones are often stolen from restaurant tables. Criminals have drugged and robbed U.S. citizens, leaving them with no memory of events. The murder of a U.S. citizen occurred in 2023 in the neighborhood of Yungay. Carjackings and vehicle thefts are a serious problem in Santiago, Valparaiso, and northern Chile (from Iquique to Arica). Thieves have punctured rental car tires to distract foreigners and steal their belongings from the vehicle.

Additionally, though not typical touring areas, exercise significant caution when traveling through or in Villa Francia, El Castillo, La Victoria, La Pincoya, Bajos de Mena y Mahuidanche, and the municipalities of Cerro Navia, Pudahuel, Quilicura and San Bernardo in Santiago,

In particular:

• Keep all valuables on you when taking buses, especially to or from Calama and San Pedro de Atacama. Thefts are common and are often done by people posing as bus employees. 
• Never allow your credit card to be charged outside of your view.
• Do not accept assistance if your clothes are splashed with a wet, sticky substance - keep moving and do not let go of your bags.
• Do not accept any beverages from strangers.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Criminals rarely work alone, and things are not worth the possibility of physical harm or death.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night, especially if alone.
• Do not use unauthorized taxi services.  Individuals should use regulated taxis with orange or yellow license plates or ride-share applications. See Travel and Transportation section for more information
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. identification (passport, driver’s license) and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods are generally illegal in Chile. Bringing them to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. See the  intellectual property section of the U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.
• See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police at 133 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(56) 2 2330-3716. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance or call local police at 149.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules about best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand to support organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, visit our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice   website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances: Chile is prone to major earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, tsunamis, floods, and volcanic eruptions. The Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service ( SENAPRED ) provides alerts and guidance for these types of events. There are emergency preparedness guides available on the  Ready.gov  and Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) websites. It is important to make a plan and to keep emergency supplies accessible. There are recommendations for preparing a disaster supply kit available  here .

Citizens are advised to consult with authorities and/or hotel management if in doubt of the need to leave an area. All U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor the news closely, including the  SENAPRED website.

There are minefields on Chile's border with Peru and Bolivia, and Argentina in Patagonia. Follow clearly identified roads and trails when in minefield areas. Consult with national park or other local officials concerning minefields.

For outdoor and adventure sports along the border with Argentina, Bolivia or Peru, register with Chile’s  Dirección Nacional de Fronteras y Limites del Estado , which can provide a permit allowing travelers to temporarily cross borders to engage in outdoor activities.

Despite the best efforts of local authorities, assisting persons lost or injured in isolated and wilderness areas is difficult. You should only undertake organized adventure activities with a well-established and insured company. If you intend to hike, never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company. Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to return. Register with park officials, when available, or the nearest police station when pursuing outdoor activities in remote areas. Obtain detailed information on hiking trails before setting out and do not venture off marked trails. Distances between centers for outdoor sports and top-notch hospital care can be extreme. You should consider getting medical evacuation insurance.

Before you go, consult:

• Chilean Meteorological Service  (weather forecasts)
• SENAPRED (Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service)
• Chilean Forestry Service  (national parks and wilderness areas)
• Federación de Andinismo de Chile  (mountain climbing)
• Chilean National Tourist Office

Under Chilean law, you can be expelled from the country for damaging national heritage objects or places. Travelers should learn and adhere to all the rules of visiting national parks.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQIA+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on adult same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQIA+ events in Chile. Since 2022, under Law 21400, same-sex marriage is legal in Chile. There have been cases of discrimination due to sexual orientation and gender identity, including cases involving violence or death. Laws also prevent transgender persons from changing gender markers on government-issued identity documents.

See our  LGBTQIA+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Many public places and transportation are not adapted to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. For information on handicap accessible locations in Santiago and other locations, visit the Chilean  National Disability Agency  or  MapCity.com

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

Medical care in Chile is generally good, though it may not meet U.S. standards in remote areas. Major hospitals accept credit cards. Santiago has one private hospital accredited by The American Hospital Association: Clinica Alemana . 

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information insurance coverage overseas. We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Chile  to ensure the medication is legal in Chile. Always carry a sufficient supply of your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Please note the following health concerns:

• Dengue Fever (endemic to Easter Island but not found on continental Chile).
• Air pollution is a concern in many parts of Chile including Santiago, Rancagua, Talca, Chillan, Los Angeles, Temuco, Osorno, and Coyhaique, and is most severe in winter (May-August).
• The ozone layer is especially thin over parts of Chile. Protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Chile is relatively safe; road conditions vary from well-paved to gravel and dirt roads in more remote areas. Roadside assistance is widely available with local insurance. In the more remote parts of Chile, roadside assistance and gas stations may be limited; travel with at least one spare tire and extra fuel. Yellow reflective vests are required in all cars in case of a roadside emergency. Vehicular inspections are required yearly to renew your mandatory car insurance.

Traffic Laws:  Driving under the influence of alcohol in Chile is severely punished and can result in incarceration. While in Chile, you may encounter road conditions and traffic laws that differ significantly from those in the United States:

• Right-hand turns are prohibited at red lights unless otherwise posted.
• Major highways in and around Santiago collect tolls with an electronic transmitter (available at  http://www.concesiones.cl/)
• Secondary and mountain roads may be poorly maintained, poorly lit, and may lack guardrails.
• Some primary roads to remote tourist attractions are not paved, but are well maintained, with graded gravel.
• Many drivers do not signal lane changes and rarely yield to merging traffic.
• Many drivers exceed posted speed limits, do not maintain safe distances, and do not observe posted road signs.
• Major traffic arteries in Santiago may switch directions during morning and evening rush hours.
• Drivers must carry sufficient Chilean pesos to pay frequent highway tolls.
• Visitors can drive with a valid U.S. license for the duration of their tourist permit (usually 90 days). Renting a car is also possible, although insurance may not be available in some forms for drivers without a Chilean or international driver’s license. Dual nationals and U.S. citizens residing in Chile should have a Chilean driver’s license.

Public Transportation: Taxis and public transportation are generally safe, plentiful, and relatively inexpensive. Ride-share applications and taxis with orange and yellow license plates are generally safe to use. Avoid using unmetered taxis and unauthorized services outside of airports. Use of unauthorized taxi services has resulted in theft. Chile’s Ministry of Transportation maintains a list of registered taxi companies . To use the public bus system in Santiago, you need to obtain the prepaid “BIP” card, which can also be used on the Santiago  subway .

• Visit Chile’s Ministry of Transportation’s page on how to safely use taxis .
• See our  Road Safety page  for more information.
• Visit the website of Chile’s  National Tourist Office  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Chile’s Civil Aviation Authority as in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Chile’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Chile should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the  Maritime Administration  website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the  U.S. Coast Guard  and the  National Geospace Intelligence Agency  (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Chile .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Chile travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 19, 2024 08:40 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, chile - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Chile due to ongoing demonstrations and civil unrest.

Back to top

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and thefts from vehicles, can occur in any parts of the country. However, you should remain especially vigilant in larger cities such as:

• San Pedro de Atacama
• Valparaíso
• Viña del Mar

Thefts commonly occur in: 

• popular tourist areas, including viewpoints
• bus terminals, train stations and airports
• the subway system in Santiago
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios located near streets

These types of crimes are often carried out using distraction. Pickpockets and bag snatchers work in pairs or groups and employ a variety of ruses to divert their victim’s attention. In some cases, thieves on foot work with thieves on motorcycles, “motochorros,” to snatch purses, cell phones and backpacks.

In Valparaíso and Santiago, thieves target rental cars likely to be driven by tourists. They puncture the tire of a vehicle, then stealing items when the occupants get out to check the tire.

Another distraction technique involves spilling a substance on victims and then robbing them while pretending to help clean the stain.

To avoid becoming a victim:

• be suspicious of strangers approaching you, because they may attempt to distract and rob you
• don’t hang bags and purses on chairs or keep them on tables or between your feet in public places
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t carry large amounts of money
• avoid showing signs of affluence

On the road:

• don’t leave your personal belongings visible on the seat beside you
• keep windows closed and doors locked at all times
• don’t leave bags, luggage or other valuable items in a unattended car, even in the trunk

Violent crime

The number of armed assaults and robberies has increased in recent years. Tourists have been attacked, even during the daytime. Be particularly careful:

• around Cerro Alegre in Valparaíso
• in Cerro San Cristóbal park, north of Santiago
• in Santiago:
• Plaza de Armas
• Mercado Central
• the Bellavista and Barrio Lastarria neighbourhoods
• in common tourist areas

Carjackings can occur, including as drivers leave their vehicles to open or close gates or wait for gates to open or close.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Avoid walking after dark
• If you are threatened, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance

Araucanía and Biobío regions

There has been politically motivated violence in some parts of the Araucanía and Biobío regions of southern Chile.

Violent protests, barricades, looting, arson attacks and fatal shootings have occurred.

If you’re travelling in these regions:

• exercise caution
• avoid travelling at night

Explosions of small-scale devices occasionally occur in Santiago.

Targets of attacks have included:

• transportation hubs
• government buildings

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in Santiago, particularly in Plaza Italia, also known as Plaza Baquedano, as well as in Valparaíso and Concepción. They also occur occasionally elsewhere in the country. They may lead to:

• public transportation disruptions
• confrontations with police

Public sector strikes also occur and can affect service availability.

Large demonstrations often take place on dates of national significance such as:

• March 29 (the day of the Young Combatant)
• May 1 (International Worker’s Day)
• September 11 (anniversary of the 1973 military coup)
• October 18 (anniversary of the 2019 civil unrest)

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Chilean law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstration or promoting dissent, including on social media, may result in you being detained and/or deported.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Telephone scams are also frequent in Chile.

• Never provide any personal or financial information over the phone
• Never provide information about the whereabouts of your family members

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• Pay attention when drinks are prepared and served, especially in Santiago’s Bellavista and Suecia neighbourhoods

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as volcano tours, desert expeditions, boat trips, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Safety features in vehicles and on small boats used in river and lake excursions are not always reliable.

If you plan on any adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety

Useful Links

• Parks and wilderness areas  - CONAF (in Spanish)
• Local weather forecast  - Chilean Meteorological Service (in Spanish) 
• Advice for trekking and mountaineering - Ministry of Interior and Public Security (in Spanish) 

Marked minefields pose a risk in remote areas bordering the following countries:

If you are traveling in remote border areas:

• stay on main roads and paved surfaces
• avoid open fields, road shoulders and unmarked trails
• cross only at official border crossings
• strictly observe warning signs indicating the possible presence of landmines

Land border posts with Argentina                                         

Due to winter weather conditions impacting road safety,  authorities regularly close land border posts with Argentina during the winter (June – September).

• Stay informed of regional weather forecasts
• Plan accordingly

Road travel

Road safety and road conditions can vary greatly throughout the country.

Road conditions

Road conditions in urban areas are generally very good. However, driving on some secondary roads or in mountainous areas can be dangerous due to:

• poor lighting
• lack of guardrails
• poor maintenance
• difficult winter weather conditions
• strong side winds
• unpaved roads

Road safety

Driving standards are poor. Accidents, particularly in Santiago, are common. Drivers are often reckless or aggressive.

You should drive defensively if you are driving in Chile.

Public transport

Criminal groups target tourists. They use their ploy of distracting their victims and then taking their belongings on buses, the metro, bus stations and airports.

Tourists travelling on intercity buses, especially from Calama to Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama or Santiago, have been robbed while sleeping.

• Always be vigilant and take extra care when using public transportation
• Watch your bags at all times while waiting for transportation, such as a taxi or shuttle service
• Always carry your valuables and identification with you and avoid storing them in overhead compartments

Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap.

There are reports of credit card fraud in unauthorized taxis, particularly at airports. Drivers may charge excessive amounts, sometimes without customers' knowledge.

When using a taxi from the airport:

• book and prepay your taxi inside the terminal at a dedicated counter
• beware of people posing as taxi drivers, especially near the terminal exit
• only board taxis in designated areas
• check the amount on the card reader before inserting your card

In the cities:

• book a taxi in advance rather than hailing one on the street, especially late in the evening
• never share a taxi with strangers
• avoid using taxis that do not have a meter
• agree the fare with the driver before you get in to avoid overcharging
• pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled by others

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Pasos Fronterizos  – Gouvernement de Chili (en espagnol)

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Chilean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Chile.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: not required Student visa: required Work visa: required

Tourist card

You will receive a tourist card upon arrival. The card is valid for a maximum period of 90 days.

You must retain the card and present it to immigration officers upon departure from the country. Failure to do so may result in delays.

Replacing a tourist card

If your card is lost or stolen, you may obtain a new one online.

Alternatively, you may go, well in advance of departure:

• at a special police unit (Jefatura Nacional de Migración y Policia Internacional) in Santiago
• at the nearest office of the Police Investigations Service outside of Santiago
• Jefatura Nacional de Migración y Policía Internacional , Santiago (in Spanish)
• Policía de Investigaciones de Chile - PDI  (in Spanish)
• Replacing a tourist card  - Police Investigations Service (in Spanish)

Extension of stay

You can request an extension of stay for up to 90 days online. You must do so before your current tourist card’s expiration date. A fee applies.

If you have stayed in Chile for longer than the allowed period, you will have to pay a fine at the Chilean immigration office before you can leave the country.

• Chilean immigration office  (in Spanish)
• Requesting an extension of stay (in Spanish)

Easter Island

Stays on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) are limited to 30 consecutive days for all travellers, including Chileans who reside on the mainland. To board, and upon entry, you will have to:

• have a round trip ticket
• have a passport valid for the duration of the stay
• show proof of reservation of an accommodation authorized by local authorities
• fill the Rapa Nui Entry Form
• Requirements to visit Rapa Nui island  – Government of Chile
• Rapa Nui Entry Form  - Government of Chile

Dual citizenship

Canadian-Chilean dual citizens residing in Chile must enter and depart the country using their Chilean passport.

Canadian-Chilean dual citizens travelling to Chile on their Canadian passport must request an extension of stay if they decide to stay longer than 90 days. They may have to depart the country on a Chilean passport if they fail to do so.

Children and travel

Chile has strict requirements for the entry and exit of persons under the age of 18, including special documentation.

Children born in Chile require a Chilean passport to leave the country.

Adults traveling with a minor must show evidence of their relationship to the child when entering or departing the country. You should carry the child’s original birth certificate.

Contact the nearest Chilean embassy or consulate before departure if your child is planning on travelling alone, or with only 1 parent, to ensure that the latest entry and exit requirements are met.

• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is good. Service is widely available in Santiago and other major cities, but can be very limited in remote areas.

Treatment at private clinics and hospitals is expensive. Most doctors and smaller hospitals typically require advance payment in cash.

Carry an up-to-date medical report from a Canadian physician for reference if you have a pre-existing health condition.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your luggage yourself
• Don’t carry items that do not belong to you

Drugs, alcohol and travel

National parks

Protected areas of national parks are safeguarded by Chilean legislation. Penalties for violations can be severe, especially in the case of fires.

Open fires are strictly forbidden in national parks outside permitted camping areas. This includes burner for cooking purposes.  

Local authorities may revoke your tourist permit if you’re caught starting a fire illegally. They may ask you to depart Chile within 72 hours or be subjected to deportation proceedings. You may also face detention and heavy fines if the open fire results in forest fire.

• Respect protected areas, even if there are no warnings or signs to this effect
• Ensure you have a good understanding of local rules and regulations before entering national parks

Nature conservation  - Chilean national forestry organization (CONAF)

Heritage sites

Heritage areas are safeguarded by Chilean legislation. Penalties for violations can be severe, from payment of a fine to imprisonment.  If you are detained for breaching rules of a heritage site, local authorities may prevent you from leaving the country during the investigation.

• Ensure you have a good understanding of local site and park rules and regulations
• Don’t alter landmarks in any way

Importation of agriculture products

Chile imposes severe restrictions, such as detention and heavy fines, on the importation of agricultural products, such as food and animal products.

Make sure to declare all agriculture items when entering Chile, including packaged products.

Chilean customs regulations  -  National Customs Service (in Spanish)

You can drive with your Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days. However, you should still carry an international driving permit. If you are a resident of Chile, you must apply for a Chilean driver’s licence from the municipality in which you live.

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Penalties for drinking and driving include licence suspension, fines and detention.

Right turns at red lights are prohibited, unless otherwise posted.

Some car rental companies may not allow for international trips. If you intend to travel outside the country in a rental vehicle:

• make sure the rental company allows it before making your reservation
• request written authorization from the car rental company 3 to 5 days before your trip

International Driving Permit

Some insurance companies might not cover pick-up truck rental or have exclusion related to damages caused on unpaved roads.

There is no car insurance available on Easter Island. In case of accident or damage to your rented vehicle, you will have to pay for the repairs yourself.

Restrictions in Santiago

To combat high levels of pollution in winter, restrictions on driving in central Santiago, within the Américo Vespucio ring road, are in place from May to September.

Vehicles with a green seal registered before September 1, 2011 are subject to a daily restriction based on the last two digits of the license plate. Restrictions are in effect:

• from Monday to Friday
• between 7:30 am and 9 pm

If a pre-emergency or environmental emergency is decreed, additional digits could be restricted.

You may check the list of affected plate numbers in newspapers and online.

Vehicle restrictions - Ministry of Transport and Telecommunication (in Spanish)

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Chilean law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

While homosexuality is generally tolerated, Chilean society remains fairly conservative. 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Chile.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Chile, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Chile.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Chile, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Chilean court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Chile to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency in Chile is the Chilean peso (CLP).

Some small restaurants and stores outside Santiago may not accept credit cards.

