Chile Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?
Most travelers can enter Chile with just a current passport. However, if you are traveling from Australia or Mexico and flying through the international airport in Santiago, there is a Reciprocity tax that must be paid before you enter Interpol. For Australia it is $117; for Mexico, it is $23. If you are not flying in, this tax does not apply.
Is tipping customary in Chile?
Tipping is never required on an Adventure Life trip, however it is always appreciated. It is common to leave an additional 10% on restaurant bills for excellent service and $2-$10/day for your guide and $3/day for your driver. If and how you choose to tip is entirely up to you.
Do I need power adapters?
Plugs are two round prongs and run on 220-volt, 50 cycle electricity. You will need a power converter for 110-volt devices.
What is the internet access like in Chile?
Most hotels have wireless internet, and you won’t have trouble finding a cyber café in the major cities. However, as you get into the more rural areas, it can be harder to find cyber cafes, and some more remote hotels may not have internet access. Check with us while planning your trip and we’ll let you know.
Can I use my cell phone while in Chile?
It’s possible. You will need a GSM phone with a SIM chip that is either unlocked or has a plan that allows for roaming. Check your phone's compatibility here. Then once you arrive in Chile, you can purchase a pre-paid chip from the major carriers, which are Claro, Movistar, and Entel. In some of the more isolated parts of the country, especially in the southern provinces like Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, it can be impossible to get a signal.
What are the toilets like in Chile?
Chile is a very modern country and toilets are standard flushing units in hotels, restaurants, and nearly all bathroom facilities. If you are camping or trekking in the backcountry, it is possible that you will only have access to squat toilets.
What will it cost for the following?
Local Bus fare: $0.85-$1
Cup of coffee: $2-4
Beer: $1.70 – 2.80
Simple lunch: $6-10 / person
Dinner in a decent restaurant: $20-35 or higher / person
Can I drink the water in Chile?
You can drink the water in most of Chile’s major cities and provinces, however it is very mineral rich and can cause upset stomachs if you’re not used to that. We make sure that there is always bottled water available to you if you prefer. In some of the more remote parts of Chile, especially in the northern and southern regions, you should not drink the tap water, and we advise against brushing your teeth with it either.
Are credit cards accepted in Chile?
Credit cards are accepted in most businesses like hotels, restaurants, and bigger stores in the major cities. However, small stores, stalls, and places in the rural parts of Chile might not accept credit cards. It’s always a good idea to have some cash in US dollars and some pocket money in Chilean Pesos on hand.
What is ATM access like in Chile?
In the big cities and tourist destinations like Santiago or Punta Arenas, you will find ATMs from which you can withdraw money. Rural areas tend not to have ATMs, so it’s best to be prepared.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before heading to Chile?
You definitely should! We highly recommend buying travel insurance before heading out on your vacation, and we work with TravelGuard Insurance company to provide you with the best deals. They offer fair prices for comprehensive insurance packages. Our My Trips page has more info.
