Chile
South America • CHL
Last updated: September 12, 2026
Chile is a breathtaking South American nation characterized by its immense geographical diversity, ranging from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the rugged glaciers of Patagonia in the south. Visitors can explore vibrant cosmopolitan cities, world-class vineyards, and dramatic landscapes that offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and EU member states, can enter Chile for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of onward or return travel
- PDI tourist card provided upon entry
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
Popular Attractions
Torres del Paine National Park: Renowned for its iconic granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and golden pampas, this park is a premier destination for hiking and nature photography.
Atacama Desert: This high-altitude plateau offers surreal lunar landscapes, bubbling geysers, and some of the clearest stargazing opportunities in the world.
Valparaíso: A colorful, bohemian port city famous for its labyrinthine hills, vibrant street art, and historical funiculars.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui): Famous for its mysterious monumental statues known as moai, this remote island provides a unique insight into a fascinating ancient culture.
Santiago: The country's capital sits in a valley surrounded by the Andes, offering a sophisticated blend of colonial architecture, modern museums, and a thriving food scene.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greeting etiquette: Chileans often greet with a single kiss on the right cheek, even between strangers in social settings.
Table manners: It is considered polite to keep your hands visible on the table rather than in your lap during meals.
Punctuality: While business meetings should start on time, social gatherings often begin later than the stated time.
Dining tipping: A 10% tip, known as 'propina,' is standard and often added to the bill in restaurants.
Personal space: Chileans tend to stand relatively close to one another while conversing; pulling away can be perceived as cold.
Gift giving: If invited to a local home for dinner, it is customary to bring a small gift such as chocolates or a bottle of wine.
Safety Tips
Secure your belongings: Be vigilant in crowded public areas like transit stations and tourist markets to prevent pickpocketing.
Avoid unlit areas: Stick to well-populated and well-lit streets, particularly at night in the capital city.
Use official taxis: Only use licensed taxi services or rideshare apps from airports and bus terminals to ensure your security.
Monitor news: Stay informed about local social protests or demonstrations, as these can occasionally cause disruptions in urban centers.
Earthquake preparedness: Chile is highly seismic, so familiarize yourself with hotel evacuation routes and safety procedures upon arrival.
Tap water safety: While tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, bottled water is recommended for travelers with sensitive stomachs.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow 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, 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
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear to prevent insect-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only thoroughly cooked food served hot; drink bottled water or treated water.
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 and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you 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