U.S. dollars are easily exchanged at banks and official foreign exchange bureaus across the country. However, purchases in U.S. dollars can only be made in certain stores in Santiago.

Chile is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• torrential rains
• floods and mudslides
• forest fires

Border crossings can close due to severe weather conditions.

• Latest alerts  – National Service for Prevention and Response to Natural Disasters (SENAPRED) (in Spanish)
• Border crossing status (in Spanish)

Seismic activity

Chile is located in a very active seismic zone.

There are 500 active volcanoes in Chile.

Debris from erupting volcanoes can clog rivers and cause them to overflow, resulting in flash floods and landslides. Ash clouds may also cause disruptions to domestic and international flights.

If you are travelling near active volcanoes:

• monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media
• pay careful attention to all warnings issued
• follow the advice of local authorities
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

Volcano alerts  – National geology and mining service (in Spanish)

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur anywhere throughout Chile.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake or tsunami:

• monitor local news for to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Volcano monitoring  - National Geology and Mining Service (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami warning system  - U.S. National Weather Service

Flooding is frequent during fall and winter, especially between May and August. It occurs throughout the country, mainly as a result of heavy rains and overloaded sewage systems. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Flooding from rising river levels after heavy rain cause injuries and deaths.

Avoid riverside accommodations, especially in central and southern Chile, as dry riverbeds swell rapidly.

Bush and forest fires are common during the summer months. They can happen anywhere, but they usually occur between Santiago and Valparaíso, and in Magallanes.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Air pollution

Santiago has one of the highest pollution levels in South America. Heavy smog can pose serious health hazards from May through October.

The ozone layer is especially thin over parts of Chile.

Take precautions to protect yourself from sunburn.

Regional UV index - University of Santiago (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 133
• medical assistance: 131
• firefighters: 132
• helpline for women victims of violence: 1455
• maritime search and rescue: 137

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Chile, in Santiago, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Santiago Chile Safety Tips for 2022

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: November 18, 2022

As the capital of Chile, Santiago is a great place to explore! We share these Santiago Chile Safety Tips so you can enjoy your trip and stay safe.

Why Santiago?

Do you plan on traveling to Santiago de Chile in the near future? There is nothing quite like it. With the passage of time a tour to Santiago has evolved into becoming a rite of passage that every traveler needs to take before they can safely say “they have seen everything that South America has to offer”. 

Don’t let the excitement of the trip keep you from making sure of your safety during travels. By definition, you are going to be seeing an unfamiliar place when you hit the open road. Even though you should focus on all of the awesome things you are going to do and see, you also need to make sure that you protect yourself. What are a few of the most important safety tips you need to follow when you are traveling ? Learn more below, and make sure you prepare appropriately for your upcoming trip.

How to stay safe in Chile?

Let Someone Know Where You Are Going

First, you need to let someone know your travel plans. Keep them in the loop about where you are going and plan to stay. You must make sure that you do not go somewhere without telling anyone. Particularly if you are traveling alone, you need to make sure that at least one person knows where you’re headed. That way, if people do not hear from you for a while, they will know where you are. This will make it easier for someone to find you.

You should also make sure that you have an emergency contact when you are traveling. Who do you want people to call if you get sick or injured? Make sure people know where you are.

Do Not Stand Out

You should also make sure that you do not stand out from the crowd. When you are going to visit famous places in Santiago , you are probably going to stand out a little bit. On the other hand, do not take any extra steps to look like an outsider.

Try not to wear flashy jewelry. Take a look at the types of clothes that people wear before your trip, and make sure you wear similar clothing.

You should also be very cautious about what you do with your money. You do not want people to see you carrying a giant wad of cash. Otherwise, you will become attractive to criminals and pickpockets.

Make Copies of Your Travel Documents

If you are traveling internationally, you need to make copies of your travel documents . There are plenty of documents that you need to have with you. For example, you should make a copy of your passport. Make it a colored one for even more convenience. 

You also need to make sure that you make a copy of your Visa if one is required for you to get into the country. If you have boarding passes, you need to make sure that you make multiple copies of those as well.

If you are staying in a hotel, make sure you have a copy of your hotel reservation. You may not have cell phone service where you are going, and you need to make sure you are able to pull out your documents if you are asked for them.

Ensure Your Vehicle Is Safe

If you are taking a road trip across Latin America, you need to make sure your vehicle is safe. That means you need to take it to the shop for routine maintenance before you leave. This includes but is not limited to checking oil levels, brake pad durability, and the life of your tires. That way, you can reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.

You also need to make sure that you protect your vehicle when you are on the road. For example, you may want to avoid driving in bad weather. You might even want to protect the interior of your vehicle with the best Ford F-150 seat covers on the market today . If you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you.

Be Cautious About Your Drinks

Even though you will probably want to do a bit of partying when you travel, you need to be careful about what you drink and how much you drink. If you drink too much alcohol, your judgment, inhibitions, and reflexes are going to slow. You might make bad decisions, and you make it easier for someone else to take advantage of you.

You also need to be very careful about taking drinks from other people. You never know if someone may have spiked the drink with something, and you need to watch the bartender make anything that you put in your body. Be very careful if you decide to go drinking.

Stay Creative!

Thank you for your support and love for Creative Travel Guide. If you are looking for more video tips, make sure to head over to your YouTube channel and follow us on Instagram for daily tips and chats.

Share any questions or comments below and happy creative travels!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Chile

Terrorist attacks in Chile cannot be ruled out. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. 

There are occasional acts of domestic terrorism by anarchist groups, mostly in Santiago, including the use of small explosive devices. Groups mainly target banks (ATMs) and public transport. Keep bags with you at all times, and report any suspicious behaviour or unattended packages to local authorities. Since early April 2020, there has been an increase in attacks against security forces in the Araucanía region, particularly around Ruta 5. You should exercise caution and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Political situation

There is a risk of violent protest in Santiago and other Chilean cities, particularly on Friday afternoons and evenings.

Even peaceful protests can become violent. The largest protests usually take place in central Santiago. Police can use tear gas and water cannons against protesters. 

Avoid all demonstrations. Under Chilean law, you can be deported if you’re involved in or promote violent acts that could disturb social order or the system of government.

Nationwide protests often take place on significant dates, such as:

• 11 September (anniversary of the military coup)
• 29 March (Day of the Young Combatant)
• 1 May (Workers’ Day)

Pickpocketing, mugging and thefts from vehicles are very common throughout Chile, including inside airports.

Many foreign visitors have been scammed for large amounts of money by unlicensed taxi drivers, including in airport taxis.

You should only book taxis at the desk inside the airport after collecting your luggage and before you enter the arrivals hall – see  how to recognise official taxis  (in Spanish). You should be able to book and pay in advance at these desks inside the airport. If you cannot pay beforehand, request and approximate amount for the journey at the taxi desk.   

Be wary of people impersonating authorised taxi drivers. There are criminals who dress up as authorised taxi drivers, including people inside the airport arrival hall wearing official-looking lanyards and jackets.

At Santiago airport, unofficial taxi drivers will try to take you to the parking lot to board a private vehicle. Official taxis should only be taken in the controlled platform located on the ground floor of both T1 and T2.

You should also insist on seeing the amount you are charged before you present your card for payment at the end of the ride.

Carefully review the amount being charged on portable credit card machines before paying, including the number of zeroes shown on the screen.  

If the taxi takes you to an ATM to withdraw cash for payment, do not let the driver near the ATM while you use it.

Read information about the official transportation options at Santiago airport:

• car rental (read the section ‘Vehicle crime’ below if you are planning on renting a car.

There are two companies operating in both terminals at the airport. Taxi Oficial Basico operates with black and yellow vehicles, and Taxi Oficial operates with blue vehicles.

Book taxis in advance rather than hailing one from the street, especially late at night. Keep in groups and avoid walking alone late at night.

Protecting your belongings

Keep your valuables and passport somewhere secure, such as in a hotel safe. Bags hanging on chairs or mobile phones on tables can be targeted by thieves, who may use distraction techniques or work in pairs. Take particular care:

around tourist sites, and areas popular with tourists

in cafes and restaurants

at transport hubs, including at the airport, bus stations and ports

in hotel lobbies during arrival and departure

in service (petrol) stations and service station restaurants

When travelling by bus or coach, take care of your belongings when getting on and off. Keep your valuables with you, do not put them in storage compartments, especially for long journeys between regions. Be extremely wary of distractions at bus stations, where there are frequent thefts.  

Violent theft (muggings)

Muggings have happened in tourist areas in Santiago and Valparaiso, increasingly with weapons such as pistols and knives. Muggings can take place during the day and in plain sight of others. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in tourist areas or near official buildings. Muggers will target:

• people carrying large amounts of money – leaving ATMs or currency exchanges, for example
• your passport (carrying a photocopy is enough)
• valuable watches or jewellery
• your mobile phone

Do not resist any attempted mugging.

Vehicle crime

There has been an increase in criminals:

• targeting rental cars in major cities – they sometimes puncture the car’s tyres, often while at traffic lights, distract the occupants when they notice the tyres and steal valuables
• following people from the airport on arrival and robbing them, sometimes at gunpoint
• targeting vehicles entering or leaving private residences while the gates are opening or closing
• carrying out carjackings in Santiago, especially in affluent areas – some armed carjackers target high-end vehicles on highways
• intercepting car locking systems when drivers remotely activate the lock
• targeting people parked at viewpoints and stealing belongings from their cars

Be aware of your surroundings in and around the airport, when driving and on arrival at your destination. Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed. Wait for gates to fully close before leaving your vehicle.

If you’re robbed, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance. If you’re carjacked, local authorities say it is best to raise your hands and get out of the vehicle to avoid violence.

Drink spiking

People have been given ‘spiked’ drinks in nightclubs and bars, particularly in the Suecia and Bellavista areas of Santiago. These incidents leave victims open to theft or assault. Keep your drinks in sight and be wary of people offering to buy drinks for you.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Always carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport with you. 

Alcohol laws and bans

It’s illegal to drink alcohol in public places including streets, roads, squares and promenades.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Using or possessing drugs is illegal and can lead to prison sentences.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Chile and are increasingly widely accepted socially, although much of Chilean society is conservative.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Fires in national parks.

Open fires are illegal in national parks in Chile, outside permitted camping areas. Local authorities may revoke your tourist permit if you’re caught starting a fire in a Chilean national park. You may be asked to leave the country voluntarily within 72 hours or face deportation. If your open fire starts a larger forest fire, you may also face criminal penalties and fines.

Hiking and mountaineering

If you’re planning to go exploring or mountaineering, tell the local authorities before you set off. For further information on mountaineering, contact the Federación de Andinismo de Chile . For any other type of exploring, contact the  Chilean Embassy in London to see if you need a permit. The rescue services in Chile are good, but you may have to pay if they help you.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive a hire car or a UK vehicle, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Chile for 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

You must have your passport and proof of your tourist status, such as your tourist card (‘tarjeta de turismo’) or the entry stamp in your passport, with you in the vehicle.

See information about driving licences in Chile (in Spanish).

If you hire a car, get appropriate insurance. Windscreen repair can be expensive, so consider including windscreen damage cover.

You cannot get car insurance if you’re driving on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). If you have an accident or do any damage to your vehicle there, you’ll have to pay for the repairs yourself.

Driving conditions

Main roads in Chile are surfaced, but you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle in the countryside. Be prepared for a range of driving conditions, from snow and ice to hot sandy deserts. Between June and September, winter weather sometimes temporarily closes the Chile-Argentina border crossing high in the Andes, including the main Los Libertadores crossing between Santiago and Mendoza.

Toll roads are increasingly common.

Landmine accidents mainly affect livestock and local people crossing borders at unauthorised points. Most minefields are near the borders with Peru and Bolivia in the extreme north of Chile (regions XV, I and II) and Argentina in the south (region XII). Although most minefields are clearly marked, some signs and fences are old and damaged and may be hard to spot. In some cases, minefields are laid right up to the edge of highways. Check with local authorities before travelling to more rural areas, stick to clearly marked roads and observe all warning signs.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.

Forest fires

Chile often has severe forest fires which can be very destructive and spread rapidly. These fires have caused multiple deaths, as well as sometimes causing the closure of national parks and roads.

If you find yourself in or near the affected areas of any fires: 

• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation
• notify friends and family of your safety
• review your personal security plans
• make evacuation plans that do not rely on British government assistance
• have travel documents up to date and easily accessible
• carry identification at all times, such as your passport or a copy of it

Earthquakes

Major earthquakes are a risk in Chile. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake . Take note of instructions in hotel rooms.

Building regulations require new structures to take account of earthquake risks. Safety measures are widely known and put into practice by national organisations and the local authorities.

Volcanic eruptions

A chain of volcanoes is active in the Puyehue and Los Lagos region (500 miles south of Santiago). There is a continuing risk of eruptions in Chaiten in southern Chile, Llaima in the Conguillo National Park and Lascar in northern Chile. Copahue, a volcano on the Argentina-Chile border, erupts periodically, causing local residents to be evacuated. Villarrica, a volcano near the popular tourist destinations of Pucon and Villarrica in the IX region of La Araucanía, is also active. 

If you’re travelling to these areas, monitor local media reports and follow local authority volcano monitoring advice (in Spanish).

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Santiago   Travel Guide

Why Go To Santiago

You might associate Santiago with towering skyscrapers, rolling vineyards and soaring mountains – and you wouldn't be wrong. Set in the Maipo Valley (framed by the snowy Andes to the east and the rolling coastal range to the west), the Chilean capital captivates visitors with its jaw-dropping views, neoclassical architecture and world-class museums. Santiago hasn't always been so alluring: In its nearly 500-year history, the city has withstood invasions, dictatorships and countless earthquakes. Yet, in recent decades, the growing economy has led to rapid changes, helping the city to reinvent itself and earn a place on the map alongside other popular South American destinations like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro . Today, Santiago continues to evolve, with its Latin American character and European flair shaping a collection of wholly distinct barrios (neighborhoods). You'll find centuries-old mansions and grand cathedrals next to cutting-edge shops and trendy galleries, markers of Santiago's textured past and promising future.

To discover the city's flourishing enclaves, shop alongside fashion-savvy Santiaguinos in Providencia, soak up the scenery from Santa Lucía Hill or sit down for a meal in burgeoning Barrio Italia. Then, wander through the Plaza de Armas to see the Metropolitan Cathedral or admire Pre-Columbian artifacts on display at the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art . As the sun goes down, sip pisco sours at a cocktail bar or stay up late to join in the revelry at one of the many nightclubs strewn across Bellavista . You may not see all of Santiago's creativity and culture in one trip, but it won't take much effort to experience what's important: artsy boutiques, regionally inspired cuisine and delectable wine – local passions that are bringing a new luster to the Chilean capital.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 6 in Best Cheap Vacations in Central and South America
• # 12 in Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023

Best of Santiago

Best hotels in santiago.

• in Grand Hyatt Santiago
• in The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago
• in Noi Vitacura

Best Things to Do in Santiago

• # 1 in San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal)
• # 2 in Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía)
• # 3 in Sky Costanera

Popular Tours

Valparaiso Port and Vina del Mar Full-Day Tour from Santiago

(2512 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 vineyards from Santiago.

(661 reviews)

Inca Lagoon in Andes Mountain Range - Visit Local Vineyard with Tasting included

(634 reviews)

from $ 95.20

Santiago Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Santiago is from September to November or from March to May; these months mark the spring and fall shoulder seasons in Chile. Although the city experiences a moderate climate with mild temperatures year-round, spring and fall are especially alluring with plenty of sunshine, thinner crowds and affordable flight options from popular U.S. destinations. Fall (March through May) is a particularly pleasant time to visit if you enjoy vino: Vineyards showcase beautiful fall foliage, and grape harvest festivals abound. Spring (September through November) is another excellent time to visit thanks to blooming flowers, comfortable temps and nationwide independence day festivities. From December to February (summertime in the Southern Hemisphere), temperatures, crowds and hotel prices swell across Chile (though Santiago itself thins out). Meanwhile, June, July and August (Chile's winter months) bring showers, cooler temps and increased smog levels, but the powder blanketing the nearby Andes lures skiers.

Weather in Santiago

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Watch out for pickpockets Stay alert when visiting bus stations or tourist areas like Plaza de Armas and the Central Market , where petty crime is prevalent.

Prepare for smog From June through early September, heavy smog permeates the sky (though it improves dramatically following winter rains).

The tap water is safe to drink Although Santiago's mineral-rich water has a distinct taste and can take some getting used to, it is perfectly safe to drink.

How to Save Money in Santiago

Explore on foot The streets of central Santiago are laid out on a grid, making it easy to explore on your own two feet.

Shop the local markets For affordable Chilean souvenirs, head to one of the city's local craft markets, such as Centro Artesanal Pueblito Los Dominicos, where you'll find everything from lapis lazuli jewelry to Andean textiles and ceramics.

Sightsee for free Most state-supported museums are completely free to enter, as are parks, plazas and markets. There are also popular tip-based city tours, including Tours 4 Tips.

Culture & Customs

In 1541, Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia founded Santiago, selecting its central valley location for its moderate climate and advantageous position for fending off intruders. He outlined the city streets on a grid, fanning out from the Plaza de Armas , a main square filled with political institutions and religious sights. Surrounding the Plaza de Armas, you'll stumble upon city highlights, including the Governor's Palace (now the Central Post Office), the Royal Court of Justice (now the National Museum of Natural History) and the Metropolitan Cathedral . It wasn't until the 19th century that Santiago began to grow, with World War II creating a high demand for industrialization and urban jobs. However, the city was rocked in 1973 when Chilean general Augusto Pinochet launched a coup and assumed power. Pinochet's 17-year dictatorship included the loss and exile of thousands of Chilean civilians. As the epicenter of Chilean politics, Santiago was especially prone to the repercussions of Pinochet's actions. Chile restored democracy in 1990, electing a leader who paved the way to economic growth and increased globalization.

