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Chile

Silhouette Of Two People By Lakes

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Travel tips

Spring

Sep-Nov

Average temperature:

10°C-22°C

Rainfall:

Approximately 10-30 mm/month in Santiago and 15-30 mm/month in Chilean Patagonia

Summer

Dec-Feb

Average temperature:

18°C-28°C

Rainfall:

Approximately 5-10 mm/month in Santiago and 10-20 mm/month in Chilean Patagonia

Autumn

Mar-May

Average temperature:

10°C-20°C

Rainfall:

Approximately 10-30 mm/month in Santiago and 20-30 mm/month in Chilean Patagonia

Winter

Jun-Aug

Average temperature:

3°C-15°C

Rainfall:

Approximately 30-60 mm/month in Santiago and 30-35 mm/month with some snowfall in Chilean Patagonia

A llama standing on a grassy hill next to a body of water and mountains in the distance

Country dialing code

+56

Capital city

Santiago

Official language

Spanish

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

The best time to visit Chile depends on what you want to do and where you want to go. The Lakes District and Torres del Paine are best explored during the summer months from October to March. Spring and Autumn are also great times for visiting Santiago, the Lakes District and wine regions. The Atacama Desert can be enjoyed year-round, with hot summer days and cold nights at high altitudes. This area receives less than 10 mm of rainfall per year. Easter Island is cooler and quieter outside of summer, but March is an optimum time to visit. November to March is generally considered the best time to visit Patagonia and the peak season is from December to February. Daylight hours are long and temperatures mild, ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife spotting.

    Highlights

    Atacama Desert

    Found in northern Chile, the Atacama is the world’s driest non-polar desert. It stretches over 1,000km along the coast, west of the Andes. It is known for its salt flats, geysers and high-altitude lagoons. 

    Easter Island

    Also known as Rapa Nui, this remote island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, about 3,500km west of mainland Chile. It is famous for its monumental moai statues created by the early Rapa Nui people.

    Patagonia

    This remote region at the southern tip of South America, spans both Chile and Argentina. Expect breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, pristine glaciers, crystal-clear lakes and unique wildlife.

    Lake District

    Located in the mid-south of Chile, encompassing the regions of Araucanía, Los Ríos, and Los Lagos, this region is known for its beautiful lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, lush forests and charming towns.  

    Santiago

    Chile’s capital is situated in the country's central valley fringed by a circle of mountains. The bustling metropolis offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic colonial architecture.

    Valparaíso

    This major port city is located 120km northwest of Santiago. Known for its colourful hillside homes, steep funiculars and vibrant arts scene, Valparaíso is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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    Communications

    Country Code for Country name: +56 

    Fire and rescue services: Call 133 

    Medical emergencies: Call 131 

    Police: Call 132 

     

    Australian Embassy, Santiago de Chile 

    Isidora Goyenechea 3621, 13th Floor, Las Condes, Santiago de Chile  Phone: (+56 2) 2550 3500  
    Email: consular.santiago@dfat.gov.au 
    Website: chile.embassy.gov.au 

     

    New Zealand Embassy Santiago, Chile 

    Isidora Goyenechea 3000, 12th Floor, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile 

    Telephone: +56 2 2616 3000 

    Email: embajada@nzembassy.cl  

    Website: www.mfat.govt.nz/chile 

     

    For further information, please visit:  

    Chile Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)  

    Chile (New Zealand) 

    Customs

    Chileans are known for their warm, friendly nature. Greetings often include a kiss on the cheek, even between men and women. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs. Chileans value politeness and formality. It's important to use formal titles and show respect, especially with elders.  

     

    Chileans typically eat dinner late, often around 8-9pm or even later - and don’t arrive early, being a little late is very acceptable. Asado (barbecue) is a popular social event and it’s common for meals to be shared.  

     

    Sharing a mate (a traditional herbal tea) or tereré (a cold tea) is an important social activity. If offered, it's polite to accept one, even if you’re not sure you want or will like it. 

     

    Patagonian culture is a blend of indigenous traditions and European influences. The gaucho, or Patagonian cowboy, is an iconic figure. Gauchos are famous for their horse-riding skills and traditional dress, including bombachas (baggy trousers) and ponchos. 

