Language

Spanish (99.5% - official); English (10.2%); indigenous languages (1% - includes Mapudungun, Aymara, Quechua, Rapa Nui); other

Currency

Peso

US dollars are easily changed.

It is not recommended to exchange money with the street 'money changers'.

It is advisable to carry cards which can be used in Automatic Teller Machines. (Cirrus or one of the other international monetary networks attached to the card). Keep cash in lower denominations such as $10 and $20

Travellers cheques and credit cards are not always accepted; it is advisable to check with your leader that the rate offered by the hotel is reasonable.

International Dialing Code

+56

Electricity

Electricity in Chile is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C (2 round prong, also known as the standard ‘Euro’ plug). Type L is also widely spread (3 round prong).

Visas

Australians can visit Chile for a maximum of 90 days, but it is crucial to obtain a valid visa before your arrival. The application process can take a few weeks, so factor this in when applying for a visa. To apply for a visa, you can complete the online form within 90 days prior to your intended arrival at https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/.

You will need to upload the following details to your visa application (File format - jpeg, jpg, pdf, png)

Colour Passport page with minimum of 6 months validity

Colour Passport photo 5x5cms

Proof of funds – bank statement for last 3 months or last three payslips

Hotel Reservation/Letter of Invitation – given to you by your World Expeditions Reservation team once booking is confirmed.

Passport holders from New Zealand, United Kingdom, United State and Canada do not require a visa for entry up to 90 days. You will however need to show a return or onward ticket.

All other nationalities should check with your nearest embassy or consulate.

When travelling to Chile, you'll receive a tourist card (paper) on arrival at customs. You must keep the card and present it to immigration officials when departing Chile. The tourist card (paper) is also needed to present to tourist accommodation or you will be charged an additional tax of 19%. Our local operators may also request a copy of the tourist card upon arrival.

Specific requirements apply for travellers to Easter Island, see the permits and permissions section of the Easter Island predeparture information for details.

Safety

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.