Today, Chile's capital is undergoing a renaissance, with flourishing neighborhoods showcasing a mix of old and new, and a blend of the city's Indigenous and European influences. Although the majority of Santiaguinos (those born in Santiago) are Catholic as a result of the city's Spanish heritage, a variety of other religions, including Evangelicalism and Judaism, are widely practiced in Chile.

Spanish is the official language here; however, a booming international travel market has ushered in English-speakers at many major hotels. Outside the hotels, English speakers can be hard to come by. With that in mind, it would be a good idea to master some key Spanish words and phrases, such as "hola" (hello), "buenos días" (good morning), "adios" (goodbye), "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you). You should also consider writing down the name and address of your destination if you are planning to travel by taxi; this will help you avoid any miscommunication.

The official currency of Chile is the Chilean peso. One Chilean peso equals approximately $0.001, or less than one American penny, but you'll want to check the latest exchange rate before your visit. As far as payment is concerned, dollars are sometimes accepted at tour agencies and credit cards are widely accepted at most places, though there is often a small transaction fee and exchange rates may not be as favorable. Make sure to carry Chilean pesos in small denominations to ensure you pay the lowest rate and do not have trouble breaking large bills. When dining, keep in mind that it is considered polite to add a 10% tip. Taxi drivers do not expect gratuity; however, giving your driver any remaining change from your fare is commonly practiced.

You'll find most people here dressed casually, but be sure to pack appropriate attire depending on when you plan to visit. While Santiago maintains a moderate climate, bringing plenty of layers during the winter months and comfortable shoes for walking around is a must. If you're traveling solo, stay alert at all times, especially after dark in popular areas like Bellavista and the Plaza de Armas, where pickpockets prey on unsuspecting visitors.

What to Eat

Santiago's burgeoning culinary scene is a big selling point for foodies. The city's cuisine is as eclectic as its neighborhoods, with restaurants serving dishes packed with Peruvian flavors in bohemian Bellavista and empanadas (meat-, seafood- or cheese-filled pastries) and traditional fish-focused entrees at the Central Market .

Like its South American peers, Santiago's popular restaurants source fresh, local ingredients. Here, you can savor Chilean specialties like machas a la parmesana (razor clams layered with cheese, white wine and lemon juice) and seafood stews prepared with freshly caught fish from the Pacific. Or, you can indulge in meat-centric meals, such as a pastel de choclo (a pie with ground chicken or beef, boiled eggs and olives topped in mashed corn). For upmarket meals, venture to the Providencia and Vitacura areas, where restaurants serve authentic dishes with a little extra zest like caldillo de congrio (a fish stew filled with tomatoes and potatoes) and ceviche made with fresh sea bass or scallops.

Keep in mind, Chileans eat later than Americans. Plan to sit down for lunch between 1 and 3 p.m. and head out for dinner between 8 and 10 p.m. If you need a snack between 3 and 8 p.m. (when many restaurants are closed), visit a salón de té for onces (small bites like those you'd enjoy during an afternoon tea service). Although formal attire is not typically required, dressing up for dinner – particularly in cosmopolitan areas – is a good way to blend in.

Santiago is a relatively safe city with few instances of violent crime. However, petty crimes like muggings and carjackings are becoming more common. You should be especially wary of pickpockets, who often target public transportation and well-trafficked tourist spots like the Central Market, Santa Lucía Hill, the Plaza de Armas and San Cristóbal Hill. Also be sure to stay alert if you plan on exploring Bellavista or the Yungay and Brasil neighborhoods after dark, since petty thieves tend to frequent these areas.

Political protests are common in large Chilean cities like Santiago. These demonstrations typically occur with little advance notice and may become unsafe at times. They also tend to cause metro service disruptions, road blocks and even early closures at shops, restaurants and banks. To minimize the impact this may have on your vacation, sign up for the U.S. Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , monitor local media before and during your trip, avoid demonstrations and contact your airline for updates about potential flight delays, especially if you're also traveling to remote Chilean destinations like Easter Island and Chilean Patagonia. Learn more about how to stay safe in Chile by visiting the State Department's website .

Getting Around Santiago

The best ways to get around Santiago are on foot and by metro or taxi. Since the city's streets are laid out on a grid in the historic center, exploring on foot is an easy way to take in the sights. The metro also serves as an efficient, inexpensive and reliable way to travel between barrios, plus its lines service the city's top attractions . That said, taking the metro means combating heavy crowds at rush hour, which can lead to an uncomfortable commute. At all other times, it is typically much less crowded. Taxis are another convenient and affordable way to get around the city; however, you'll want to only flag those with yellow tops to avoid getting scammed. Global ride-sharing apps like Uber are often a cheaper and safer bet. Buses are another suitable option thanks to reasonable rates and an extensive network of routes.

Santiago's international airport, Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), also known as Nuevo Pudahuel, sits about 10 miles northwest of the city center. The airport serves many international carriers that offer direct flights daily between major American cities, such as Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, Los Angeles and New York City. You can opt to hop on a shared minivan transfer to downtown Santiago outside the arrivals area, or wait for a TurBus or Centropuerto bus, which travel between the airport and the city center. However, taxis are the most hassle-free means of transportation into the city. You can also easily pick up your own set of wheels outside the airport, but with plentiful public transportation options to choose from, there's no need to rent a car unless you're planning to venture beyond city limits.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid passport is required for entry to Chile. U.S. citizens can stay in the country for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Travelers who fly into Santiago's international airport will be issued a Tourist Card, which they must return when they leave the country. Families with children 17 and younger must show proof of each minor's relationship to their parents when leaving Chile by presenting an original birth certificate. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Wander through the artsy Bellavista  neighborhood and you'll discover modern shops and restaurants rubbing shoulders with colorful homes and centuries-old mansions. 

Explore More of Santiago

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 3 in  Best Cheap Vacations in Central and South America

Buenos Aires

# 8 in  Best Places to Visit in October 2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » South America » Travel Safety

Is Chile Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

The very long country of Chile takes up almost the whole west coast of South America and boasts a load of amazing places to explore. There’s the Atacama Desert with the clearest skies in the world, the Andes and its alpine lakes and then there’s the mysterious Rapa Nui – or Easter Island.

There is no doubt that making your way to Chile is a very good idea, especially if what you love doing is getting out and seeing some wild stretches of nature such the incredible Salar de Atacama salt flats or otherworldly volcanic landscape of El Tatio.

The trouble is that Chile, though relatively peaceful for the region, has a problem with petty theft – often targeting tourists. More has surfaced recently with dormant issues of social inequality erupting into widespread, violent protests, making the future a little uncertain.

Coupled with the real potential for big earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, a visit to Chile suddenly sounds scarier than it should. With this in mind we have created this guide to staying safe in Chile, just to make sure you know what to expect and how to travel ’round with peace of mind.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

How Safe is Chile? (Our take)

Is chile safe to visit right now, safest places in chile, 24 top safety tips for traveling to chile, is chile safe to travel alone, is chile safe for solo female travellers, more on safety in chile, faq about staying safe in chile, so, is chile safe.

Backpacking Chile is an amazing experience. There’s deserts, lakes, far-flung islands and sweeping mountain ranges to explore here. Oh, and don’t forget the cool cities with funky street art and great food. All of this makes for a potentially unforgettable time.

With all that nature, however, as well as all those cities, there is also a little bit of a risk in visiting Chile.

In cities throughout Chile, pickpocketing and mugging is not uncommon – especially at tourist sites and around transport hubs.

Nature also likes to play its part in the danger levels of Chile too. There are earthquakes, volcanoes and heavy rains which can cause flooding and landslides. Insects here can also be pretty nasty.

That said, Chile is a safe country even though recently it has had a few social issues. Recent protests and demonstrations in some cities (especially in Santiago) rallying against social inequality, caused severe disruptions to public transport and became quite violent.

With all of that in mind, let’s look at the details…

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Chile Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Chile. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Chile.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

With a population of over 17.65 million people, Chile is (or was, at least) a pretty stable country and one of the safest in the region. According to the World Trade Organisation, Chile is actually the 8th most popular destination in the Americas.

Needless to say, Chile very much values its tourism and tries to protect visitors. However that’s not to say that the country is 100% safe to visit.

When looking at the Global Peace Index, Chile ranks a surprising number 27 – between Bulgaria (26) and Croatia (28) – out of 163 countries. According to this Chile is a pretty safe, and fairly peaceful (in general), country to visit. Indeed, many millions of people travel through the South American nation every year without any trouble at all.

One of the main safety issues in Chile is pickpocketing and petty theft. This especially targets tourists. However, it’s something you can easily avoid. Apart from this, there are no other major crimes you need to worry about. Fortunately, violent crime is rare. That being said, you should still keep your wits about you. If you’re looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it.

Earthquakes can and do occur in Chile, and so do the resulting tsunamis. There are also active volcanoes with the risk of eruptions in the Conguillo National Park and Lascar in the north, amongst other places. The best thing to do is to follow the advice of local authorities.

All things considered, we’d still say that Chile is pretty safe to visit right now. Stay away from protests, keep and eye on the news and don’t let your belongings out of sight when exploring the country and you’ll be perfectly fine.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Chile, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Chile below.

This coastal boho beauty is best known for its hills and colourful buildings, both of which are really worth exploring. It is also known as an art capital depicted by stunning murals and some of the most creative and philosophical graffiti you will ever see.

Make sure to go hunt down some local gelato. The locals love it too and you can find this delicious ice cream all over Valparaíso.

Valparaíso to Chile is like what Cinque Terre is to Italy. Well, kinda. Roll with me here. It might just be the most colorful town on earth! It’s also considered one of Chile’s safest cities. Pickpocketing is common, so watch your stuff, but apart from that you won’t have to worry about anything else.

Santiago (Barrio Bellavista)

We just had to include this amazing city. While not ALL of Santiago is safe, if you choose the right area, you can have an epic AND safe time here. Most expats and travellers stay in Barrio Bellavista. 

Santiago, in general, is a beautiful, exciting city with a sweet Latin atmosphere, great street food, and even better wine. It also has a bit of a boho vibe going on. Keep an eye out for what the students are up to. They’re often handing out flyers, but most of Santiago’s hostels can also hook you up with what’s happening that week.

Pucón is an excellent choice for adventure backpackers. If you’re looking for a bit of action during your stay, you’ll absolutely love this spot. While it’s relatively secluded from the rest of Chile, a visit is well worth it. You can hike, go paddle boarding on the beach, do some white-water rafting and hop in a kayak. During the winter months you can also do a bit of skiing and snowboarding. 

Pucón is often considered a bit of a more high end travel destination, which also means increased safety and a high quality of life. The only thing we’d advise you to be careful of is the rainfall – it’s the highest in the whole country. 

Places to avoid in Chile

Chile might be one of the safest countries in South America, but that doesn’t mean that you can drop all caution. Apart from the natural hazards, you have a few other things to worry about. Some areas in Chile are safer than others. To help you out, we’ve listed them below. 

• Areas in Santiago – The Las Condes, Providencia, and Vitacura areas of Santiago are notoriously frequented by thieves. Other areas to be cautious include Cerro San Cristobal, Cerro Manquehue, Cerro Santa Lucia and the Lake District.
• Beaches – not necessarily a place to avoid, but definitely a spot you need to be VERY careful of. The riptides and currents can be reckless. Many careless travellers have lost their lives while simply wanting to go for a swim. Also, don’t leave your belongings out of sight!
• Obvious no-go areas – whether that’s dark side streets, walking into secluded areas at night or going against your gut feeling, it’s a no-brainer to avoid these kinds of places and situations. At the end of the day, you will find trouble in Chile if you’re looking for it.

Chile Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Chile has, for a while now, been a relatively stable country (compared to its neighbours, especially). Besdies with all that amazing nature, super friendly people, a great culture and some amazing food, it would be a shame to miss out on it. Here are some safety tips for Chile to help you out…

• Don’t get involved in protests  – any kind of association with protests that you make can get you kicked out of the country. In addition, they can turn very nasty. Just steer well clear
• Only take licensed taxis – it’s kind of a no-brainer, but we will be talking about the safety of taxis in Chile in more detail later!
• Pay attention to your surroundings and keep belongings close  – pickpocketing and muggings are not unheard of
• Try to blend in as much as possible  – walking around talking loudly in English, dressed in urban hiking gear, with an SLR around your neck and a smartphone in your hand not only isn’t a good look, it can single you out as a potential target
• Don’t leave your bag unattended or hanging off a chair at a cafe  – most likely it will go missing
• Do not walk around with loads of cash on you – opening up your wallet to reveal loads of money may attract potential thieves. Get a moneybelt to keep your cash hidden.
• It’s best not to carry your passport or any valuable documents with you – if you must, take a copy of your ID and Chilean visa to take around with you
• Try not to use your flashy smartphone on the street  – it may seem normal to you, but in Chile, there are people who will see this as hundreds of potential dollars rather than your phone
• If someone tries to mug you, do not resist  – this is the advice of local authorities and, to be honest, it’s not worth it
• Consider a throwdown or dummy wallet  – having one of these with a small sum of money could save you losing all of your cash
• Keep your valuables, bags and belongings with you if you travel by bus  – don’t store anything in the overhead compartments, because thieves operate on buses
• It’s best not to walk alone at night  – you’ll be putting yourself in risk; try to stick to travelling in groups and on well-lit roads
• Watch your drink in nightclubs and bars  – especially in Bellavista and Suecia in Santiago. Drink spiking happens and you could leave yourself a target for theft or assault
• Keep clear of drugs  – possession of any illegal substance can lead to a lengthy prison sentence
• Be careful when crossing international borders  – some can close without warning, others are landmined (usually marked), it’s best not to cross on foot
• Generally, when you’re out in nature, stick to marked paths – minefields can come right up to the edge of a trail
• Open fires are forbidden in national parks – unless it says otherwise; forest fires can really affect Chile and you may be asked to leave the country if you light one when you’re not supposed to!
• Read up on weather conditions before hiking  – and be well prepared for whatever might happen
• You should know what to do in the event of an earthquake  – big, serious earthquakes are a possibility; when staying in a hotel room, make a mental note of evacuation procedures. Tip: newer hotels will be safer.
• Be careful around active volcanoes  – you should monitor local media reports and the advice of authorities when it comes to going anywhere near them
• Keep away from stray dogs  – they can be aggressive and/or have bad, contagious skin issues. Consider volunteering instead of feeding a feral dog yourself
• Bring plenty of insect repellent and cover up  – there are some mean insects in Chile during the summer, such as the tabano  (a horsefly with a nasty bite)
• Beware of swimming – some of Chile’s most beautiful beaches have some very dangerous rip currents offshore. Pay attention to signs or ask people nearby if it’s safe to swim
• Be careful of Santiago in winter  – there can be a bad smog, sometimes even dubbed an emergency. If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition, you’re travelling with children or elderly people, it’s best to keep clear
• Learn some Spanish  – it would help you read menus, ask directions, get around, and generally not seem like such a gringo

It may be safe to travel around, but there are still a fair few things to keep in mind when you are visiting Chile. Crime against tourists isn’t unheard of here, so it’s best to try not to stick out like a sore thumb – especially in cities. In truth, there’s so much on offer in Chile: these tips are to help you with any potential risks you might face, not threats that you will face. Just be sensible and you’ll be fine.

Solo travel is amazing! What an experience. You get to go on a trip by yourself, learn stuff about your character, grow as a person, tick off places on your bucket list, do what you want when you want, and get to know more about the world we live in as a bonus. It’s honestly ace.

Chile, done solo, is also amazing. It’s one of the most beautiful countries in South America with a varied landscape. There’s something for everybody here and, what’s more, Chilean people are super friendly. Still, it pays know a few safety tips for solo travellers in Chile…

• Get yourself booked into some great accommodation. There is, in fact, a big hostel and backpacking culture all throughout Chile and there are a whole lot of hostels for different budgets and travel types out there. Booking a hostel that’s good for solo travellers means you’ll have other people to chat with and share experiences with; make sure it’s got reviews that approve it for solo travellers.
• If you are travelling by yourself, one of the best ways to see the remotest parts of Chile is on a tour. Doing this makes it stress-free and easy to access – you won’t have to do any of the itineraries or logistics yourself, which can be a real nightmare.
• Make sure that you tell people where you’re going . Whether it’s your parents or best friends back home, someone needs to know where you are. It’s much safer that somebody knows where you’ll be, what you’ll be doing there and when, than nobody knowing what you’re doing, where you are, and going totally off-grid (not cool).
• Another good tip if you’re by yourself is, if you’re going swimming on a beach, tell somebody on the beach or at your accommodation that you plan on swimming . The rip tides can be strong and you should have someone looking out for you .
• Get yourself connected whilst you are in Chile by getting a sim card . Having data on your phone for maps and Facetime back home, as well as a local number to call hostels, restaurants, or even in emergencies, is much better than having nothing at all.
• Know those emergency numbers and make sure you save them with a “#” in front of the contact name so they’re at the top of your contacts list and easily call-able. You should also have these numbers scribbled on a piece of paper or notebook that’s always with you.
• Always have access to money . Whether that means opening a new bank account, so you have more than one to fall back on, having some emergency US dollars stashed away somewhere (we’ve been there, and they’ve helped) or even an emergency credit card. All of these things can be true lifesavers if things go wrong.
• Don’t keep everything in one place . It’s all well and good having 3 bank cards, 2 credit cards, and a wad of cash, but if that’s all in one place – a day pack, for example – and that day pack goes missing… It’s game over. Spread your stuff around to avoid being severely bummed out.
• If you’re going hiking somewhere remote, think about wearing distinctive clothing. It means that people passing you will remember you, so if anything happens they can say, “Oh, yeah, I remember that luminous ’90s print vintage ski jacket.” It also means that, if you take a fall, people will be able to spot you.
• Download all the good apps . We’re talking translators (Google Translate is just fine), any guides you might want, Maps.me (a good offline maps service), and maybe an earthquake app.
• Don’t drink too much if you’re going out by yourself; you might not be able to find your way home and it will leave you with poor judgement for potentially bad situations. It’s probably safest to make some travelling buddies at your hostel and go out with them – or simply drink in your hostel.

