Chile
South America • CHL
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Chile is a diverse South American nation stretching along a narrow strip between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can experience dramatic landscapes ranging from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the glacial fjords and rugged peaks of Patagonia in the south.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and EU member states, can enter Chile for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival
- PDI tourist card provided upon entry
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
Popular Attractions
Torres del Paine National Park offers iconic granite pillars, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers perfect for world-class trekking.
The Atacama Desert is the driest non-polar place on Earth, featuring lunar-like landscapes, salt flats, and incredible stargazing opportunities.
Easter Island is home to the mysterious and monumental Moai statues, which stand as enduring symbols of the island's unique Rapa Nui heritage.
Valparaíso is a colorful, bohemian port city famous for its steep funiculars, vibrant street art, and winding hillside alleys.
Santiago, the capital city, blends colonial history with modern skyscraper architecture, serving as a gateway to both the Andes mountains and nearby world-renowned vineyards.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greet others with a single kiss on the right cheek, which is the standard social greeting in Chile.
Avoid using a toothpick in public as it is considered impolite; if necessary, cover your mouth with your hand.
When dining, keep your hands visible above the table rather than resting them in your lap.
Punctuality for social events is often flexible, as arriving slightly late to a dinner party is considered perfectly acceptable.
Always use formal 'usted' when addressing people you do not know well until invited to switch to the more casual 'tú'.
Tipping is customary in restaurants, with a standard 'propina' of 10 percent usually added to the bill.
Safety Tips
Keep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas like Santiago's Plaza de Armas to prevent pickpocketing.
Only use official, licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps to avoid unauthorized transport risks.
Be aware that Chile is seismically active and familiarize yourself with hotel evacuation protocols in case of an earthquake.
Drink bottled or purified water rather than tap water in rural areas or if you have a sensitive stomach.
Avoid public demonstrations and large protests, which can occasionally occur in major city centers.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, especially if you plan on trekking in remote areas.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination requirements for travelers visiting Chile.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccines are up to date before traveling.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Recommended for older adults or travelers during flu season.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases spread by insect bites, particularly in rural areas.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers because of potential exposure to measles and mumps in Chile.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling to Chile. Proof of vaccination may be needed in case of outbreaks.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers in certain areas, especially if you plan on staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Travel medicine consultation
Source: CDC
Consider seeing a travel clinic for personalized advice based on itinerary.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (such as flu shot)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceCholera preventive measures in endemic areas
Source: CDC
Consider during outbreaks or if traveling to at-risk areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended to prevent COVID-19 infection and severe illness.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended to protect against coronavirus while traveling.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in places with air conditioning or window screens.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Crucial to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Eat and drink safely by consuming only pasteurized dairy, cooked foods served hot, and safe water sources.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Insect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases such as dengue and Zika which may be present, especially in tropical areas.
View sourceRabies vaccine for high-risk travelers
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have direct contact with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor or other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended if you will be involved in outdoor activities that put you at risk for animal bites (e.g., hiking, biking).
Consider rabies vaccination if visiting remote areas.
View source