Chile
South America • CHL
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Chile is a geographically diverse nation stretching along the southwestern coast of South America, offering landscapes ranging from the arid Atacama Desert to the glacial fjords of Patagonia. It is a premier destination for adventure travelers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking rich cultural history and stunning natural beauty.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU nations, can enter Chile for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Completed PDI immigration card provided at entry
- Travel insurance proof is recommended but not mandatory
Popular Attractions
Torres del Paine National Park features iconic granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and massive glaciers that are perfect for world-class trekking.
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, famous for its otherworldly salt flats, geysers, and exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Valparaíso is a colorful, bohemian port city known for its steep hills, funiculars, and vibrant street art covering almost every building.
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a remote volcanic island home to the mysterious and monumental Moai stone statues.
Santiago, the capital city, sits in a valley surrounded by the Andes and offers a mix of modern urban life, historical architecture, and nearby world-renowned vineyards.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Chileans typically greet each other with a single kiss on the right cheek, even among acquaintances.
It is considered polite to wait for a toast before taking your first sip of wine or a drink.
Tipping at restaurants is customary, and it is standard to add a 10% propina to the bill.
Lunch is often the main meal of the day, and many businesses may close for a brief period in the afternoon.
When interacting with locals, address people using formal titles like Señor or Señora until invited to use first names.
Safety Tips
Keep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation to prevent pickpocketing.
Use only radio taxis or reputable rideshare apps rather than hailing unmarked cars on the street.
Be cautious in remote areas like Patagonia and always inform someone of your trekking itinerary and expected return time.
Drink bottled or filtered water if you are unsure of the tap water quality, especially in rural or northern regions.
Be aware that Chile is a seismically active country and familiarize yourself with hotel evacuation procedures for earthquakes.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination requirements for travelers visiting Chile.
View sourceYellow 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, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine 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
Routine vaccinations (such as flu shot)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceTravel medicine consultation
Source: CDC
Consider seeing a travel clinic for personalized advice based on itinerary.
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
Prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in places with air conditioning or window screens.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Crucial to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Eat and drink safely by consuming only pasteurized dairy, cooked foods served hot, and safe water sources.
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 or other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers who 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