You should definitely go to Chile if you’re thinking about going there on a solo travel trip. It’s probably not the place for first-time solo travellers, but it’s certainly a great place to go solo. The backpacking scene here, the number of hostels and awesome things to do, sell it.

If you are by yourself, however, it’s definitely a good idea to meet other travellers. Being by yourself can mean you can get lonely, jaded and out of touch. Be sure talk to other people, call your folks back home for a chat, and remember to be kind to yourself – you’re bound to have a blast!

Being a solo female in Chile is pretty fun. Because of the comprehensive backpacking scene here, the cool, friendly people you can meet and the genuinely awesome adventures you can go on Chile is actually an amazing place for solo female travellers.

First time solo female travellers can easily make things stress free by heading out to explore the country on a tour, whilst veteran female travellers can probably enjoy this country by themselves, getting stuck into local life and enjoying the nature. That said, Chile isn’t always a breeze and does pose, like most places, a risk to women travelling alone. To help out, here are our tips for solo female travellers in Chile.

• Blend in with what you are wearing and dress how the locals are dressing . It’s best that you don’t look like a tourist in Chile as it will single you out as a target for all sorts of crimes and potentially put you in danger.
• Book yourself into female-only dorms . This is a good way to meet other women travelling by themselves, make some friends and share some tips as well. This way you won’t get any weirdos lurking around in the dorms, either. Just make sure you research the hostel, that it’s well-reviewed by other female travellers, that it’s secure and in a safe location.
• Do not walk around late at night – or after dark in general – by yourself. You will put yourself at risk by doing so, especially if you wander down poorly lit, deserted streets. It’s best to walk around in groups or get a taxi.
• If you are travelling on a bus, or a train, only travel during daylight hours and try to plan your journey so you arrive safely at your accommodation before it gets dark. Overnight journeys can be hazardous and potentially dangerous.
• Meet up with locals . Try out couchsurfing or book yourself into an Airbnb “Experience”, where you can get insider knowledge and get to meet (and make friends with) actual Chilean people. You’ll be able to get local advice, knowledge, and get to learn more about Chilean culture, too.
• Be kind to yourself : you don’t always have to do certain hikes because everybody’s talking about them, or do anything that’s too far out of your comfort zone. Don’t forget that this is your trip and you don’t have to live up to anybody’s expectations.
• Don’t put yourself into an unsafe situation . If something is beginning to get weird, or you’re beginning to feel uncomfortable with the person or goings-on around you, just remove yourself. It’s not worth sticking around to see what may unfold.
• Do not tell strangers everything about you if they ask: your full name, age, whether you’re married, where you’re staying, where you’re going… If you’re uncomfortable with the questions (or who’s asking them), just tell a few lies.
• It’s best not to get super drunk ; by all means, have a few drinks, but being totally wasted just means a higher chance of somehow getting yourself into a dangerous situation.

Going off on your adventures and doing it solo is super liberating – especially as a female; and, you know what? There are actually a whole load of women out there doing it – many of whom make their way, at some point or another, to South America and the mecca that is Chile.

Travelling as a solo female does come with added risk, however, so reach out to online communities (such as Girls Love Travel) and ask for advice on the best way to do it.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Chile.

Is Chile safe to travel for families?

Chile is a safe destination for a family holiday – an interesting and unique one, but certainly one that shouldn’t cause you too many problems. Locals will stop and chat to you about your children, and will help you out if you need it. There’s a whole lot of family-friendly accommodation, and there’s a ton of activities and adventures geared specifically to families.

There are obviously different practicalities in Chile – probably different to your home country – to take into consideration, plus a few safety concerns, too.

The air pollution in Santiago, for example (between June and November), can be a genuine danger for young ones. Needless to say, a trip to Chile means you need to be prepared with vaccinations beforehand and take medical advice if your children have respiratory issues.

You should also bring plenty of bug spray, water-resistant sunscreen, appropriate clothing to cover up against the sun (or to warm up, depending on the time of year and where you’re going in Chile).

The real problem is adjusting to the Chilean way of life, with restaurants opening from 7 or 8pm and meals taking a good few hours. You may want to bring things to entertain your children, a book, some pencils and paper, and just go with it! You’re there to experience the culture and life of Chile, after all.

In short, Chile is safe to travel with families – surprisingly safe, in fact. It just takes some getting used to.

Is it safe to drive in Chile?

Whilst it is comparatively safer to drive in Chile than in its neighbouring countries, it’s still something that’s not always straightforward. There are all sorts of different landscapes, type (and quality) of road, as well as hazards and even some security issues in some areas of the country. All of this can make it a bit of a headache.

Having said that, if you want to get off the beaten track and explore on your own, having your own wheels is essential. This is especially true when it comes to the remote national parks like the Atacama Desert – or if you want to drive the extremely long Carretera Austral route.

Hiring a car in Chile is relatively easy. You can do this in Santiago and other big cities and they will have all the big, well known, international rental agencies. This makes things pretty simple, and free of hassle and scam. Note that you’ll need an international driving permit . You’ll also have to be over 25 years of age.

When driving in Chile, there are definitely some hazards that you will need to watch out for. Whilst the main roads are surfaced and sealed in Chile, heading off into the countryside will most likely require a four-wheeled drive, due to poor road conditions, or extremes of snow and sandy desert.

There can be restrictions on driving around Santiago because of the terrible smog. It’s called Restriccion Vehicular (i.e. “Vehicular Restriction”) and will come into play depending on the smog levels. It works like a lottery, whereby certain number plates will be allowed into the city on that day – there will be announcements on the news the day before it’s in place. Visit www.uoct.cl for more information.

When parking in cities, be careful where you do so. Car break ins are not uncommon so it’s worth paying a parking attendant to look after your vehicle. Don’t leave valuables – or anything, in fact – on show, as this will only tempt thieves.

For confident, experienced drivers, having your own wheels in Chile could be a whole lot of fun.

Is Uber safe in Chile?

Thankfully, Uber does operate in Chile. You can use it but sometimes there are some difficulties in its legality and is something of a grey area.

Although Uber is safe to use in Chile, you should be careful booking an Uber to take you to the airport, for example, or a place where there’s lots of taxis. It’s very normal for an Uber driver to either refuse to drop you at your desired, taxi-filled location, or drop you off before your location.

That’s because some Uber drivers have been harassed by taxi drivers in areas where there are many cabs. You may even be asked to sit in the front, rather than the back, so that you look less like an Uber fare and more like a normal car passenger.

Other than that, all the usual benefits apply: you get to pay in app, there’s no language barrier, you get to check that the car you’re getting in is the right one, you can read reviews of drivers… All that stuff.

Are taxis safe in Chile?

In general, taxis are pretty safe in Chile, but there are some scams and dangers that you should be aware of you are thinking about taking a taxi in this South American nation.

Probably the first thing to know is about fake taxis. The best way to avoid picking up one of these is to not hail or flag down taxis on the street.

Generally, taxis in Chile are black and yellow, but obviously these can vary depending on where you are. Also, don’t worry about tipping your driver as you don’t have to do that here.

To get a real, licensed taxi, you should head to the front of a hotel, a mall, or any other conveniently located taxi rank – or simply order a radio taxi.

If a taxi driver offers to take you to an ATM, do not take them up on it – this is a scam.

Another thing to note is that you should never get into a taxi if the driver is accompanied by another person; this is not normal and is likely to be shady.

Ask at your hostel or hotel for the number of a reputable taxi company; ask that the taxi driver brings along a proof reservation (or that you’re given one over the phone) so that you can confirm with the driver when they arrive that you are the one they’re supposed to pick up.

At the end of the day, trust your gut. Don’t get into a taxi that seems unclean, with a dodgy driver, or which just seems unfit for service.

Is public transportation in Chile safe?

The public transport in Chile consists mainly of buses although there are some rail services to use, too.

In Santiago, the buses (and the metro) are run by Transantiago. The buses in the city are usually pretty cheap and have automatic fare machines, so you can simply put your money in and hop on. Like most places in the world, it’s important to watch your belongings on buses.

Better than the buses, however, is Santiago’s metro system. This is pretty new, very efficient and easy to use. However, like in many metro, MRTs and subway systems around the world, the Chilean capital’s gets very busy during peak hours.

It’s a pretty extensive system: 5 lines sprawling across the city, carrying 2 million passengers daily.

In addition to the metro system, Santiago also boasts Metrotren. This is a commuter service that runs around all 17 communes of the city. Both the buses, metro system and Metrotren are all connected to each other at certain points and run in sync pretty well, so you can use the transport system in Santiago as, you know, an actual, working network.

To make things even easier, you can use a bip! card, which is an IC card that means you don’t have to be fumbling around with small change and bills the whole time.

In other towns and cities, you can get around on buses – these are numerous and very cheap. There are also collectivos which run along fixed routes – they’re fast, they’re surprisingly comfortable, too, but they are also more expensive than buses.

The Terminal Santiago, as well as terminals in other cities and towns (most large towns and cities have these), is where you can catch long-distance buses and coaches. These provide a good service, are punctual, and offer good value for money.

To sum it all up, though you’ll mainly be relying on buses during your time in Chile, the public transport here is pretty safe in general.

Is the food in Chile safe? 

The food in Chile is pretty amazing, we have to be honest. There are a ton of amazingly mouthwatering ingredients on offer in Chile, what with that 2,700 mile long coastline and volcanic soil, you can expect great seafood and a good variety of fruit and vegetables here, too.

With a focus on fresh food throughout the country, there’s not actually much to worry about when it comes to the food safety in Chile. However, it always pays to know more about the gastronomic guidelines of a country, so here’s how to eat your way around Chile safely;

• Take special care around raw fish – especially shellfish. A lot of this is consumed in Chile and there’s no reason you shouldn’t be trying it too. It is best eaten, however, in a restaurant or at markets where you can vouch for its freshness.
• Be careful about unpeeled fruit , too, especially in countryside areas. You don’t know how clean the knife is that peeled and cut the fruit, or how clean the hands are that touched it all, or if the water that cleaned it was contaminated.
• Wash your hands! It’s a simple tip, but especially when you’ve been out in the smog-filled air of Santiago all day, or you’ve been hiking, you’ve been anywhere, really, you should wash your hands before you eat.
• Only eat at places that are bustling with local customers . Places like this are much more likely to be very tasty and have fresh dishes on offer that won’t leave you with a bad stomach.
• Similarly, to get the freshest food and the best of a chef’s or cook’s ability, go to an eating establishment at mealtimes : pans will be hot, ingredients will have just been chopped up, and a high turnover of well-cooked food. Attending towards the end of or after mealtimes might mean you get left with things that have been sitting around for ages – not good. Here are some of those mealtimes…
• “Almuerzo” is the main meal of the day at lunchtime. Usually taking place from 1:30 to 3:00pm , this is a large meal – often with wine involved. You can go eat at a restaurant with a fixed price lunch menu called an “Ejecutivo” (it’s pretty cheap and you get a lot of food); these sorts of places are usually popular with locals.
• (As a side note: since lunch is such a big deal, many other businesses tend to close so they can go and enjoy a spot of food themselves and have a nap afterwards. Good to know.)
• “Onces” is a sort of (late) afternoon tea, served between 5 and 8pm . This usually consists of tea, coffee, scrambled eggs, avocado, bread, jam, sandwiches; yes, it sounds like breakfast, which is why we like it.
• “ Cena” is served anywhere between 8pm and 12am . This is dinner; not everybody eats this every day (because of that big lunch), some people just have snacks or a light meal.

Chilean food is well worth your time. You definitely should not miss out eating in local places and getting stuck into the way of life here. There’s also some good drinking to be done here: Chilean wine is world-class; and definitely, you should the national drink of pisco sour.

You will be able to try a lot of fresh food in Chile. And luckily, most of it is pretty safe!

Can you drink the water in Chile?

Drinking the tap water in Chile’s cities is usually pretty safe. However, you should be aware that it has a high mineral content that can affect some people who drink it and cause an upset stomach.

If you are unsure, stick to bottled water, or use the filtered water your hostel or hotel might offer in the lobby.

Stay away from the water in San Pedro de Atacama: the water here is generally not safe to drink.

Vigorous boiling of water for one minute, or three minutes if you’re at a high altitude (2,000 metres or more), should make water potable and less likely to cause you any stomach trouble. Make sure to bring along a refillable water bottle so that you can limit the number of plastic bottles you are buying and throwing in the trash.

Is Chile safe to live?

Chile is a modern and (officially) newly developed country. It’s pretty efficiently run, the people are lovely, and there’s an abundance of wildlife and amazing natural scenery to appreciate.

Living in Chile means access to some awesome ski locations in the winter, hiking along alpine valleys in the summer, amongst other things.

It is definitely a safe country to live in, with clean-ish cities, good infrastructure. It’s the country with the lowest level of corruption in government in all of Latin America, as well as the lowest level of poverty and a higher standard of living in general. Therefore, life in Chile means things like high-speed internet, well-maintained roads, and good schools. Chile is also considered the safest travel destination in South America.

It’s a diverse country with a lot to offer. Where you choose to base yourself in this very long country will affect your safety and security. Santiago, for example, is a huge city and has plenty of different areas to stay in with lots of great Santiago hostels ; there are expat bubbles like Las Condes, El Golf, Lo Barnechea, Vitacura and La Dehesa, amongst other places in the capital that are very safe to live in.

That said, this isn’t Japan. You will have to watch your belongings because petty theft is pretty high. This just means making some minor adjustments to how you might go about your daily life, but nothing that should stop you considering moving here.

Ranked as a “high income economy” by the World Bank, Chile has a low cost of living but a high quality of life – despite the crime levels. Before thinking of Chile as a wonderland, however, it’s important to know that (like anywhere) it isn’t.

All in all, moving to Chile without any research might not be the best move. Head to expat groups, read news stories about what’s happening in Chile, research nice places to live and start making your plans if it all sounds good to you. Although it’s a safe enough country to live in, it definitely pays off to know what to expect. A short-term visit is also recommended before packing all your stuff into cardboard boxes.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Chile?

Renting an Airbnb in Chile is a great idea. And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Chile itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction. 

Is Chile LGBTQ+ friendly? 

Luckily, Chile is a pretty open-minded and accepting country. LGBTQ+ people are not likely to encounter any discrimination, prejudice or worse. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal in Chile. Since 2012, the law bans all discrimination and hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Big cities like Santiago offer a few LGBTQ+ communities, however, gay bars or entertainment venues are still missing. In general, the more modern the city, the more like-minded travellers you’ll find. It’s also a goo

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Chile.

Is Chile dangerous for tourists?

No, Chile is not dangerous for tourist at all. That being said, you should still use your common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.

What should you avoid in Chile?

Avoid these things in Chile to stay safe: – Avoid protests at all cost – Don’t leave your belongings unattended – Avoid looking flashy and like a tourist – Keep away from stray dogs

Are there areas you should avoid in Chile?

Some neighborhoods in Santiago have seen an increased crime rate, however, they’re still very rare and hardly affect tourists. As long as you keep your eyes open and don’t wander off alone, you’ll be safe in Chile.

Is is safe to live in Chile?

It might need some adaptations, but living in Chile can be very safe. Stay in expat communities, copy the local ways of living and you won’t face any problems.

Yes, Chile is safe to visit, if you use your common sense and do a bit of research beforehand.

The country has done very well for itself and yes, the infrastructure here tends to work pretty well. It is also true that there’s generally a good standard of living across the board. However, there is also real poverty in Chile to this day.

If you’re considering travelling around Chile, then most likely this sort of thing won’t be affecting you. Indirectly, it might, since petty theft (even muggings) aren’t uncommon. But if you keep our travel tips for Chile in mind, chances are you can avoid coming into contact with anything that will stop you from having anything short of an awesome time in Chile. For the time being, definitely pay a visit!

Share or save this post

A very accurate picture which I was not expecting. The pickpocket situation has deteriorated due to the immigrant influx. Together with great people from Venezuela, Colombia, etc., a not-so-great crowd also arrived. Downtown which is a melting pot has become dangerous, so avoid it for the time being, despite having the best museum in Chile, of “Pre-Columbian Art”. Barrio Bellavista is no longer safe. Like Noel said above, I don’t know any expats living there. Best advice to travel in Chile is “look normal” and to fool pickpockets “do not use your cell phone”. It’s a dead giveaway. OK, you took the trouble of dressing subdued, in black or blue, rather than hippie traveler blouses or garish tees–but then you keep looking at your cell phone! I would say: memorize the map, and walk slow, look around, getting lost is always a good experience when you travel. I’ve gotten lost in many cities and countries, gotten scared, and discovered wonderful people and places. Not everything is on a travel blog.

Valparaíso has become less safe in recent years and is increasingly run down and covered in graffiti. Anyone deciding to visit there should use extreme caution.

