Chile travel guide
Chile Tourism | Chile Guide
You're Going to Love Chile
From deserts to glaciers and bustling cities, the nature in Chile will astound you, the food and wine will surprise you, and the adventure will conquer you.
What to do in Chile
1. Explore Santiago
By far the biggest city in the country, there's so much to see in Chile's capital. Explore the different Barrios, watch an art performance at Centro Gabriela Mistral, head to Mercado Central for lunch, and for a panoramic view of the city, make your way to Cerro San Cristóbal.
2. Go Star Gazing in the Atacama Desert
Even though it's one of the driest deserts in the world, about 1 million people live in the Atacama Desert. Visit San Pedro de Atacama, go on a star gazing tour, be amazed by the pink flamingoes, and don't forget to try local empanadas when you're hungry.
3. Be Inspired by Valparaíso
Known to have inspired many a poet and artist, such as Pablo Neruda, this hilly city is also known for its alleyways and stairways, a colorful array of houses and street art, as well as bohemian bars you'll happily spend hours exploring.
4. Hike in the Torres del Paine National Park
Located in the southern part of Chile, this national park presents diverse landscapes that range from mountain views to glacier lakes, with a large number of hikes available for all levels.
5. Visit Easter Island
Famous for the Moai sculptures that you can find all over the island, you will be able to explore on bicycle, on foot or even on horseback.
When to visit Chile
Winters are cold in Chile, and summers tend to attract a lot of tourists. Spring and autumn months are a great time to visit, especially the months of March and April.
How to Get to Chile
Entry Requirements
A large number of countries can enter Chile without a visa, gaining entry for periods of 21-90 days depending on the country of origin. Citizens of any other countries need to apply for a visa prior to arrival.
Plane
The Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago is the main airport serving the country when it comes to international flights. A large number of airlines offer nonstop flights, including the local LATAM Airlines, which connects Chile to countries in the Americas, Oceania and Europe.
Car
Crossing by car is possible from Uyuni in Bolivia to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. From Argentina, many crossings are possible, but beware of driving in the winter, as some roads might be closed. You may also cross by car from Peru; however, only through a taxi service.
Bus
You can travel to Chile by bus from Argentina with daily services from Mendoza and weekly services from Buenos Aires. From Peru, you can get a bus from Arequipa, and several services are available from Bolivia. Buses from São Paulo in Brazil travel to Chile regularly.
Popular airports in Chile
Popular airlines serving Chile
Where to stay in Chile
There´s a variety of accommodation available, which includes hotels and furnished apartments, while hostels are available all along the backpacker trail. In the mountains, you will find ski resorts, while in the central valley, some historic sites offer accommodation.
Where to stay in popular areas of Chile
Most booked hotels in Chile
How to Get Around Chile
Public Transportation
Santiago and Valparaíso are well serviced by public transport, with commuter rail available in both cities, and a metro system available in Santiago. Outside of the main cities, trains and buses connect various parts of the country.
Trains
The only passenger trains in Chile operate between Santiago, Chillán, Talca and Constitución.
Bus
The two main bus companies operating in Chile are Turbus and Pullman. Check if the service is direct, as some services make a large number of stops along the way.
Car
Car rentals are widely available in the major cities, and having an International Drivers Permit is advised.
Plane
Chile has several local airlines offering flights throughout the country, including LATAM Airlines, which is the largest. Budget flights are offered by local airline Jetsmart.
The Cost of Living in Chile
An inexpensive meal in Chile will cost around 5,500 CLP (8 USD), while a nice meal will cost around 14,000 CLP (20 USD) per person, and the cost of a monthly public transport pass will cost around 35,000 CLP (48 USD). While credit and debit cards are accepted in the major tourist areas and establishements, the preferred payment method is usually cash.