If you are planning to visit any region of Chile or its capital soon, we recommend reviewing this complete guide with everything you need to know and great tips.
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is one of the most visited destinations in our country, thanks to its excellent connectivity, culture, gastronomy, and varied activities. We also have a pleasant climate throughout the year!
If you are one of those travelers looking to fulfill your dream and visit Chile, you should know these 5 facts and tips.
5 tips you should know before going to Chile
1. The currency is the Chilean peso
In Santiago and the rest of Chile, the official currency is the Chilean peso (CLP). It is used in banknotes and coins, with denominations ranging from 10 to 20,000 pesos, facilitating daily and commercial transactions. Always remember to carry some cash with you.
Check the back of the bills! You will find postcards of our national parks and native fauna. One of them is the $1,000 bill featuring the majestic Torres del Paine, known as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Find out about payment methods and the exchange rate to the local currency at https://www.bcentral.cl/inicio, where you will find an official currency converter.
2. VISA and entry requirements to Chile
To visit our country, you only need to know our entry requirements and present your identification document (ID or passport). Depending on your place of origin, you may require a VISA.
If you are a citizen of South America, the European Union, the United States, Canada, or Australia, you do not need a VISA to enter as a tourist! Keep in mind that some countries must pay a cash fee (reciprocity tax) upon arrival at the airport. Here you will find all the details.
Remember that if you bring products of animal or plant origin, you must declare them to the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) upon arrival. Otherwise, you could be exposed to fines and other sanctions
Additional documents and other requirements
Upon arrival in Chile, you must meet some requirements.
- Check here if you need to obtain your Temporary Residence Permit depending on your country of origin.
- If you are not from South America, the European Union, the United States, Canada, or Australia, process your Temporary Residence Visa on the Consular Services platform for stays shorter than 90 days here.
- Check if there is any payment associated with this procedure in the fee schedule
- Bring your hotel/lodging reservation that can be verified or an invitation letter signed before a Chilean notary public
- Accreditation of economic solvency through a copy of the bank account or other means that certifies the possession of at least USD $46 for each day of stay in Chile.
- Present passport or identity card, as appropriate
- Enter here for more information.
3. Type of plug used in Chile
Before visiting Chile, we explain that the types of plugs that are used are C and L:
Type C plug: Known as the European plug, it has two round holes and is used for low-power devices.
Type L plug: It has three round pins. It is used for higher power devices.
In Chile, the voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
4. Transportation from the airport
Regardless of the time or day of the year, from the Santiago airport you will find transportation to any part of the city.
The most economical alternative is to travel by public transport. From 06:00 hours, route 555 takes you from the Intermodal Airport to the Metro stations, Barrancas (L5) and Pajaritos (Line 1). Remember to check their schedules here and download the Red application to be able to make the payment, which is around one dollar.
You will also find taxis, shared vehicles, and private vehicles for rent. In addition, there is Cabify, the official private mobility application of the Santiago Airport.
Always hire formal and official transport services, located in stands inside the airport, just after the SAG control point.
5. Gastronomy from all over the country
In Santiago, being the capital of Chile, you will find dishes and gastronomy that are consumed throughout our country.
Do you want to try marine or mountain range gastronomy? In Santiago, specifically in gastronomic neighborhoods such as Barrio Italia, Lastarria and Bellavista, you will find everything you are looking for.
Check here some of the typical dishes of Chilean gastronomy.