Las Condes, Vitacura and most of Providencia are comparatively safe, not places to avoid! They are definitely safer in those areas than downtown, which has a deteriorating security situation. Your recommended Bellavista, which is a small sector of Providencia, has become an area where you need to use increased caution, due to muggings and pickpocketing. At night, in particular, things are sketchy. Most expats live in Bellavista? Where do you even get this information? I have lived in Chile for 20 years and only ever met one expat living in Bellavista.

Also, the Lake District, which you mention as unsafe, has a much better security situation than Santiago and Valparaiso.

And this? “In addition to the metro system, Santiago also boasts Metrotren. This is a commuter service that runs around all 17 communes of the city.” First of all, Santiago has 32 “communes”, better translated as municipalities, not 17. Metrotren has two lines. One ends in San Bernardo (Nos) and mainly transports people between Estacion Central and municipalities in southern Santiago, which no tourist would have a need or desire to visit. It only has connections to the metro in Lo Valledor (another place of no interest to tourists and Estacion Central, the first station). The other line is mainly to get from Estacion Central to communities outside of Santiago like Buin, Paine and Rancagua. Again, those places are generally not of much interest to tourists unless they want to visit Buin Zoo or wineries in Buin. It only connects with the Metro in Estacion Central. “Sena” is misspelled. It should be “Cena”.

Las áreas de Santiago más peligrosas son La Pintana (no se acerquen a ese lugar, no tiene nada de turístico y hasta para los propios santiaguinos es peligrosa), Conchali, Cerro Navia, El Bosque, hay otras más, pero esas son a las que no se tienen que ni acercar. Las áreas más tranquilas y más adineradas son Lo Barnechea, Vitacura y Las condes.

CONSEJO DE CHILENO

VALPARAÍSO EN EL ULTIMO TIEMPO SE HA VUELTO PELIGROSO ASI QUE CUIDADO

LAS CIUDADES MÁS AL SUR SON LAS MÁS TRANQUILAS Y BONITAS 🙂

The most dangerous areas of Santiago are La Pintana (don’t go to this place, there’s nothing touristy and even for the santiaguinos it’s dangerous), Conchali, Cerro Navia, El Bosque, there are other more, but these are the ones that do not tienen that ni approach. The most peaceful and wealthy areas are Lo Barnechea, Vitacura and Las Condes.

CHILEAN COUNCIL

VALPARAÍSO IN THE LAST TIME IF THERE IS A PELIGROSO VUELTO BEWARE

LAS CITIES MÁS AL SUR SON LAS MÁS TRANQUILAS ARE BEAUTIFUL

No, it’s not safe. I’m Chilean living in Valparaiso, please believe me: think before coming, prepare if you decide to come and good luck

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Is it Safe to Travel to Chile? An Expert Guide to Safety

By Author Graham Minser

Posted on Last updated: 31st January 2024

Chile, a country known for its natural beauty and range of experiences, is an amazing travel destination. The problem for visitors isn’t finding things to do, but choosing between them.

It has long been at the top of the heap in South America for infrastructure and amenities, and its cities have a European feel.

The astounding variety of the country keeps visitors returning each year. You can explore the longest mountain range in the world, the driest desert, glacial lakes, ancient forests, active volcanoes, countless beaches, and urban areas ranging from the modern metropolis of Santiago to quaint and artsy Valparaiso.

And, although Chile has been in the news for political protests and natural disasters, if you’re wondering whether it’s safe to travel to Chile, rest assured that most of this country is a very safe and welcoming place to visit, ranking 58th on the Global Peace Index in 2023 .  

Any country can present hazards or setbacks for tourists, however, this country is a low-stress destination for those who exercise common sense. That said, the capital, Santiago, is becoming increasingly unsafe – so precautions are necessary when traveling there.

From the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonia in the south, Chile is one of the safest countries in South America.

Click to navigate this article:

Safety in Chile FAQs

Is chile safe to travel to in 2024.

Yes, Chile is among the safest countries to visit in South America. However, it’s worth noting that in the capital, Santiago, crime rates are increasing, with muggings, violent crime, and carjackings on the up. In May 2023, the US State Department moved Chile to “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution”. To avoid issues, stay in the safest neighborhood – Vitacura and the eastern end of Providencia – and take taxis at night. Uber, My Ride Chile , or a pre-booked taxi organized by your hotel is recommended; flagging a taxi off the street should be avoided. Even tourist destinations such as Lastarria and Bellavista are now increasingly unsafe. A few years ago in 2019, political protests and civil unrest erupted intending to address inequality, bringing constitutional reform, and forcing the resignation of the government under the unpopular President, Sebastián Piñera. The immediate spark was a hike in the price of metro tickets. There is a history of heavy-handed policing, which was another reason for the unrest and locals often refer derogatorily to police as pacos . Since the pandemic and the election of progressive candidate Gabriel Boric, things in Chile have calmed down, and constitutional reform is ongoing. Street protest has largely died down, but past demonstrations were rarely violent, and foreigners are not targeted.

Is it safe to walk around Santiago, Chile?

Safety is a growing issue in Santiago. Crime, particularly petty theft, pick-pocketing, and occasional muggings, is on the up; don’t walk around showing off valuable items, as these can make you more of a target.

The capital is a good place for walking around, and visitors can explore the areas around the Plaza de Armas, Bellavista, and Parque Quinta Normal on foot confident of their safety from morning through early afternoon. The tourist-favorite Lastarria neighborhood is safe both day and night, just avoid straying from the couple of streets that make up the zone. Like in any large city, it is advised to keep your valuables out of sight and to keep your phone in your pocket while walking or standing at a traffic light (tourists have had phones stolen by passing motorcyclists). Most crime takes place at night when the streets are mostly empty. After dark, arrange for an Uber or My Ride Chile to your destination to avoid an unwanted encounter; avoid hailing a taxi on the street or using Uber. Public transportation is typically safe, although it’s necessary to keep an eye on your belongings when traveling the metro, as pick-pocketing can be an issue here. The metro runs from 6:30 to 22:30, and 8:30 to 22:30 on Sundays and holidays so is useful during the daytime.

Is Chile safe for female travelers?

Yes, Chile is safe for female travelers, solo or in groups. While violent crime is possible in any country, visitors who practice common sense and avoid putting themselves in harm’s way will have a stress-free trip. 

Women may experience catcalling and attention from men on the street and in bars but this behavior can generally be ignored. At night, it’s always advisable to call a taxi rather than flagging one down on the street.

Is Chile safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Homosexuality has been legal in Chile since 1993, while discrimination against gay people was ruled illegal in 2012. The reality, however, is that attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people are only slowly changing. Santiago demonstrates the most liberal attitudes and it’s not unusual to see gay couples in the city. It also has one of the country’s only thriving gay scenes, centered on Barrio Bellavista, although there are clubs in Viña del Mar, too. All clubs cater to men and women, regardless of sexual orientation. Attitudes are not as liberal in more rural parts of the country. Transgender rights are gradually developing, with a landmark bill signed into law in November 2018 recognizing the right of people over 18 to legally change their gender.

Common safety concerns in Chile

While Chile ranks as one of the safest countries in South America, there are still some areas of personal safety that you should consider when visiting to ensure you have a pleasant and positively memorable experience. Here are our many safety tips for visiting Chile.

Planning Your Trip to Chile?

Save time, stress & money with a customized travel itinerary planned for you by a Chile expert

What previous clients have said:

I engaged Steph’s help during a very busy time in my life, as I was determined to travel without a tour, but had become overwhelmed trying to piece it all together. Steph absolutely nailed the brief. She understood exactly what we wanted to do, and made exceptional recommendations. Steph was also super quick to answer emails and find solutions when needed. I just feel so incredibly grateful to have read about Steph’s planning service, and our Chile bible….Moon Chile (Steph’s travel guidebook) was with us every step of the way.

Baggage theft and crime

Increased levels of crime, including muggings and carjackings, are taking place across Santiago and Valparaiso, with the US Government raising their travel advisory for Chile to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.

If it’s your first visit to Latin America, I suggest avoiding Valparaiso, which has become increasingly dangerous. When visiting Santiago, it’s essential to stick to central locations such as Downtown, Lastarria, and Bellavista during the day; at night time, Downtown (including the Plaza de Armas and Mercado Central areas), should be completely avoided.

If you’re staying in Lastarria, you must take taxis at night if visiting restaurants outside of the neighborhood.

The eastern edge of Providencia near Los Leones and Tobalaca remains safe during day and night, as does Vitacura and Las Condes. Take care when moving around the city; avoid flashing expensive items, particularly on the street and the metro.

As is always a risk when traveling by plane, having your bags stolen is an unfortunate possibility. To minimize this risk, keep your most important belongings (passport, wallet, money, phone) with you at all times, and secure your luggage with a lock.

Theft is most common in bus stations, and travelers should always keep an eye on their bags until they’ve been securely stowed in the luggage storage beneath the bus. The Estacion Central has also become unsafe and should be avoided completely.

If you’re traveling overnight or with valuable items, keep your rucksack at your feet rather than in the overhead lockers where there’s a chance it might be stolen. 

When traveling around Santiago, Valparaíso, and other large cities in Chile, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your belongings as pick-pocketing can be a real issue. Muggings are on the rise in the tourist areas of Bellavista and Lastarria in Santiago. If you are accosted, it’s not worth fighting: give up your belongings. 

Be careful with using cell phones at pedestrian crossings and traffic lights, as thieves on scooters have been known to grab devices from unsuspecting pedestrians waiting to cross the street.

You should also not leave them on tables at restaurants, particularly if you’re on an outdoor terrace where distraction techniques can be used to steal them. 

It’s also never a great idea to carry lots of cash on your person, particularly in large cities such as Santiago; leave excess amounts in a safe in your hotel (or, in the absence of a safe, split them into small amounts and hidden throughout your luggage). 

When eating at restaurants, never allow your credit cards to be taken out of view as card skimming can occur.

Finally, bring a photocopy of your passport in case you lose yours. This is also helpful as Chileans often require your passport number to complete transactions at grocery stores and bus stations, so this prevents you from needing to get your passport out continually. 

Despite Chile’s reputation as one of the safest and most politically stable countries in South America, on Friday the 18th of October 2019, protests erupted in various neighborhoods across the capital city, Santiago . 

Following this, they spread to other cities across the country and, on Friday 25th of October 2019, an estimated 1.2 million people marched through Santiago in protest, a number that represents more than 5% of the country’s population.

This was the largest demonstration of its kind since the country returned to democracy following the Pinochet dictatorship of the 70s and 80s.

After the Chilean government agreed to a referendum on the drafting of a new constitution (which passed with a large majority, although the new constitution was ultimately shot down ), and following the lockdown measures of the pandemic, protests have largely quietened down in the country. 

However, peaceful protests in public places in Santiago do occasionally take place. These are sometimes held on Friday afternoons in and around Plaza Italia (now known as Plaza Dignidad) in the center of the city and it’s recommended to avoid these areas when any form of protest is occurring as the police can get heavy-handed with water cannons and tear gas. 

Protests also take place in Santiago and other parts of the country every September 11 (the anniversary of the military coup), March 29 (‘Day of the Young Combatant’), and May 1 (Workers’ Day). Protests are also held annually in the week leading up to and on October 18 and 19 to mark the anniversary of the first protests being held.

For up-to-date travel advisories, visit the website of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs if you’re based in the United States or the corresponding body in your home country. 

Natural disasters

Chile is along the fault line between the Nazca and South American tectonic plates – the geological force that has raised the Andes mountains to their soaring altitudes. 

As a result, Chile has one of the world’s highest incidences of major earthquakes in the world. Tsunamis that follow off-shore earthquakes can be destructive as well. To manage this risk, Chile has one of the most modern and efficient earthquake and tsunami response systems.

Although the occurrence of a significant terremoto (earthquake) is unlikely during your visit, pay attention to advisories in the event of one. The last major earthquakes and tsunamis in Chile were in Valdivia in 1960 and Valparaiso in 2017.

After a tremor, get as far away from coastal areas as possible and quickly leave any older building if you question its structural integrity.

Chile also has several active volcanoes, but most are far from major population centers. Pucón in the Lakes District is next door to Volcán Villarrica, one of the most active volcanoes in South America, with the most recent volcanic eruptions taking place in February 2023. 

Due to the worsening effects of climate change, wildfires are becoming a more common occurrence around the world. Because of its dry, hot summers, and the high UV index, the forests of Central Chile are prone to outbreaks.

In case of forest fires, make sure to listen to the advice of local authorities, emergency officials, and evacuation orders. If a fire is breaking out, report it to others as soon as possible. Isolate yourself from flammable material as much as possible and douse your surrounding space with water as thoroughly as possible. If in a building, close all doors but keep them unlocked, and stand away from walls.

These are rarely significant enough to require evacuations of the surrounding area, but if visiting the region, it’s essential to follow instructions from the local police in the event of an evacuation. 

Safety while hiking and in national parks

Chile’s national parks are often very large areas, so it is important to plan ahead to ensure a safe visit. First, a good old-fashioned paper map is a solid idea in case you find yourself without a signal. 

That said, Chile has very good mobile coverage and you will likely be connected unless in the most remote of places. A GPS device is also a good shout for knowing your precise location. Don’t forget to bring an extra battery and a charger if spending extended time off-grid.

Make sure to bring a comfortable pair of hiking boots that have already been broken in to avoid painful blisters during your trek. Also plan for all possible weather, including waterproof clothing for Los Lagos, Chiloé, and Patagonia.

Layering is important, as there is often a big difference between day and nighttime temperatures. From Central Chile north to the Atacama, sunscreen is essential, as the UV index is quite high.

Although you are unlikely to encounter dangerous wildlife on your trip, travelers should be aware of a few species. Pumas normally avoid humans, but attacks are not unheard of in the mountains and forests. They will generally not attack unless their young are threatened.

The Chilean recluse and black widow spiders are the most dangerous creatures travelers could run into. They generally stay in dark, enclosed areas both indoors and out, so take care not to inadvertently disturb them (and check your shoes before putting them on!).

If bit by either of these, seek immediate medical attention.

Chile has snakes in the wilderness, but none of these pose a serious threat to people as their venom is weak.

Health considerations

Chile is a generally very safe place to visit, however, there are a number of health concerns that you should consider before and during travel. 

Covid-19 requirements

There are no longer any Covid-19 requirements for entering Chile.

Traveler’s diarrhea

Traveler’s diarrhea is always a possibility in Chile, but the risk is considered much lower than in the rest of South America.

Traveler’s diarrhea is typically caused by a lack of basic hygiene, with those preparing food not washing their hands properly and so passing infection through food and water. 

Raw, undercooked, or unwashed food is a particular risk, and you should be careful with buffets and any food that sits for prolonged periods at lukewarm temperatures (such as street food stalls, where hygiene practices may also leave a lot to be desired). 

Tap water is generally safe to drink but consult with your host to confirm, as the high mineral content can cause an upset stomach for visitors. It’s recommended to therefore boil water for one minute, invest in a portable water filter that removes heavy minerals, or stick to bottled water. 

In the Atacama Desert, water sources have high levels of arsenic and are therefore not safe for human consumption. If traveling to remote areas anywhere in Chile, it’s also important to stock up on water. 

Insect-borne diseases

Unlike in other South American countries, mosquitoes are not a great concern in Chile. Mosquito-borne illnesses are rare, and although an isolated case of the Zika virus was found seven years ago, none have since been reported. No vaccinations are required for visiting Chile, but a tetanus booster is recommended.

Some regions of Chile, particularly the Atacama Desert in the north, are at high altitudes.

Visitors may experience soroche (altitude sickness), and it is advised for those who have recently arrived to take a couple of days to acclimate by drinking plenty of water, abstaining from drinking much alcohol, and avoiding overly strenuous activity.

Chile’s large stray dog population means that rabies is a real concern. The virus causes inflammation of the spinal cord and the brain and is transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected mammals – usually dogs and cats as well as bats.

Symptoms usually show 20-60 days after exposure and include headaches, fever, and tingling around the wound. By the time symptoms have developed, rabies is fatal. 

To avoid contracting the virus, stay away from stray animals, and, if bitten or even scratched, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water and then with an iodine solution or 40-70 percent alcohol. Go directly to a hospital for treatment. 

Before travel, a three-dose pre-exposure vaccine can be administered over a period of three to four weeks.

Want a custom-made Chile itinerary, but without the effort of planning it?

Get it planned by an expert (me!) with my travel itinerary planning service ; you’ll give me an overview of your ideal once-in-a-lifetime trip to Chile and/or Patagonia, and I’ll put together a custom itinerary just for you using my expert knowledge of the destination.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a local operator to plan and book your trip, I recommend our trusted partner EcoChile Travel. They design and book tours throughout the country, such as this 12-day highlights of Southern Patagonia itinerary – and offer Worldly Adventurer readers a 5% discount on their services!

Book here to claim your discount.

It means that, if you’re in a remote place without access to medical facilities, the delay it takes for you to receive treatment is less likely to prove fatal. 

The safest places to visit in Chile

The key to being safe in Chile is being aware and prepared wherever you go. In the event of sickness or injury, all cities in Chile have high-quality healthcare facilities, however, to avoid excessive fees, it’s essential to purchase travel insurance before you land in the country. 

Note that many remote destinations, such as Patagonia, have far smaller hospitals, so if you have a serious accident, you might be flown back to Santiago for further medical treatment.  

However, the vast majority of trips to Chile are safe and without issue – and allow the visitors to experience the truly unique terrain that this country has to offer. Wondering where are the safest places to go? Here are our best destinations to consider for your trip.