    Electricity

    Electrical Socket Type: Type C (European) and Type L (Italian) 

    Voltage: 220 volts, 50Hz 

    Health

    The following information is intended as a guide only and in no way should it be used as a substitute for professional medical advice relative to a traveller's individual needs and vaccination history. No guarantee is made as to its accuracy or thoroughness.  

     

    Altitude sickness is a risk if you're travelling above 2,500 metres. Seek advice from your doctor and ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation from high altitude. 

     

    Easter Island has had outbreaks of Zika virus and dengue. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof and use insect repellent. 

     

    If you are prone to breathing or respiratory issues, air pollution is highest in Santiago from April to October. Dust levels can be high between December and March.  

     

    Patagonia's weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and harsh conditions. It is important you’re prepared with the right clothing and resources for the region. Dress in layers and wear windproof and waterproof clothing. Cold, windy weather can lead to respiratory issues. Pack cold and flu medications, throat lozenges and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. 

     

    For further information, please visit:  

    Chile Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)  

    Chile (New Zealand) 

     

    Please consult a medical practitioner or contact The Travel Doctor for your specific risk to these preventable diseases and the appropriate avoidance measures.  

    How to Get There & Getting Around

    Fly to Santiago and connect to a domestic flight to other major centres in Chile. Given Chile's length, flying is the quickest way to travel long distances. Domestic airlines like LATAM and Sky Airline offer flights between major cities like Punta Arenas and Easter Island. 

    Chile has a good road network but be prepared for rugged conditions in remote areas. In cities like Santiago, the metro system is efficient and reliable. Buses and taxis are also widely available. Ferries and boats are popular for navigating the fjords and coastal areas of Chilean Patagonia. 

    Holidays & Festivals

    • Tapati Festival, held generally in February on Easter Island, celebrates Rapa Nui culture with body painting, music, dance, and competitions like the Haka Pei, where locals slide down hills on banana trunks. 
    • Grape Harvest Festival (March-April): Celebrated in Chile's wine regions, this festival includes grape-stomping competitions, music, dancing and wine tasting. 
    • We Tripantu (24 June): The Mapuche New Year, marking the winter solstice. Ceremonies to celebrate the renewal of life and the return of the sun are held to celebrate. 
    • Fiestas Patrias (18-19 September): Celebrates Chile's independence from Spain with parades, traditional music, food and Cueca, Chile's national dance. 

    Language

    The official language of Chile is Spanish with a specific Chilean Spanish dialect. However, there are also indigenous communities within Patagonia who speak the Mapuche language. Quechua is spoken by a small population in the northeast high plains, and Rapa Nui is a Polynesian language spoken on Easter Island. 

    Money, Tipping & Shopping

    You will need Chilean Pesos (CLP) in Chile. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when travelling to rural areas. US Dollars can generally be exchanged for local currency at good rates.  

     

    It's customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants. In bars and taxis leaving small change or rounding up the bill is a nice gesture. For porters in hotels, a tip of around US$5-10 per bag is recommended. Tip your tour guides around 10% of the tour cost. 

     

    Chile is known for its artisanal crafts, including alpaca wool products, leather goods and handmade jewellery with lapis lazuli. Chile is renowned for its wine, especially from the Central Valley. Look for varieties like Merlot, Carmenère and Cabernet Sauvignon. Pisco, a grape-based spirit, is also a must-try.

    Visas

    The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

     To enter Chile, Australians must obtain a visa before arrival: E-visa for Australia | Consulado.gob.cl. The application process can be lengthy, so allow plenty of time before your planned travel. 

     

    New Zealand and Chile have a reciprocal visa waiver agreement, allowing citizens to visit for tourism purposes for three months maximum without requiring a visa. For more information visit: Chile | New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

     

    When entering Chile, all travellers must complete the online Customs (Aduanas) and Agro-sanitary (SAG) declaration within 48 hours of arrival.  

     

    Tourist Card: When entering Chile, you'll receive a tourist card. You must keep this card, as it will be requested when you depart Chile. If you lose it, you'll have to request a new one, and your departure from Chile may be delayed.  

     

    For further information, please visit:  

    Chile Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)  

    Chile (New Zealand) 

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