The Andes, Easter Island, volcanoes, seafood, culture, and color- you have so much to look forward to on your travels to Chile. If you are coming from the U.S. there are a few things to know and be prepped for to make the journey smooth so that you can begin your Latin American experience. Here are a few things to you can expect while making your way south.
Documents.
You need a valid passport. If it’s been awhile check your expiration date-wouldn’t want that to creep up on you at immigration. You will not need a visa to enter Chile. Upon arrival during immigration processing you will receive a 30, 60, or 90 day tourist card often in the form of a passport stamp, 90 being the most common. This is similar to a “visa upon arrival” concept. I like to also keep a copy or two of my passport on my person. This can be helpful when renting a vehicle or providing a copy for your Airbnb host. Either way- good to have on hand.
Packing.
For a list of specifics, check out 25 things to pack for Chile. Weather plays a huge role in what you put in your suitcase. Chile is long and thin, and contains a wide range of micro-climates. Keep in mind the seasons are opposite the U.S. July and August being prime cool weather for tourists looking to evade the heat. Check your specific locations in advance and pack versatile. Hot or cold the UV rays that fall on Chile are no joke, so carry sunscreen no matter the season. Include an adapter for your plugins – sockets are round instead of flat. Also, be prepared for earthquakes, usually small but frequent. You can’t really pack for this but at least you have a heads up!
Cost.
The currency exchange of $1 usd is $662 Chilean Pesos. Chile is expensive compared to the rest of South American countries. Depending on your budget, you could get by with $275 per week, $500 to be comfortable, and $1000 to live lavishly. Credit Cards are very widely accepted in Chile, but do keep cash. Skip the hotels and save by checking out your local Airbnb availability. If you’re headed to Santiago, Chile’s capital, here are some of our favorite neighborhoods to stay in.
Food.
Chileans are tremendous carnivores- that being said you can still always expect corn and potatoes. Seafood is an obvious must-have along with bright and fresh produce. There is no shortage of dining options throughout Chile, but don’t expect the most international of menus, most are different versions of similar dishes. My advice, make friends with a neighbor who will invite you for dinner – and vice versa! Drink wine, in every city, whenever possible really! A visit to Chile is incomplete without a wine tour.
There is so much to discover coming from the U.S. to Chile. It’s a whole new world. Brush up on your Spanish, check out our blogs, and get TheBesty App for free in the App Store or on Google Play, and have a personal concierge in your pocket for your trip that will answer your questions in a live chat, or help you book tours, activities, and local experiences- all in Latin America.