1. Santiago

To understand the people, heritage, and culture, the capital is the best place to start. This megalopolis, one of the largest cities in South America, showcases a wide variety of neighborhoods containing excellent museums and restaurants, well-manicured parks, and world-famous street art.

2023 safety update: The US State Department has suggested “exercising increased caution” when visiting Santiago. This is due to an increase in muggings, assaults, and carjackings taking place in the city. Unlicensed taxi drivers are an increasing issue, too, particularly at the airport, so it’s recommended to always book through a registered provider (we recommend the reliable, English-speaking My Ride Chile ). Previously safe tourist neighborhoods such as Bellavista and around the Plaza de Armas and the Central Market are becoming increasingly unsafe, and you’re best to visit them during the morning as things can take a turn later in the afternoon. It’s advised to take taxis (use Uber where possible or ask your accommodation to call a taxi; never hail a cab off the street) within these areas at nighttime. Read more safety recommendations here .

Remember to keep your valuables safely in your pockets when walking in busy parts of the center, as pickpockets tend to frequent these areas.

For more on these and more activities in Santiago, check out our guide .

2. Outside Santiago

In day trip range from Santiago are many exciting destinations for all kinds of travelers, including Cajón del Maipo, a canyon in the Andes foothills where visitors can hike and spend a relaxing day outside the city.

Within a couple hours of the city are Chile’s best ski resorts, Farellones , Valle Nevado , and Portillo , which offer a full range of year-round activities. For more ideas, read our guide on day trips from Santiago .

3. Valparaiso and Viña del Mar

On the coast west of Santiago are the coastal cities of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. The former is famous for its turn-of-the-century art scene, and the latter is the destination of choice for sand and sun.

Unfortunately, Valparaiso is becoming increasingly more dangerous, with reports of tourists being mugged during the day, even in the tourist neighborhoods of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion.

May 2023 safety update: the city of Valparaíso is becoming increasingly unsafe to visit. Muggings have been reported in the tourist neighborhoods of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion, even during the day. We recommend avoiding this city until further notice. If you do visit, taking a pre-booked taxi or using Uber is essential if straying from these two neighborhoods during day or night and extreme precautions should be taken when walking around the city. Read more safety information here .

For more, read our guide to Valparaiso .

4. Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Over 3000 kilometers from the mainland in the South Pacific is the remote island of Rapa Nui ( Isla de Pascua in Spanish). Known primarily for its hundreds of giant stone moai , this beautiful, wind-swept island is unlike any other place on Earth.

Although not a budget destination, it is possible to make the trip without spending thousands of dollars. For more information on planning an Easter Island trip, read up on our detailed guide .

5. Atacama Desert and Northern Chile

The great expanse of Northern Chile is one of South America’s greatest adventures for travelers. The stark landscape of the Atacama Desert offers tourists an unforgettable experience for those seeking isolation and natural spectacle.

Highlights include geysers and hot springs, and incredibly clear night skies, all of which are best approached from San Pedro de Atacama.

This is a great region for renting a 4X4 vehicle for a self-guided tour. Don’t forget to read up on our guides to the Atacama and Northern Chile .

6. Patagonia

At the opposite end of the country in Southern Chile is the harsh and beautiful land of Patagonia. The top draw of the region is Torres del Paine National Park, the mesmerizing glacial peaks that offer some of the most stunning views imaginable.

A trip here is incomplete without hiking either the W Trek or lengthier O Circuit . For detailed information on visiting Torres del Paine, take a look at our guide and learn more about visiting Patagonia with our backpacking guides .

7. Puerto Varas and Los Lagos

Between Patagonia and Central Chile is the Lake District: a land packed with beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Travelers should take advantage of the opportunities for white-water rafting, boating, mountain biking, or summiting Osorno Volcano. 

For more details on Los Lagos and Puerto Varas, read our guide .

8. Chiloé Island

Just southwest of Los Lagos region is the mysterious island of Chiloé. Its isolation from the mainland is apparent in its unique churches built entirely of alerce , a Patagonian cypress, and in its folkloric witchcraft among the native population.

The island and surrounding waters boast an impressive array of flora and fauna, including Humboldt penguins, blue whales, and sea otters.

9. Pucón

Chile’s original adventure sports center, Pucón has a well-earned reputation as a premier outdoors destination. Visitors in winter should take advantage of the chance to ski on an active conical volcano at Villarrica . 

Another special activity is to go dog-sledding with the adorable husky team at Aurora Austral .

10. Take a road trip

Because Chile is such a massive country, travelers should consider renting a van and doing a road trip. Rent a van or SUV with Wicked and you’ll be able to pick up and drop off in separate cities.

For more inspiration on all things Chile, check out our full array of guides , including this bumper post about my favorite things to do in Chile .

Useful information

The local currency is the Chilean peso (CLP); the current exchange rate is 800 pesos to 1 USD.

Spanish is the official language, and Chile’s dialect has a lot of vocabulary and slang unique to it. English is not widely spoken outside the tourism sector.

Santiago is the transport hub of the country, and because of the great distances between regions, most travelers choose to fly between destinations. LATAM is the flag carrier (and therefore a bit more expensive), while Sky and Jet Smart are budget airlines with the lowest prices.

Tuesday 11th of July 2023

There is a HUGE problem with this guide. Time and time again, it's suggested that you take a taxi to avoid being mugged. But it turns out that, at least in Santiago, you will be mugged either way (by the taxi driver instead).

There is a known taxi mafia in Santiago that extorts tourists. They mainly operate around the Costanera Center (Santiago Tower). Why the authorities haven't done anything about this even though they publicly aknowledge the problem I don't know. DO NOT take taxis there and for safety nowhere in Santiago. Get Uber rides instead. YOU WILL BE MUGGED if you take taxis.

I had familly there that took a taxi ride for little more than half a mile and the driver charged them 45 USD for it. Don't make the same mistake.

I kindly ask that Mr. Minser or Worldly Adventurer add this warning to the guide.

Sunday 21st of January 2024

@Steph Dyson, what have you heard about Uber? Just curious...

Steph Dyson

Hi James, I've actually suggested using Cabify or My Ride Chile, not taking a taxi from the street. I've heard really bad things about Uber recently, too, so that's why I no longer recommend it. Steph

• USA/Canada 1-888-232-3813

• Walking & Hiking
• Wildlife and Nature
• Multiactivity
• Photo Safari
• Excepcional Journey
• Water Adventures
• Food & Wine
• City Escapes
• Winter Adventures
• EcoCamp Patagonia
• Argentine Patagonia
• Chilean Patagonia
• Atacama Desert
• Santiago and Central Valley
• Easter Island
• Lake District
• Multidestination
• Northwest Argentina
• Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia
• For Families
• For Couples
• For Friends
• For Solo Travelers
• Central Valley
• Wildlife & Nature
• News & Awards
• Sustainability
• Outdoor Sports
• Yoga & Wellness

12 Things You Must Know Before You Travel to Chile (2022 Updated)

Posts by tag.

• Patagonia (76)
• Inspire (50)
• Wildlife & Nature (28)
• News & Awards (25)
• Outdoor Sports (21)
• Food & Wine (20)
• Central Valley (16)
• Culture (14)
• Atacama Desert (13)
• Sustainability (8)
• Lake District (5)
• Yoga & Wellness (5)
• Easter Island (3)
• Bolivia (1)

Last Update : July, 27th 2022

Planning a trip to Chile?

2020 was a bad year for travelers, with most borders being closed as “stay home” became the norm. And while most of us started traveling from home (thank you, internet), nothing will ever replace a trip to a beautiful place .

And if you’re thinking about Chile, you probably know this is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet . But there’s so much to learn about our favorite country in South America. Here’s a quick guide so you can get familiar with Chile and get ready for a trip of a lifetime with some useful information.

¡Buen viaje!

1. Chile is amongst the safest countries on Earth

2. chile is more expensive than its neighbors, but incredibly rewarding, 3. chile is covid-19 vaccination champion in south america, 4. if you plan an adventure in chile, you may have to train first, 5. the best time to travel to chile is not always when you think, 6. distances in chile are long, 7. chileans speak a very unusual spanish, 8. border crossing to argentina can be tricky in some places, 9. the visa and vaccines you need to travel to chile, 10. chileans have some curious social rules, 11. how to eat like a chilean in chile, 12. these are the best places to visit in chile.

Chile is a very safe destination for travelers in South America. According to the Global Peace Index (updated every year), Chile currently ranks as the 27 th safest country on the planet. It is usually considered the safest country in South America, together with Uruguay. Thanks to its low crime rates and nice behavior towards travelers, the “thin country” can be considered a very safe destination (especially if you visit its spectacular national parks).

Chile is the most developed country in South America , and some travelers like to talk about it as the “most European-like country in Latin America”. It is therefore an expensive country compared to its neighbors Bolivia, Peru and Argentina, and you should take a look at the updated exchange rate before you travel to Chile (the local currency is the Chilean peso).

To give you an idea, restaurant costs are on a par with the US for similar level restaurants. Prices vary tend to vary a lot from a place to another (for instance, prices in Patagonia are usually higher than the ones in central Chile). But whether it has to do with the food or with the excursions, it is usual to get more than what you pay for ! There is some excellent Chilean cuisine and both the guides and the travel experiences are incredibly rewarding.

And if you’re on low budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives, such as simpler restaurants and delicious street food; and more accessible travel experiences.

Worried about COVID-19? We are too! However, we are optimistic regarding the near future as Chile became a COVID-19 vaccination champion in South America . Health experts and government officials credit the country’s early negotiations with vaccine producers and in July 2022, more than 90% of the objective population was vaccinated (with up to 4 doses!). The country of 19 million inhabitants is an example in Latin America , often named in world’s Top 3 together with Israel and the United States.

Check out the complete guide on what you need to travel to Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic here.

Despite the intensity of the coronavirus waves that have hit the country, the country is already a "new normal". These are great news for tourism, isn’t it?

Chile is amongst the best adventure travel destinations in the world. It was awarded 6 times as the “World’s Leading Adventure Travel Destination” in the World Travel Awards , the “Oscars of tourism”. But be careful when it comes to choosing your adventure! Some of them are really demanding and require some previous training.

Some experiences are accessible for everyone , like a trip to the Atacama Desert or a Wildlife Safari in Torres del Paine National Park . However, Patagonia’s most popular multiday hikes are quite demanding. The W Trek requires at least some regular trail walking. As for the epic “O Trek” (Torres del Paine Circuit), the Dientes de Navarino Circuit and the Cerro Castillo Circuit , these are for the experienced hikers only. The terrain is irregular, hiking distances are long and include some steep uphill. In short, you’d better check out the details on the level of difficulty of the trip you’re interested in before taking the final decision.

Chile is a land of extremes. You’ll find the driest desert on Earth in north (the Atacama Desert) and the world’s third freshwater reserve in the south (the Patagonian ice fields). That’s what makes Chile a hard place to understand when it comes to scheduling a trip.

While most people think there is no rain at all in northern Chile, there may be some occasional heavy rain fall in summer, especially between December to March. This is due to the Altiplanic winter, a phenomenon that can cause storms in the Arica and Parinacota and in the Atacama regions.

In Patagonia, summer months (from December to March) are the busiest ones, but also the windiest. There is a “ best time to come ” for everyone, and this is how we could sum it up.

Best outdoor adventure weather: November to March

Best time to avoid the crowds: April to October (note: it may be difficult to find accommodation due to off-season from June to August).

Best time to spot wildlife: April to November

Chile extends 4,270 km (2,653 miles) from North to South, with an average of 177 km (110 mi) from East to West. Traveling from the Arica region to southern Patagonia would be the same as traveling from northern Scandinavia to Morocco!

You’ve got it: distances are long, and domestic flights usually take a few hours (for instance, it takes roughly 3,30 hours to get from Santiago to Punta Arenas). Besides the hours spent flying, you will also have to drive a lot, especially if you head to Patagonia. Getting to EcoCamp Patagonia from the Punta Arenas airport requires a 5 to 6-hour drive (a beautiful one)!

And if you plan to travel to Easter Island, remember that the “world’s most remote island” is located 3.759km (2.335mi) away from Santiago (a 5-hour and 40-minute flight).

“Cachai” “Piola” “Weon” “Bacán”: if you speak Spanish but do not understand these words, don’t worry! Chileans may speak the most peculiar Spanish in the world . The Royal Spanish Academy recognizes 2,214 words and idioms exclusively or mainly produced in Chilean Spanish, in addition to lots of unrecognized slang expressions.

But no panic! Chileans love to communicate with tourists and I bet you’ll be able to understand each other, even if you don’t speak Spanish at all.

Chile and Argentina are separated by a huge natural boundary : the Andes mountains. In Patagonia, the mountains get lower but the terrain is irregular, with lots of channels, ice fields and islands. At the border between Villa O’Higgins (Chile’s Aysén Region, the southernmost point of the Carretera Austral), vehicles are inaccessible. Here, you’ll have to take a boat, get a horse and walk 35 kilometers (22mi) if you want to cross to Argentina.

In most places, the immigration offices between both countries are miles apart, but crossing is easy if you have your own transfer or vehicle. If you travel by yourself, you should consider that some parts of Patagonia have no public transport to go through the border.

You won’t need a visa if you stay less than 90 days in the country (do not lose the small paper the immigration authorities will give you while entering Chile).

However, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines to enter the country is strongly recommended. While a negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines will allow you to get a "mobility pass" which is mandatory to enter many public places such as bars, restaurants and movie theaters ( more information here ).

Also, you must declare all products of plants and animal origin while entering into Chile (non-compliance with this obligation can be expensive!).

“Go to Chile and you’ll be welcomed with open arms” . This is a true statement. It is also true that Chileans have some traditions, mannerisms and customs that may leave you confused. Some of the funniest facts? Chileans add “-po” to virtually every word (for emphasis or just because locals feel like it). Chileans have lunch at around 2pm, and have “elevenses” in the evening. What does that mean? Well, it’s like having an afternoon tea, accompanied by bread with avocado, jam, paté or ham.

Everything stops for a football game , so streets may seem empty when Chile plays (but wait for the celebration if Chile wins!).

Finally, Chile is a seismic country. Chileans say there’s an earthquake only if it’s over 6 on the Richter scale . If it’s under 6 on Richter, some Chileans don’t even feel it. In these cases, they say it’s only a “temblor” (tremor).

There’s a new culinary world awaiting to be discovered in Chile! There is a rich and diverse range of dishes for everyone’s taste, though the famous ingredients include plenty of seafood (coastline), avocado, beef (the whole country) and lamb (Patagonia). There are also some amazing indigenous influences you will find in some regions (such as the Atacama Desert and the Araucanía region with the Mapuches), and you can get some incredible gourmet food in Chile’s main cities, especially in Santiago.

But the spirit of Chile can be tried on the street. You should definitely try the empanada (little puff pastry baked in the oven), the humita (corn mixed with onion and basil, in a preparation that is wrapped in maize leaves) and the completo (a local version of the hot-dog, that includes avocado).

No trip to Chile would be complete without an “asado”, a barbecue. “Asados” are the best excuse for Chileans to gather, making it the most important social occasion held all year round.

As for the beverages, Chile is worldwide famous for its delicious wine. You should also try the Pisco – a brandy produced in wine regions of Chile and Peru. And Chile also has some delicious beer!

We could write an entire book featuring Chile’s best places to visit . But if we had to sum it up, we would start with the Atacama Desert in the north, the world’s most arid desert. It stretches over 1000 kilometers of the Pacific coast to the border with Bolivia and Peru, offering a spectacular natural scenery. Here you’ll see the clearest sky on Earth, the incredible Tatio geysers and colorful lagoons above 3000 meters.

Further south, you should consider a trip to Valparaíso , Chile’s colorful port that is full of history. Santiago de Chile is worth a visit, with its vibrant streets, fascinating museums and delicious restaurants. Close to the country’s Metropolitan region, you could also go for some wine tasting in the beautiful wine valleys.

Another highlight is the Lake District , with its snowcapped volcanoes, German influence and vast lakes. Heading south you’ll reach Patagonia, with the stunning national parks of Chile’s Aysen Region. Here you can do the best road trip in South America while driving through the Carretera Austral, and do a hike of a lifetime through the Cerro Castillo National Park .

But the crown jewel of Patagonia is definitely Torres del Paine National Park , with its mesmerizing granite spires, abundant wildlife and spectacular hiking trails. You can stay at EcoCamp Patagonia , the world’s first geodesic hotel, to make your stay in Chile’s finest national park even better!

Another great place to hike is the Navarino island , home to the southernmost trek on Earth, “los dientes de Navarino”.

And we can’t talk about Chile without mentioning Easter Island (Rapa Nui), with its 1,000 monumental Moai statues in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

Ready for your trip to Chile? Take a look at our adventures or contact us to make your dream adventure come true!

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Related posts.

Patagonia's glaciers: worth a visit

The Best Destinations in Chile for Adventure Travelers

8 Things You Didn't Know About Patagonia

The Chilean Way

Want to learn more about the beautiful country of Chile? Download our insider’s guide to learn all the best travel tips and tricks.

• TERMS & CONDITIONS
• PRIVACY POLICY

Destination

• Multi Destination
• Salta Argentina

Experiences

• Multi-activity
• Exceptional Journeys

SOCIAL NETWORKS

Updated October 4th, 2022

Dear Traveler,

We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile. Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:

• You only have to present the vaccination certificate issued in your country when boarding to Chile. Those who do not have their vaccinations must present a negative result in a PCR test dated less than 48 hours from departure to enter Chile. Those who are under 18 years of age do not have any requirements to enter Chile
• A negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more but diagnostic tests will be carried out randomly at the entry point to Chile. Confirmed cases shall be isolated according to the general health regulations.
• Medical insurance covering any expenses caused by COVID-19 is not compulsory any more
• The use of a face mask is voluntary

In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!

