Special purchases include textiles such as colorful
handwoven ponchos, vicuna rugs,
alpaca jumpers and copper and silver work. Chile is particularly known for its lapis lazuli jewelry, but jade, amethyst, agate and onyx can all be purchased. More and more little boutique stores selling well crafted jewelry and craft are cropping up in
Cerros Alegre and
Concepción in Valparaíso. Camping and other outdoor equipment can be bought in Santiago, although you are advised to buy essential equipment before you arrive.
Shopping hours Mon-Fri 1000-2000,
Sat 1000-1400. Large shopping malls are open daily 1000-2100.
Currency Information:CurrencyChilean Peso (CLP; symbol CH$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of CH$20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of CH$500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1.
Currency ExchangeForeign exchange transactions can be conducted through commercial banks,
casas de cambio, or authorized shops, restaurants, hotels and clubs.
Casas de cambio are open daily 0900-1900 (Mon-Sat) and 0900-1400 (Sun).
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsCredit/debit cards (Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard and sometimes American Express) are widely accepted in towns and cities, where ATMs are also largely available. Outside of the larger, more tourist-centered towns, currency exchange can be tricky.
Traveller's ChequesThe government does not regulate the market of foreign currency in Chile, making it possible to exchange money and traveller's cheques at any
casa de cambio at market-driven exchange rates. There may be some difficulty exchanging traveller's cheques outside major towns. Traveller's cheques in US dollars can offer a better exchange rate.
Banking HoursMon-Fri 0900-1400.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | CH$940.26 |
| $1.00= | CH$645.75 |
| €1.00= | CH$880.75 |
Next Page »
