Capital city
Santiago
Population:6.2 million
Chile's capital and largest city, nestled in the central valley with mountain views.
Top attractions
- La Moneda Palace
- Cerro San Cristóbal
- Plaza de Armas
- Central Market
- Bellavista
Country guide
Chile
A long, narrow country stretching along South America's western coast, offering diverse landscapes from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia. Chile captivates with its natural beauty and excellent wines.
- Capital
- Santiago
- Language
- Spanish
- Currency
- Chilean Peso (CLP)
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Visa information
Many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Reciprocity fees may apply for some nationalities.
View full visa requirementsTravel guide
Visa details
Many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Reciprocity fees may apply for some nationalities.
Cost of travel
- Currency
- Chilean Peso (CLP)
- Accommodation
- CLP 40,000-120,000 per night for mid-range hotels, CLP 15,000-35,000 for hostels
- Food
- CLP 8,000-25,000 per meal at restaurants, CLP 3,000-8,000 for casual dining
- Transportation
- CLP 800-1,500 for public transit, CLP 50,000-200,000 for domestic flights
- Activities
- CLP 5,000-20,000 for attractions, CLP 30,000-100,000 for tours
- Overall daily budget
- CLP 60,000-200,000 per day depending on travel style and region
Best time to visit
December to March for summer, March to May for autumn colors, June to August for skiing.
Weather
Varied climate from desert in the north to polar in the south. Mediterranean climate in central regions.
Top cities to visit
Valparaíso
Population:296,000
A colorful port city known for its bohemian culture and historic architecture.
Top attractions
- Historic Quarter
- La Sebastiana
- Cerro Concepción
- Port Area
- Pablo Neruda Museum
Viña del Mar
Population:335,000
A coastal resort city known as the Garden City for its beautiful parks and beaches.
Top attractions
- Flower Clock
- Quinta Vergara
- Casino
- Reñaca Beach
- Museo Fonck
Concepción
Population:238,000
A university city and regional capital, known for its cultural scene and nearby natural attractions.
Top attractions
- Universidad de Concepción
- Plaza de la Independencia
- Hualpén Peninsula
- Lota Coal Mine
La Serena
Population:221,000
A colonial city and beach destination, gateway to the Atacama Desert.
Top attractions
- Historic Center
- Elqui Valley
- La Recova Market
- Japanese Garden
- Mamalluca Observatory
Top attractions
Torres del Paine
A national park in Patagonia featuring dramatic granite towers, glaciers, and pristine wilderness.
Location: Magallanes Region
Atacama Desert
The world's driest non-polar desert, offering otherworldly landscapes and clear skies for stargazing.
Location: Northern Chile
Easter Island
A remote Polynesian island famous for its nearly 1,000 monumental statues called moai.
Location: Pacific Ocean
Valparaíso Historic Quarter
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful houses and historic funiculars.
Location: Valparaíso
Valle de la Luna
A valley in the Atacama Desert with moon-like landscape formations.
Location: Antofagasta Region
Other destinations in Americas
View all countries in this regionTravel tips
- Always check for updated visa requirements before your trip.
- Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
- Research local customs and etiquette before your visit.
- Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
Chile travel cost calculator
Cost breakdown
- Accommodation (3 nights, 1 room)
- CLP 120,000–360,000
- Food (2 × 3 days, 2 meals a day)
- CLP 96,000–300,000
- Transport (2 × 3 days, 2 rides a day)
- CLP 9,600–18,000
- Activities (2 × 3 days, 1 a day)
- CLP 30,000–120,000
- Total estimated cost
- CLP 255,600–798,000
- Per person
- CLP 127,800–399,000
Note: These estimates use this guide’s own prices and may vary with season, location and personal preferences. Consider adding a 10-20% buffer for unexpected expenses.