The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia

Where to Stay in Santiago Chile: 10 Best Areas & Safety

In this guide, I will help you to find Where to Stay in Santiago de Chile for first-timers, best areas to stay in Santiago Chile (with a map and video), the best hotels in Santiago de Chile for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed) and the safest places to stay in Santiago de Chile.

Santiago De Chile or just Santiago is the capital and largest city in Chile, as well as one of the largest cities in the entire Americas . It has incredibly diverse landscapes and scenery with the Mapocho River running through it and the Andes Mountains in the background. It also has plenty of 19th-century neoclassical buildings, historical attractions that heritage in the colonial.

Unfortunately, like many places in South America, Chile has somewhat of a reputation for crime. Purse snatching, mugging, property crime, and drink spiking are all common. While Santiago is a beautiful city, it is important to keep your wits about you at all times. 

If you are sensible while you are there, keep to the populated areas, secure your belongings, and don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know , you will more than likely be absolutely fine, as the vast majority of tourists are.

Compared to many other cities in Latin America, it could even be seen as somewhat safe . That said, it’s better to be prepared before you go, to make sure you can take the proper precautions.

Barrio Lastarria, Barrio Italia, Barrio Brasil, Providencia, and Barrio Bellas Artes are some of the safest areas to stay in Santiago Centro. While these neighborhoods are generally considered safe, it’s essential to remain vigilant to ensure your safety.

Where to stay in Santiago de Chile?

The best areas to stay in Santiago de Chile for tourists are Centro, Bellavista, Lastarria, Las Condes, and Providencia. These are popular neighborhoods for tourists that offer a wide variety of attractions and amenities.

Santiago Centro is the best place to stay in Santiago for first-timers due to its prime location. Staying here offers easy access to to top tourist attractions, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops. El Centro also a wide range of accommodation options that suits all budget travelers.

In addition to Centro, Bellavista and Lastarria are also popular places to stay in Santiago de Chile. Bellavista is a vibrant and bohemian neighborhood that is known for its artistic vibe, colorful houses, and lively nightlife. It’s offers easy access to Cerro San Cristóbal, and Metropolitan Park.

Lastarria is the historic and charming neighborhood that is known for its European-style architecture, cultural centers, and boutique shops. It’s within walking distance of the Museum of Fine Arts, GAM, and the Santa Lucía Hill.

Where did I stay in Santiago Chile?

When I first visited Santiago de Chile, I stayed for 5 nights at the lovely Mercure Santiago Centro in the Downtown area. It was a great stay with a central location, close to a subway station. I had a spacious room with a huge window. Breakfast was also lovely.

Map of areas and neighborhoods in Santiago de Chile:

10 Best areas to stay in Santiago de Chile are:

1. santiago centro.

Santiago Centro is the best place to stay in Santiago Chile for first-timers who want to stay in the heart of the action and proximmity to attractions such as Plaza de Arma and Mercado Central. This downtown area also offers the widest range of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and shops.

Santiago Centro is the oldest part of the city, first founded in 1541. As such, there is an incredible amount of historical buildings and monuments to see.

The main square, Plaza de Armas (square of weapons) is a social hub of the city. It was established by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia in the 16th-century.

It’s surrounded by important buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, Municipality of Santiago and the Central Post Office, National History Museum, Ahumada & Estado, Stock Exchange, or La Moneda Presidential Palace.

If you are interested in history, there are many museums to explore such as:

• The Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino , an art museum dedicated to pre-Columbian artworks and artifacts from Central and South America;
• The National Museum of Fine Arts.
• The Museo de Artes Visuales (MAVI).

You can stroll along the famous pedestrian streets to the south of Plaza de Armas. Paseo Ahumada, Paseo Estado, and Paseo Huefarnos are home to the popular Chilean mega-department stores, and some American brands.

There is the Palacio De La Moneda , located at the end of Paseo Ahumada, between the Alameda and Calle Moneda. Designed by Italian architect Joaquin Toesca, as a coin mint for about fifteen years from its opening in 1805, the palace was the scene of a violent coup in 1973 that killed many Chileans. In 1845, La Moneda became the presidential palace under the Bulnes administration.

Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía) offers breathtaking views from its top. Located north of Santa Lucia Hill is the bohemian barrios of Lastarria and Bellas Artes neighborhoods with plenty of attractions to do!

The downtown area of the city and, as you might expect, is the place to come for faster-paced days and wild nights . It features many of the city’s best bars and restaurants to keep you entertained throughout your stay and there is even a fun park, Fantasilandia , to help you split up your daily sightseeing with a few thrills.

If you want to do some shopping, head to Mercado Central , where you can grab some local fresh produce and souvenirs. Mercado Central is a great place to try the exquisite flavors and textures of typical Chilean cuisine.

When it comes to accommodation there are plenty of choices available, from budget hostels to high-end hotels and apartments , but even if you go for the upper end of the market, it’s still incredible value for what you get.

Stay in Santiago Centro if you are traveling to Santiago for the first time; you want a vibrant nightlife; you want a fantastic deal on accommodation; you want to be in the most historic part of the city; you love great restaurants; you want to visit Santa Lucia Hill.

Best Places to Stay in Santiago Centro for first-timers :

luxury ($$$): Hotel Cumbres Lastarria , superb, 5-star guest house, set in a traditional building, within walking distance from Universidad Catolica metro station and Bellas Artes Museum. Easy access to hundreds of restaurants, bars, and shops in the surrounding area.

mid-range ($$): Hotel Altiplanico Bellas Artes , 4-star hotel located within easy walk from Bellas Artes Subway Station and Lastarria. Free hot drinks are available from the 24-hour front desk throughout your stay, while laundry and concierge services are also offered.

budget ($): Hotel Panamericano , 3-star hotel located close to Constitution Square, Presidential Palace, La Moneda and Santa Ana Metro stations. The gourmet restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and Chilean cuisine, while guests also receives free parking and Wi-Fi.

Hostel ($): Hostel Boutique Merced 88 , a great budget boutique hotel offering a choice of shared or private rooms, surrounded by famous attractions. All guests receive a continental breakfast.

2. Bellavista

Located between the Mapocho River and San Cristobál Hill in Santiago, This large district of Barrio Bellavista is a good choice for accommodation for all budgets, with less emphasis on tourism than downtown neighborhoods. The Bellavista neighborhood is divided into two municipal areas, Recoleta and Providencia, by Pio Nono Street.

Barrio Bellavista is lively, yet with a bohemian reputation since 1970s. You will enjoy its colorful murals on several themes, historical and current.  Add to this the bars, and nightclubs , and you will never be short of things to do. This lively neighborhood is home to the best nightlife in the city.

Bellavista is a place for those enjoying art, with several galleries and graffiti art worth a visit.  It is the atmosphere of the district that makes it so interesting with simply watching daily life is one of the attractions.

In this district, you will find the La Chascona, the former house of famous Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda which is now a museum;

Parque Metropolitano is the largest park in Chile where you can find Cerro San Cristobál (San Cristobál Hill), Chilean National Zoo, and a Botanical Garden.

You can hike, bike, or take a funicular to the top of San Cristobál Hill which is just 300 meters above Santiago. At its top, you can enjoy the views over the city, and see the 22-meter high statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Visit by day, and fall into any of the cafes, and boutiques, especially in the outdoor complex of Patio Bellavista . The weekly craft market is in Calle Pío Nono, and locally-mined lapis lazuli is a great memento.

If you want to do some shopping, head to the Avenida Bellavista  which is filled with shopping malls, markets, and general stores.

Best places to stay in Santiago in Bellavista for first-time visitors:

• mid-range ($$): The Aubrey Boutique Hotel
• budget ($): Norus Apartments Providencia
• budget ($): Hotel Boutique Santiago Suite

3. Lastarria and Bellas Artes

Lastarria is an historical area in the centro, north of Avenida Liberador Bernardo O’Higgins. It adjoins the modern and artsy, Bella Artes and is culturally very similar. Tourists are attracted by the authenticity of the more traditional and cobblestoned, Lastarria while locals love the district as well.

Jose Victorino Lastarria is the main street in the barrio where you can find artisanal cafes, restaurants, hotels, and El Biografo – a movie theater. Mosqueto and Ismael Valdés Vergara are other popular streets in the neighborhood.

Lastarria is home to quality accommodation, stylish boutiques, and chic cafes. The architecture is beautiful, and you may think you are in Europe when you are here. The modern towers that are now common in Santiago de Chile do not appear in Lastarria.

The Parque Forestal is a large urban park, a must-see attraction in Santiago. You will find the Museo de Bellas Artes , the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, and the first puppet theatre the Anfiteatro Bellas Artes .

The Bellas Artes neighborhood is served by the Metro station Bellas Artes. Lastarria is served by the Metro stations Universidad Católica and Bellas Artes.

Each Thursday to Sunday, there is a book and antique market in the nineteenth century Plaza Mulato Gil de Castro . Art, theatre, and music are found in Lastarria which also has all the modern amenities you might need.

What you do need if you want to stay here is money. Its hotels offer comfort and more; some even have rooftop pools for guests to enjoy.

4. Providencia

Located directly to the northeast of Centro, the quiet, residential area , Providencia features a lot of similarities to that commune, including its collection of bars and restaurants. However, there are two distinct facts that separate it from its neighbor.

Firstly, there is the architecture. This is an area that was once home to royalty and the elite members of society. This means many of the buildings are grand, extravagantly designed structures which, while now mostly serving as offices or corporate buildings, are still incredible to look at.

Then there is the area known as Barrio Bellavista , known for its vibrant street performers and dancers, which sits beneath Cerro San Cristobal , a beautiful peak adorned with a 72ft statue of the Virgin Mary.

This is an incredible area to visit to see a show and view the incredible architecture surrounding you. The Sky Costanera Observatory is also the highest building in Santiago.

The grand boulevard of Avenida Providencia is a commercial hub full of restaurants and shopping. Providencia is also home to Barrio Italia, a cool area with colorful shopfronts and tree-lined lanes.

When it comes to accommodation it is much of the same that you will find in Centro, although this time without the extreme budget options at the lower end of the spectrum.

You should stay in Providencia if you like street performers and dancers; you love beautiful architecture; you want great value accommodation; you enjoy fantastic bars and restaurants; you appreciate religious statues.

Best Places to Stay in Santiago Providencia for first-timers:

luxury ($$$): Solace Hotel Santiago is a fantastic, 5-star hotel, surrounded by shops and restaurants, just a block away from Pedro de Valdivia.

mid-range ($$): Novotel Santiago Providencia is a fabulous, 4-star hotel, offering guests luxurious rooms, complete with a desk, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom.

budget ($): Heidelberg Haus Apart Hotel provides bright, stylish, modern apartments, in a quiet, residential neighborhood. The apartments are all spacious and soundproofed and feature cable TV and fully equipped kitchens.

budget ($): abba Presidente Suites Santiago offers a range of large rooms, ideal for people traveling as a family or as a large group. Located in a tranquil environment, all rooms feature a private bathroom and cable TV, while some also have kitchen facilities.

5. Las Condes

Located in the northeast of the city, the financial district , Las Condes is the largest of the 37 communes. Home largely to upper-class, wealthy families, this is one of the more exclusive areas of the city.

It even has an area affectionately known as “ Manhattan ” for its similarity to downtown New York City. This area is more for affluent residents and thriving ex-pat communities.

With a collection of beautiful theatres , gardens, parks, and buildings, Las Condes is a location for those who want to explore the finer things in life when they are away.

There are also a number of high-end restaurants and bars for you to enjoy spending your hard-earned money in and making yourself feel like royalty. For a shopping experience, visit the high streets of Alonso de Córdova and Nueva Costanera, or Los Dominicos Village for traditional Chilean artisan goods.

As you would probably expect from such an area, the majority of the Las Condes accommodation is quite expensive . However, there are fewer lower-priced options to be had but you have to make sure you act quickly.

Stay in Las Condes if you love beautiful hotels; you like more exclusive areas; you enjoy the theatre; you enjoy taking walks in parks and gardens; you aren’t worried about the cost; you like dining at fancy restaurants.

Best Places to Stay in Santiago Las Condes:

luxury ($$$): Plaza El Bosque Ebro is a plush, 5-star resort, featuring stylishly decorated, self-catering rooms and suites. Desks, mini bars and cable TVs are standard in every unit, while some also feature seating areas, with soft armchairs and carpets. A pool, art gallery and games room with a billiards table are available to enjoy, while free Wi-Fi is present throughout the property.

luxury ($$$): NH Collection Plaza Santiago   is a wonderful, 5-star hotel, offering state of the art facilities, such as health club services, an award-winning restaurant, an indoor pool and a cocktail lounge.

luxury ($$$): Hotel Regal Pacific Santiago is a sleek, stylish, 5-star hotel, featuring spacious, modern guestrooms, kitted out with countless modern luxuries. Facilities such as a gym, sauna, squash court and beauty treatments and massages will ensure everyone is catered to.

mid-range ($$): DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago – Vitacura  is a superb resort, featuring stylish, modern rooms, all equipped with luxuries like flat screen TVs, mini bars and security boxes.

budget ($): Sunset Apartments are a collection of 44 beautifully decorated, fully equipped apartments, just 450 yards from Manquehue metro station.

6. Vitacura

If it’s a cultured trip to Santiago that you’re looking for, then a stay in the city’s northern commune of Vitacura is a must. Vitacura is the exclusive neighborhood in the city.

Located to the northeast of Providencia, this is an area famed for its incredible collection of museums, art galleries, and churches . Whether you enjoy historical sites, beautiful works of art or simply learning about the culture of the place you are staying, there is ample opportunity here to take in information and sights that will open your eyes to a different view of Santiago.

In this neighborhood, you will find Bicentenario Park , which is run along the Mapocho River, and Mestiza, one of the most expensive restaurants in the whole of Chile.

Being a little more removed from the city center, it is also a little quieter and slower-paced here, meaning you can study everything at your own speed and make sure you get the chance to really take everything in.

Accommodation is a little less abundant here and what is available Is generally of the high-end variety , so this isn’t the place to stay for those on a budget. That said, considering the sophisticated sights there is to take in here, it seems fitting that the accommodation is of a standard to match.

You should stay in Vitacura if you aren’t worried about the price; you enjoy museums, galleries, and churches; you enjoy a slower pace of your sightseeing.

Best places to stay in Santiago in Vitacura :

luxury ($$$): DoubleTree by Hilton Santiago Kennedy, Chile is a 5-star hotel in a stunning looking building, full of luxury amenities like a gym, pool, bar and restaurant.

mid-range ($$): Hotel Pullman Santiago Vitacura (ex Atton) is a wonderful, 4-star hotel, featuring a fitness centre and outdoor pool. The on-site restaurant provides a buffet breakfast each morning, before offering Mediterranean cuisine throughout the day.

mid-range ($$): Hyatt Place Santiago/Vitacura is a towering, 4-star hotel, offering spacious, modern rooms, with floor to ceiling windows that let you make the most of the breath-taking views.

mid-range ($$): Hotel Director Vitacura is a superb, 4-star hotel, offering a range of comfortable, modern rooms and suites.

7. Penalolen

Located in the east of the city, directly south of Las Condes, Penalolen is another relatively quiet, residential area. However, there is one very big, incredibly famous reason to stay here, and that’s its vineyards.

Chile is a country that is known around the world for the quality of its wine and Penalolen contains some of the best vineyards in Santiago and perhaps all of Chile.

What better experience for wine aficionados could there be than getting out into the countryside and seeing where and how these famous wines are made, while perhaps even getting to sample some directly from the source.

Accommodation in the area is incredibly scarce so it’s important to book well in advance if you do plan to make the trip, but if wine is your thing, it’s certainly one you’ll be glad you made.

You should stay in Pudahuel if you like wine; you enjoy exploring vineyards; you want a more rural area; you are happy to book things well in advance.

Best places to stay in Santiago Pudahuel :

mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Santiago – Airport Terminal, an IHG hotel is helpfully located directly opposite the airport, so is ideal if you are worried about missing your flight.

mid-range ($$): La Quinta by Wyndham Santiago Aeropuerto is a 4-star hotel, just 5 minutes from the airport, so you don’t have to worry about travelling all over the place with your luggage, especially as there is a free shuttle service between the two.

mid-range ($$): Hotel Diego de Almagro Aeropuerto provides pleasant, affordable accommodation, around a 7-minute shuttle ride from the airport.

mid-range ($$): City Express Santiago Aeropuerto is a modern hotel, located 2.5 miles from the airport. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms all feature comfortable furnishings, private bathrooms and a TV.

8. Lo Barnechea

Lo Barnechea is situated in the most north-eastern part of the city, much of the region is located in the mountains . This commune is a little different to most of the other parts of the city, as the thing it is famous for is its ski resorts .

Containing most of the city’s ski resorts, this is undoubtedly the place to go if you want to spend your days on the slopes in between your historical expeditions into town.

Featuring stunning views out over greater Santiago, this is an experience you won’t find anywhere else in town.

Accommodation here is a little more limited in terms of choice and prices are quite a bit higher, as is often the case at ski resorts. That said, what is available is stunning and if you’re after a ski vacation in this part of the world, it is certainly worth the money.

You should stay here if you like mountains; you enjoy skiing; you aren’t too worried about the price; you like beautiful views

9. Pudahuel

While everything we’ve looked at so far has been located between the heart of the city and the eastern and north-eastern borders, we end our list in the city’s western commune of Pudahuel.

