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Chile Tours & Vacations

From the eclectic sprawl of Santiago to the glacial fjords of Chilean Patagonia, the world’s longest country is jam-packed with adventure.

Get ready to be treated to a land of contrasts from the hip capital of Santiago with its funky graffitied neighborhoods, to the coastal town of Valparaiso made famous by the poetry of Pablo Neruda. Taste your way through a family-owned wine estate in Casablanca Valley, explore the Mars-like landscape of the Atacama Desert or discover Patagonia's awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. Follow the flow of  Chile  and you'll undoubtedly collect the best of South America along the way.

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Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Short Break

Patagonia Short Break - Torres Del Paine

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Articles of Chile

Travelling to Chile? Here’s the best time to go

7 different ways to see Patagonia with Intrepid

Argentina or Chile? Which South American country should you travel to?

The top 7 destinations for travel in March 2024

What to expect on an Intrepid Travel eclipse trip

Hiking in Torres del Paine? Here’s what you need to know

How to have a positive impact on Patagonia’s Torres del Paine

Everything you need to know about Easter Island

Chile at a glance

Capital city.

Santiago (population 6.9 million)

19.6 million

Chilean Peso (CLP)

(GMT-04:00) Santiago

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Chile

Culture and customs.

With the Andes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Chile’s geographic isolation has resulted in a distinct national identity. About 95 per cent of Chileans share a mixture of European (predominantly Spanish) and indigenous ancestry.

For many, being Chilean often means celebrating huaso (Chilean cowboy) culture, going to rodeos, dancing the cueca (Chile’s national dance performed in traditional huaso clothing), eating empanadas and drinking pisco.

Spanish is the national language, though Chileans tend to speak fast, drop consonants and litter their speech with a healthy dose of chilenismos (Chilean slang).

Life is focused around the family with frequent get-togethers to share food in good company. More than half of Chileans are Roman Catholics and there is a growing number (estimated at 25 per cent of the population) who are ‘unaffiliated’ – choosing not to identify with a religion.

While many Chileans are traditional in their views, the younger generations are challenging cultural norms and politics is often a passionate topic among youths.

Geography and environment

Chile is a land of quirky geographical characteristics, most noticeably its incredible length. Measuring in at over 4600km long, yet only 430km wide, Chile covers a massive geographic scale that includes a variety of landscapes and an impressive coastline.

Straddled by the epic Andes, this gigantic mountain range acts as a natural border with  Argentina  in the east, while the Pacific Ocean - including the remote Chilean territory of Easter Island - forms the western coastline.

The capital and largest city, Santiago, lies inland, roughly in the center of the country. Further north, Chile shares a border with  Peru  and  Bolivia , as well as the largest section of the parched Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest places.

South of Santiago, Chile unfolds into the wilderness playground of Patagonia - a largely uninhabited, prehistoric landscape brimming with forests and enormous glaciers.

Discover Patagonia on our 6 day trekking trip in Torres del Paine National Park

Festivals and events

Chile has a busy events calendar with many festivals to celebrate the diversity of its culture throughout the year. Here are some of the country's biggest events:

1. Fiesta de la Tirana

Each July, the quiet streets of La Tirana morph into a massive dance floor filled with masked performers acting out the ‘Dance of the Devils’. Blending indigenous culture with Catholic tradition, some say the festival honours the Virgin Mary, while others an indigenous warrior princess.

Either way, it's a fascinating experience seeing the frenetic dancing, fireworks and tasty foods that make up Chile’s largest religious festival.

2. Festival de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival)

Chile’s wine regions take it up a notch in March and April when weekend-long festivals celebrate the harvest and rural life. Think cowboys, country food and folk dancing. With so many wine regions it can be hard to know which festival to check out, though Curico Valley’s festival is the longest running and widely regarded as the biggest.

3. Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day)

As a fiercely patriotic nation – and one that loves a good party – Fiestas Patrias is a big deal. Each September, flags are hung and the aroma of barbeque fills the air as people eat, drink, dance and celebrate. Look for a fonda (huge tent party) and join locals as they party into the wee hours of the morning.  

4. Tapati Rapa Nui (Easter Island Tapati Festival)

Get a glimpse of Easter Island’s vibrant Polynesian heritage at this spectacular two-week festival in February. It features dancing, chanting, carving competitions, body painting, a string figure (kai kai) contest, and so much more.

