Hostería Pehoé Photo by Claudio Sepulveda via Flickr Creative Commons

Travelers visiting Chile should consult the embassy or consulate in their home country to determine whether a visa will be required. United States, Canadian, United Kingdom, Australian, and New Zealand citizens need just a valid passport and entrance fee, which can be paid at the airport.

Health and Safety

Compared to other South American nations, Chile is relatively safe country for visitors, although tourists should be aware of thieves and pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas. It is a good idea not to keep all your money in one place and to not flash around your wallet. Backpacks should be carried on the front of the body and try to avoid wearing expensive clothing and carrying electronics. Women are advised not to walk alone at night and all visitors should avoid dark alleys and rough parts of town. There are sometimes political protests staged mostly by university students, which tourists should try to avoid.

The weather in Chile can be unpredictable and vary greatly throughout the day. Bring a range of clothes and dress in layers, particularly if camping or hiking. While there are no mandatory vaccinations, you may consider getting routine hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and rabies shots as a precaution. While much of Chile’s tap water is considered drinkable, it is safer to stick to bottled water.

Click here to learn about History and Culture in Chile