Chile
One of South America's most stable and developed economies, with dramatic landscapes end to end.
South AmericaTraveler Snapshot: Chile
A quick reference for planning your trip: visas, weather, health, and the essentials.
Visa & Entry
For US passport holders
Visa-free for up to 90 days for US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia.
Weather & Climate
Extremely varied: Atacama desert (north), Mediterranean center, cold wet Patagonia (south).
Best Time to Visit
Spring/autumn for the center; summer (Dec–Feb) for Patagonia.
Health & Vaccinations
No special vaccines required. Keep routine vaccinations current; hepatitis A optional.
Safety
Generally safe. Petty theft in Santiago and Valparaíso; prepare for earthquakes.
Fast Facts
- Capital: Santiago
- Currency: Chilean peso (CLP)
- Languages: Spanish (some English in cities)
- Time zone: CLT (UTC−4); summer UTC−3
- Power: Type C/L plugs, 220V
- Emergency: 133 (police), 131 (medical)
Visa and entry notes here are written for US passport holders on typical short-stay tourism. Requirements vary by nationality, so if you hold a different passport your rules may differ. Guidance can change frequently. Always confirm current requirements with the official embassy, consulate, or a licensed travel-health provider before you travel.
Top Destinations in Chile
1 featured city to explore
Iconic drives in Chile
Legendary road trips worth building a trip around, with tolls, timing, and the stops that make them special.
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