Chile
Chile Country Guide
Chile is a country located along the western coast of South America. It is known for its diverse geography, stretching over 2,700 miles from its northern border with Peru to the southern tip of South America at Cape Horn. Spain colonized Chile in the 16th century, gaining independence in 1818.
Chile is considered one of the most stable and prosperous countries in Latin America, with a strong economy based on exports of copper, agriculture, and other natural resources. The country is known for its diverse natural beauty, from the Atacama Desert to the Patagonian glaciers.
Things You Need To Know Before You Come To Chile
- Chile is a long, narrow country, so flights can be quite long
- The seasons are reversed compared to the Northern Hemisphere
- Chile has a good public transportation system, however renting a car can be useful
- You need an international driver’s license to rent a car
- Learn some basic Spanish
- The 19% IVA (sales tax) is often not included in quoted prices
- Visit Easter Island if you have the time
Is Chile Expensive To Visit?
Chile is generally considered one of the more expensive countries to visit in South America. Budget travelers and backpackers can expect to spend around $30-40 per day. Those seeking a more comfortable or luxurious experience may budget $45-55 daily.
Is Going To Chile worth it?
Yes, Chile is worth visiting, especially for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse geography. Chile has a rich cultural heritage, with indigenous influences and a vibrant capital city of Santiago.
Is Chile Good For A Honeymoon?
Yes, Chile offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers and mountains of Patagonia in the south. This allows honeymooners to experience a wide range of activities and scenery. The country has a reputation for romance, with many luxury hotels, resorts, and lodges that cater specifically to honeymooners.
Is Chile Safe?
Chile is generally a safe country for travelers, but there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Street crime like muggings, pickpocketing, and theft is common in Chile, especially in major cities like Santiago
- Don’t leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
- Always carry a copy of your passport.
- Avoid walking alone at night in major cities.
- Use official public transportation
Are Chile People Friendly?
Chileans are friendly, polite, and well-educated people. while Chileans may not be the most immediately friendly people, with some cultural understanding and patience, they can be welcoming and hospitable, especially once you are accepted into their social circles.
Best Cities In Chile
Here is a table with the best cities to visit in Chile, along with information about what they are best for, their top attractions, and the average trip cost:
City Name | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
Santiago | Exploring Chile's history, culture, and modern architecture | Metropolitan Cathedral, San Cristóbal Hill, Bellavista and Lastarria neighborhoods | $45-$80 per day |
Valparaíso | Colorful, artistic, and bohemian coastal city | Vibrant street art, historic funiculars, lively neighborhoods | $35-$60 per day |
Atacama Desert | Otherworldly desert landscapes and stargazing | Moon Valley, El Tatio Geysers, Laguna Cejar | $50-$100 per day |
Patagonia (Torres del Paine) | Hiking, trekking, and experiencing the stunning natural beauty | Torres del Paine National Park, Grey Glacier, Paine Massif | $60-$120 per day |
Chiloé Island | Unique cultural heritage, folklore, and natural scenery | Palafitos (stilt houses), UNESCO churches, Curanto seafood stew | $40-$70 per day |
Puerto Varas | Scenic lakeside town in the Chilean Lake District | Mount Osorno, Petrohué Waterfalls, Cruce Andino Lake crossing | $45-$80 per day |
Pucón | Adventure activities and outdoor recreation | Villarrica Volcano, thermal hot springs, whitewater rafting | $50-$90 per day |
Best Chile Attractions
- Atacama Desert: Known for its unique landscapes, including the Valle de la Luna, hot springs, and geysers. It's a popular destination for stargazing and adventure activities.
- Lauca National Park: Located in the far north, this park features high plains, mountain ranges, and volcanoes, making it a haven for bird watchers and hikers.
- Conguillío National Park: In the Araucanía Region, this park is known for its volcanic landscapes and is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching
- Santiago: The capital city offers a mix of cultural attractions, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, San Cristóbal Hill, and the Centro de Visitantes Inmaculada Concepción.
- Valparaíso: A coastal city known for its colorful architecture, street art, and vibrant harbor. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spot for day trips from Santiago.
- Torres del Paine National Park: Located in Southern Patagonia, this park is famous for its granite towers, lakes, and glaciers. It's a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
- Patagonia: Known for its dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and lakes. It's a popular spot for adventure activities like trekking and kayaking.
- Puerto Natales: A city near Torres del Paine, it serves as a gateway to the park and offers a range of outdoor activities
- Rapa Nui National Park: This park covers most of the island and is home to the famous Moai statues. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for cultural and historical significance.
- Chiloé Island: Known for its unique cultural heritage, including its UNESCO-listed churches and folklore.
Best Time To Visit Chile
- December to February are the most popular and high season to visit Patagonia and the beaches.
- The shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May are also good times to visit
- The low season is from June to August, which is the best time for skiing in the Andes mountains around Santiago.
Where Is Chile?
Chile is a country located in the southwestern part of South America. Chile is a long, narrow country that stretches along the western coast of South America. The country has a maximum width of only 180 km, giving it a unique geography. Chile is bordered by Peru to the north, Bolivia to the northeast, and Argentina to the east.
What Is The Capital Of Chile?
The capital of Chile is Santiago, located in the country’s central valley. The city has a population of around 6 million. The city serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center.
Chile Language
Spanish is the official and national language of Chile. Other minority languages include German, French, Italian, Portuguese and Croatian. English is not widely spoken outside of major cities and tourist areas.
Time Zone of Chile
Chile is located in the UTC-4 time zone, which is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Currency Of Chile
The currency of Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP). ATMs are widely available, however they may not always offer the best exchange rates. Credit Cards are accepted at higher-end hotels, some restaurants, and shops.
Chile Flag
The flag of Chile consists of two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red (bottom) with a blue square the same height as the white band in the canton (upper hoist-side corner). The blue square bears a white five-pointed star in the center.
Population Of Chile
The current population of Chile is 19,6 million people as of July 2024. About 85% of Chile’s population lives in urban areas, with 40% living in Greater Santiago alone.
Strange Laws In Chile
- If a woman remarries less than 270 days (9 months) after her husband's death, she can face criminal charges
- anyone who "rings the bells of the people" or uses other instruments to excite the population to revolt against the government.
- if you challenge someone to a duel and they refuse out of "cowardice", you can be imprisoned. Sponsors of duels are also punishable.
- profiting from making premonitions or interpreting dreams, even though this practice remains popular in Chile.