Located around 6 miles from the city center, this is a more residential area with a substantially slower pace to life. Its main attraction is Clarillo River National Reserve , a 7-mile hiking area featuring a number of beautiful species of plants and wildlife that will give you a chance to experience the more natural side to the area.

It is also where the airport is located, so is a perfect spot for backpackers who want to get out on the trails as quickly as possible, without worrying about transportation.

As far as accommodation is concerned, the area is pretty much average on all accounts, featuring a decent range with prices varying from medium to high.

You should stay in Pudahuel if you are backpacking; you enjoy rivers; you like nature; you want to be close to the airport

10. Barrio Brasil

This district earns its name from the fact all its streets are named after places in Brazil. It was home to wealthy families in the 19th century, nowaday it’s developed to become an art, culture, and recreation area. It’s home to the Danza de la Universidad Academia de Humanismo Cristiano .

There are plenty of popular bars, several parks, and street musicians at every turn. The main landmark is the cathedral, Basilica del Salvador . The style is Gothic, and it was consecrated in 1900, yet not completed for another three decades.  It can hold a congregation of 5000.

P arque Quinta Normal is the largest of the parks, holding a botanic garden, and several museums, featuring natural history and art among other things. You can take a break from city life by spending time in this park, or others. 

If you are on a budget , this is the place for you with plenty of hostels, apartments, and budget hotels. Even if you have not booked in advance, you will find something here.

Where should I stay in Santiago De Chile for the first time?

Santiago Centro is the best place to stay in Santiago De Chile for first-time travelers due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to the top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops. 

What are the best areas to stay in Santiago De Chile?

Santiago Centro, Bellavista, Barrio Lastarria, Las Condes, Providencia, Barrio Brasil, Vitacura, and Bellas Artes are the best areas to stay in Santiago De Chile for tourists because they are the most popular and safe neighborhoods that offer a wide range of attractions and amenities.

What is the safest place to stay in santiago chile?

Las Condes, Vitacura, and Providencia are relatively safe neighborhoods that are known for being more upscale and tend to have lower crime rates. Other neighborhoods that are generally considered safe include Lastarria, Recoleta, Ñuñoa, and La Reina.

Where not to stay in Santiago de Chile?

As with any city, there may be neighborhoods in Santiago, Chile that have higher crime rates or may not be as well-maintained as other areas. It is always a good idea to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings, regardless of where you are staying.

🎬 Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Santiago:

It is always a good idea to take precautions to stay safe when traveling, such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to research the specific neighborhood you will be staying in and to follow any safety recommendations provided by your hotel or host.

In conclusion, Santiago Centro, Bellavista, Barrio Lastarria, Las Condes, Providencia, Barrio Brasil, Vitacura, and Bellas Artes are some of the best places to stay in Santiago Chile for tourists and first-time travelers . They offer a wide range of accommodation options for all budget travelers.

Overall, I recommend Santiago Centro as the best area to stay in Santiago for the first time due to its central location. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of the action!

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Explore Santiago

Plan your trip to santiago: best of santiago tourism.

Essential Santiago

How to do Santiago in 3 days

Where to find the best views in Santiago

Browse collections

• Le Reve Boutique Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental, Santiago
• The Singular Santiago Lastarria Hotel
• The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago
• Olá Santiago Providencia, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• Chipe Libre - República Independiente del Pisco
• La Cabrera Chile Isidora
• Karai by Mitsuharu
• Cerro San Cristobal
• Cerro Santa Lucia
• Sky Costanera
• Barrio Lastarria
• Viña Cousino Macul
• Full-Day Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar from Santiago
• Inca Lagoon in Andes Mountain Range - Visit Local Vineyard with Tasting included
• Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 vineyards from Santiago.
• Small-Group Cajón del Maipo Full-Day Tour and Picnic
• Full Day Group Tour - Viña Del Mar-Valparaiso -Casablanca -Reñaca

36 Hours in Santiago, Chile

By John Bartlett Updated Sept. 21, 2023

• Share full article

Because Santiago, Chile’s sprawling capital, is the gateway to some of the world’s greatest natural wonders — Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, Easter Island — many travelers understandably breeze through. It might not wow like Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires, but scratch the surface and the city is alive with music, art and nightlife, against the arresting backdrop of the Andes. Divisions still run deep, 50 years after Gen. Augusto Pinochet’s U.S.-backed coup d’état ushered in a 17-year dictatorship. Just four years ago, Chile exploded into cathartic and, at times, violent unrest, as hundreds of thousands of Santiaguinos protested social inequalities. The scars are there for all to see. But if you’ve made it all this way, you should give Santiago a chance to impress.

Recommendations

• A hike to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal offers the best views of the city and the Andes Mountains, particularly after rain has cleared the air.
• The Persa Víctor Manuel flea market boasts music, art and good food on Saturdays and Sundays.
• The Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos tells the story of General Pinochet’s dictatorship, and helps to explain the Chile you see today.
• La Pulpería Santa Elvira remixes seasonal Chilean classics and is one of Santiago’s most exciting restaurants.
• Salsoteca Maestra Vida , a two-room salsa club, gets going late and takes you through into the small hours.
• Blondie , a former cinema-turned-L.G.B.T.Q. nightclub, hosts a varied crowd.
• El Bajo is a plant-filled mezzanine bar beneath the GAM , an arts center in the historic Lastarria neighborhood that hosts exhibitions, book fairs and live events.
• Casa de la Cueca showcases Chile’s national dance, la cueca, and serves hearty dishes on the first Sunday of each month.
• El Portal Ex Bahamondes is the birthplace of the completo, Chile’s culinary obsession.
• El Franchute del Barrio is the lively setting for French-inspired weekend lunches.
• Café Escondido is a fun bar tucked down an alleyway in the city center.
• La Chascona , the former home of the poet Pablo Neruda, is stuffed with trinkets and collectibles.
• Factoría Franklin is a new arts and cultural space with stalls, creative workshops and AFA Galería , a modern art gallery.
• Centro Artesanal Los Dominicos , a former convent right at the end of L1 on the metro, is a one-stop shop for Indigenous handicrafts, leatherware and assorted artisanry.
• Metales Pesados and Ulises in the city center are two of Santiago’s finest bookstores.
• The Singular Santiago in Lastarria is an upmarket option with a smart rooftop bar and views towards Cerro San Cristóbal. Double rooms start from around 180,000 Chilean pesos, or about $204, for the night.
• The Hotel Boutique Castillo Rojo , in a renovated colonial mansion in the Bellavista neighborhood, is a boutique option with rooms starting from about 140,000 pesos.
• Hostal Forestal , a laid-back city center hostel, has private rooms with ensuite bathrooms starting from 32,000 pesos. A bunk bed in a six-to-eight-person dormitory costs about 12,000 pesos.
• Short-term rentals are abundant. Find somewhere along the metro’s L1 in Providencia or Lastarria to be close to the action.
• Uber and Cabify compete for ride-hailing traffic, and both are safe and reliable. Taxis are fine, too, but you’ll nearly always have to pay in cash — make sure the meter is running before you set off. The metro is extensive and safe, but as with any city, watch out for pickpockets. Buses rattle along all of the main routes and are relatively cheap and easy to use.
• Streetside bike rental (download the Bike Itaú app ) is a good option, but parking docks are concentrated in the wealthier neighborhoods. Be wary of disconnected bike paths and merciless bus drivers. On Sundays, many of the city’s main arteries are closed to cars for the Ciclorecreovía , an event that allows for leisurely exploration on foot and by bike.

More From 36 Hours

Have a weekend to explore a destination we’ve got the perfect travel itinerary..

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art  in this city with stunning views in every direction.

Sarasota:   Kayak through mangroves, take a Black history trolley tour and spot dolphins  from a white-sand beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Mérida:   Rich in culture and history , this young and artsy Mexican city is an antidote to the wall-to-wall all-inclusive resorts of the Yucatán coast. ​​

Advertisement

God Save The Points

Elevating your travel

Is It Safe To Visit Santiago Chile, Amidst Deadly October Riots?

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

After months of unrest in Hong Kong, the world shifted its attention to Santiago, Chile, where riots throughout the city and surrounding suburbs have killed at least 20 people. The fight certainly isn’t against tourists, but as one of the most popular destinations in South America, and a gateway to many of the best outdoor areas of the continent, it’s important to know what to expect, and many are now wondering whether it’s still safe to go…

What’s Happening In Santiago, Chile?

Chile tops the list of developed nations with the greatest inequality between rich and poor. It’s beautiful, its cities are world class, but there’s immense cultural tension. Riots in the country began after a government proposal to raise metro transit prices, which acted as a catalyst to highlight the growing inequality in a nation already dealing with it in droves.

The proposals have since been shelved, but the damage was already done. To ease unrest, the President announced the sacking of all cabinet ministers, in hopes of forming a new government capable of addressing inequality. As of October 28th, the country is hoping for renewed peace.

Violent Protests All Around The City

Unfortunately, it’s been absolute chaos in Santiago, Chile with at least 20 deaths from police clashes with protestors. The government has called a state of emergency for the last week, but it’s hoping to end the curfew and emergency as soon as possible, as mass looting and rioting have calmed down. According to the BBC , more than 40 lootings have occurred and gunshots have been fired.

Is It Safe To Visit Chile Right Now?

The unrest is centred around domestic issues, not tourists, but things aren’t exactly business as usual in Coquimbo, Biobío, Santiago or Valparaiso. Metro stations have been destroyed and all public transit in the city of Santiago is currently suspended. In other words: if you planned to use it, that’s not really currently possible.

With all hope, the city will return to some form of normalcy by the end of the week though.

Similarly, airlines have cancelled flights into and out of the city amidst the uncertainty. Metro stations are expected to reopen and things could get back to normal rather quickly, but for the time being, it’s just a bit chaotic to travel to the city for leisure purposes.

If your travel is more than 2 weeks into the future, there’s no reason to suspect clashes will continue, but if you’re headed there this week, you may want to consider alternative plans, or at least keep up to date on the developments.

How To Stay On Top Of The Situation

The US State Department offers updated travel advice, as does the UK Foreign Office . These two sources are excellent for up to date information on potential travel risks, and more importantly – what to do if you find yourself in a compromised position.

At the moment, Chile sits at “Level 1” in the US travel advisory system, which is the lowest possible rating a country can have, or rather – the best in terms of safety out of 4. The UK is a 2, and Syria is a 4, for comparison sake. Expect this number to change if unrest continues, and be sure to stay on top of the situation.

We’ll update this page as things change.

Gilbert Ott

Gilbert Ott is an ever curious traveler and one of the world's leading travel experts. His adventures take him all over the globe, often spanning over 200,000 miles a year and his travel exploits are regularly... More by Gilbert Ott

Join the Conversation

12 Comments

Heading to Santiago on Saturday as a jump off point to the rest of Chile and Argentina. Hopefully flights resume as normal and maybe I’ll have to find another place to stay for the first 3 nights

Looking forward to updates, thank you!

Steve, I am resident at Vina del Mar, and our region, along with several cities, are still under martial law and curfews. I suggest to switch your itinerary and continue on to Buenos Aires, visiting there and then returning to Chile when it gets back to normal. Cheers, Carlos

Thank you, Carlos. I have a scheduled vacation to Santiago, Chile starting 10/30 then to Buenos Aires, Argentina via LATAM. It sounds like things are not getting any better and may take your suggestion to skip Chile, however the airline is going to charge me change fees plus probably any fare difference which may end up the same amount I paid for the airfare. Do any of you have suggestions on how to navigate this tricky situation? I’m going to call the airlines tomorrow and see what my options are. Thanks again!

I’m also heading to Santiago on 10/30 for 2 days there and then to Patagonia. KLM offers free change up to 10/25 for now. I was so happy to visit Chile. Looking forward your updates.

Wow, just landed in Santiago last night and was shocked to see such sites on the way to the hotel as we were unaware. Any pointers on what to do or how to be stay safe and get around for our next few days before we fly out to Lima? Thanks Kate

Hello Kate – What area area you staying at? I’ll be heading there in a few days and still undecided if I should proceed as the airline have not provided waivers or cancelled the flights to Santiago. The hotel I planned to stay at are temporarily closed for the safety of their employees and guests which is in the city center. I was not sure if staying at Las Condes would be better for tourists. If you could share some of your experience and areas to avoid, please do as I can’t find much specific information. Thanks!

We are flying to Santiago on Dec 20th. Hoping everything will be calm by then, just watching and waiting right now. Meanwhile, wanting to track this thread. Keep sharing experiences and advice everyone. Thanks!

I am not flying until Dec 30th..staying l night Holiday Inn at Santiago airport, then to Easter island. Coming back we were going to stay downtown Santiago for a couple days before heading out on cruise. Do you think it would be wiser, after our 3 days on Easter Island, to come back and just stay at the Santiago airport hotel before leaving Jan 5 on cruise? I was going to use VIATOR for a tour down to Varisparo to cruise terminal..good idea or no? Thank you for alleviating my concerns!

I’d think everything would be back to normal then, by the way things have progressed this week.

Thanks for reply! Appreciate your updates!

Looking to go to Chile on the 27th but not sure if it’s the right time or not

Hello, I’m travelling with my husband on 24th November, we’re using several internal flights, does anybody have experience of how these are being affected? Our route is Santiago, straight up to San pedro de atacama, then down to Puerto Natalas, back to Santiago and driving to winelands. The updated foreign office advice is worrying, with a national strike taking place on 12 Nov, and expectation of daily protests. I’d really value any updates from people who are in Chile now, how it’s all looking / feeling out there? Is it safe to travel…? Many thanks.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Leave a comment

Travel better, for less.

Stay up to date on everything travel, with our handy newsletter

Assailants ambush and kill 3 police officers in southern Chile, shaking the country

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Armed assailants ambushed and killed three law enforcement officers in southern Chile on Saturday before setting their car on fire, authorities said, the latest attack on police to revive security concerns in the South American country.

It remains unclear who carried out the assault on Chile’s national police force in the Biobío region some 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) south of Santiago, the capital. But a long-simmering conflict between the Mapuche indigenous community and landowners and forestry companies in Biobío and Chile’s Araucanía region farther south has intensified in recent years. That has prompted the government to impose a state of emergency and deploy the military to provide security.

“There will be no impunity,” Chilean President Gabriel Boric said, declaring three days of national mourning on Saturday, after firefighters dousing the burning police car made the grisly discovery.

The spate of bloodshed has tested Boric, who came to power in 2022 promising to ease tensions in the region, where armed Mapuche activists long have stolen timber and attacked forestry companies that they claim invaded their ancestral lands, among other targets like churches and national institutions.

But the indigenous community’s distrust of authorities has deepened, spurring violence even as Boric’s administration has touted its success in reducing Chile’s national homicide rate by 6%, according to government figures from 2023 published earlier this week.

“This attack goes against all the enormous strides that have been made,” said Interior Minister Carolina Tohá, a center-left former mayor of Santiago appointed as minister in late 2022 to boost Boric’s position as his approval ratings dipped .

Describing the assailants as “terrorists,” Boric traveled south to personally offer condolences to the victims’ families. The Carabineros, Chile’s national police force, said they were “working to the best of our abilities” to catch the assailants but declined to comment on possible leads.

The killing had been well planned, early reports suggest, timed to coincide with National Police Day, celebrating the 97th anniversary of the establishment of the Carabineros in Chile. It was the second such fatal attack on the force this month.

The Carabineros’ general director, Ricardo Yáñez, told reporters the officers had been dispatched in response to fake distress calls from the rural road, where they were met with a barrage of gunfire.

“This was not coincidental, it was not random,” Yáñez said of the ambush.

In Chile, around 1 in 10 citizens identify as Mapuche, the tribe that resisted Spanish conquest centuries ago and was only defeated in the late 1800s after Chile won its independence. Large forestry companies and farm owners control an estimated 500-700 kilometers of the land originally belonging to the Mapuche, many of whom now live in rural poverty.

Top headlines by email, weekday mornings

Get top headlines from the Union-Tribune in your inbox weekday mornings, including top news, local, sports, business, entertainment and opinion.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the San Diego Union-Tribune.

More in this section

Nation-World

A Chinese driver is praised for helping reduce casualties in a highway collapse that killed 48

A Chinese truck driver has been praised in local media for parking his vehicle across a highway and preventing more cars from tumbling down a slope after a section of the road in the country’s mountainous south collapsed and killed at least 48 people

London takes center stage as vote count begins in mayoral contest that could be closer than thought

London takes center stage as the counting of votes is underway in the capital city’s mayoral contest, a day after Britain’s governing Conservative Party suffered a drubbing in local election results

Drone footage shows Ukrainian village battered to ruins as residents flee Russian advance

Drone footage obtained by The Associated Press shows the devastation inflicted on the Ukranian village of Ocheretyne

AP PHOTOS: Greek Orthodox mark Good Friday with solemn bier processions

The procession of “Epitaphios,” symbolizing the bier that carried the body of Jesus to his grave, took place across Greece on Friday, which was Good Friday in the Orthodox Christian calendar.

May 4, 2024

Houston braces for flooding to worsen in wake of storms

The Houston area was under threat of worsening flood conditions Saturday, a day after heavy storms slammed the region and authorities warned those in low-lying areas to evacuate ahead of an expected “catastrophic” surge of water

May 3, 2024

The UN warns Sudan’s warring parties that Darfur risks starvation and death if aid isn’t allowed in

The United Nations food agency is warning Sudan’s warring parties that there is a serious risk of widespread starvation and death if they don’t allow humanitarian aid into the vast western region