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Chile stretches over a vast territory that spans more than 4,300 km (2,700 mi) from north to south, which means that the climate varies greatly depending on the region. In general, the northern region is desert-like and arid, while the central region has a Mediterranean climate, and the south is characterized by a temperate and rainy climate.
The Atacama Desert, located in the northern region, is one of the driest places on Earth and temperatures can reach up to 40 °C during the day, but can drop significantly during the night.
The central region, including the capital Santiago, has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, temperatures can vary from an average of 20°C - 30°C during summer and 10°C - 20°C during winter.
The south of Chile, including Patagonia, has a strong maritime influence, which means that temperatures are milder and more consistent throughout the year, with an average of around 10°C - 15°C. The region is also known for its high rainfall and can be wet and windy.
The best time to visit Chile will depend on the region and the type of activities you want to do. In general, the summer months of December to February are the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny in most parts of the country, but it also the peak season, which means more tourists, and more crowded places.
The shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May, are considered good options for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy more comfortable temperatures.
If you are planning to visit the south, and particularly Patagonia, it is important to note that the best time to go is between November and March, when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
Chile has several international airports, including Santiago International Airport (SCL) which is the main hub, connecting most of the major destinations in Chile and South America. From there, you can take a domestic flight to reach other destinations in Chile, such as Easter Island, Punta Arenas or Iquique.
Buses are a popular and convenient way to travel around Chile, with extensive networks of long-distance and local buses that connect most of the cities and towns. Bus travel is relatively inexpensive, safe, and comfortable.
Car rental is a great option for those who want to explore Chile at their own pace and it's widely available in most cities and towns. It's worth noting that Chile has a well-developed road network, but in some remote areas, the roads can be in poor condition and can be challenging to navigate.
Taxis are widely available in most cities and towns, and they are a convenient and safe way to get around. It's worth noting that it's best to use a licensed taxi and to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Train travel is limited in Chile, but it's a great option for those who want to travel between the central region, specifically between Santiago and Valparaíso. The journey is scenic and comfortable.
Chile has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. You can find hotels in most of the major cities, towns and tourist destinations.
Hostels are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers. They typically offer shared dormitory-style accommodation, as well as private rooms, and can be a great way to meet other travelers.
Vacation rentals such as apartments, villas, and houses can be rented on a short-term basis, this option is becoming increasingly popular and can be a great option for those looking for more privacy and space.
Campsites are available in most of the national parks and nature reserves, and they can be a great option for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy camping.
Chile has a wide range of lodges, especially in Patagonia, which are perfect for those who want to explore the nature and wildlife of the region.
When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:
Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.
If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.
Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.
With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.
There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:
There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.
Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.
Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.
Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!
Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.
LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.
At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.
Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!
Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!
Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.
Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.
Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.
Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.
Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.
Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:
Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.
Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.
Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.
Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.
Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.
Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.
Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.
Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.
Chile is a long and narrow country located in South America, known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling cities to the tranquil deserts, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Chile. Here are the top 10 things to do in Chile that should not be missed:
Santiago, the capital city of Chile, is known for its modern architecture, rich culture, and delicious food. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights and the Museum of Fine Arts, and also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.
Valparaíso is a port city located about 120 km northwest of Santiago, known for its colorful architecture, street art, and beautiful views. Visitors can take a funicular ride to see the city from above, and also explore the many cerros (hills) that make up the city.
The Atacama Desert, located in northern Chile, is one of the driest places in the world and it offers visitors the opportunity to see some of the most unique landscapes on earth, such as the Valle de la Luna, the El Tatio geysers, and the Laguna Cejar.
Torres del Paine National Park is a large national park located in southern Chile, known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike the park's many trails and see glaciers, lakes, and mountains, and also see the many species of wildlife that call the park home.
Easter Island, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is known for its mysterious stone statues, called Moai, and ancient culture. Visitors can take a tour of the island to see the Moai and learn about the history of the Rapa Nui people.
Los Glaciares National Park is located in southern Argentina and it offers visitors the opportunity to see some of the most spectacular glaciers in the world, such as the Perito Moreno glacier. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the glaciers and also hike on the nearby trails.
Valle Nevado is a ski resort located in the Andes mountains, known for its beautiful views and great skiing. Visitors can take a ski lift to the top of the mountain and also enjoy the après-ski activities.
Pucón is a popular tourist destination located in southern Chile, known for its beautiful lakes, mountains and hot springs. Visitors can hike the Villarrica volcano, enjoy the beautiful natural hot springs and also take part in adventure sports such as white water rafting, kayaking and horseback riding.
Chiloe Island is located in southern Chile, and it is known for its traditional wooden houses, called "palafitos", and delicious seafood. Visitors can explore the island's many traditional villages, such as Castro and Ancud, and also enjoy the island's delicious seafood.
Elqui Valley is a valley located in the Coquimbo Region of Chile, known for its beautiful landscapes, and also for being a major center for astrotourism. Visitors can take a tour of the valley's many observatories and also enjoy the beautiful landscapes and delicious local wine.