Food and drink

Chilean cuisine is all about seasonal produce and simplicity. Potatoes, corn and quinoa are staple ingredients in many traditional dishes, including pastel de choclo (corn pie) and humitas (steamed corn pudding wrapped in corn husks).

Chile’s extensive coastline provides a wide array of seafood. Visit one of the country’s many marisquerias (fish restaurants) to try picorocos (barnacles) or erizos (sea urchin). Most places serve fish grilled with a little seasoning. Ceviche is also a dietary mainstay.

Chileans also love their meat. Like in Brazil and Argentina, a leisurely asado (barbeque) is a cherished tradition. Held either in a backyard or a specially equipped park, an asado can stretch for hours and always features lots of grilled beef, pork, sausage, lamb and Chilean wine. If you don’t manage to snag an invitation to an asado from a local, head to a parrillada instead – a restaurant that serves grilled meats.

Here are some must-try foods in Chile:

1. Mote con huesillo

Dried peaches and husked wheat are stewed in a sugary syrup to create Chile’s favorite summertime treat. The perfect reward after a long day of exploring. 

2. Pastel de choclo

A hearty Andean pie of ground beef or chicken and vegetables, topped with pureed sweet corn is a local favorite. 

The perfect dish to warm your bones on a cold day, cazuela is a thin stew of chicken or beef with corn on the cob, potatoes, pumpkin and noodles. Do as the locals and drink the broth first.

Things to buy in Chile

Most towns will have a local market where you can pick up handmade souvenirs. You'll also find large shopping centers in big cities. Head to Avenida Alonso de Córdova in Santiago for boutique and luxury stores and trendy bars.

Keep in mind that haggling isn't part of Chilean culture, so prices are usually fixed, and most markets and street vendors deal only with cash. Stores are typically open between 10 am and 9 or 10 pm Monday through Friday.

Many stores are only open during the morning on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays, though these hours can vary in tourist areas. Shops in smaller cities also tend to close for lunch and take a siesta between 1 and 5 pm.

Here are a few things to buy in Chile.

1. Alpaca clothing

Sweaters, gloves, scarves and other items made from alpaca wool are a South American specialty. Both unique and practical, alpaca wool does a good job of blocking out high altitude chill.

2. Lapis lazuli jewellery

The Romans considered it an aphrodisiac, and Cleopatra was said to powder it for use as an eyeshadow. Lapis lazuli has quite a history, but these days the semiprecious indigo-blue stone is found only in Chile and Afghanistan.

Cheaper here than lapis sold abroad, it's still a somewhat pricey purchase. The general rule of thumb is the deeper the color, the better the quality, and always shop at reputable stores to ensure you’re not sold a fake.

3. Mapuche silverware

Indigenous women of the Lake District traditionally wore handcrafted silver earrings, headdresses and other pieces of jewelry as a sign of wealth. Dramatic silver pieces are still made by Mapuche women in this region today.

You might recognize the grape-based brandy known as pisco from Peru, but Chile shares the claim too. The battle of the birthplace of pisco has been going on for centuries.

Must-visit places in Chile

With so much on offer in Chile, from glacier trekking to wine tasting, it can be hard to choose which places to visit. Here are  a few must-visit places  to consider.

1. Santiago

Santiago is Chile's bustling capital. Set within a circle of snow-capped mountains, this city is a stone's throw from outdoor adventures (if you can ever leave, that is). From traditional European buildings in artsy neighborhoods to a brilliant food scene and thriving nightclubs, Santiago has it all.

2. Valparaiso

With its colorful buildings, mural-filled streets and labyrinthine laneways lined with cafes and galleries, Valparaiso  is arguably Chile's most creative city. Sip pisco sours on a rooftop in the historic center, rub shoulders with local artists or visit a restaurant credited with the invention of chorrillana.

Discover Santiago and Valparaiso on our Premium & Argentina trip

3. Patagonia

Chile and Argentina both stake a claim over  Patagonia  — and it's no wonder when the region is  this  beautiful. Think rolling grasslands flanked by snow-clad peaks, remarkably blue lakes, beech forests and huge glaciers. Patagonia was practically made for adventuring.

Trek past glaciers and mountains on our Patagonia Wilderness trip

4. San Pedro de Atacama

Welcome to the driest town on earth. San Pedro de Atacama is also home to some of Chile's most dramatic landscapes, from hissing geysers to imposing volcanoes and sprawling salt flats. Go sandboarding in the dunes, explore the stunning Moon Valley or admire one of the most impressive night skies you've ever seen.

