Entry requirements for Chile (what to verify before flying)

Entry rules depend on your nationality, length of stay, and the purpose of travel. Requirements can change, and airlines may ask for supporting documents during check-in. Confirm details using official sources close to your departure date.

Is it safe to travel to Chile?

Chile is often considered one of the easier countries in South America to travel independently, but “safe” still depends on your habits. In cities, the most common issues are theft and opportunistic pickpocketing. In remote regions, the risk is more about weather, distance, and being underprepared.

Simple habits that reduce risk

• In cities: Keep phones and cameras low-profile, especially in crowded areas and public transport.
• At night: Use trusted transport rather than walking long distances in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• For nature trips: Dress for fast weather changes and respect trail closures and park guidance.
• Stay reachable: Data helps you adjust plans quickly (weather alerts, tour pickup times, navigation).

Best time to travel to Chile (by region and goal)

Chile stretches across multiple climate zones. The best time to travel to Chile depends on whether you’re prioritizing Patagonia hikes, Atacama stargazing, ski season, or wine-country day trips. A “one-size-fits-all” season doesn’t really exist here.

Quick seasonal planning guide

• Patagonia (Torres del Paine and the far south): Best for hiking during warmer months when trails and services are more accessible.
• Atacama Desert: Works year-round, with strong sun and big temperature swings between day and night.
• Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaíso, wine valleys): Pleasant across many months; summer is lively, winter can be cooler and wetter.
• Ski season: If skiing is your goal, plan around winter conditions in the Andes near Santiago.

The smartest approach: pick two regions that complement each other. Atacama + Santiago/Valparaíso is smooth. Patagonia + Santiago is classic. Trying to do Atacama + Patagonia in a short trip can work, but only if you budget travel time and accept a faster pace.

Best places to visit in Chile (what’s worth building a trip around)

Santiago: the practical hub

Santiago is the gateway for most international arrivals and a useful base for day trips. It’s a city that rewards a bit of structure: pick a neighborhood to stay in, plan a couple of key viewpoints, and reserve time for food and museums rather than trying to “see everything.”

Valparaíso: color, sea air, and street art

Valparaíso is often a day trip from Santiago (or a one-night stay). Expect steep hills, murals, and a port-city atmosphere. Comfortable shoes matter here.

Atacama Desert (San Pedro de Atacama): big landscapes, big skies

The Atacama is high-altitude desert travel with some of the most striking scenery on the continent. Tours often start early, temperatures swing widely, and it helps to have your logistics sorted: pickup times, meeting points, and reservations.

Chilean Patagonia: Torres del Paine and beyond

Patagonia is the “book in advance” portion of Chile for many travelers—especially during high season. Weather changes fast and can be intense. Build in flexibility, pack properly, and don’t underestimate distances.

Easter Island (Rapa Nui): for travelers who want something rare

Easter Island is not a casual add-on; it’s a destination in its own right. If you’re going, give it time and treat it as a separate trip segment with dedicated planning.

Chile itineraries (7, 10, and 14 days)

7 days: Santiago + Valparaíso + a wine valley day trip

• Days 1–3: Santiago (city highlights, markets, museums, viewpoints)
• Day 4: Valparaíso day trip
• Day 5: Wine valley day trip (choose one valley and do it well)
• Days 6–7: Buffer days for neighborhood exploring, food, or an Andes day excursion

10 days: Santiago + Atacama Desert

• Days 1–3: Santiago + a day trip (Valparaíso or wine valley)
• Days 4–9: San Pedro de Atacama (geysers, salt flats, lagoons, stargazing)
• Day 10: Return travel day

14 days: Santiago + Patagonia (the classic)

• Days 1–4: Santiago + Valparaíso or wine valley
• Days 5–12: Patagonia segment (Torres del Paine base + hikes)
• Days 13–14: Return to Santiago, rest, and depart

How much does it cost to travel to Chile?

Chile can be more expensive than many travelers expect, especially in remote regions where logistics and limited accommodation drive prices up. Patagonia tends to be the most expensive part of many itineraries, while Santiago offers a wider range of budget options.

Cost categories to plan for

• Accommodation: Biggest swing factor; Patagonia and peak periods book fast.
• Domestic flights: Often necessary for long distances. Booking earlier can help.
• Tours: Atacama tours (sunrise pickups, group tours) add up—choose the ones you’ll remember.
• Food: Varies by city and neighborhood; mixing local spots with restaurants keeps costs reasonable.
• Connectivity: Budget for data so you can handle changes and navigation without Wi‑Fi dependency.

Getting around Chile: flights, buses, and local transport

Chile’s geography makes air travel surprisingly practical. If you’re traveling between Santiago, the Atacama, and Patagonia, flights often save days. Buses work well for shorter regional routes and day trips.

Transport habits that make things easier

• Plan airport transfers: Have your ride strategy before landing (trusted app, official taxi, or hotel pickup).
• Keep addresses saved: Having your hotel pinned in maps reduces friction in new neighborhoods.
• Use data for timing: Tour pickups and changing schedules are easier to manage with mobile data.

Mobile data in Chile: why a travel eSIM is the simplest option

Chile travel is itinerary-heavy: tour confirmations, early pickups, navigation to trailheads, and last-minute timing changes. You’ll feel the difference between “connected” and “waiting for Wi‑Fi” immediately.

Set up Zetsim before your flight

• Check your phone is eSIM compatible and unlocked.
• Install your Zetsim travel eSIM before departure so activation is quick after landing.
• Keep a backup plan: Download offline maps for your first destination, then rely on data for the rest.

What to pack for Chile (without overpacking)

Chile packing depends on where you’re going. The best approach is layering. Even if you’re doing the Atacama, nights can be cold; if you’re doing Patagonia, wind and rain are part of the deal.

• Layer system: Base layer, warm mid-layer, and wind/rain shell.
• Sun protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen for the Atacama and high-altitude areas.
• Comfortable footwear: Cities, hills, and trails all benefit from good shoes.
• Reusable water bottle: Useful everywhere, especially on tour days.
• Power + charging: Keep your phone topped up for maps, transport, and confirmations.

Resources

• Zetsim travel eSIM plans
• Chile official tourism portal