Santiago and Valparaiso (5 Days) From *298 USD*

Chile is a slender ribbon of land flanked by the South Pacific Ocean to the west, and surrounded by Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. The country is a mystifying amalgam of extraordinarily diverse scenery, vibrant cultures, and exciting cities. From the fjords and glaciers of Patagonia and Antarctica to the driest desert in the world at Atacama, volcanoes to tropical islands, Chile boasts nearly every landscape imaginable. One of the country’s defining characteristics is its warm culture, summarised in its motto of ‘buena onda’ (‘good vibes’). Rituals surrounding relaxation and connection - such as the ‘mate’ tea custom - are integral to Chilean culture, as well as a strong connection with food, music and dance. World-class cities like Santiago weave together 21st century global culture and time-honoured traditions, and provide everything from phenomenal restaurants and buzzing nightlife to gorgeous, trendy beaches. Wine lovers will also find worlds of taste to explore in the lush valleys of vineyards offering some of the best wine on earth.

Currency 

Local currency: Chilean Peso 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: CLP 
Subunit: Centavo 
Banknotes: $1000, $2000, $5000, $10000, $20000 
Coins: $1, $5, $10, $50, $100, $500 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline 
International Airports: Santiago International Airport (Arturo Merino Benítez) 
Domestic Airports: El Tepual Airport (Puerto Montt), La Araucanía International Airport (Temuco) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Chilean cuisine is diverse, influenced by indigenous Mapuche, Spanish, and other European culinary traditions. Highlights include empanadas, pastel de choclo (corn pie), and cazuela (stew). Notable localdrinks include pisco, Chilean wine, and mote conhuesillo. 

Tipping: 10% 

Annual rainfall: 2000mm 
 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25°C - 35°C 
Average lows: 10°C - 20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 5°C - 15°C 
Average lows: -5°C - 5°C  

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Chile depends on the region. Generally, summer (December to February) is ideal for coastal areas, while winter (June to August) is popular for skiing in the Andes. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type C, Type L 
Voltage (V): 220V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

* A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.