Explore San Pedro de Atacama on our Epic Peru, Bolivia & Argentina trip

Similar destinations

Inspired by Chile but still curious about other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

Uruguay tours

If you've narrowed it down to Argentina and Chile,  check out our Chile vs Argentina blog  to help you decide.

Further reading

Chile travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?

Travelers from over 90 countries do not need a visa to enter Chile. This includes passport holders from other South American countries, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. Visa-exempt travelers will usually receive an entry stamp valid for 90 days on arrival.

Citizens from other countries will need to apply for a visa online or at your nearest embassy or consulate prior to travel. Tourist visas can grant entry for up to 90 days.

Visit the official Chilean Consulate website for more information .

In any case, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Chile.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 07/12/2023

When is the best time to visit Chile?

Chile’s substantial length ensures that the climate is incredibly varied, and the best time to visit depends on your chosen destinations.

Summer (December to March) is possibly the best time to visit Chile, as the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and lakes region are reasonably warm. However, the trade-off is that the Atacama Desert can be very hot during this time. Summer is also festival time, so it's a good chance to experience Chile’s unique culture.

For the central and northern regions, autumn is a comfortable time to visit, but note that it can be quite cold in the south, especially at night.

Snowfall is common during winter (July to September) in the south of the country, so this is the ideal time for a skiing or snowboarding holiday.

Is tipping customary in Chile?

It's customary to lea ve an extra 10% on top of your restaurant bill if you've had great service. The same goes for tipping porters and other service workers. Feel free to leave spare change or tip extra if you're particularly impressed with the service.

What is the internet access like in Chile?

Wi-fi access is widely available in cafes, bars and restaurants in cities and tourist areas. However, you may struggle to find wi-fi in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Chile?

Cell phone coverage is good in Chile’s cities, but may not be available in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Chile?

Toilets in Chile will vary depending on what area you are traveling in. Flushable, western-style toilets are common in the cities, large hotels, malls, and clubs but more modest squat toilets are the standard in rural areas and while camping. Either way, carrying a supply of toilet paper and soap is a good idea, as these aren’t always available in public toilets.

What will it cost for a...?

Chile's unit of currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Public transport in Santiago = 700 CLP
• Cappacino in a café = 2500 CLP
• A pint of beer in a bar = 2900 CLP
• Simple lunch = 7500 CLP
• Dinner in a mid-range restaurant = 20,000 CLP

Can I drink the water in Chile?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Chile, though some may get an upset stomach from the different mineral content. If you have a delicate stomach, you may want to opt for filtered water to avoid this. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle that can be filled with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Chile?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Chile’s large cities and towns but may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as family restaurants and market stalls in small towns and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting these parts in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Chile?

ATMs are found widely throughout Chile, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

What public holidays are celebrated in Chile?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• March/Apr: Good Friday*
• March/Apr: Holy Saturday*
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 21 May: Navy Day
• 1 Jul: Feasts of Saints Peter and Paul
• 15 Aug: Assumption
• 18 Sep: Independence Day
• 19 Sep: Army Day
• 1 Nov: All Saint’s Day
• 8 Dec: Immaculate Consumption
• 25 Dec: Christmas

*Please note these dates vary. See a current list of public holidays in Chile.

Will I experience altitude sickness in Chile?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 6561ft ( 2000m) regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. Santiago is well below this elevation, but travelers heading to San Pedro de Atacama and the northern and central Andes might experience symptoms of high altitude. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Chile?

No vaccines are required in order to enter Chile but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4–6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Is Chile a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Chile is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Though traditionally a very Catholic and conservative nation, attitudes are slowly changing. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 and people are now more open about their sexuality.

Santiago hosts an annual gay pride parade and has an active gay scene, particularly in Barrio Bellavista. Beach resorts such as Vina del Mar also have a number of gay clubs. You may find that attitudes are less liberal outside of big cities.

Transgender rights and public attitudes are also developing. The Chilean government signed a bill into law in 2019 to allow people aged 18 and over to change their legal gender and name on Chile's Civil Registry. Teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 can also do so in court.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex  or   ILGA   before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Chile support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Chile directly support our foundation partner, Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund . 

Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund  

The Huemul, also known as the South Andean Deer, are almost exclusively found in southern Patagonia and are currently endangered. Torres del Paine Legacy Fund is helping to conserve the endangered huemul by improving visitor management, advancing community education and tourism industry engagement, and mitigating the human-wildlife conflict in Torres del Paine National Park. Donations from our trips help Torres del Paine's huemul habitat conservation work.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.