Overview
Chile, a long and narrow country stretching from the desert in the north to the icy expanses of Patagonia in the south, offers an extraordinary range of landscapes and adventures. From the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, to the stunning glaciers and fjords of the south, Chile provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, culture, and relaxation. Known for its wine, rich indigenous history, and dramatic scenery, Chile is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Quick Facts
- Language: Spanish (official)
- Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
- Climate: Varies from desert in the north to temperate in the central region and polar in the south
- Best Time to Travel: The best time to visit is during the summer months, from December to March, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
- Visa: Citizens of most countries (including the U.S.) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Power Plugs: Type C and L, 220V
- Time Zone: Chile Standard Time (CLT), UTC -4 (or UTC -3 during daylight saving time)
Where to Fly Into
Santiago International Airport (SCL) is the main international gateway, while you can also fly into the airports in Punta Arenas (PUQ) for southern Patagonia or Iquique (IQQ) for the north.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget options range from $15-30 per night, mid-range hotels from $40-100, and luxury hotels starting at $150+ per night.
- Food: Street food and casual meals range from $5-10, while mid-range restaurant meals typically cost $15-30 per person. Fine dining starts at $40+ per person.
- Transport: Public transport in major cities is affordable, with metro fares around $1-2. Buses and taxis are also widely available for longer trips.
Climate
North (Atacama Desert): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaíso): Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F), while winter averages 5-15°C (41-59°F).
South (Patagonia): Cooler and more unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F) in summer and dropping below freezing in winter. Expect rain, snow, and wind in the colder months.
Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Summer (December to February): 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
- Winter (June to August): 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
Safety
Chile is considered one of the safest countries in South America for tourists. It is generally safe to travel, though standard precautions should be taken in busy cities to avoid petty theft. Always secure valuables and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Top 10 Things to Do in Chile
- Visit the Atacama Desert: Explore the driest desert on Earth, home to otherworldly landscapes, salt flats, and geysers. Don’t miss the Valle de la Luna for a stunning sunset.
- Hike in Torres del Paine National Park: One of the most famous national parks in the world, offering incredible hiking routes, stunning mountain views, and wildlife such as guanacos and condors.
- Explore Santiago: Chile’s vibrant capital offers a mix of modern and colonial architecture, with plenty of museums, parks, and views from the Cerro San Cristóbal hill.
- Stroll Through Valparaíso: Known for its colorful hills and winding streets, this UNESCO World Heritage city has a lively arts scene, great food, and stunning views over the Pacific Ocean.
- Visit the Wine Regions (Maipo, Colchagua): Chile is famous for its wine, and visiting vineyards in these regions offers tours, tastings, and a chance to learn about Chile’s wine-making tradition.
- Relax in the Chilean Lakes District: Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, this area is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the crystal-clear lakes.
- Go to Easter Island: Visit the mysterious Moai statues on this isolated island, known for its fascinating archaeological history and unique culture.
- Take a Boat Tour in the Patagonia Glaciers: Sail through the stunning fjords and glaciers of southern Chile, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.
- Climb Villarrica Volcano: One of the most active volcanoes in the world, this is a thrilling hike with incredible views of the surrounding lakes and forests.
- Go Stargazing in the Atacama Desert: The clear skies of the Atacama make it one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. Visit the ALMA Observatory or one of the other local observatories.